By Tim Watt
on June 17, 2013
June is recognized as National Safety Month, and every week we'll be providing you with tips and tricks that seniors and their caregivers can use to preserve their well-being. This week, the focus is placed on emergency preparedness. Disasters like severe weather and medical issues can strike when you least expect it, so it's important to always have a plan in place. There are a few steps family caregivers and seniors living in retirement communities can take to ensure older adults stay safe even in the most trying conditions.
Create a personal network
Older adults should make a point to compile a list of close friends, family members and other individuals who can assist them in the case of an emergency. Of course, there's more to consider than simply assembling a team of people. There are a number of things seniors should go over with their emergency network to make sure everyone is on the same page, the Red Cross notes. For instance, if there's a heavy snow storm, people in the network should know to call to see if seniors need any assistance. It's also a good idea for seniors to give their contacts access to important keys, documents and other information to help the network respond quickly.
Assemble a kit
Creating a personal network is only one step seniors should take to prepare for an emergency - they should also put together a kit of essential items. There are a number of must-have objects, according to the Red Cross. In addition to plenty of water and non-perishable food, seniors should also have a flashlight with extra batteries, multipurpose tools and emergency contact documents with important information, such as details about their medication regimens.
Make a personal plan
Seniors aren't the only people who should be proactive when it comes to emergency preparedness, as caregivers should also play a role in the process. It's important for family caregivers to come up with a plan specific to their loved one in case of an emergency, because their family member might face challenges that are unique to them, such as mobility limitations, reliance on certain medical equipment or cognitive issues. The Administration on Aging urges caregivers to take all of these things into account when it comes to devising a plan for evacuation, staying sheltered in place or extreme heat or cold.
By Sunrise Senior Living
on June 14, 2013
Sunrise of Gilbert recently hosted a wedding reception and family night for two of the community’s beloved Lead Care Managers: Valerie and Fidel.
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By Julia Little
on June 13, 2013
Families ought to celebrate the role fathers and grandfathers play each day of the year, but it is especially important on the third Sunday of June. Recognized each year as Father's Day, there are a number of ways to mark the occasion and show the men of the family how much you appreciate them being there for you over the years. Picking the perfect gift can sometimes be a challenge, especially for the man who has it all, but there are a few options this year that will be sure to leave a smile on your loved one's face.
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By Tim Watt
on June 13, 2013
It's no secret family caregivers have a long list of responsibilities. Their tasks can range from helping their loved ones with activities of daily living to locating an appropriate retirement community. However, caregivers need to be concerned with more than just their family member - they also should foster a good relationship with the doctors and nurses who become an integral part of their day-to-day lives. Creating a good rapport will not only help patients get better care, but it can also alleviate some of the stress placed on caregivers.
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By Tim Watt
on June 11, 2013
June is National Safety Month, and throughout this time period, we'll be bringing you tips to help you and your loved ones stay safe. This week, we are focusing on employee wellness, something that should be top of mind for all members of the workforce, from cashiers to CEOs. We spend so much of our lives working, it's important that we approach our careers with health and fitness in mind.
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