Angel Helpers MN

Jim’s story

Gary — Fri, 24 Sep 2010 18:33:51 +0000

Text for Jim here.

Is it time to talk to mom or dad about their driving?

Barry — Fri, 04 Jun 2010 17:31:28 +0000

The first step is changing the way we talk about the issue. You shouldn’t tell your parents, “It’s time to give up the keys” or talk about “taking” the keys away. Instead, use the phrase “hanging up the keys.” It’s a subtle difference, but “hanging up” makes it their choice; “taking away” makes it someone else’s. The best way to gauge their competency is to ride with them. Other clues include if your parents often talk about “close calls” or getting lost, or if you notice dents or dings on their car.

AARP’s 10 Major Warning Signs

Almost getting into accidents, with frequent “close calls.”

Finding dents and scrapes on the car, or on your parents’ property, such as fences, mailboxes, garage doors, curbs, etc.

Getting lost.

Difficulty seeing or following traffic signals, road signs and pavement markings.

Delayed response time to unexpected situations on the road, difficulty moving their feet from the gas pedal to the brake pedal or confusing the two.

Misjudging gaps in traffic at intersections and on highway entrance and exit ramps.

Experiencing road rage or having other drivers frequently honk at them.

Easily becoming distracted or having difficulty concentrating while driving.

Difficulty turning around to check over their shoulder while backing up or changing lanes.

Receiving multiple traffic tickets or “warnings” from traffic or law enforcement officers.

Signs of Alzheimer’s and Dementia

Barry — Fri, 04 Jun 2010 17:30:27 +0000

Mild Alzheimer’s disease:

Have memory loss and poor memory of recent events

Have trouble naming common items

Ask the same thing over and over

Get lost easily

Lose interest in things they once liked to do

Lose things more often than normal

Have personality changes

Become worried or depressed

Moderate Alzheimer’s disease:

Have a hard time dressing for the weather or occasion

Forget to shave or shower

Argue more often

Believe things are real when they are not

Wander, often at night

Need close supervision

Have trouble with tasks such as washing dishes or setting the table

Severe Alzheimer’s disease:

Have problems with eating

Have problems with speech or cannot speak at all

Not recognize you or other family members

Cannot control bowels or bladder

Have problems with walking

Can Angel Helpers work with Hospice (end of life care)?

Barry — Fri, 04 Jun 2010 17:29:41 +0000

Yes, we work closely with the hospice nurse

What is a stroke?

Barry — Fri, 04 Jun 2010 17:28:35 +0000

A stoke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain is blocked or ruptures, resulting in the death of brain tissue. The body functions controlled by the injured brain tissues are impaired or stop functioning

When can Angel Helpers start?

Barry — Fri, 04 Jun 2010 17:28:02 +0000

Within 48 hours (after our initial complimentary meeting to discuss your love ones needs and how we can meet those needs). Many factors are used for the matching of a caregiver to a client

Questions to ask a Home Care agency

Barry — Fri, 04 Jun 2010 17:27:12 +0000

Is the agency licensed by the State?

Can the agency provide references?

Is the agency Insured and does it have workers comp on its employees (freeing the client from liability if a caregiver is injured)

Do they seem friendly and helpful?

Are they willing to work with you on your needs?

Can you reach someone 24 hours, 7 days a week for emergencies or unplanned care?

Will you receive a list of the rights and responsibilities of all parties involved?

Are there extra fees to work with health care providers or Admin fees?

Can the agency provide services for the days and times you want?

Are there any limits on the types of tasks performed?

How quickly can services begin?

How are problems or questions resolved?

Are the caregivers employees or contractors

How do I know when it's time for in-home care?

Barry — Fri, 04 Jun 2010 17:26:32 +0000

Lacking energy to complete tasks Feeling unsafe doing certain things Lacking social interaction If you need help with your spouse’s needs. It is not uncommon for older adults to be unwelcoming or refuse to accept care until a fall or other mishap. Fortunately, once a relationship exists with a caregiver, older adults tend to grow... [Continue Reading]

What are the Benefits and costs of Home Care?

Barry — Tue, 27 Apr 2010 21:09:35 +0000

More peaceful nights in the comfort of one’s own home

On your schedule and tailored to your needs , you’re in charge

Faster recoveries from illness or injury

Increased morale and more relaxed contact with family and friends

Health care delivered right to your doorstep with Licensed and Insured caregivers

Transportation to Doctor’s appt, Rx, Grocery shopping etc

Home Care cost varies depending on the individual needs, normally $20 to $25 an hour, 24-hour care is discounted.

Cost of In-Home care based on your needs?

Barry — Tue, 27 Apr 2010 21:08:19 +0000

Cost of companion care

Cost of personal care

Cost of Live-in care

Ways to pay for care