Helping Seniors Manage Chronic Conditions

Does your mom’s arthritis make it difficult for her to button a blouse or open a jar of mayonnaise?

Is your dad struggling to read the labels on prescription bottles because of macular degeneration?

“Nearly 85 percent of seniors live with at least one chronic condition, such as diabetes, heart disease, arthritis and dementia,” said Sierra Goetz, co-founder and operations manager at the HomeCare Advocacy Network (HCAN). “Without support, these conditions can significantly impact a senior’s quality of life and threaten their independence.”

Chronic Condition Management

While HCAN’s professional, in-home caregivers do not provide medical care, they can help seniors manage chronic conditions by offering assistance with day-to-day tasks, including:

Medication reminders.

Seniors with chronic conditions typically take multiple medications, and taking the right dose at the right time is critical to their overall health and well-being. We can help seniors organize their medications, set reminders and ensure they’re taken as prescribed.

Nutrition.

Our caregivers provide assistance with meal planning, grocery shopping and meal prep – things that might be difficult for seniors who have chronic conditions. Eating regular, nutritious meals also helps seniors maintain a healthy weight, which is essential for those who suffer from heart disease.

Exercise support.

Regular physical exercise is important for all seniors, but it can be challenging for those who live with chronic conditions. We can help with simple exercises like stretching and walking, while providing encouragement to stay active.

Transportation.

Many seniors live with vision issues, neuropathy or other conditions that limit their ability to drive. We provide safe transportation to doctors appointments, shopping and social gatherings, so our clients don’t have to rely on busy friends or family members.

Personal care.

For those living with arthritis, even the simplest tasks – buttoning a shirt, tying shoes, showering and styling hair can be challenging. Our caregivers provide personal care with compassion and respect – prioritizing our client’s feelings and dignity.

Dementia.

The familiar surroundings of home provide the best environment for seniors who have Alzheimer’s or a related dementia. Our highly-trained caregivers understand the disease and know how to deal with many of its challenges, so our clients can remain in their homes for as long as possible.

Chronic Condition Care Plans

“Living with chronic conditions can be challenging, but our caregivers can help make it easier,” Goetz said. “We work closely with our clients and their families to develop care plans that will help manage their conditions and improve their quality of life.”

For more information about all of the non-medical, in-home services we provide, visit hcanthrive.com or call your local HCAN-supported office.