Caregiving

Recently Answered
Q Why do seniors often resist living in a nursing home?
4 Answers
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Anthony Cirillo, Gerontology
"Once the kids realize what is going on, convincing mom and dad is not easy either," shared Sherri Tucker-Neff, a former assisted living activity director. "They grew up in an era where nursing facilities were horribly stereotyped." Some people... Full Answer
Q How can I best communicate with my hospice care team as a cancer patient?
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Patients, their loved ones, and other caregivers are a vital part of the hospice team. The hospice staff should be there every step of the way to help as needed. It is part of their hospice services to be available anytime to answer questions or... Full Answer
Q What is home healthcare?
1 Answer
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Home health care services include nursing care and physical, respiratory, occupational or speech therapy; chemotherapy; nutritional guidance; personal care such as bathing or dressing; and homemaker care. Home health care can include health professionals... Full Answer
Q What is the difference between home healthcare and sitter services?
1 Answer
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Anthony Cirillo, Gerontology
The main difference between home health care and sitter services is the duration of care. Home health care personnel may visit for an hour or two while sitter services can mean providing full day care and perhaps living on site with the... Full Answer
Q When should I consider using home healthcare?
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Home health care is usually considered when you cannot live comfortably and safely without support services. It may also be appropriate if you require a specific medical skilled service such as intravenous (IV) medications or physical therapy... Full Answer
Q Which caregivers can provide home healthcare?
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Certified home healthcare agencies employ a variety of care providers to deliver services. In addition to nursing care and home health aide services, agencies can provide or arrange for specialized services such as with social workers or... Full Answer
Q What are the legal considerations for long-term healthcare planning?
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An essential portion of long-term health care planning entails a visit to an attorney's office. Advance medical directives are legal papers that provide instructions for your loved ones on what should be done if a medical emergency arises. A living will... Full Answer
Q How can I pay for home healthcare and caregiving services?
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Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance companies will cover some of the costs of home health care. Other costs you will have to pay for yourself. The cost of home care depends on what services you use. Non-medical workers like housekeepers are much... Full Answer
Q As a caregiver, how can I manage toileting the person I am caring for?
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Tasks that we take for granted may take up a large portion of a caregiver's day. To cope, try some of these strategies from the Alzheimer's Association and the Family Caregiver Alliance: Ask your relative's healthcare professional about programs... Full Answer
Q How do I brush a person's teeth?
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Teeth should be brushed from the gum to the tooth. On the upper teeth, brush down on the front and back of the teeth. On the lower teeth, brush up on the front and back of the teeth. The tops of the teeth should be brushed with a back and forth motion.... Full Answer