10 Ways Families Can Stay Connected When Caring For an Aging Parent

Do you have a hard time coordinating appointments for your parent with other members of your family?

Do you have a difficult time tracking down certain medications your parent takes?

Are you looking for an easier way to stay connected with your family when caring for your aging parent?

According to A Place For Mom, whether you prefer modern technology or old-fashioned pen and paper, there are some great ways to help seniors and their families stay in contact and monitor ongoing care giving needs:

1. Family meetings – It helps to set a date ahead of time so everyone in the family can meet up and see each other. Great for long distance!
2. Letters and photos – Great way to let your loved one know that you’re thinking about them when you’re away.
3. Written journals and records – this is a useful way to keep track of care giving activities like medication and doctor appointments.
4. Email, phone and text messages – If you need to update someone in the family right away emailing, calling or texting are great options.
5. Video chats and webcams – If your senior is tech savvy this can be a great way to connect with family members who live far away or when you can’t always be there in person.
6. Spreadsheets and office software – Spreadsheets can be a lifesaver when it comes to tracking finances, appointments, and medication management.
7. Caregiver-focused websites – You can find everything from social support and discussion boards, to detailed health and caregiver information.
8. Online collaboration – Online tools are available for privately sharing health records and coordinating with family members while ensuring your privacy.
9. Electronic scheduling – A Google calendar is a great way to collaborate and keep track of managing appointments and medications for your loved one. Easy to share with family members and health caretakers.
10. Caregiving mobile apps – There are a plethora of apps to help you keep track of your loved one’s appointments if you’re attached to your phone. Plus it will be on you at all times!

Elderly Care in Ann Arbor: Make Hillside Terrace Your Home Away From Home!

The transition from living at home independently to assisted living can be one of the most difficult decisions families and their loved ones have to make. When a family member can’t take care of themselves, it can put a heavy burden on those they love. Many people aren’t up to the task of the daily care their loved one may require.

We’re confident in our ability to provide the best quality of elderly care, the security, and the family atmosphere that you’re seeking! We warmly invite you to see the difference we can make when your family shares life with our family. Schedule a tour of Hillside Terrace today! (734) 761-4451

Cool Gadgets for Independent Living Residents

Are you looking for the perfect gift for your loved one on Christmas?

We know it can be harder for the older generation to catch on to new gadgets and technology, but what if one were to make their life easier?

According to A Place For Mom, “experts expect aging tech to be a $30 billion market. Here is a sampling of some of the cooler technology out there today, providing independence to our parents, and valuable peace of mind for us as caregivers:

1. Medication Management Devices-
a. Reminder Rosie- Is a talking clock that will say whatever you want. For example: “Dad, it’s time to take your pill.”
b. MedMinder- Is a digital pill dispenser.
c. CareZone- Is a free app you set that buzzes your phone when it’s time to take your pills.

2. S.O.S Safety Devices-
a. Medic alert-like pendants and wristbands- These can be pressed during an emergency to alert professionals and/or family members.
b. Sensors like BeClose, Evermind and Lively attach to objects your parents use most: the bed, a toaster, the bathroom, front door or favorite chair, for instance. You can remotely determine what circumstances merit notification.
c. Making Care Easier or CaringBridge are websites used for sharing resources and information with family members. You can even synchronize your iPhone or iPad to the websites!

3. Socializing-
a. grandCare- With a large touch screen, residents at home or in long term care have video chats with family, get the news, play games, check the calendar, visit websites, send instant messages, and share photos.”

Would your loved one benefit from any of the above technologies? Many of these are innovative approaches to staying involved in your parents’ health when you can’t always be there. Have you tried any of the above technologies? Did you find it useful? Let us know if the comment section.

Best Elderly Care in Ann Arbor: Schedule a Tour Today!

Is your parent prepared for their end of life care? Discussing moving your parent into assisted living can be a scary thing for any adult to face. However, it’s the scary reality of so many in this country. We can help your family create peace of mind. When you’re at home, you’ll know your loved one is taken care of and in good hands!

For more information about elderly care in Ann Arbor and the other services we provide, visit us at HillsideTerrace.net, or contact us here! Hillside Terrace – “Where our family shares life with your family!” Schedule a tour today!