Care Management Blog

Denture care

Denture care

March 20, 2023

Dentures need the same level of care and attention as natural teeth do. Bacteria and fungi that grow on teeth can also infect a dental appliance. Pressure spots on the gums can lead to pain and potential infection. Also to problems eating and then weight loss. In addition, poor denture care can result in stains…

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Choosing a meal service

Choosing a meal service

March 13, 2023

Perhaps your loved one has just gotten out of the hospital and needs some meals for a few weeks while recuperating. Or maybe Mom has dementia and it’s become too much for Dad to have to cook on top of caring for her. Meals on Wheels America serves communities most everywhere in the country, but…

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Is it time for memory care?

Is it time for memory care?

March 6, 2023

If you care for a loved one with moderate to advanced dementia, it’s likely the idea of placement in memory care has come up. Maybe a friend has nudged you. Or it’s been suggested by your relative’s doctor or care manager. Perhaps you know you are exhausted. Most families eventually investigate this option because it’s…

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If you are not the primary caregiver

If you are not the primary caregiver

February 27, 2023

If someone else in your family has primary responsibility for the care of your loved one, that doesn’t mean you don’t have anything to contribute. Far from it! Caring for an older adult is more than one person can do alone. There are many ways to lend a hand (even if you don’t live nearby).…

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Addressing fatigue in heart failure

Addressing fatigue in heart failure

February 20, 2023

People with heart failure (HF) often tire easily, especially if they exert themselves. In HF, the heart is swollen with fluids and cannot beat efficiently. The body’s cells then become hungry for oxygen. If your loved one has HF, you witness this in his or her fatigue, shortness of breath, and frequent naps. Even with…

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Home modifications for vision loss

Home modifications for vision loss

February 13, 2023

If the person you care for has a low vision diagnosis, three types of modifications to the home can make life easier: Lighting, glare control, and the use of color contrast. Fortunately, these strategies are relatively inexpensive. Lighting. Sunlight is the best. It’s full-spectrum light. But it fluctuates depending on the time of day and…

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Where are the paid caregivers?

Where are the paid caregivers?

February 6, 2023

Frustrated in your search for a paid caregiver? You are not alone. There is an extreme shortage of helpers right now. Even before COVID, the demand for aides was greater than the supply. The “Great Resignation” hit the caring professions hard. Caregivers close to retirement left early. And many younger workers decided to opt for…

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Long-distance caregiving

Long-distance caregiving

January 30, 2023

Distance makes caregiving more challenging, from knowing what’s needed, to getting tasks accomplished. Here are some tips: Stay in touch. This is a win–win. You stay current on issues, and your relative gets the emotional boost. Plan ahead. When visiting, use your time wisely. Do things with your family member that are just plain enjoyable.…

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The yearly "Wellness Visit"

The yearly “Wellness Visit”

January 23, 2023

Catching things early is big with Medicare. Every year, all Medicare enrollees are eligible for a free “Wellness Visit” with their primary care doctor. This is NOT an annual physical, so don’t use that term when making the appointment. Beyond basic vitals—height, weight, blood pressure, and pulse—there is no physical examination. If a physical exam…

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