AGING MATTERS
May 21, 2013
In This Issue
Young Onset Dementia
When Care is Needed at Home
Signs of Financial Elder Abuse
 
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Young Onset Dementia 
Keith Oliver

When we think about dementia and its many forms like Alzheimer's Disease, we tend to view this as an affliction of the elderly, most often those older than 65.  But it isn't limited to those of advanced years.  I am including a link to an eight minute video developed about a teacher in the United Kingdom who at age 55 was diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease.  He describes the discovery process, the decision he made to step down from his position as result of the diagnosis and how he is coping today.

 

This simple rendering is powerful and will give you much to think about.   Click here for Keith Oliver's story.

 

 

 Signs of Elder Financial Abuse

Financial abuse is one of the leading forms of abuse of the elderly. But what are the behaviors or actions that might suggest that financial abuse or exploitation of a senior may be going on? There are two categories of changes that may be symptomatic of financial abuse - changes in money management and social, behavioral or physical changes.  

 

Money Management Changes:

 

➢ Reluctance to discuss financial matters that were formerly a matter of course 

➢ Hasty, unusual or unexplained withdrawals, wire transfers or other changes in financial situation 

➢ Bills and utilities going unpaid 

➢ Sudden or unexplained changes in wills, trusts, power of attorney or beneficiaries 

➢ Cash disbursements to a caregiver 

 

Continued...
Greetings!  

 

After our incredibly long winter spring has arrived at last!  This month's newsletter looks at the things to consider if you are planning to hire a paid provider to help with care giving.  

 

I have also included a linked to a poignant video on YouTube where a former teacher in the UK shares his experience with young onset dementia.

 

Lastly I want to thank all those who have been supportive of The Senior Living Specialists and the work we do.  Much appreciated.                  

 

Warmly,

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Mary Buszuwski, CSA
Founder and Certified Senior Advisor
(518) 538-3831
(888) 229-1209

When Care is Needed at Home

 

Over 44 million Americans spend time caring for a family member or friend who can no longer live alone without help. Too often family caregivers find themselves in the "middle" juggling caregiving with jobs and other family responsibilities. Paid care can supplement the care provided by families to help loved ones continue to live at home as well as offer family caregivers more time to manage the other elements of their lives. The National Alliance for Caregiving has developed a series of issues to think about and steps to take when families decide to bring in home care services, either through an agency or an independent care provider.  

 

Considerations

 

1.  Assess Family Member's Needs

The step is to determine the kind of care needed.  Does your family member need assistance bathing, dressing and other hands-on care or just some help with shopping and cleaning? Is there a cognitive problem that poses a safety risk?  Will the family member accept help?  Remember that it is important to involve your family member in care planning discussions and decisions if they are able to participate.

 

2.  Seek Professional Advice

Don't be afraid to enlist the assistance of a professional.  There are many resources in your com-munity including the local Office of the Aging and the federal Eldercare Locator, a free service from the US Administration on Aging at www.eldercare.gov. You can also contact The Senior Living Specialists to assist in evaluating care needs and finding services.

 

3. Selecting a Care Provider

Help at home can come from a variety of sources depending on care needs.  A home care agency that provides care ranging from companion care to personal care may work best when your family member needs help with daily activities such as dressing and bathing and household chores.  If hands-on care is not needed you might approach an agency whose staff assists with shopping, laundry and similar tasks.  An independent care provider can also be hired.  Cost, staff availability and skill will factor prominently in your hiring decision.

  

4. Checking Background and References

Whichever option you choose it is essential that you check credentials and background, including criminal and driving records.  If you are obtaining services through an agency, find out if the

agency is licensed, the type of hiring practices they use, including background checks, training and supervision.  If you hire an independent person, it is very important to conduct a background check, obtain references and conduct an in-person interview.  Remember, when hiring an independent care provider you will have full responsibility for supervision.

 

Full Article on When Care is Needed at Home...

 

(888) 229-1209