e4 logoFREE WEBINAR:

What to Look Out for as Our Loved Ones Agedec-e4

December 20th 

12-1pm and 3-4pmEST
11-12pm and 2-3pm
CST
10-11am and 1-2pm
MST
9-10am and 12-1pm
PST

Those of us who have senior loved ones in our lives want to be sure they’re well-cared for.  This webinar will address some of the challenges elders face as they age, and solutions that we, as caregivers, can put into place from near or afar. We will discuss common eldercare issues and which eldercare systems can best address these concerns. 

REGISTER TODAY!  Space is limited. Click on the time you would like to attend above. Or log on to www.HelloE4.com with your username and password.  Click on “UPCOMING WEBINARS” on the homepage and follow the easy instructions

Unable to make it to the scheduled webinars? We have them archived for your convenience. Visit www.HelloE4.com click on E4 University, then click on Webinars to search by webinar title.

FEATURED ARTICLE:

Understanding Senior Stress:  How to Ease Their Stress and Your Stress Too

Many of us have senior loved ones in our lives. Have you noticed them suffering from mood swings, significantly changing their eating habits, experiencing increased memory issues, or enduring more body aches and illness? All of these could be indicators of excessive senior stress. Aging brings many challenges, and seniors who were previously happy go lucky may be experiencing depression and high anxiety.

Growing older is inevitable, and the challenges that go along with it are difficult to accept. Challenges such as:

  • Accepting that you need help with your physical and/or medical needs
  • Understanding that you can no longer maintain your home by yourself
  • Stopping driving because it is too difficult for you
  • Possibly modifying your home so it is more accessible for you
  • Considering alternative living arrangements because of your physical and/or mental needs

All of these scenarios are huge and can drastically alter lifestyles. Losing your independence may bring on feelings of shame, guilt, anger, or confusion. Seniors, along with caregivers and family members, will probably find navigating geriatric resources confusing and overwhelming. Just understanding housing options and funding is difficult. Often funding differs by state and many states label identical housing options using different terminology.

SOME SUGGESTIONS FOR YOU AND YOUR SENIOR LOVED ONE:

  • Have an open and honest conversation with your loved senior, and let them communicate their needs and wishes. The more you understand your loved one’s wishes and their health, the better you can help them.
  • Be patient with your loved senior. This is difficult and stressful. Try to promote the positive possibilities (ex. moving closer to loved ones and gaining new social groups).
  • Seek advice. Talk to an Eldercare Specialist (or Geriatric Care Manager) who can explain options and funding to you and possibly your loved one. Navigating these waters is difficult, and unless you are an expert in this area it is best to seek guidance. You have an Eldercare Specialist through E4 Health. Discuss options with them.
  • Have an open mind. Actively listen to your loved one, research options, visit facilities/retirement communities (with your loved one if they can), and consider all possibilities.
  • If you meet resistance, try to compromise at least temporarily (for ex. if your loved one needs help, but is scared of a nursing home, consider assisted living at a retirement community where they can transition to higher levels of care if their health deteriorates).

WAYS TO KEEP YOUR SENIOR HEALTHY

Encourage them to eat a nutritious diet, get sufficient sleep and rest, participate socially in groups, and engage in physical activities as much as they possibly can.

All of these suggestions will go a long way in decreasing their stress, and then ultimately your stress.

Spend time with your senior loved one. Open communication will help you and your loved one find the best care path possible.

E4 Health is a free, confidential service that’s available to you as well as your immediate household family members. We are available any time, any day to assist with any work or life issue that matters to you and your family.

For professional counseling and supportive resources, call or log on any time, any day.

e4health administers the College’s EFAP program.  To access their comprehensive web site, with many tools and articles, go to the e4health web site.
Username:  middlebury college
Password:    guest
Or call them at: 800-828-6025
(phones are answered 24 hours a day, 7 days a week)

 

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