The holiday season can exacerbate seniors’ feelings of loneliness. This can cause health problems and affect their quality of life. Persistent loneliness can have the same health impact as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. Since loneliness can exacerbate health issues and increase the risk of mortality, it is especially important to combat isolation and feelings of loneliness during the holidays.
We Put on Love
Nine Things to Look for When You Visit Your Senior Parents this Holiday Season
It can be hard to tell how your senior parents are really doing at home when you don’t live near them. It’s one thing to talk on the phone or video chat, but going home for the holidays gives you a chance to check-in on their well-being while you catch up with everyone. Pay attention to the following signs when completing an Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) Assessment to determine if your senior loved ones are in need of assistance.
EPAGA Up Close: Julie Brubaker
When considering the chance to build something new, Julie asked Inga: “Can I do this on my own?” to which Inga replied, “Not without me!” From that point forward, they jumped off into the unknown, and they’ve been in it together ever since.
Julie is thankful that Jesus came as a servant, and asked us to do the same. He served those around Him on the basis of agapé love, and as Julie said: “If you don't have a love for people, you can’t be an effective caregiver.”
Healthy Habits for Seniors
In Every Season
As we are confronted with the changing seasons of the year, many of us are confronted with the changing seasons of our own lives; facing decisions regarding our family members and discerning how to best care for them. These are not easy seasons to navigate for anyone, nor easy decisions to make, and we understand the difficulties and stress that often accompany them.
Finding the Right Caregiver
57% of seniors over age 70 do not find it very easy to live alone. Many need assistance with some daily tasks. If your parent is one of them and plans to age in place, it’s time to hire a caregiver. There are several steps to take to ensure your loved one receives the best care (AARP).
EPAGA Up Close: Kevin Lake
Kevin currently holds the title of President of EPAGA Home Care, in addition to working in billing and receiving for the company. While he officially came onto the staff three years ago, he has undoubtedly been a constant source of support and encouragement from the very beginning of the company’s founding in 2007.