As caregivers there comes a time when we need strength that is beyond our understanding. The link may provide you find that strength: http://ping.fm/P2lLu

November is Alzheimer's Awareness Month:
In August 1994 at age 83 Ronald Reagan was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. In November in a handwritten letter to nation he wrote, “I have recently been told that I am one of the millions of Americans who will be afflicted with Alzheimer's Disease... At the moment I feel just fine. I intend to live the remainder of the years God gives me on this earth doing the things I have always done... I now begin the journey that will lead me into the sunset of my life. I know that for America there will always be a bright dawn ahead. Thank you, my friends. May God always bless you”

HOME HELPERS honors family caregivers. November is National Caregivers month. Wisconsin Governor James Doyle has proclaimed November as FAMILY CAREGIVERS MONTH. His proclamation states “families are the foundation for long-term care for the aged and those with disabilities.” He goes on to state, “Family caregivers deserve heartfelt appreciation and thoughtful support for their dedication to providing care for their loved ones.”

SURVEY RESULTS ARE IN!!
Home Helpers' 2009 client survey results are in. HomeHelpers’ has been rated 9.7 out of a perfect score of 10. Many thanks to our wonderful staff!

Check out this wonder new program designed to provide safety for dementia and alzheimers patients living at home http://ping.fm/GBJf4

Home Helpers’ is proud to announce our partnership with Generations Unite. Bringing families together in the care planning process for their loved ones. http://ping.fm/haGLK

If you have a loved one considering a "push the button for help" unit, here is a great article to read: http://ping.fm/irYYV

Medication Collection

Outagamie and Winnebago counties are looking for your unwanted human & pet medications for free disposal. Keep medication in the original containers. Here are the dates, times and location:

Kaukauna 10/09 11AM-1PM Aurora Pharmacy
2700 Crooks Ave
Appleton 10/23 Noon-3PM Thompson Com Center
820 W College
Appleton 10/17 10AM-Noon Aurora Pharmacy
1919 E Calumet
Oshkosh 10/14 8AM-Noon Oshkosh Senior Ctr.
234 N Campbell

For more info call 920-832-5277 for Outagamie County and 920-232-1850 for Winnebago County

Great video for families who are considering home care for a loved one: http://ping.fm/CctAJ

Home Helpers invites you to join us in preventing elder abuse. We have teamed up with the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse: http://inpea.net/

If you have a family member or loved one with special needs, we know that finding the time to meet your and their needs is challenging and can often be overwhelming. Tune in to this episode of "making Considerations" Here is the link: http://ping.fm/v1snD

Great News! The Wisconsin Senior prescription medication program has received a three-year federal extension. Here is the link to learn more about this great program: http://ping.fm/IHyKv

Great article for adult children who have parents refusing assistance: http://ping.fm/Gjtvl

Having concerns with elderly driving? This article may be helpful http://ping.fm/deeLl

Great blog site for family and professional caregivers: http://ping.fm/0CvDt

Follow Home Helpers on Face Book @ http://ping.fm/PiAl8

US Treasury - Missing Bond Finder

Here is a link to a the US Treasury site if you think you may have been left saving bonds but can't locate them:

http://www.treasurydirect.gov

Alzheimer's Early detection Alliance (AEDA)

Home Helpers is proud to be a founding member and Champion of the Alzheimer's Early Detection Alliance, (AEDA). As a member of AEDA we will be offering educational opportunities for our employees and the public. Home Helpers is committed to educating the public in early detection and treatment of Alzheimer's.

Christian Caregiver Series

I have recently published a four part series for Christian Caregivers who may be struggling and seeking strength from the bible. Below are the articles with the links to view the articles.

CHRISTIAN CAREGIVER Part 1 – Seeking Strength as a CareGiver
http://ezinearticles.com/?The-Christian-Caregiver-Part-1---Seeking-Strength-As-a-Care-Giver&id=2287717

CHRISTIAN CAREGIVER Part 2 - Honor, Obey, Respect and Love
http://ezinearticles.com/?The-Christian-Caregiver-Part-2---Honor,-Obey,-Respect-and-Love&id=2323088

CHRISTIAN CAREGIVER Part 3 – Caregiving / Providing for Physical Needs
http://ezinearticles.com/?The-Christian-Caregiver---Part-3---Care-Giving-and-Providing-For-Physical-Needs&id=2370762

CHRISTIAN CAREGIVER Part 4 - The Final Good Bye
http://ezinearticles.com/?The-Christian-Caregiver-Part-4---The-Final-Good-Bye&id=2370777

Satified Customer Referral

I recently recieved this compliment on our staff and services:

"Denis, I want to thank you, your team and your company for all of the help you have given to my father and to my family. You are allowing Ray to live out the final years of his life knowing that he is loved and taken care of and allow my daughters and me to enjoy him and learn more about him as well as ourselves. -Jim"

Stop or Go? Senior Driving Presentation

On June 11th at 10:00 AM I will be presenting a 30 minute discussion that will explore the physical and cognitive changes of aging that effect driving skills along with warning signs of impaired driving skills. We will also discuss proactive steps to maintain driving privileges and keeping the roadway safe.

The event is hosted by Island Shores 131 E North Water St, Neenah WI. Please RSVP to Chad Strong by June 8th by calling 920-721-9999.

Senior Driving / CarFit program

With CarFit, a team of trained volunteers walks drivers through a 12-point checklist that take about 20 minutes. CarFit is sponsored by AARP and AAA. Click on this link to learn more www.car-fit-.org

Identity Theft

I recently attended a program put on by Coalition of Wisconsin Aging Groups regarding identify theft and ways to prevent theft. Here are some suggested ways to protect yourself.

To opt out of credit card marketing list call: 1-888-567-8688

To opt out of junk mail: Register FREE online at: https://www.dmachoice.org/dma/member/regist.action
Remember to renew every three years

OR send a $1.00 check or money order along with a letter stating your name, address, and to opt out of receiving commercial and charitable mailing to:
Mail Preference Service
Direct Marketing Association
PO Box 1559
Carmel NY 10512

To get on the Wisconsin no call list: 1-866-96-2255 or online at https://nocall.wisconsin.gov/web/home.asp (every two years)

Federal No Call: www.donotcall.gov

Free Wheel Chair Wash

Fox Valley Technical College Occupational Therapy Assistant students are offering The 9th Annual Wheelchair Wash and Health Fair on May 2nd from 8:00AM to Noon.

Along with the Health Fair the mourning events will include washing and inspection of electric powered charis, scooters, manual chairs and lift/hand controls. There will be a lunch available for a nominal fee.

Individuals interested in having their wheelchairs washed and inspected are asked to RSVP with Nurse Direct by April 24th by calling toll free 1-800-362-9900

Living at Home with Dementia

With the warmer weather we are finding more people with dementia wanting to be outside. The attached link will help family members with ideas to insure their loved ones safety:

http://ezinearticles.com/?Living-at-Home-With-Dementia&id=2225430

Caregiver ID Bracelets

Are you a caregivers and the person you are caring for is dependent upon you? What would happen if you were in a auto accident and admitted to the hospital? Would anyone know a person at home is depending on your return?

Caregivers can purchase arm bracelets at: http://www.americanmedical-id.com/extras/nfca.php.
Bracelets are also available through you local Alzheimer's association.

This would be a great gift for adult children to give to their parents, or for yourself.

Ramps for homes

The Larsen-Winchester Lions Club will install ramps for people with mobility problems. There is a minimal charge for the ramps. This is a great program for those in need. Unfortunately the program is not available for residents living in the City of Oshkosh. Call our office 920-757-9610 for more information.

Tele Equipment Purchase Program

The TEPP is to help people with disabilities buy equipment they need in order to use basic telephone services. The vouchers are available for hard of hearing, speech impaired, low vision/blind, and mobility impaired.

You can learn more by using this link: http://dhs.wisconsin.gov/sensory/TAP/TAP.htm

Your Parent's Train Wrecks

I would like to share with you links to two articles I have recently published regarding adult children caring for their parents.

The first article "Your Parents Train Wreck, can you see it coming" provides information for adult children dealing with their parents when they can see something is wrong but not sure what:
http://ezinearticles.com/?Your-Parents-Train-Wreck,-Can-You-See-It-Coming?&id=2081687

The second article "Fixing Your Parents Train Wreck, what's next" is a step by step insight into what comes after the "train wreck".
http://ezinearticles.com/?Fixing-Your-Parents-Train-Wreck---Whats-Next?&id=2111689

Medication Management

I recently seen a new machine for medication management. It's offered by Aurora Visiting Nurses called the MD2. It has many unique features including a option for families to go on line to see if the medications have been taken. To learn more about MD2 click on this link: www.aurorahealthcare.org/services/vna/md2/index.asp

IRS and Private Pay Caretakers

It is not uncommon for people to seek out the cheapest way to provide care for themselves or loved ones. Most people are unaware of their legal obligation to the IRS if they choose to employ private pay caretakers. If you pay more than $1600.00 in wages, the employer is required to pay social security and Medicare taxes. The employer will be held responsible for these taxes even if the employee does not properly file their taxes. I have provided this link to the IRS Publication 926 to learn more: http://www.irs.gov/publications/p926/ar02.html

Non-medical In-home care FAQ's

I've recently published an article for family caregivers regarding in-home non-meidcal care that I thought may be of interest. Here is the link to that article:

http://ezinearticles.com/?In-Home-Non-Medical-Care---FAQs&id=2024011

Caregiver Stress

Here are some interesting facts regarding caregiving.

Caregiver stress appears to affect women more than men. About 75 percent of caregivers who report feeling very strained emotionally, physically, or financially are women.

One research study found that elderly people who felt stressed while taking care of their disabled spouses were 63 percent more likely to die within 4 years than caregivers who were not feeling stressed.

* Data provided by the US DHHS, Office on Women’s Health

Time and time again I see spouses thinking they can handle the cares and fail. Unfortunately when the caregivers fails, there is no plan in place and both parties end up in a nursing home. If you see this happening with your loved ones, sit with them and express your concerns and encourage create a plan. With a plan, family members can honor the wishes, especially if their wish is to remain at home.

Senior Driving

Many adult children grow concerned about their parent's driving skills. This link will connect you with an article I have recently authored regarding this topic:

http://ezinearticles.com/?Elderly-Driving---When-it-Comes-to-the-Conversation&id=1987268

"PUSH THE BUTTON FOR HELP - Check your phone system

Many people are switching to internet or cable packages offering phone systems these days to reduce expenses. This switch can affect how the “push the button for help” units function. If you already have a “push the button for help” unit and are considering an internet or cable based phone system I recommend asking the phone provider if their system will support the “push the button for help” unit you presently have. You may be surprised to find out the answer.

Upcoming Conferences for Family Caregivers

There are some excellent upcoming conferences for family caregivers to attend. These are great for gathering resources and education opportunities.

LIVING WELL WITH PARKINSON CONFERENCE
Will be held March 28th at the Best Western—Bridgewood Resort and Conference Center in Neenah. The conference is hosted by the Wisconsin Parkinson Association. Conference starts with registration at 7:30, adjournment is noon. There will be speakers and exhibitors for those attending. Call our office for more information 920-757-9610.

CAREGIVER CONFERENCE NEW LONDON
April 16th from 10:00AM—4:00 at Trinity Lutheran Church 709 W Beckert Rd New London. The day will consist of speakers, vendors, and lunch. Come and learn what is available within your community. Pre-registration is required. Call our office for more information 920-757-9610.

Three Generations - One Roof

I recently authored an article about adult children moving their parents in with them. If anyone is considering such a move, please click on the link below:

http://ezinearticles.com/?Three-Generations---One-Roof&id=1943223

Dementia Specialist Training

Dementia Specialist Training will be held at Fox Valley Technical College on March 27 and April 3rd. This two day, 15 hour program teaches real-life practical skills to use when caring for a person with Alzheimer's. Learn problem solving techniques to assist with challenging behaviors, and ideas to make care giving more satisfying and successful.

Although the program is directed towards direct care staff, I found it very useful when dealing with my own parents. One gains a new perspective of how the affected person views the world. The program is fun, interactive, and insightful.

If you are from outside the Fox Valley area, contact your local Alzheimer's office to find out when the next program is offered in your ares.

To learn more, call (920) 735-4884.

To contact your local Alheimer's office click on this link: http://www.alz.org/index.asp

Choosing a Nursing Home

When it comes time to find a skilled nursing home for a loved one, how to you know you've made the right selection? Most times elderly want to remain close to their friends and the community they grew up in when it comes time for a nursing home.

I suggest touring facilites the busiest time of the day, such as meal time. Do not set an appointment, just walk in as though you are visiting someone and observe with your senses. I recommend touring at least three facilities to get a good comparison. Then go to the Medicare website where you can compare nursing homes and review there yearly inspection reports. Click on the link below to start with your search:

http://www.medicare.gov/NHCompare/Include/DataSection/Questions/SearchCriteriaNEW.asp?version=default&browser=IE%7C6%7CWin2000&language=English&defaultstatus=0&pagelist=Home&CookiesEnabledStatus=True

Finding Services in Another State

With my mother living in Wisconsin it was very easy to find answers for services, but when my in-laws in North Carolina needed services it was a whole new adventrue.

In Wisconsin we are fortunate to have a realtively uniform way to find services for our loved ones. If you live in one state and your loved ones live in another state, it can be quite frustating and confusing finding services. Nationwide the Area Agency on Aging (AAA) will help you with your answers.

Below is the link to find your local AAA office.

http://www.n4a.org/about-n4a/?fa=aaa-title-VI#WI

The Benefits of Exercising for Seniors

Most people 65 years old and older have witnessed the fitness revolution but many cannot identify with it. Many older adults feel that it’s too late for them to benefit from “all that fitness stuff”. WRONG!! This age group can benefit the most from exercise and fitness because they have the time to devote, and much to gain from a fitness program.

A fitness program designed for active older adults can improve how long they may live, improve their quality of life, and allow them to maintain their independence. The benefits of one's physical fitness can go unnoticed. One may maintain certain activities without a noticeable decline such as getting in and out of a car, reaching overhead in cupboards for kitchen utensils, or being able to lift themselves off the toilet without any assistance.
Plus it is a proven fact that exercise makes one feel better and enjoy life more, improves symptoms of certain underlying diseases and disabilities, improves mood, reduces depression, and can delay certain diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer if done on a regular, permanent basis.

How to Navigate the County Systems for HELP!!

Many times people find it very frustrating when they try to find answers to their questions when calling the county government offices.

Wisconsin has implemented the ADRC (Aging and Disabilty Resource Centers) as the "one stop" shopping for answers. This includes answers relating to social security, medicare, veterans, home care, and much much more. Outagamie, Calumet & Waupaca ADRC's counties are up and running. Winnebago county is scheduled for 2009.

Residents of Winnebago County can get answers by contacting Winnebago County Human services at 920-236-4615 or by call Senior Connections at 920-232-5304.

Residents of Outagmie, Calumet, and Waupaca counties can contact their ADRC at 1-866-739-2372, or by using this link: http://www.co.outagamie.wi.us/human_services/aging_long_term_support/ADRC/adrc%20home.html

Otherwise use the statewide 211 system. The 211 system is for finding community services.