Always Best Care of Charlotte & Matthews, NC

National Health Center Week is an opportunity to highlight the commitment and passion of Community Health Centers. This years theme is 'Powering Communities Through Caring Connections' which is a theme we stand behind!

Check out: Health Center Advocacy Network to learn about health centers in your area and to make a caring connection!

Do I really need vaccines?

Immunization or vaccines is a vital aspect of preventative health care for seniors. By protecting against infectious diseases, vaccines help maintain health, improve quality of life, and reduce the risk of severe infections.

Below are some key reasons to get vaccines:
1. The effectiveness of vaccines can reduce incidence of the disease spreading
2. Seniors have weakened immune systems making them more susceptible to infections
3. The elderly may have an increased risk of severe complications if infected
4. Immunizations can reduce the overall burden on the healthcare system

Staying up to date with vaccinations is the best way for seniors to avoid infections and other complications.

Don’t brush off changes or pain in your feet. Talk to your doctor about any concerns you may have so that you can receive proper treatment. Read this blog to learn about common foot problems for seniors and how to prevent it:
👀https://alwaysbestcare.com/resources/on-your-feet-common-foot-problems-for-seniors/

Did you know that skin cancer does not discriminate? It does not matter what skin color, age, or gender, because skin cancer can affect anyone! That is why it’s important to know everything about it.

There are certain risk factors such as fair skin, a history of sunburns, excessive sun exposure, and a family history
of skin cancer, which can increase one’s susceptibility to getting skin cancer, but the number one risk factor is SUN
EXPOSURE!

Encouraging people to protect their skin by wearing sunscreen, seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding indoor tanning beds can greatly reduce their risk of developing skin cancer.

The encouraging news is that when detected early, skin cancer is highly treatable.

Today is Gorgeous Grandma Day!

Today is a day to celebrate the beauty and grace that comes with age, and to recognize the incredible women who have nurtured and loved others.

Caregiving offers flexible schedules, an earned income, community involvement and the ability to leave a positive impact on another. 💙

To apply and/or more information, complete a form at: https://alwaysbestcare.com/caregiverjobs/

When choosing an activity to do with your elderly loved one, think about what hobbies and interests they enjoy. Get
creative!

How About…
⚾ Catching a sporting event – grandchild ball game or watching an event on TV

🎣Fishing for fun – Be one with nature

🔍Be a tourist – Consider a tour of your city. What about a wonderful Sunday afternoon drive?

🏊‍♂️Take a dip – Put your toes in a pool or maybe even water aerobics

🚶Stroll around a city park – People watching can be fun

🦁Be an animal lover – Go to zoo or local dog park

🌹Visit a public rose garden

🏆Participate in a walking event

🍨Go out for a treat

A solid #5...always! Which Granny are you?

LIKE/FOLLOW our page for fun senior-related content! 👍

Happy 4th of July! 💥

As we celebrate this 4th of July, we also remember and honor those who sacrificed their lives for our freedom. Their bravery and patriotism will not be forgotten. 🗽

❗SPOILER ALERT ❗
The answer is YES!

Keep a close eye on those in your care. Visit more frequently, such as 2 times a day if possible.

When you are with them, ask these questions:
• Are they drinking enough water? Don’t wait until they are thirsty to encourage them to drink!
• Do they have access to air conditioning? Do not rely on a fan only!
• Do they know how to keep cool?
• Do they show any signs of heat stress?
• Encourage them to take cool showers or baths
• Is their clothing appropriate for the weather? Are they loose and light- colored?
• Help them limit their exposure to the sun

It's gettin' HOT in here! So take out all the hoses! Stay HYDRATED! 🥵💧

Although there is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s, there are things that you can do that aim to manage symptoms and slow down the progression of the disease.

Such as:
A. Medication Therapy– certain medications can help improve memory and thinking skills while also managing behavioral symptoms.

B. Lifestyle changes like regular exercise, a balanced diet, and social engagement may also be beneficial.

C. Therapies such as cognitive stimulation, occupational therapy, and reminiscence therapy can help maintain cognitive function and improve quality of life.

Arthritis causes stiff, achy joints which can make moving around painful. Physical activity is good for arthritis, as long as you don’t overdo it. Here are a few arthritis-friendly activities to consider:
👀 https://alwaysbestcare.com/resources/arthritis-friendly-exercises-for-seniors/

If you are interested in:
1. Senior Care
2. Caregiving Support
3. Aging Tips
4. Health & Wellness
5. Community Events

LIKE/FOLLOW our page to be up-to-date ! 👍

Happy Juneteenth! Today we celebrate freedom and unity as we recognize this important day in our nation's history.

Yes, anyone can get Alzheimer’s! But, Alzheimer’s disease has early signs. Let your MD know if you have these symptoms:

1. Memory loss: Trouble recalling information, dates, or events. (normal age-related forgetfulness may occur but resolves)

2. Struggle to plan/solve problems: Finding it hard to do tasks, make plans, handle money.

3. Struggles with familiar tasks: Difficulty with everyday activities like driving, grocery lists.

4. Confusing time/place: Forgetting what time it is, where you are, how to get places.

5. Trouble seeing/understanding spaces: Changes in balance, reading, judging distance.

6. Trouble communicating: Trouble talking, pausing mid-sentence/repeating phrases.

Grandpa has ears that truly listen, arms that always hold, love that's never-ending, and a heart that's made of gold. Happy Father's Day!

Today, we honor our beloved seniors and stand united against elder abuse. Let's spread love, respect, and care for our elders. If you ever suspect elder abuse, call the police or 9-1-1 immediately if someone you know is in immediate, life-threatening danger. You can also call the Eldercare Locator help line at 1-800-677-1116. Specially trained operators will refer you to a local agency that can help. The Eldercare Locator is open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern Time.

Together, we can make a difference!

Always Best Care offers flexible schedules compatible with school classes and offers training opportunities to get you started on the right path. In fact, skills and experiences gained in caregiving can provide a strong foundation for pursuing a nursing career or any career in the healthcare field.

Get your foundation started, apply to become a caregiver!

To apply and/or learn more, complete a form at: https://alwaysbestcare.com/caregiverjobs/

Happy CNA Week! (June 13 - 19, 2024)

This week we will be honoring the incredible work that CNA's perform everyday for seniors and people with disabilities. 💙 National Association of Health Care Assistants has named the theme for this week, "We'll Be There For You", what a great theme for amazing people who truly are there for you! 👏👏👏👏

Studies have shown that isolation and loneliness can take a negative toll on health, increasing risk of depression, anxiety, high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, and even Alzheimer’s disease. In this blog, learn how you can build more social connections and interactions:
👀https://alwaysbestcare.com/resources/increasing-socialization-to-reduce-isolation-and-loneliness-in-aging/

🍩 Happy National Donut Day! 🍩 We believe life is like a box of donuts – each one is unique and special in its own way. Enjoy every moment, savor the sweetness and share the love with someone special!

Keep in mind, it’s important to tailor any activity to the individual’s likes and abilities. Make it enjoyable and engaging while avoiding frustration. Keep instruction simple and PRACTICE PATIENCE!

Here are some ideas that can be enjoyed:
1. Board Games: Opt for those with simple rules and strategic elements like dominos or checkers.

2. Card Games: Engaging options like “Go Fish” or “Uno” offer mental stimulation.

3. Puzzles: Jigsaw puzzles with familiar themes like flowers or landscapes are great for exercising the mind and hands.

4. Computer Games: Adapted video games, like Jenga, provide gentle challenges without overwhelming complexity.

June is Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month. If you’ve noticed changes in your loved one, it’s time to talk. Early detection and diagnosis means greater access to treatment options and the ability to plan ahead. Learn more from the Alzheimer's Association: alz.org/timetotalk.

1. Depression - The most common mental health concern. It can stem from life changes, chronic health conditions, social isolation, medication side effects, and the stigma surrounding seeking help.

2. Anxiety - Triggered by health worries, cognitive decline, loneliness, life adjustments, traumatic experiences, and potential medication side effects.

3. Dementia - A prevalent condition among older adults, with the risk increasing as individuals age.

4. Substance Abuse - Often linked to medication misuse, chronic illnesses, loneliness, undiagnosed mental health conditions, and life transitions.

5. Su***de Risk - Influenced by physical health challenges, grief and loss, social isolation, stigma around seeking care, and limited access to mental health services.

At Always Best Care, our caregivers are trained to observe and report signs of changes to their supervisor. Call us today to schedule your no obligation in-home care consultation.

This Memorial Day, we honor and remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. We are grateful for their bravery and dedication. Wishing everyone a safe and festive holiday as we celebrate the freedoms they fought to protect.

Vital mental health promotion and prevention strategies for healthy aging include:

• Implementing measures to mitigate financial insecurity and address income inequality.

• Developing programs to ensure the safety and accessibility of housing, public buildings, and transportation.

• Providing social support for older adults and their caregivers.

• Promoting healthy behaviors, with an emphasis on balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, abstaining from to***co use, and minimizing alcohol consumption.

• Offering health and social initiatives tailored to vulnerable groups such as those living alone, in remote areas, or managing chronic health conditions.

For more information on senior care or to schedule a no obligation in-home care consultation, please call today!