Lifted

Cost of care can seem overwhelming, so we've developed a step by step introduction to care that will give you some overall understanding in such a tough transition in life

For more info: https://www.liftedcare.com/cost-of-care/

Happy Thanksgiving!

Despite this typically being a stateside holiday, we love the thought of giving thanks for what is around us, as this is key to caregiving

If you celebrate, consider the challenges your elderly loved one may face today. To learn more https://www.hellalife.com/blog/checklist-life/thanksgiving-aging-parents/

It dawns on us all that we have limited time in which to make new memories and squeeze all there is out of every opportunity to bond with an ageing loved one

For 5 effective ways to do this, head to https://www.homecareassistancehuntsville.com/build-memories-with-senior/

Old age doesn’t mean the end of the line. A survey on older adults in 2018 found that most seniors have a more positive outlook on life and increased enjoyment during retirement.

Read about some activities for older adults that they can do in their home to be healthy and happy here https://spacecoastdaily.com/2022/08/activities-for-older-adults-at-home-to-keep-them-happy-and-healthy/

Harnessing the smell of autumn for dementia care

We had scent expert Linda Harman explains how the season of mists and mellow fruitfulness can be so enjoyable for someone with dementia

Learn more here https://www.liftedcare.com/the-smell-of-autumn/

Caregiver guilt.

Something that is not spoken about it enough for reasons of shame or simply where one is unable to identify the feeling they are experiencing

For ways to deal with caregiver guilt, head to https://dailycaring.com/7-ways-of-dealing-with-caregiver-guilt-that-improve-health/

Caregiver loneliness is a rising issue, but there are ways to relieve it before it makes the responsibilities of being a carer that much more challenging

Learn 4 top ways to overcome the issue from a professional here https://dailycaring.com/4-ways-to-overcome-caregiver-loneliness-in-dementia-care/

Sundowning is a term for changes in the person’s behaviour in the later afternoon or towards the end of the day

It is a common occurrence for those with dementia and can be confusing at first, but managed with some understanding

Learn more here https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/about-dementia/symptoms-and-diagnosis/symptoms/sundowning

Today on Guy Fawkes, there are some extra considerations for your elderly loved one during the fireworks this evening

Learn more about how to handle this here https://aristahc.com/firework-distress/

Today is National Stress Awareness Day

It can be incredibly stressful to experience dementia, as it can be to care for someone with the condition. Take today to recognise this and lend an ear or a hand to anyone you might know in this position

For guidance on how to help: https://dailycaring.com/14-practical-ways-to-relieve-caregiver-stress/

As a Lifted carer, using the Lifted care app, you will be able to:

Record your travel time accurately.
Share the moments of joy you create with your client and their family.
Check for any special requests or requirements that have been made for that visit.
Leave any notes concerning the client for their loved ones.

Learn more here https://www.liftedcare.com/jobs/become-a-carer/

Barbara's blog is back:

'When mothers have dementia'

For some guidance on navigating a dementia diagnosis of your mother, have a read https://www.liftedcare.com/barbaras-blog-when-mothers-have-dementia/

Our Dementia Support Group on Facebook is for those who are family caregivers or for people living with dementia and memory loss

All of our members are friendly and welcoming, so feel free to stop by and say hello!

Find our community here https://www.liftedcare.com/dementia-support-group/

Ever wanted to learn more about respite care?

At Lifted, we appreciate how difficult it can be to be the primary carer for your loved one. It’s a full time and very demanding job.

That’s why it’s essential that every so often you make sure to take some time out for yourself.

This is where our respite care services can help.

Find out more https://www.liftedcare.com/care/respite-care/

Boris Johnson recently launched 'Dame Barbara Windsor Dementia Mission'

It is a heartwarming mission and we urge you to learn more
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/prime-minister-launches-dame-barbara-windsor-dementia-mission--2

This week is National Parents' Week

Many of our Lifted community are arranging care for their parents and the support we give them embodies our mission to ensure that no-one cares alone

We really enjoyed an article about caring for elderly parents that you can find here https://www.caregiver.org/news/parenting-your-elderly-parents/

Talking Keychain/Pocket Clock

This product announces the time and date in a clear English male voice at the press of a button. It also has a simple alarm clock function.

Learn of its benefits and purchase one here https://www.liftedcare.com/product/talking-keychain-pocket-clock/

One in four across England provide support for someone living with dementia, a survey has recently revealed

To understand more statistics like this go to https://www.homecareinsight.co.uk/one-in-four-across-england-provide-support-for-someone-living-with-dementia-survey-reveals/

Today is World Mental Health Day

There are many individuals in a care bubble who may well struggle with their mental health, from the person who has dementia, to their caregiver and those surrounding the emotional experience

Seek support, should you need it here https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/a-z-topics/dementia #:~:text=Treatment%20for%20dementia&text=These%20include%20talking%20therapies%2C%20cognitive,them%20progressing%20for%20a%20while.

Alzheimer’s Request

BY OWEN DARNELL

Today, on National Poetry Day

After a summer of heatwaves that never seem to end, we have written up some guidance for coping for when the temperatures won't stop climbing

Read here: https://www.liftedcare.com/heatwave-guidance-support/

It is World Animal Day, so it's a chance to learn more about the relationship between animals and the elderly

Learn more about the connection via Pets for the Elderly

Find more here https://www.petsfortheelderly.org/our-work/research.php #:~:text=For%20elderly%20pet%20owners%2C%20who,activity%20and%20help%20them%20learn.&text=Supports%20health%20benefits%20of%20owning%20a%20pet.&text=Pet%20ownership%20may%20be%20a%20factor%20in%20improved%20health%20of%20the%20elderly.,-Supports%20the%20benefits

Where communicating with a loved one with Alzheimer's can be challenging, there are many strategies to communicate effectively with each other, such as:

1. Making the most of physicality, touch and body language
2. Maintain eye contact
3. Face your loved one head on whilst communicating
4. Go slowly and repeat where necessary
5. Keep questions brief and to the point

Comment below your most successful strategy!

This week's activity is BOWLS

A game loved by the elderly that can be played out in nature, inside or even on a table surface

These gentle games are sociable, can be played at any pace, many times over

Shop a set that is especially safe and visible here https://www.daviessports.co.uk/product/pe-essentials/games/solid-foam-skittle-set---assorted-/pggp02216?pk_cid=1&pk_keyword=PGGP02216gls&pk_medium=multifeeds&pk_campaign=Google&pk_source=Google&pk_content=BusinessIndustrial&utm_source=Google&gclid=CjwKCAjw3qGYBhBSEiwAcnTRLkFU7s6w4st1WscTXzNVWc4po_-l-P9F29ZC_5rn6jqB7I9Dp_D2uBoCNRYQAvD_BwE

Lisa's Journey

One Woman’s Story of Caring for Dad

Read it here https://www.homewatchcaregivers.com/blog/caregivers/one-woman-s-story-of-caring-for-dad/

Abrupt personality shifts and mood swings are common symptoms of Alzheimer's, and understanding more about them can help to avoid upset

Learn of some tips and tricks herehttps://www.alz.org/media/cacentral/dementia-care-30-personality-changes-in-dementia.pdf

Cognitive Stimulation Therapy

This approach to Alzheimer's aims to improve cognitive skills and quality of life for people with dementia through activities such as categorisation, word association and discussion of current affairs

To learn more, head to http://www.cstdementia.com/

For those caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's they can feel overwhelmed, isolated and may even experience burnout

To learn of some ways to support them, head to https://www.mindful.org/5-tips-to-support-the-caregiver-in-your-life/

This week's activity is CLEANING

The repetitive movements, calm nature and clean end result involved in basic household surfaces are all very therapeutic for a loved one with Alzheimer's and it doesn't hurt that its a productive activity, too!

Read of some interesting tips in this area here https://www.homewatchcaregivers.com/dementia/living-with-dementia/household-chores-upkeep/