Caregiver

Signs of Caregiver Burnout

Lucia and David* like to have dinner on Thursday nights at their country club in Johnson County, as they have done for years. But David’s dementia has progressed to the point that Lucia isn’t sure if he’ll remember the names of acquaintances who stop by to say hello. She has to be vigilant in order to keep him from repeating himself to the waiter, she orders his food, makes sure he keeps his placemat and clothes clean, and helps him find the restroom. Naturally, she drives to and from the club, and helps him get ready for bed after their evening out. She organizes his medications; she picks up his clothes and is often up with him at night when he has bouts of anxiety, […]

Technology Tips for Dementia Care

Top Technology Tips for Dementia Care As dementia progresses, it becomes more and more difficult for loved ones to remember everyday responsibilities such as turning off appliances, or taking medication on time. Telling time can be a challenge, as can using electronics like cell phones and television remotes. Some people with dementia even begin to wander or get lost if they’re not monitored. No wonder family members worry about their loved ones who have been diagnosed with dementia. Many of our skilled caregivers at Kansas City Home Care have had positive experiences using helpful technologies to keep their clients going with the flow. Here are our top 7 technologies to help people with dementia Medication management is an issue for people who have memory loss. […]

Medication Management in Overland Park, KS

Medication Management in Overland Park, KS Looming large among issues facing seniors with memory loss is medication management. The opioid epidemic has affected the elderly community in a serious way. The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality has reported that between 2010 and 2015, elderly emergency room visits relating to opioid over-use have jumped 74%. Kansas City Home Care has solutions for families in Overland Park, Johnson County and Kansas City whose loved ones are struggling to take the right amount of medications at the right time. Care When You Need It Edward (whose name has been changed) is an example of an active 78-year-old diagnosed with memory loss related to Parkinson’s Disease. Edward enjoys playing golf with his wife, eating fine food, swimming with […]

When to Take the Keys Away

Having the Conversation Ask Tim Tholen, CEO and Founder of Thoughtful Health Care and its affiliates in Kansas City about one of the most important questions he has fielded from clients over the years and he’ll mention the issue of driving. When– and how—should families take the keys away from a person who has been diagnosed with dementia? In the “When Driving Becomes Too Dangerous” video, Tim helps identify and address some of these issues to help family members take control of a potentially dangerous situation. Watch the “When Driving Becomes Too Dangerous” video below: Driving Under the Influence of Dementia Driving is a huge part of our lives in the Midwest. Some people grew up on farms where the tractor was practically a member […]

Working with the Family Dynamic

A Diagnosis of Dementia Can Change Family Roles Family dynamics are often affected when a family member is diagnosed with dementia. Dad might no longer be able to make big decisions. Mom seems to get lost in the middle of an important conversation. As a result, family members may find themselves taking on new roles. And not everyone is comfortable with this. For many years, Tim Tholen, CEO and Founder of Thoughtful Health Care and its affiliates in Kansas City has seen these family dynamic changes among his clients. In the “Getting the Family Onboard” video, Tim helps clarify and address some of these issues in order to help families see the big picture. Watch “Getting the Family Onboard” below: How to Begin to Take […]

Tips for a Caregiver’s Self-Care

Dementia Affects Caregivers Life with dementia is demanding. It has a lasting impact on caregivers that is undeniable. In the “Caregiver’s Self-Care Checklist” video, you’ll find helpful tips and ideas from Tim Tholen, CEO and Founder of Thoughtful Health Care and its affiliates in Kansas City. Watch the “Caregiver’s Self-Care Checklist” video below: Did you know: Nearly 40% of family caregivers of people with dementia suffer from depression compared to 5-17% of non-caregivers of similar ages. Depression rates increase with the severity of cognitive impairment of the person with dementia. [Alzheimer’s Association. (2015)] Providing care for persons with dementia can affect a caregiver’s immune systems for up to 3 years after their caregiving experience ends–which increases his or her chance of developing a chronic illness. […]

Planning the Best Visit with a Loved One Who Has Dementia

Many clients have asked us over the years for advice about connecting with a loved one who has dementia. In this video, Tim Tholen, CEO and Founder of Thoughtful Health Care and its affiliates in Kansas City, talks about how to maintain a relationship with a loved one who has been diagnosed with dementia. Watch the “Connecting with a Loved One Who Has Dementia” video below. 1. The Time You Have Is Precious We all know that nothing lasts forever, even the current stage of your loved one’s dementia. When you can to listen to happy stories, or reminisce about times past, you are connecting with a part of the loved one that is still present. Go with it. Strive to soothe, not ruffle feathers. […]

Creating a Planning Document

When a Kansas City family member receives a diagnosis of dementia, there are a host of new issues that crop up. All kinds of new medications, routines and behaviors can be expected. How can a caregiving team stay updated? Planning, Planning, Planning Tim Tholen, CEO and Founder of Thoughtful Healthcare and its affiliates in Kansas City reveals one of tricks of the homecare trade: creating a Plan of Care. You can learn how to create this important resource in our “Plan of Care” video. Watch “The Plan of Care” video below. Why Create a Plan of Care? A Plan of Care is a tremendously useful document that can save hours of headache and miscommunication. And when the time comes for professional care, a Plan of […]

Caring for Someone Who’s Not Very Nice

It’s tough being a Kansas City caregiver. Even harder to take care of someone who doesn’t seem to appreciate what you do for them, criticizes you, and/or is verbally or physically abusive. Sometimes, people who require 24-hour senior care become angry and frustrated by their limitations, which causes them to lash out. People who have Alzheimer’s (or other form of dementia) tend to become verbally or physically aggressive, particularly during the later stages of illness. And some people are just plain mean to begin with. Here are some tips that can help smooth things over: Be patient. Try to determine the source of the anger. Is it frustration? Fear? Instead of fighting back, ask questions to see if you can determine why your loved one […]

5 Tips for Managing COPD

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), is a lifelong medical problem. However, there are medical treatments, and also lifestyle changes, that can help improve your quality of life if you have COPD (e.g., chronic bronchitis, emphysema). Here are some things you can try. Avoid pollutants. COPD is most often caused by smoking cigarettes, but you can also get it from long-term exposure to secondhand smoke, air pollution, or chemical fumes. If you’re still smoking, it’s time to quit. Your Kansas City primary care physician (PCP) can help. If you work in a place where you’re exposed to chemical fumes or other types of air pollution (e.g., dust, lead, asbestos), ask your supervisor about respiratory protective equipment. See your Kansas City pulmonologist on a regular basis. If you don’t […]

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