Hallmark Homecare South Charlotte

💡 What is recreational therapy? Here's the answer and its 4 powerful benefits for aging loved ones 😀

February is National Recreation Month! Let’s explore the transformative power that recreation therapy holds for our aging loved ones.

This holistic approach to healthcare focuses on using recreational activities to enhance physical, mental, and emotional well-being, offering aging adults a path to rediscover joy, purpose, and connection.

1️⃣ Physical Health 💪

Engaging in activities such as gentle exercises, yoga, or swimming can improve flexibility, strength, and overall cardiovascular health. These activities also contribute to better balance and coordination, reducing the risk of falls and promoting independent living.

2️⃣ Cognitive Stimulation 🧠

Recreation therapy incorporates activities that stimulate the brain, such as puzzles, games, and creative arts. These activities not only provide mental challenges but also contribute to memory retention, problem-solving skills, and overall cognitive function.

3️⃣ Emotional Health 🤗

Recreation therapy provides opportunities for socialization and emotional expression. Group activities, outings, and even pet therapy can foster a sense of community and belonging, reducing feelings of isolation and improving overall emotional well-being.

4️⃣ Improved Quality of Life 😀

By engaging in meaningful and enjoyable activities, aging adults experience a sense of purpose, satisfaction, and fulfillment. This can lead to increased motivation, self-esteem, and a positive outlook on life. 💗

Enhancing Golden Years: The Transformative Power of Recreation Therapy for Aging Seniors - Hallmark Homecare As we embrace February, we not only celebrate the month of love but also recognize it as National Recreation Month. What could be a more fitting occasion than this to delve into the impact of recreation therapy on the lives of aging adults? Let’s explore the transformative power that recreation th...

5 types of activities and 20 examples for aging loved ones with dementia.

This guide invites you to explore a variety of engaging activities that reignite joy, bolster cognitive health, and nurture emotional tranquility for seniors with dementia.

1️⃣ Creative
🎶 Playing music
🎨 Art
💗 Crafts
👐 Collages

2️⃣ Fulfilling
👚 Folding laundry
🔧 Minor do-it-yourself projects
👐 Untying knots
♠ Puzzles
🎴 Board or card games

3️⃣ Technology-based
🏞 Discovering nature and art through live streams
🌍 Venture globally with Google Earth
👀 Family video tablet

4️⃣ Reminiscent
🎞 Classic movies and TV shows
🎵 Listening to familiar music
🖼 Looking through old photo albums
📰 Reviewing old magazines or newspapers

5️⃣ Sensory
👃 Familiar smells
👐 Familiar objects
😋 Familiar foods
👐 Feeling diverse textures

Each of the above activities can be tailored to enrich the lives of dementia-affected seniors within the loving confines of their own homes.

Source: Amanda Lundberg, RN, family medicine expert

❤️🖤💚 Today we honor the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr., a man whose tireless efforts for equality and justice continue to inspire us.

💡 Let's reflect on his teachings and work towards creating a world that embraces diversity, love, and understanding.

394 caregiver applications despite a shortage of qualified caregivers? Here’s how. 🤔

The wages caregivers make as agency employees are often too low. As independent caregivers, they can earn a livable wage.

The independent caregivers we match tend to make $2-4 per hour more than agency caregivers...and our low overhead model achieves this while saving clients money. It's a win-win!💲

Additionally, caregivers appreciate greater control over their schedule. The compassionate caregivers in our registry approve or decline each match proposed. It has to be a fit on both sides to be set up for long-term success! 😀 😀

Being a family caregiver is a rewarding yet challenging journey. It's OK to seek help! 🆘

😥 Caring for a family member is a role that often goes beyond just providing love and support. It can also weigh heavily on your own physical health, financial stability, and emotional wellbeing. 😟

👏 Let's recognize and applaud the selfless and life-changing efforts of family caregivers nationwide!

Also, consider seeking help! 😅

With assistance from professional caregivers, you can:
☮ Find peace of mind 🧠
👴 Focus on cherishing moments with your loved one 👵
⚖ Balance other priorities like children and work 🚸 💼

Click below to get directly matched with a fully vetted, experienced, insured, professional, independent caregiver at an affordable rate!

Senior Home Care South Charlotte, NC | Hallmark Homecare Hire a Private Caregiver to Provide In Home Senior Care (Homecare) in South Charlotte, NC. Professional Caregivers, More Control, Affordable Costs. Call 980-202-2224

Let's ring in the new year! 🎉🎆🎈🙌🥂📆🎇🎊

While enjoying year-end time together, don't miss the signs an aging loved one may need support. Click to see the top 10 🔦🧠

Top 10 Signs Your Parent or Loved One May Need Caregiver Assistance - Hallmark Homecare What are some signs that your loved one may be becoming more vulnerable and requires more assistance? Here are the top 10 things to look for: Safety concerns: Falls or near falls are the most serious warning sign. Watch for bruises or other signs, since seniors might be too embarrassed to share the....

Wishing a merry Christmas to those who celebrate! May the festive season fill your hearts with warmth, joy, and gratitude. 🎄🎅

Happy holidays! 🤝🎉🎄🙌🕎🥂🎈🎊🎁💗

Wishing a happy Hanukkah to those who celebrate! May the Festival of Lights illuminate your days with happiness and togetherness. 🕎✨

👴 🦃 Consider these six impactful ideas as you prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving with aging loved ones. 🦃 👵

As the crisp autumn air and vibrant leaves signal the approach of Thanksgiving, it’s a time for reflection, gratitude, and coming together with loved ones. 🍂

For older adults, Thanksgiving holds a special significance as it offers an opportunity to share stories, create memories, and express gratitude for the moments that have shaped their lives. 🤝

Let’s explore ways in which we can celebrate Thanksgiving with our aging loved ones, making the holiday meaningful and memorable for all. 💗

And now, the six ideas...

Gratitude and Gatherings: Celebrating Thanksgiving with Older Adults - Hallmark Homecare As the crisp autumn air and vibrant leaves signal the approach of Thanksgiving, it’s a time for reflection, gratitude, and coming together with loved ones. For older adults, Thanksgiving holds a special significance as it offers an opportunity to share stories, create memories, and express gratitu...

💡 5 tips to care for a loved one or client with dementia, if they become aggressive.

Many are aware that older adults with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia can be forgetful or struggle cognitively.

But many may not be aware that the disease can also present in the form of verbal or physical outbursts. Such behavior is particularly common in the late afternoon and evening (“sundowning”).

Click the article below from Tyria Council, a Certified Nursing Assistant and former caregiver, to get the helpful tips for family and professional caregivers.

When Dementia Triggers Aggressive Behavior – 5 Tips from a Former Caregiver - Hallmark Homecare Many are aware that older adults with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia can be forgetful or struggle cognitively. But many may not be aware that the disease can also present in the form of verbal or physical outbursts. Such behavior is particularly common in the late afternoon and evening (.....

👟 Is your older loved one exercising in a potentially dangerous manner? 6 tips to keep them safe. 💡

1️⃣ Choose the right activities
Seniors should exercises appropriate for their physical condition and fitness level. Low impact activities like walking, swimming, or gentle yoga can be great.

2️⃣ Start slowly
It's important not to overexert or ramp up too quickly. Begin with short, manageable sessions and increase gradually.

3️⃣ Incorporate strength training
Strength training can help maintain muscle mass and bone density. Try resistance bands or light weights.

4️⃣ Stay hydrated
Dehydration can be more dangerous for seniors, so be sure to drink plenty of water before, during, and after exercise.

5️⃣ Listen to your body
Pay attention to any signs of pain or discomfort and adjust your routine accordingly. Rest when needed and avoid pushing through pain.

6️⃣ Warm-up and cool down
Always start with a gentle warm-up and finish with a cool-down to prevent injury and reduce muscle soreness.

🧘‍♀️ Exercise is a vital component of a healthy and fulfilling life for people of all ages, and it’s especially important for seniors.

✅ Let's make a commitment to helping our older loved ones exercise in a safe manner.

Staying Active and Healthy: The Importance of Exercise for the Elderly - Hallmark Homecare As we age, it’s easy to fall into a sedentary lifestyle. The temptation of lounging in a comfy chair or taking it easy can be strong, but maintaining an active lifestyle is crucial for the health and well-being of seniors. Here we will explore the many benefits of exercise and provide tips for agi...

💡 7 surprising stats on the impact of Alzheimer's and dementia at home and work.

💗 We love helping family caregivers:
☮ Find peace of mind 🧠
👴 Focus on cherishing moments with their loved one 👵
⚖ Balance other priorities like children and work 🚸 💼

We do this by directly matching their loved one with a fully vetted, experienced, insured, professional, independent caregiver at an affordable rate!

Click here to learn more: hallmarkhomecare.com/104

🌍 💚 It’s World Mental Health Day! Here are two impactful ways you can be a positive force:

1️⃣ Awareness 🧠
Did you know that one in five adults in the US battles mental health issues each year? Let's break the silence, foster understanding, and support one another. Awareness is the first step towards creating a compassionate community.

2️⃣ Destigmatization 💗
Let's erase the stigma by promoting open conversations and fostering an environment where seeking help is not just encouraged but celebrated. Together, we can create a culture of acceptance and understanding.

👴 Connection to older adults 👵
Older adults are particularly vulnerable to mental health issues due to loneliness. Many lack the social connections necessary to thrive.

👁 Think about older loved ones desiring to feel seen and heard. You can make a difference in their lives today! 👂

🔦 New research indicates higher risk of dementia with lower activity. 3 key stats.

1️⃣ 10 hours of inactivity per day is the tipping point for higher risk (8%).

2️⃣ Above 12 hours, risk increased by 63%.

3️⃣ Above 15 hours, risk increased by 320%.

💡 The study doesn't prove inactivity causes dementia. It provides evidence of a linkage, which needs to be better understood.

🚶‍♂️Caregivers can help older adults safely increase daily activity.🚶‍♀️

Reach out to us today to get directly matched with a fully vetted, experienced, insured, professional, independent caregiver at an affordable rate!

Dementia Risk Rises as Activity Rates Fall TUESDAY, Sept. 12, 2023 (HealthDay News) -- Bolstering the notion that a strong body equals a strong mind, new research indicates that the more inactive seniors are, the higher their risk for dementia.The finding stems from a look at the onset of dementia among nearly 50,000 Brits.All were at least....

Bruce Willis's wife Emma opens up about his dementia. Four insights below from her Today interview.

1. Self-awareness 🤔

Is Bruce aware? "It's hard to know," she said.

2. Family disease 👨‍👩‍👧‍👧

"Dementia is hard," Emma Heming Willis said on TODAY. "It’s hard on the person diagnosed, it’s also hard on the family. And that is no different for Bruce, or myself, or our girls. When they say this is a family disease, it really is."

3. More than just memory 🧠

“It can affect speech, behaviors, personality and what we call executive functioning,” Dickinson said, referring to skills that help to plan ahead and achieve goals. Dickinson is CEO of the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration.

4. Care for the caregiver 💗

Emma said she calls herself a "care partner," rather than a caretaker. "It’s important for care partners to look after themselves so that they can be the best care partner for the person they’re caring for," she said. He's taught their two daughters, Mabel and Evelyn, traits like "love, patience and resilience."

Bruce Willis’ wife, Emma, gives update on his life with dementia in TODAY exclusive Heming Willis joined TODAY for an exclusive TV interview since her husband's diagnosis was made public in honor of World FTD Awareness Week, from Sept. 24 to Oct. 1.

💧The three reasons seniors are more vulnerable to dehydration? 😓

Why is water so important? 🚰
Water is essential to almost all bodily functions from lubricating our joints to pumping blood to our heart.

Why are seniors more vulnerable to dehydration? 👴👵
1. Lower appetite and thirst 🥛
Though the bodies of older adults may crave fluids, their minds don't prompt eating and drinking as much.

2. Body composition changes 😓
Older adults' bodies change composition as aging occurs. One result is less water retention.

3. Medications 💊
Seniors are more likely to take medications that increase dehydration risk.

Is this a significant issue? 🔦
A recent study found that up to 40% of elderly people may be chronically dehydrated.

How do I know if a loved one might be dehydrated?
If urine is pale and clear, the individual is likely well-hydrated. If urine is dark colored, the individual may be dehydrated.

How much water is needed to stay hydrated? 🌊
As a general rule, you should take one third of your body weight and drink that number of ounces in fluids daily. For example, a 120 pound person should drink about 40 ounces of water each day.

Do you drink enough water? If so, what are your tips to stay hydrated?

What creative ways have you found to encourage your elderly loved ones to stay hydrated? ℹ

Please click this helpful National Council on Aging article, from which the above information was pulled, to learn more.

The Importance of Hydration for Older Adults Are you drinking enough water? Find out why hydration is so essential to vibrant good health—and get tips for including more fluids in your diet each day.

Great lunch meeting last week with our friends Nathan Conley and Foster Krebs at Cornerstone Caregiving.

We love collaborating with others who share our passion for enabling seniors to age in place and age gracefully.

Nathan, an army veteran, is particularly passionate about assisting veterans with home care and helping them utilize their VA benefit.

For veterans seeking to utilize VA funding for home care, we enthusiastically recommend Cornerstone Caregiving.



Cornerstone Caregiving South Charlotte
Cornerstone Caregiving North Charlotte

🎊🔩🛠️ Happy Labor Day! 👷‍♂️👷‍♀️🎉

🛠️ Today we join our family and friends to celebrate the American worker’s contributions to our country.

👴👵 As we do so, let’s reflect on the incredible knowledge and experience that older workers bring to the table.

🦉 This powerful image of an older supervisor guiding a younger apprentice reminds us of the invaluable wisdom of elder generations.

👷‍♂️👷‍♀️Labor Day reminds us of the hard work and dedication that shaped our industries and communities.

🏖 Enjoy the well-deserved break. Soak up the last rays of summer and make lasting memories with family and friends.

Empowering elder care: 8 insights shared by experts at the Asheville aging conference. 👴👵

1. Thirsty water-givers (Stephanie Hand) 😥
Senior care professionals pour themselves out for older adults. But you can’t pour yourself out if your cup is empty. You must replenish yourself so that you may continue giving.

2. Magic of Tai Chi (Amber Chapman) 🧘‍♂️🧘‍♀️
Studies have shown that Tai Chi meaningfully reduces fall risk among older adults. It’s also beneficial for arthritis.

3. Difficulty of aging in place in rural areas (Jeanne Mathews) ⛰
Obtaining affordable, quality care in-home is more challenging in rural areas due to scattering of the population, more limited resources, and amplification of the nationwide shortage of caregivers.

4. Two myths of consumer-directed care (Jeanne Mathews)
(1) Seniors don’t want to direct their own care.
Yes they do! And most can. 🗣

(2) Traditional agencies can fully address the preferences of seniors.
They can adjust care to an extent but older adults sometimes desire greater control and flexibility. 💬

5. Nutrition is emerging from its silo (Bob Blancato) 🥗
In the past, nutrition was viewed as a separate, niche discipline. With greater recognition of its importance, nutrition is being integrated into many aspects of healthcare and public health.

6. Importance of advance directives (Kyla Boyles) 📝
90% of people say it’s important to talk to family about end-of-life desires but only 30% do it and only 23% formalize it in writing. Without advance directives, family members are burdened with tough decisions.

7. Myth of advance directives (Kyla Boyles) 🗣 > 📝
Many seniors shy away from formalizing advance directives (legal documents that outline preferred care in different situations) because they believe they will lose say in their care. As one attendee eloquently stated: “A living will does not trump the will of the living.”

8. Family caregiver tax credit (Sandy Markwood)💲
Family caregivers deserve a tax credit in respect of their lifechanging work. It’s a meaningful and realistic policy goal. If implemented, this would expand access to care where it is sorely needed.

Any nuggets particularly compelling or missing the mark? 🎯

The engaging conference, themed Aging Adventures Await, was hosted by the Southeastern Association of Area Agencies on Aging - SE4A, including Charlotte’s very own Centralina Area Agency on Aging.

Hallmark Homecare is excited to participate in the Annual Aging Conference in Asheville, NC which began yesterday afternoon and runs through Wednesday morning.

This year’s theme is Aging Adventures Await.

Great location at the beautiful and historic Omni Grove Park Inn.

The conference is hosted by the Southeastern Association of Area Agencies on Aging - SE4A, including our very own Centralina Area Agency on Aging.

We look forward to supporting our Area Agencies on Aging, learning, and connecting with local partners in attendance!

It's National Dog Day! Time to celebrate our furry companions! 🐶

It's also a day intended to raise awareness for rescue centers/shelters and encourage adoption of their many dogs. 💡

We applaud those who kindly open up their homes to rescues. Your sacrifice and investment saves the lives of so many of man's best friends!

Senior + dog = 😀 + 🐶. Why is the combination so awesome?!?

🐕 Companionship
Dogs can reduce loneliness by providing interaction when family or caregivers are not available.

🐩 Movement
Elders with dogs tend to exercise more frequently, which benefits physical and mental health in numerous ways.

🐕 Tranquility
Dogs have a calming effect that reduces stress and anxiety.

🐩 Independence
Older adults desire to be independent and caring for a dog delivers seniors with a sense of purpose and responsibility.

🐕 Sociability
Many activities with dogs – like a walk in the park – create opportunities to meet old friends and make new ones.

Any other benefits we're missing?

Enjoy National Dog Day! Maybe a good excuse for extra treats. 🍪

Extend your lifespan and live better with these 8 principles of the longevity diet. 💯😀

1. Nutrient rich foods 🥩
Prioritize whole, unprocessed foods that deliver a broad spectrum of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

2. Plant-centric diet 🥗
Plant-based foods provide a wealth of nutrients, fiber, and antioxidants.

3. Healthy fats and omega-3s 🐟
Healthy fats include olive oil, nuts, and fatty fish.

4. Mindful eating and portion control 🧠
Practice portion control, savor each bite, eat slowly, and pay attention to hunger and fullness cues.

5. Intermittent fasting and time-restricted eating ⌚
These approaches involve periods of fasting or limited eating windows.

6. Social connection and enjoyment 😀🍽🍽😀
Build and nurture social connections around food.

7. Hydrating and limiting sugars 🚰
Staying well-hydrated has its own benefits and also supresses appetite.

8. Individualization and long-term commitment 📅
Nothing is one-size fits all. The longevity diet should be tailored for each person.

By embracing the principles of this diet, you’re not only investing in a future of extended years but also savoring the present with vitality and zest. Remember, it’s not just about adding years to your life, but adding life to your years! 😊

To learn more about the longevity diet and these 8 habits, click the blog post below.💡

The Longevity Diet: Nourishing Your Way to a Healthier and Longer Life - Hallmark Homecare The Longevity Diet: Nourishing Your Way to a Healthier and Longer Life In the pursuit of a fulfilling and vibrant life, the significance of a balanced and healthy diet cannot be overstated. As science continues to unravel the mysteries of human longevity, one thing has become clear: what we eat play...

A lifetime of stories. One day of celebration. Happy Senior Citizens Day! 🎊👴👵🎊

Join us in recognizing the invaluable contributions of older adults who paved the way for us. Let’s acknowledge and celebrate their wisdom and resilience. 🧠💡

In 1988, President Ronald Reagan proclaimed this holiday to raise awareness about issues that affect senior citizens and their quality of life. And to recognize seniors who have spent their lives contributing to society. 🗝 🎉

“For all they have achieved throughout life and for all they continue to accomplish, we owe older citizens our thanks and a heartfelt salute. We can best demonstrate our gratitude and esteem by making sure that our communities are good places in which to mature and grow older — places in which older people can participate to the fullest and can find the encouragement, acceptance, assistance, and services they need to continue to lead lives of independence and dignity.” – Reagan proclaimed when marking the day of celebration

Today’s a great day to discuss and strengthen your family’s traditions, many of which were set by the beloved seniors in our lives. 🔦

🧘 Embrace serenity on National Relaxation Day! 🧘‍♀️

Today is all about unwinding and finding your inner calm. In our fast-paced lives, taking time to relax isn't just a luxury – it's essential for our overall well-being, especially for our cherished seniors.

Why Relaxation Matters for Seniors 🧠
A moment of tranquility can work wonders for seniors' physical and mental health. It helps alleviate stress, reduce anxiety, and even promote better sleep. Seniors who prioritize relaxation often experience improved cognitive function and a strengthened immune system.

Safe Ideas for Seniors to Zen Out: 😌
✅ Gentle yoga: Engage in senior-friendly yoga poses to stretch and soothe both body and mind
✅ Mindful meditation: Guided meditation sessions can help seniors find peace and mindfulness in their daily routines
✅ Aromatherapy: Scents like lavender and chamomile can offer a soothing atmosphere and trigger relaxation
✅ Nature walks: A leisurely stroll in a park can rejuvenate the spirit and connect seniors with the beauty of nature
✅ Creative outlets: Arts and crafts or music can be therapeutic for seniors

Remember, relaxation is a gift you can give yourself and your loved ones. Today, let's all take a step back, breathe deeply, and embrace the tranquility that National Relaxation Day brings.

How will you be finding your zen today?

Did you know dementia can sometimes be prevented? Join this free info session by The Ivey to learn more!💡

One of the missions at The Ivey, a preferred partner of Hallmark Homecare South Charlotte, is to educate the greater community on the importance of aging well through brain healthy lifestyle change. The possibility of avoiding, delaying, or minimizing cognitive decline is what drives The Ivey to share what has been learned from subject matter experts about creating better brain health. 🔦

According to the CDC, 40% of dementia can be prevented or delayed by addressing 6-pillars of brain health. 🧠

The Ivey, in collaboration with Southminster, offers a series of Brain Health Workshops led by PhD experts in their respective fields that detail these pillars, the science behind them, and the process to develop new habits that can be implemented at any age. 🔬

Free information sessions about the workshops and its leaders are offered at The Ivey multiple times throughout the year. 🆓 ℹ

Register here: https://theivey.com/programs/brain-health-workshop.html

Or contact Steven Poole to set up a free "mini" info session at your facility or group meeting.

🏓💗 Happy National Pickleball Day! Let's celebrate our fastest growing sport – energizing seniors and helping them stay active and connected!

What is pickleball? 🏓
It’s a racquet sport played with ping pong-like paddles on a badminton-like court with a tennis-like net. Sounds obvious why it’s our country’s fastest growing sport, right?

No way.
Yes way 🚀. It is. In the US, we’ve grown from 2 million participants (5% participation rate) in 2018 to 9 million (22% participation rate) in 2021. 4x the players in 3 years?!? Yup, with over 1 in 5 people now in the game!

Why is it becoming so popular, particularly among seniors? 👴👵
🏓 Approachability – New players can have fun their first time playing

Pickleball's small court, light paddles, simple rules, and friendly atmosphere make it an inviting sport for newcomers. Fun and enjoyment are immediate companions.

🏓 Level playing field – People of different skill levels can enjoy playing together

One of pickleball's most remarkable qualities is its ability to bridge generations and skill levels. From novices to experts, seniors to juniors, everyone can share the court and experience the joy of friendly competition, creating a true sense of unity.

🏓 Social – The court is small enough that people can socialize throughout the game

Imagine a sport where camaraderie flows as easily as the ball over the net. In pickleball's compact playing area, players have ample opportunities to chat, share stories, and form connections while enjoying the thrill of the game.

What’s the biggest myth about pickleball? 🤕
That it’s low risk in terms of injuries and low impact on your joints. The game can be fairly strenuous if you’re competitive – including striking the ball, rushing the net, quick twitch lateral movements, and reacting to incoming shots from nearby opponents.

That net looks tiny. Can I stand over it and slam every ball down? 🚫
No, stay out of the kitchen! That’s the name for the rectangular area surrounding the net. This unique rule forces players to stay back unless the ball bounces in the kitchen first.

Have you jumped on the pickleball bandwagon? 💗