Senior citizens are exactly that: citizens! They’re unique and well-travelled individuals, human beings, who have lived long and eventful lives. It’s also likely that they enjoyed ample independence and self-sufficiency up until recently. Sometimes, however, the need arises to consider whether retirement home care is a better solution for them, and this is not something that a senior will normally greet with open arms.

The prospect of leaving home for somewhere new and entrusting their care needs to others can trigger a wide array of emotions. But together, with compassion and attentiveness, you can both navigate this stage of their journey in life with newfound optimism and contentment.

Here are some ways on how to do exactly that.

Listen and Learn!

Even when a senior loved one lives with a difficult or impossible-to-cure debilitation, they are still human. They still feel. They don’t lose all their knowledge or cognitive control overnight. Therefore, it is your responsibility as the loved one looking into retirement home options to take their input seriously. Let it inform the decision, get them involved in the planning, and set them up for success in an inspiring, positive new environment with the support they need to enjoy all their days to come!

The Power of Perspective

Not all retirement communities are made equal. Some may not appeal to your senior loved one or even create a stigmatized phobia that they’re “all the same.” That’s very much not the case, we can assure you, and it’s important that you help them shape a positive, optimistic perspective without forcing them into something they do not want to do. 

Instead, take the approach of helping to address their concerns directly. Bring them in to visit and tour the facility and meet the team there or, if this sounds like too much for them, watch video tours and read through programming information together. The power of perspective is an incredible thing, and it’s essential that you both understand where your loved one is coming from and where they want to be headed.

Being Open to Alternative Care Solutions

If a loved one tells you that they are not ready to live in a retirement home, and if they are still of sound mind and body, let them make the call. Instead, they may prefer remaining in the comfort and familiarity of their own home, surrounded by their belongings, loved ones, and mementos. 

Many seniors feel this way, and that’s okay! This is why in-home caregiving services are quickly becoming a popular alternative solution. We can bring the support to them instead, helping to maintain their independence and integrity, while also providing social stimulation and highly beneficial human interaction.

Have questions about our in-home caregiving or retirement home care services, or need advice on how best to assist your senior loved one? We at C-Care Health Services are happy to help. Reach out to us today to get started.

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Many patients will experience different symptoms and limitations following a stroke. In some cases, it can lead to partial paralysis, speech impairment, cognitive issues and other complications. In order to provide someone with the right level of care at home, you’ll need to speak with their medical professional to get all the details regarding their condition. Once you have a clear understanding of their needs after being discharged from the hospital, refer to the tips below to aid in your caregiving endeavors.

Assist with Physical Movement and Recovery Exercises

The recovery of mobility, when possible, is crucial after suffering a stroke. Since impaired motor functions are one of the most common conditions that stroke patients face, the best way to help is to kindly support and assist them in moving their body each day with appropriate mobility exercises. The patient’s healthcare provider can give you specific instructions on the exercises most beneficial for strengthening their motor skills and muscle memory.

Create a Daily Routine

Routines can be very helpful for relearning basic skills, ideal for keeping a loved one on the road to recovery as much as possible. We recommend creating a basic schedule that includes small skills to build on with baby steps. Also include their daily exercises to practice movement regularly, in addition to independent actions that they can perform. The trick is to not overwhelm or easily frustrate them, so don’t overdo it on any given day.

Be Patient and Positive

Strokes can cause a widespread amount of damage, impacting their ability to communicate properly, which can be difficult and frustrating for them and you. Not being able to perform basic daily tasks can also cause overwhelming emotions and depression. It’s important during these moments to give your loved one the room to breathe and express their emotions. Try to remain positive with them, encouraging them to focus on every bit of progress, and consider keeping a journal of their progress if need be.

Provide Healthy Wholesome Meals

Getting proper nutrition after suffering from a stroke is essential for assisting and enhancing the patient’s recovery process. Focus on providing them with plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables, beans, nuts and seeds, as well as low-fat or lean protein sources. A dietary aide or nutritionist can be a helpful ally in this regard.

Attend Checkups with Doctor

If the doctor recommends checkups, don’t skip them. Even if it seems as though your loved one is making good progress, stroke patients are at a higher risk of experiencing a second stroke. Ensure they are eating right, exercising, taking their prescribed medications, and attending any follow-up appointments.

Remind Them of Happier Times

To help ease the mental hurdles that come along with any recovery process, remind your loved one of happier times by going through old photographs, retelling their favourite stories, and engaging in any other activities that will shed some positive light. Playing music, watching movies that they love together, having family visits and doing anything to get them to laugh are all suitable approaches. These can be some of the best ways to boost their frame of mind and aid the recovery process.

Care for Yourself

Just like we’re told on airplanes to put your oxygen mask on first before helping anyone, the same applies to this situation. If you’re not taking care of yourself, you won’t be able to offer a genuine level of care to your loved one. So don’t neglect your own needs. Take time to rest, relax, exercise, and engage in activities to give your mind a break from reality. Self care is not selfish, as it’s necessary for you both. 

Need a hand with post-stroke recovery planning or caregiving for your loved one? You don’t have to deal with it alone. C-Care Health Services can provide your loved one with the assistance they need with ease and attentiveness! Get in touch with us to learn more about our customized in-home caregiving options.

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When a loved one suffers a stroke, it can be life-altering. Due to the complications that typically follow this, patients can often be functionally disabled, requiring an extensive amount of care for their recovery. In addition to the challenges they will face, it can also be incredibly difficult for family members who need to step in and provide round-the-clock care, all while juggling their day-to-day responsibilities at the same time. 

The combination of change and emotional trauma can be overwhelming, to say the least. Thankfully, there are stroke recovery and rehabilitation options for ageing adults that can help ease this process. Let’s examine some of the disabilities that can arise from a stroke and explore these recovery options below.

Disabilities that Can Arise from a Stroke

It’s important to note that, like all medical events, the severity of complications that follow can vary based on each individual. With that said, strokes can lead to a wide range of disabilities that can be broken down into these main categories:

Problems with Motor Control

Partial paralysis and/or problems controlling movement or weakness on one side of the body are most common for severe cases. This can lead to difficulties with walking, balance, and even swallowing.

Chronic Pain or Numbness

Chronic pain in the joints, numbness, or tingling sensations in the limbs can also occur. In some situations, the lack of feeling and mobility could lead to incontinence.

Impaired Communication

Many stroke victims can experience impaired verbal communication, preventing them from being able to speak. Some may not be able to write or understand spoken language at all.

Problems with Memory and Emotions

Since a stroke damages parts of the brain, it can affect memory and/or awareness. It may also create emotional disturbances.

In-Home Stroke Recovery and Rehabilitation Options 

Next, here are the two in-home options that could be possible depending on the patient’s circumstances. These will of course depend on how severe the complications are after the stroke.

In-Home Rehabilitation Programs

For those with mild effects following a stroke, in-home rehabilitation could be a viable option. Patients can sometimes perform designated exercises offered by their doctor and physical therapist to help them regain control and strength. Home-based rehabilitation programs can be tailored to different patients based on their needs.

In-Home Nursing Care

In-home caregiving with regular visits from a qualified nurse is another good option for those who require additional services for daily care. Experienced nurses can provide a more thorough and professional rehabilitation regime, complete with guided therapy.

If your ageing loved one has experienced a stroke and you need assistance for their daily care and rehabilitation, we can help at C-Care Health Services. We have dedicated, caring nurses who can provide the support that’s needed to help them on the road to recovery. Get in touch with us today for assistance!

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When it comes to the health of your family and loved ones, it’s unfortunately something that you don’t have much control over. However, managing your own wellbeing and stress is something that you can take control of. If you’re feeling apprehensive about the holiday season and winter months to come, here are some tips for healthy caregiving to help make it more enjoyable for you and your family.

Be Realistic with Your Plans

The holidays are typically a busy time of year with lots of celebrations and festivities. To avoid feeling overwhelmed by the whirlwind of it all, set realistic expectations for you and your family. Determine what you really want to see and attend, who you want to spend time with, and what you can realistically contribute. By focusing on what’s most important and meaningful to you and your family, you can maintain more control over expectations, all while avoiding unwanted demands or overdoing it.

Create New Traditions

If you’re caring for a loved one who isn’t as mobile and can’t enjoy the traditions you used to have, create new ones that you can cherish together. Instead of attending festivities, consider going to a drive-through holiday light display or arrange a video chat with family. Alternatively, fire up the popcorn for a night with your favourite classic holiday movies.

Ask for Help with Cooking

Food is a staple of the holidays, and it can definitely be a stress factor for anyone who’s hosting dinner. Taking on the cooking and baking can also be time consuming, expensive and exhausting, so don’t be afraid to ask for help. To make it easier, arrange a potluck so everyone can contribute a dish. This way, you can divide up the work and have plenty of time to relax and enjoy the meal together. It’s more fun than having to rush around in the kitchen on your own!

Take Time for Yourself

You can’t be expected to take care of others if you’re not taking care of yourself first. So always take time for your own needs and wellness, especially during hectic periods like the holidays. Carve out even a little bit of time, early in the morning or before bed, to unwind and do something that is enjoyable and relaxing. Whether it’s meditating, reading, taking a hot bath or spending time in nature, don’t forget to be good to yourself.

Get in Some Gentle Exercise

Not having an outlet to burn off energy and stress can cause it to accumulate until it eventually gets released in an unhealthy way. By getting in some form of exercise, it can work wonders for improving your mental health and releasing pent-up energy. Go for a brisk walk each day, try an exercise video at home, or join a class to help you stay active.

When a loved one requires more care than you can provide, our team at C-Care Health Services can step in and help. We provide customized in-home caregiving and nursing services to ensure your loved ones get the proper, dedicated care they need. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help.

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Today, seniors are living longer than ever before, and a majority want to age in place. As they do, many families will need to provide more care to keep them safe. If your loved one is currently living with you or plans to, here are some ways to make your home safe for your aging parents. 

Have an Area Where You Can Secure Their Pets

Falls are the leading hazard among seniors, and a major culprit of this is pets. As much as we love our smallest and fuzziest family members, they can be hazardous to aging parents, especially for loved ones who have balance issues. We recommend having an area where you can secure your pet occasionally when your parent needs to move around to avoid the risk of them tripping.

Replace Hazardous Flooring

Of course, the flooring throughout your home is a main concern as well. If you have a slippery surface, such as tile, consider changing it. The safest options include rubber, cork, vinyl and soft carpet. These offer more traction and are more comfortable to walk on. Additionally, if there are rugs throughout the year at home, ensure they are low-pile by design and secured with a non-slip pad or tape underneath.

Install Additional Lighting

As we age, our vision usually starts to fade and certain things like cataracts can develop, reducing our ability to see in environments that are dim. Make the interior and exterior of the property safer by installing additional lights. Specifically, place adequate lighting in the hallway, bathroom and stairways. Make sure to have sensor lights installed outside to illuminate any walkways and stairs as well. 

Add a Shower Bench

Showering can become increasingly challenging for seniors, but you can help make it comfortable and safe for your aging parents by having a shower bench installed. These are specifically designed for this purpose so they’re usually strong, sturdy, and reversible. Also, if your shower doesn’t already have a handheld showerhead, now’s the time to install it as well. This will let your parents maintain a sense of pride and independence.

Embrace Home Automation

Home automation can make life much easier and safer for seniors who want to age in place. For example, smart thermostats and security systems can let you program the temperature when you want it automatically adjusted. Some systems like Nest also work with smart lights that can switch on by vocal command or through motion sensors. A security system can also give you and your family additional comfort and peace of mind since you can check in remotely using a smartphone or tablet. 

Add Grab Bars

One last tip is to consider installing grab bars in areas where there is a higher risk of slippage. Grab bars are simple and essential to have in your home as a senior, even as a simple precaution. Place these beside the toilet, in the shower, and along stairways if possible to provide more stability for your loved one.

You don’t have to face changes needed to help your parents age in place on your own. C-Care offers home caregiving and nursing services that can be tailored to their needs. If you’re located in the GTA, reach out to us to learn more about how we can help your parents continue aging in place safely.

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If you have a loved one who wants to age in place but requires regular assistance, allow our C-Care team to step in and help. We know how challenging it can be when you’re faced with the struggle of wanting to help an aging parent preserve their independence and quality of life at home, all while making sure they are safe and well cared for. 

For the past 15 years, our team has been delivering compassionate, in-home professional caregiving assistance that families are always able to depend on. With our support, take that weight off your shoulders and feel confident that your senior loved one is receiving the dedicated attention they deserve. 

Here’s how our C-Care services can help you and your loved one with exceptional, integrity-focused in-home caregiving:

Professional, Qualified Staff

Our team is composed of friendly staff who are educated, trained, and qualified in their professions. We have suitable experts for your needs readily available including Registered Nurses, Registered Practical Nurses, and dedicated Personal Support Workers. They’re fully certified as required by our operations and undergo continuous skills development training.

Independence and Comfort

Our PSWs and nurses can assist with your loved one’s daily needs so they can remain at home and as independent for as long as possible. We can provide support for household chores, dressing, feeding, washing, and toileting. We also offer occupational and physical therapy, assistance with medical needs, prescriptions, speech therapy, and both emotional and psychological support.  

Convenience and Flexibility

We’re here to help you and your family navigate through this new and challenging chapter. Our clinical consultants will work with you to understand your loved one’s specific needs and recommend the necessary services based on that information. Whether your loved one requires part-time assistance or around-the-clock, long-term care, we offer the flexibility to make it as convenient and comfortable for both you and them. For serious illnesses, cognitive decline, or other complications, our professionals are ready and fully prepared to address it all with the highest-quality care and attentiveness. We leave nothing to chance.

A Cost-Efficient Alternative

Nursing homes or other long-term care facilities can be very costly. This can place family members in a challenging predicament where they want to give their loved one the best possible care, but they might not have the budget to afford it. At-home care is often a more cost-efficient alternative that can eliminate that struggle, making it easier and more affordable to get the help that’s needed. In addition, it’s generally more comfortable and less stressful for the patient as they are surrounded by what is familiar and rightly theirs.

At-home care is often a more convenient, comfortable, and cost-efficient way to obtain the medical, emotional, and psychological support that our aging loved ones need. To learn more about C-Care and all that we have to offer, contact us today. We’d love to hear from you and are ready to assist!

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Are you a caregiver or nurse looking for a meaningful place to work? Working as a private nurse or support worker for a health care agency comes with many benefits that you may enjoy. If you’re looking for a career that is personally rewarding and will provide more meaning and purpose in your life, a role with us at C-Care might be exactly what you’re looking for. To find out if it’s the right choice for you, here are some of the benefits of working for a health care agency and what you can look forward to.

It’s a Meaningful Career

Your patients need you. Whether it’s to eat, take their medications, move around, or for social interaction, you’re helping someone who needs a little extra care and assistance to do the things we take for granted. Many of our patients struggle with their loss of independence and health, but you can help them cope and enjoy a better quality of life. 

Exposure to Different Clients and Environments

When working for an agency, you have the opportunity to gain exposure to various clients and work environments. Whether working in the home, hospital or being a companion for transport, you will be presented with a wide window of opportunity to grow as an employee. You can always expect to learn on the job and figure out what type of work suits you best.

You’re Always Appreciated

When you’re a caregiver, you’re always appreciated. Even small favours can be a big help to an aging or ill patient. And unlike other careers, patients are extremely grateful for everything you do and will let you know how much your help means to them.

You Work with Like-Minded People

Your job can be a lot more enjoyable when working with like-minded people. And caregiving often attracts people who care about others, just like you. While working for an agency, you’ll be able to share a bond with the other nurses and caregivers who you work closely with to achieve the same common goals every day. This can make your job feel much more fulfilling and enjoyable than working in an office or other industry.

You Feel Proud of Your Work 

Working for a health care agency is something you can feel proud of. In fact, an overwhelming majority of caregivers are very proud of what they’re doing. Giving back by helping seniors who have done so much for their community and families over the years, is something you can always feel good about. 

You Can Learn a Lot

Seniors have a lot to share. They have lived through some of the most interesting times and have fascinating stories to tell about the past. You can learn a lot about and receive excellent advice from an elder who has experienced a great deal more than you.

If you would like the opportunity to work for a health care agency and are interested in learning more, contact us at C-Care. We are always hiring nurses and caregivers to join our team of private care. You’ll get to work in a rewarding industry among a group of wonderful like-minded people. If you’re a personal support worker, registered practical nurse (RPN) or registered nurse (RN), you can apply now online!

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Not sure what to get your grandparents for their next birthday or Christmas? Here’s a list of 5 meaningful gifts that your grandparents will absolutely love!

A Lunch Date With You

Your grandparents want nothing more to spend some quality time with the people they love – and that especially goes for their grandkids. So what better way to get some real one-on-one time than to take them out to lunch? Taking your grandparents out to their favourite restaurant is a meaningful way to say thanks for all they do for you while spending some time together.

Digital Picture Frame

Collecting some favourite family photos and placing them into a digital frame for your grandparents is an excellent way to keep special moments on display and remind them of memories they’ll cherish forever. Plus, they can always add new photos to the collection as they please. Just make sure to show them how it all works.

Artwork By You

You don’t have to be an artist to make something sentimental that your grandparents will adore. A DIY craft, art piece or even a knitting piece will delight them. Just be prepared to have your art piece put on display for all eyes to see! 

Pushpin Map

Grandparents are incredibly proud of their grandkids. If you’re a bit of a world traveller, why not get them a pushpin world map where they can track all of your destinations. They might even start using it themselves to track where the whole family has travelled to and to help plan out their next getaway.

Personalized Mug

A personalized grandpa or grandma mug is always a welcomed gift. And now you can make your own designs and get them printed and delivered right to their front door. Try Vistaprint, Walmart, or PrintWell for ideas and custom printing services.

At C-Care, we see first-hand how much grandparents truly cherish any gifts given by their grandkids. That’s why we love what we do. Our private home care services help people like you spend more quality time with your grandparents right in the comfort of their own home. When you’re looking for affordable and reliable health care services for your loved ones, contact us at C-Care Health Services. We are here to provide dedicated home care to your loved ones – contact us today to learn more about how we can help!

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Does your loved one require attentive care at least once a day? If so, it’s time to consider your options.  When it comes to senior care, there is a wide range of plans out there to choose from. But it’s important first to understand your health conditions and what the best care options are for you. Here we’ll outline what you need to think about and all the options that are available.

Nursing or Retirement Home

Nursing or retirement home care is an option to consider. However, not all facilities offer dedicated services or properly trained medical staff. Fortunately, personal support and nursing care can be arranged to provide a more tailored service. Private care can ensure that you or your loved one gets the right amount of care for their particular condition.

Home Care

Some people prefer the comfort of their own home to a retirement or nursing home. Being in a familiar environment can also enhance their quality of life and preserve their dignity. Unfortunately, not all health care plans cover home care needs, especially if you or a loved one needs around-the-clock care. That’s where private home care services can come into play.  In-home care gives individuals the personal attention they need to recover from illness. Staff will help patients with minor and major illnesses and cognitive decline to maintain daily routines and assure rehabilitative protocols are followed.

Hospital or Facility

Sometimes hospital care is necessary if your grandparents or parents have ongoing health issues that need a greater level of care. However, long-term health care facilities are often overwhelmed by the number of patients and budget cuts, which also makes it difficult for patients to get specialized care. To ensure you have the senior care that you require, private in-hospital care can be arranged. Permanent or temporary in-hospital care can also be tailored to your needs – a few hours a day or 24 hours a day, even on short notice. Private care can also be a direct line to staff, which is especially beneficial when hospital staff is caring for a large number of patients at once.

Palliative Care

Palliative care is effective at minimizing the symptoms of illness and enhancing the quality of life. Those with serious illnesses such as cancer, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and ALC can greatly benefit from such care. However, not all palliative care facilities are created equal. Personal support workers often play a vital role in contributing to support care in these types of facilities. They can ensure that medication is administered on time, around the clock monitoring is conducted, and personal care, such as grooming and feeding, is regularly maintained. Families who cannot be there as often as they like can gain comfort knowing that someone is there providing companionship and care.

C-Care has become a leading provider of affordable quality care services. Our personal support and nursing care services can be applied to any location and condition. Whether you need home care, hospital care, nursing or retirement home care, or palliative support – we have you covered! We can tailor our services to whatever you need. So even if you want an hour a day or around-the-clock support, we can help. Our staff is fully trained in all types of health conditions such as post-surgery rehabilitation, dementia, Alzheimer’s, stroke, ALS, brain injuries, Parkinson’s disease, and muscular dystrophy.

Learn more about our services and how we can help you get the adequate care you need. Contact us or call us at 1-416-724-2273.

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Do you have an elderly loved one who needs regular care? If so, it’s important to ensure that their unique needs are being properly met. If they’ve already begun to lose their independence and require assistance with their daily routine, it may be time to arrange for private care. If you’re not sure how this could help, here’s all you need to know about senior care services and how they can benefit you and your loved one.

Personal Care

As we age, our everyday routine becomes increasingly difficult to complete. Things we used to do with ease, such as bathing, grooming, dressing, personal hygiene and feeding become suddenly demanding and tiring. Thankfully, a personal support worker can help! By assisting in these areas, they can help your loved one maintain their dignity, hygiene, and health. These workers have special rigorous training to ensure they care for your loved one with only the utmost respect.

Mobility

Mobility can also become problematic for seniors. Walking, standing, and going up and down stairs can become increasingly difficult. A care specialist can help to create a safe environment to prevent injury and assist your loved one with moving around the home, getting up from bed, and in and out of the shower safely and comfortably. This is crucial to ensure your parents or grandparents can still get fresh air, visit nature spots, or use the backyard garden with peace of mind.

Nutrition

Maintaining proper nutrition can be strenuous for seniors who can’t shop for themselves or prepare meals. Support workers can ensure that your elderly loved one receives the proper nutrition necessary for optimal health. This includes tasks such as shopping, preparing the meals, and giving them a properly balanced diet each and every day, which also takes into consideration any medications being taken and the overall well-being.

Transportation

Reflex and vision issues make getting to and from appointments an issue for many elderly people. And if they can no longer drive or get in and out of their vehicle, they can become extremely isolated. Having a caretaker who can help take them to medical appointments, physical therapy, church service and run errands can greatly improve their overall mood and health.

Communication and Companionship

It’s not uncommon for the elderly to become secluded and lonely, especially if their children have moved away or are working long hours. Hiring a support worker can provide them with the companionship they need daily. Having frequent visits from a caregiver can also ensure that family members and health care practitioners will be kept in the know regarding their health condition.

Medical Support

Getting your senior loved one vital health care services is incredibly important when they’re suffering from dementia or struggling to remember important everyday tasks like taking their medications. However, it’s important to not hire any “caregiver,” but rather one who is qualified, insured, First Aid and CPR certified and has Toronto Police Clearance Certification. You want to know that your loved one is receiving the best, high-quality care that they need.

At C-Care, we understand the importance of meeting your unique needs and those of your loved ones. When you require dedicated care services to either your home or healthcare facility, you can rest assured that your loved one will get the best care possible. When you hire one of our support care workers, you can expect certified expertise and care, healthcare services that go beyond daily tasks, compassionate, dependable and trustworthy staff and much more.

We are committed to giving you and your family the peace of mind and security in knowing that your loved ones are being cared for properly. Contact us today to learn more about our services.

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