Growing older alongside your partner or spouse can be a beautiful journey. However, as the years pass, daily tasks may become more challenging. For many couples, the decision to seek assistance can be daunting amid the worry of separation. That’s where live-in care can help.
Here we will explore the benefits, considerations and practical steps involved in choosing a live-in care option for couples, providing insights to help individuals make informed decisions about their ageing journey.
Are Live-in Carers Available For Couples?
Yes, live-in carers are available for couples. They offer a tailored solution that allows couples to maintain their independence and companionship while receiving the support they need, together.
Finding the Right Live-in Carer
Our joint care solutions offer a flexible and comprehensive solution for couples who value their independence but require assistance with tasks such as meal preparation, personal care, medication management and household chores. Therefore finding the right live-in carer is crucial.
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Our experienced live-in care managers carefully match carers to individual clients based on their specific needs and personal interests. We provide detailed profiles of all our carers, allowing you to make an initial selection. Once shortlisted, we can arrange Skype or telephone calls so you can get to know your potential live-in carer before making a final decision.
Benefits of Live-in Care for Couples
Enhanced Quality of Life:
- Companionship: live-in carers offer constant companionship, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation, especially for couples who may have limited social circles.
- Respite: for couples where one partner requires more care than the other, a live-in carer can provide respite, allowing the other to have time for themselves or other responsibilities.
- Independence: by living at home with a carer, couples can maintain their independence and avoid the stress and disruption of moving to a care home. Dual care at home can really help maintain feelings of being in control of living arrangements and home life.
- Peace of mind: knowing that a trusted individual is available around the clock can provide significant peace of mind for both partners.
Tailored Care:
- Individual needs: live-in carers can be tailored to meet the specific needs of each partner, whether it’s assistance with mobility, medication management or companionship.
- Shared interests: carers can be selected based on shared interests or hobbies, fostering a more enjoyable and fulfilling living arrangement.
Cost-Effective:Long-term care:
- Long Term Care:in some cases, live-in care can be a more cost-effective option than long-term care facilities, especially for couples who require a high level of care.
- Flexibility: live-in care can be adjusted to meet changing needs, avoiding unnecessary expenses associated with moving to a different care facility.
Social and Emotional Support:
- Family relationships: live-in carers can help maintain strong family relationships by providing support and assistance, allowing family members to focus on spending quality time together.
- Emotional well-being: having a trusted companion can significantly improve emotional well-being, reducing stress and anxiety for both partners.
Tailored Care for Couples: Addressing Diverse Needs
One of the significant advantages of live-in care for couples is its ability to accommodate a wide range of care needs. Whether one partner requires extensive support or both simply need assistance with daily tasks, a live-in carer can be tailored to meet specific requirements.
For couples with varying care needs:
- Individualised care plans: our care supervisors work closely with couples to develop personalised care plans that address each partner’s unique needs. This ensures that both individuals receive the appropriate level of support, whether it’s assistance with mobility, medication management or companionship.
- Flexible care arrangements: we understand that care needs can change over time. Our flexible arrangements allow us to adjust the level of care provided as circumstances evolve, ensuring that couples always receive the support they require.
For couples where one partner requires care and the other does not:
- Discreet support: live-in carers can provide care in a discreet manner, allowing the partner who does not require care to maintain their independence and privacy.
- Respite care: even if one partner does not need constant care, a live-in carer can provide respite, allowing them to take breaks or pursue personal interests.
By understanding the diverse needs of couples and offering tailored care solutions, we can help individuals maintain their independence, companionship, and quality of life in the comfort of their own home.
Conclusion
Live-in care offers a personalised and supportive solution for couples seeking assistance with daily activities, companionship, and peace of mind. By carefully considering individual needs, shared living arrangements, and financial factors, couples can find a live-in carer who provides the ideal level of care and support.
To learn more about live-in care options and to find a suitable carer, please don’t hesitate to contact us. You can call us on 0203 794 9933 or email us at info@eximiussupport.uk.
September is Sepsis Awareness Month; a month dedicated to raising awareness of sepsis, its symptoms and the long-term impact it can have on people’s lives.
In the UK, there’s estimated to be around 245,000 cases of sepsis every year, leading to around 48,000 people losing their lives.
Sepsis (also known as blood poisoning) is a life-threatening condition which can strike anyone, at any time. If not treated immediately, sepsis can result in organ failure and death. However, sepsis is avoidable and treatable with early diagnosis.
At Eximius, we are dedicated to raising awareness of sepsis. Our carers are well versed in the symptoms to look out for, as well as in supporting those affected by sepsis and ensuring they receive the care they need to aid their recovery.
What is Sepsis Awareness Month?
Sepsis Awareness Month is dedicated to raising awareness about sepsis and, specifically, the importance of early detection.
Our live-in carers provide crucial support for individuals recovering from sepsis. They offer essential assistance with daily living activities, emotional support and monitoring for any signs of complications, ensuring that patients receive the care they need to continue their recovery and rebuild their lives.
Did you know…
- Five people die with sepsis every hour in the UK
- There’s an estimated 123,000 cases of sepsis per year in the UK
- 25,000 hospital admissions with sepsis each year in the UK occur in children
- 80% of those diagnosed with sepsis are aged 50 years or over
- 40% of all sepsis survivors suffer permanent, life changing after effects
What is sepsis?
Sepsis is an extremely serious condition, occurring when the body’s immune system overreacts to an infection or injury, attacking its own organs and tissues. Without early identification and treatment, sepsis can lead to organ failure, long-term disability or even death.
Although some people are at higher risk of developing sepsis (e.g. those with a weakened immune system, a serious illness or who have recently undergone surgery), anyone can develop sepsis after an injury or minor infection.
How to spot the signs of sepsis
While sepsis can be a life-threatening condition, early identification and treatment can often lead to successful recovery. However, recognising the early signs of sepsis can be challenging.
How do I check myself for sepsis?
When looking out for symptoms of sepsis in adults – think SEPSIS:
- Slurred speech or confusion
- Extreme shivering or muscle pain
- Passing no urine in a day
- Severe breathlessness
- It feels like you are going to die
- Skin mottled or discoloured
When it comes to sepsis, it’s about TIME:
- Temperature – higher/lower than normal
- Infection – May have signs and symptoms of an infection
- Mental decline – Confused, sleepy, difficult to rouse
- Extremely ill – severe pain, discomfort, short of breath
If you spot any of these signs call 999/111 or go straight to A&E and ask: “Could it be sepsis?”
What are the long-term effects of sepsis?
Sepsis is a life-threatening condition that can lead to organ failure, long-term disabilities or even death.
Sepsis survivors can often find themselves faced with a number of new physical and psychological challenges after returning home, making even routine tasks such as getting dressed or climbing the stairs extremely difficult without support.
An often unexpected condition, it can cause life-changing circumstances for families in a matter of days, including the sudden need for full-time care during recovery.
For patients, families and loved ones, this can be incredibly challenging. Adjusting to the realities of the situation, coping with long-term changes and organising urgent care, all whilst maintaining daily life, can be overwhelming.
At Eximius, we are here to help make the journey of recovery a little bit easier for you and your loved ones.
We can provide short and long-term live-in care with as little as 24 hours notice, helping to ensure that sepsis survivors can leave hospital earlier and get back to the comfort of their own home with the support they need to continue their recovery.
Beyond Sepsis Awareness Month
Whilst September is designated as Sepsis Awareness Month, this devastating condition is impacting people every day of the year.
To find out more about Sepsis Awareness Month, visit the Sepsis Trust website
If you or a loved-one would like to understand more about the different live in care options available, please contact us for further information. We’d love to help.
Throughout July, we celebrate Good Care Month, a time dedicated to recognising the invaluable contributions of social care professionals across the country. It is also an opportunity to raise awareness of the sector and inspire people to think of it as a viable career choice.
The UK has an ageing population and so social care plays a vital role in our healthcare system. With life expectancy significantly increasing in recent decades, it is now estimated that by 2036, one in four people in the country will be over 65. During such a time, social care becomes more important than ever.
It is not just the elderly who require the support of social care, but also people who have suffered from life-altering injuries or medical conditions.
Social care can truly change lives by enabling people to live their lives with dignity and independence. Everyone is entitled to live a fulfilling life and social care enables them to do just that.
A rewarding career
A social care worker provides practical, physical, mental and emotional support to people who need it the most. They work with individuals, families and communities to assist them in improving their well-being so they can live a better quality of life. They may be employed in nursing homes, community centres or a home environment.
Live-in care is an important part of social care. It offers a unique opportunity to build deep, personal connections with clients, becoming an integral part of their lives. At Eximius, we have a network of care professionals, or companions, who provide personalised, comprehensive and compassionate care to you or your loved ones.
What do you get out of your job as a live-in carer?
- Personal satisfaction – knowing you’re making a tangible difference in someone’s life is incredibly fulfilling
- Flexibility – live-in care often offers flexible working arrangements, allowing you to balance your professional and personal life
- Continuous learning – the care sector is constantly evolving, providing opportunities for growth and development
- Strong sense of community – you become part of a supportive network of carers who share your passion for helping others
Why Eximius loves working in the social care sector
Our team has over 80 years’ combined experience and knowledge of the care industry. They are highly educated and skilled professionals who share a passion for caring and supporting people to lead a healthy and happy life.
Candice, our Field Care Supervisor, said:
“I chose to work for a live-in care company because I like the fact that the clients have the continuity of having the same live-in companion and get to build a rapport with them.”
Hollie, our Training Manager, said:
“For me, live-in care offers essential support and companionship to those in need. Moreover, it enables carers to directly enhance the well-being and quality of life of their clients by assisting with daily tasks, offering emotional support, and encouraging independence.”
Beyond Good Care Month
While July is designated as Good Care Month, the impact of carers extends far beyond this month. Their dedication and hard work are appreciated every day of the year. They are the backbone of our communities, whose contributions deserve recognition and celebration.
So, let’s take this opportunity to thank all live-in carers for their exceptional work. You are making a real difference in people’s lives, thank you!
If you’re looking to build your career in social care, get in touch with us at info@eximiussupport.uk or 0203 794 9933
Finding care for your loved one – someone who has always been there for you but now needs extra support – is no easy task.
You want them to feel safe, respected and comfortable, but navigating the world of care can feel daunting. We know first-hand the difficulties of making these sorts of choices and the whirlwind of emotions they generate – so where do you start?
In the UK, there are two main options for care: live-in care and residential care. Both offer valuable assistance, but understanding the key differences is crucial for making the best choice for your unique situation.
Here at Eximius, we are committed to empowering you to make an informed decision between live-in and residential care that prioritises you or your loved one’s well-being and happiness.
Live-in care offers a host of benefits such as familiarity and personalised care, while also encouraging ongoing social participation and independence.
Ultimately, our goal is to empower you to make an informed decision that prioritises well-being and happiness. So how does live-in care differ from residential care?
Residential Care
Residential care, aka care homes or nursing homes, is where people live and receive care in a semi-communal setting.
It’s a fantastic option that can help them stay social, as there are other residents to swap stories and share experiences with. It’s also great if they require a more stimulating environment as residential care homes will have a regular events and activities’ schedule for residents as most have a dedicated activities coordinator.
Residential care homes have multiple members of staff to assist but, of course, this support is shared between several residents. Families and friends of those needing extra support may find this comforting, especially in specialist care settings as all members of staff will be trained in the home’s specialism.
It’s also an option for those needing a change of scenery – for example, after the passing of a spouse or moving to a home closer to other family members.
A point to note is that a move to residential care can be challenging for some individuals. In 2020, it was found that 80% of older people would prefer to remain in their own homes.
Moving to a new environment can be difficult for some, especially when factoring in other new experiences like losing a sense of independence and control over routines and having less privacy due to communal spaces.
Live-in Care
This leads us on to live-in care; a type of care which allows older people to stay in the comfort of their own homes and involves a dedicated carer. This person – or companion – lives in the client’s home and is on hand for all their care needs.
Investing in live-in care means that your loved one can continue living their usual life, with the benefit of increased safety. They can stay comfortable, surrounded by their keepsakes and memories and free to enjoy their creature comforts – from keeping their pets or vegetable gardens, to socialising with friends from the local community.
It also allows for more individualised care that’s tailored to specific needs, as well as more contact time with a carer with one-to-one support (or one-to-two in the case of couples remaining at home together.)
Once thought to be ‘the expensive choice’, live-in care is more affordable than ever and can help maintain independence and identity for those who need extra support.
Finding the Right Choice
So now you know a little bit about the main types of care, here’s what else you need to consider when choosing between residential and live-in care:
- The specific level and type of care required (for example, basic assistance vs. complex medical; do they need specialist care for a condition?)
- Mobility and level of independence
- How stimulating or social does the environment need to be? (Do they want a quiet environment or would it be beneficial for them to be around more people? Are they interested in having activities organised for them?)
- Financial implications
- Individual preference as well as the input of loved ones (involving loved ones in the process not only makes everyone feel valued, the additional input can help with decision making)
Eximius: Live-in Care Specialists
Eximius Live-In Care was founded by Kate in 2016, inspired by her own fiercely independent mother. We aim for our clients to enjoy a full, safe and happy life, and for their families to enjoy peace of mind that their loved ones are well cared for.
Our vision is to provide bespoke care services focused on helping elderly and vulnerable people live their lives to the fullest. We hope that our clients feel empowered to be able to carry on doing the things they enjoy, with the support of an Eximius companion or carer to make sure they are supported and looked after.
All our carers and companions are fully vetted and trained. They also work directly for us, which means friends and family do not have the added stress of hiring an external carer.
Carers are matched with clients based on experience, training and personality to ensure that they are the best companion, expert carer and friend to them.
Ultimately, the decision between live-in care and residential care depends on your loved one’s individual needs and preferences.
Remember, the most important factor is your loved one’s well-being and happiness. We encourage you to have open conversations with them, involve them in the decision-making process as much as possible, and don’t hesitate to seek professional guidance if needed.
If you or a loved-one would like to understand more about the different care options available, please contact us for further information. We’d love to help.
What is post hospital recovery care?
Following a period of illness, surgery, or unexpected situation, Eximius can provide short term care to make the journey of recovery a little easier. For the majority short term care is a one-off care arrangement to support an individual post hospital release.
Often this can mean that an individual can leave hospital earlier, if medical professionals are aware that the patient is being looked after by a qualified trained carer.
As a result, a patient can get back to the comfort of their own home, surrounded by their loved ones. This can have a positive effect on an individual’s well-being, health, and quality of life. Evidence has shown that 97% of people given the choice would want to stay in their own home to receive the care they need. Eximius provide outstanding short term live-in carers to allow this to happen.
On occasions short term live-in care is required urgently following an unexpected situation. Often family members can become overwhelmed with organising urgent care for a loved one, as well as continuing to carry out day to day living.
Eximius can help take the pressure of by arranging it all, allowing family members to continue emotionally supporting their loved ones. If urgent care is required, care managers can often visit a home within 24 hours to access the house, understand more about the individuals needs and establish a relationship with the family. Available carer profiles can then be sent over to family members for them to select the best suited. This allows choice and allows family members to still feel in control.
How our companions can help during short-term care
Managing and administering medications
All companions at Eximius are fully trained and qualified in the administration of medication. We ensure that companions understand and aware of client’s medication usage before they go into placement. This helps ensure a smooth and accurate handover.
Additionally, companions are required to document the administration of medication on a secure care electronic system. This helps companions monitor intake and let a clients family know that their loved one is being looked after. This can be extremely reassuring. Companions will also ensure that repeat prescriptions are made and will collect medication from the pharmacy. This takes all pressure of the client’s family and helps a family carer relax and rest of their break.
Personal care
Companions at Eximius can help assist clients with personal hygiene. We understand that this can be a sensitive matter and ensure that the client’s dignity is respected whilst helping with personal care. Additionally, companions can help with assisted care such as supporting clients with appearance, dressing and grooming.
Help them stay socially active
Our companions can help keep clients stimulated by ensuring they keep in touch with friends, remain active and attend activities they enjoy and love. This is good for a client’s confidence, mental wellbeing and helps ensure they remain connected to the local community. Companions can also escort clients on daytrips helping ensure that our clients experience a quality life that they deserve.
Additionally, companion’s at Eximius can play a vital role in ensuring clients carry out exercise and rehabilitation. Activity is the best way to keep a client’s body healthy, improve mental health and to avoid complications. Research has demonstrated the benefits of activity in maintaining health and function as well as recovery. They may need to relearn basic skills, such as walking or talking. Companion’s can ensure that daily rehabilitation takes place during short-term care.
Help with domestic tasks
Companions at Eximius are required to keep a client’s house clean. All rooms are regularly cleaned and vacuumed ensuring that the upkeep of the house is kept to a high standard. This can be reassuring to a client’s family knowing that there relative is in a safe and tidy environment.
Help care for the client’s much-loved pet
Companions at Eximius will happily support looking after client’s pets by feeding them and taking them on regular walks.
Eating and drinking
At Eximius companions help with the client’s food shopping and cook healthy well-balanced meals. Meal’s choices can be prepared based on the client’s desires and preferences. This ensures that the client regularly eats/drinks and receives essential vitamins. This is important in remaining healthy and keeping their immune systems strong helpful in fighting illness. Each companion is provided with an Eximius recipe book when going into a placement. The recipe book is filled with tasty healthy meals helpful in ensuring clients receive a range of delicious meals.
Companionship
Companions at Eximius can provide excellent emotional support and assistance during short-term live-in care. Our companions are carefully selected by our recruitment manager, ensuring that all companions employed by the company are of an outstanding care standard. Companions are perfectly matched to a client to ensure they share similar interests and hobbies. This enables a client to continue living an interesting and stimulating life.
Reasons to choose Eximius
Speed
We can put care in place very quickly. While it is better to have more time, sometimes people return home and suddenly realise they need more help than they thought or would rather not be on their own. We can put care in place within 24 hours and have been known to organise it in a little as 6!
Flexibly
Often people don’t know what they need and how long they’ll need it for. Because we are small, we can make quick decisions and change things as and when is needed.
Choosing the correct care is an important decision and our experienced team are here to help every step of the way. Please do not hesitate to contact us, we are more than happy to help.
We all check the time…all the time! Even if we don’t realise it. Knowing the time keeps us orientated through the day.
We check the clock to see if it’s time to get up in the morning, to check we’re not running late for an appointment. A quick look at the time tells us that it’s time to start cooking dinner for the family or that it’s time to turn the TV off and go to sleep.
For people with dementia, this skill becomes more difficult and is progressively lost. Not being able to tell the time can make dementia sufferers feel confused and anxious. Unfortunately, losing the ability to tell the time is often one of the early symptoms of a dementia patient’s journey.
Why does dementia affect the ability to tell the time?
Dementia affects the part of the brain that allows us to tell the time. As cognitive function in that area of the brain declines, dementia sufferers slowly lose their ability to read the numbers, the position of the numbers or understand the placement of the hands on the clock. Therefore, they can no longer tell the time.
What problems does it cause?
Along with the inability to tell the time, people with dementia also experience memory loss and often forget what day, month, or year it is. They often have no sense of time and can’t tell if an event happened an hour ago or a week ago. This causes great confusion, fear, and vulnerability, which is often expressed with clingy or repetitive behaviour.
For a previously independent person, the inability to keep track of time can be devastating. Missing meals and being late for appointments is upsetting and confusing for someone who has been used to a routine orientated life.
Tips to help people with dementia tell the time
In the early stages of dementia ensure that the clocks around the house are clear. Plain clocks with numbers clearly marked will help them tell the time. As dementia progresses, digital clocks with the time clearly visible, may become more useful. Once interpreting the numbers becomes too difficult, a digital clock that simply states the day and either morning, afternoon, evening or night, may be more beneficial.
The Alzheimer’s Society online shop sells digital and manual clocks that are particularly beneficial for people with dementia.
Eximius can help
At Eximius, we provide exceptional live-in support for people diagnosed with Dementia. All our companions are fully trained and qualified with Dementia care and are aware of the importance of supporting them to maintain skills, abilities, and an active social life.
Dementia is a word we are all familiar with, but do we really understand what it means? If you have had limited exposure to dementia, your views of it are likely to have been shaped by how it is portrayed on the screen, in books, or in the media, and it is often the later stages of dementia that are featured.
You may already be caring for someone with dementia, or you may have concerns that a loved one is exhibiting potential symptoms.
But to provide the best care and support both before and after a dementia diagnosis, it is important to understand how it manifests itself in the early stages.
A word of caution
Dementia is not actually a disease itself. It’s a collection of symptoms that occur following damage to the brain. The damage is caused by different diseases and the symptoms differ according to the part of the brain that is damaged.
As is the case with many other cognitive impaired conditions, no two people will have the same effects or symptoms.
And whilst there are several symptoms that are common in the early stages, many might be caused by something other than dementia so be cautious of jumping to conclusions.
However, dementia is not a natural part of aging, so it is important to reach out to your GP should you have concerns. Monitor and record symptoms so you have a medical history to share as this can help with a diagnosis.
What to look out for
Impairment to memory, communication, and focus, changes in mood, emotions, and personality, can all be commonplace in the early stages of dementia. It is helpful to be aware of how these symptoms might present:
Memory and cognitive changes
- Subtle memory loss can be an early symptom of dementia, with short term memory often impacted.
- This can mean someone in the early stages of dementia can’t remember what they had to eat that day but are able to recall events from many years ago. Or are not able to recall what they have come into a particular room for, or remember where they left an everyday item such as keys or glasses.
- Another symptom is struggling to complete normal tasks or follow step-by-step instructions.
Communication changes
- Struggles with communication and understanding can be another early symptom.
- This may result in people having difficulty finding the right words for what they want to say or struggling to follow a
conversation or on-screen plot. - This confusion occurs because dementia can cause people to forget the meanings of some words or phrases or be able to recall common reference points.
- This means conversations with a person with dementia can take a long time, be incohesive, frustrating and difficult to manage.
- It can also cause an inability to recall people’s faces, buildings or locations which can make them more likely to get lost or confused.
- This can be frightening and isolating for the person experiencing symptoms as well as worrying and concerning for their loved ones.
Personality changes
- Poor judgment can be another early symptom of dementia. Judgement affects the way people make decisions and this symptom can present itself as a personality change.
- This can mean a person in the early stages of dementia may have difficulty in recognising how to behave in accordance with normal social boundaries and etiquette. For example, they may behave with extreme shyness or gregariousness which can cause embarrassment and distress to others present.
- Or they may be unable to recognise danger and so may put themselves in situations where they may come to harm such as navigating busy traffic as a pedestrian or as a driver.
- Or they may change their attitude to personal hygiene and so may wash less frequently or take less care of their physical appearance.
- Impaired judgement can also invariably mean resistance to well-intentioned suggestions from a loved one which can also be met with frustration, confusion and sometimes anger.
- People in the early stages of dementia may also experience apathy and a general withdrawal from life, such as interest in hobbies to spending time with friends and family.
- Depression can be another early symptom of dementia.
How the right care can help
In the very early stages of dementia, many people can enjoy life in the same way they did prior to their diagnosis. But as symptoms get worse, a person with dementia feels confused more and more often and are unable to make sense of the world around them. This can cause them to feel isolated and frustrated and be angry at themselves or those around them but are unable to articulate why.
Witnessing and caring for a loved one who is navigating the symptoms of dementia can be upsetting, exhausting, and frequently feel overwhelming.
We provide exceptional live-in support for those diagnosed with Dementia. We are acutely aware of the importance of supporting our clients with Dementia to maintain skills, abilities, and an active social life. This is crucial in not only helping how they feel about themselves, helping to reduce behaviours that are out of character but also provides reassurance to family members that their loved ones are being looked after. We also recognise that caring for someone with dementia can be exhausting and having a regular break or respite can be vital.
If you or a loved one would like to understand more about any of our live-in care services such as respite care, day care, or night care and clinical care, please get in contact, we’d love to help.
As Thank You Day approaches, we have the perfect opportunity to express our heartfelt gratitude to the incredible carers who provide support and compassionate care to those in need.
Our dedicated professionals go above and beyond to improve the lives of others. On this special day, we want to acknowledge their extraordinary efforts and show our appreciation. We also want to recognise the selfless commitment of all the unpaid carers that make a profound difference in their loved ones’ lives. We want to honour and celebrate their invaluable contributions on Thank You Day and every day.
Thank You Day, a day dedicated to expressing gratitude, provides an opportunity for carers to explore gratitude practices. Gratitude helps shift your focus to the positive aspects of life, nurtures well-being, and builds inner strength. Here, we look at the importance of gratitude and provide practical tips to promote self-care and resilience on Thank You Day and beyond.
The Power of Gratitude
Gratitude is a powerful tool that allows us to acknowledge and appreciate the blessings, both big and small, in our life. For carers, embracing a gratitude mindset can help counteract the emotional and physical challenges in their demanding roles. It provides a means to find solace, maintain motivation, and enhance overall well-being.
Cultivating a Gratitude Practice
Daily Gratitude
Start each day by reflecting on the things you are grateful for in your work and home life. Whether it’s the trust bestowed upon you, a positive interaction with a client, or the ability to make a difference. Acknowledge these moments and the positive effects they have on you.
Express Appreciation
Take the opportunity to express your heartfelt appreciation to the clients and families you serve. Share specific moments that touched your heart. Highlight their impact on your life as a carer.
Gratitude Rituals
Incorporate gratitude rituals into your daily routine. Before starting or ending your day, take a moment to mentally list a few things you are grateful for. Create a gratitude jar to collect appreciation notes from clients or loved ones.
Seek Support and Share Gratitude
Connect with fellow caregivers or join support groups to share experiences and express gratitude. Hearing others’ stories can inspire and remind you of the positive impact you make in the lives of those you care for.
Self-Appreciation
Practice self-compassion and self-appreciation. Recognise your strengths, resilience, and the valuable work you do as a carer. Treat yourself with kindness and engage in activities that bring you joy and rejuvenate your spirit.
Benefits of Gratitude for Caregivers
A regular gratitude practice in your life can have several benefits:
- Increased resilience and emotional well-being.
- Reduced stress and burnout.
- Improved relationships and connections with clients and loved ones.
- Heightened self-awareness and self-care.
- Enhanced job satisfaction and motivation.
Prioritising self-care and improving resilience through gratitude will help you to continue providing the exceptional care you give. Embrace the power of gratitude to nurture your well-being, build inner strength, and ensure that the spirit of Thank You Day is present every day.
A caring career at Eximius
We are always looking for the perfect candidates to expand our team of exceptional and dedicated live-in carers. Visit here to see the opportunities we currently have available.
To learn more about us, head over here to meet the team.
What is Dementia?
Dementia is a syndrome (a group of related symptoms) associated with an ongoing decline of brain functioning. There are many different causes of dementia, and many different types. People often get confused about the difference between Alzheimer ’s disease and dementia. Alzheimer’s disease is a type of dementia and, together with vascular dementia, makes up the majority of cases.
Symptoms of dementia include problems with memory loss, thinking speed, mood, understanding, movement, language, and judgement.
- Research shows there are more than 850,000 people in the UK who have dementia. This is set to rise to over one million by 2025
- 9,600 will develop dementia this year, that’s one every three minutes
- One in 14 people over the age of 65 have dementia
- The condition affects 1 in 6 people over 80
In the early stages of dementia, many people are able to enjoy life in the same way they did prior to their diagnosis. But as symptoms get worse, the person may feel anxious, stressed, and scared at not being able to remember things, follow conversations or concentrate.
This can be distressing for both the person with dementia and their family surrounding them. It is also exhausting for the person caring for that individual.
It can change their relationship and mean they are unable to cope with their own emotional and physical needs.
How our companions can help
At Eximius we provide exceptional live- in support for those diagnosed with Dementia. All our companions are fully trained and qualified with Dementia care. Our companions are aware of the importance of supporting those with Dementia to maintain skills, abilities, and an active social life. This is crucial in helping how they feel about themselves, helping reduce behaviours that are out of character and reassure family members that their loved ones are being looked after.
Eating and drinking
Those with Dementia may not drink and eat enough as they do not realise that they are thirsty and hungry. This can put them as risk of:
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Constipation
- Headaches
- Loss of weight
This can lead to increased confusion and make the symptoms of dementia worse. At Eximius companions help with the client’s food shopping and cook healthy well-balanced meals. Meal’s choices can be prepared based on the client’s desires and preferences. This ensures that the client regularly eats/drinks and receives essential vitamins. This is important in remaining healthy and keeping their immune systems strong helpful in fighting illness.
Helping with incontinence and using the toilet
People with dementia may often experience problems with going to the toilet. Both urinary incontinence and bowel incontinence can be difficult to deal with. It can be very upsetting and uncomfortable for the person with dementia.
Problems can be caused by:
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Constipation, which can cause added pressure on the bladder
- Some medicines
Sometimes the person with dementia may simply forget they need the toilet or where the toilet is. Companions at Eximius can:
- Look for signs that their client may need the toilet such as fidgeting or standing up or down
- Keep the client active by taking them on daily walks. This can help with regular bowel movement and prevention of urinary tract infections
- Make the client go to the toilet as part of their regular daily routines
- Place signs and pictures on the toilet door to help remind clients
Help with personal care
Some people with dementia can become anxious about personal hygiene, forget, and may need help with washing. Washing is a personal, private activity. Companions at Eximius understand that this can be a sensitive matter and ensure the person’s dignity is respected whilst assisting with personal care.
Help with sleep problems
Dementia can affect people’s sleep patterns and cause problems with a person’s “body clock”. People with dementia may get up repeatedly during the night and be disorientated when they do so. This can be dangerous if there is no one to comfort the individual and assist them back to bed. At Eximius we can provide live-in night care. Companions remain awake throughout the night and regularly check the client is safe.
Help cope with distress
When a person with dementia becomes distressed, it is often because they are trying to communicate something to you. If a person with dementia does start to become upset, our companions can help them feel calmer by comforting them, for example giving them a hug, playing music they love, sitting and holder their hand, offering them a cup of tea, provide reassure and helping the client find the answer themselves.
Help them stay socially active
Our companions can help keep dementia clients stimulated by ensuring they keep in touch with friends, remain active and attend activities they enjoy and love such to dance lessons, swimming classes, art lessons. This is good for a client’s confidence and mental wellbeing. According to ‘DailyCaring’ home dementia exercise programmes help increase abilities and improve symptoms of Dementia. They improve cognitive function, reduce depression, improve balance and improve ability to perform everyday tasks.
Companions can also escort clients on daytrips to museums and concerts and on holiday. This helps ensure that our clients experience a quality life that they deserve.
Help with domestic tasks
Companions at Eximius are required to keep a client’s house clean. All rooms are regularly cleaned and vacuumed ensuring that the upkeep of the house is kept to a high standard. This can be reassuring to a client’s family knowing that there relative is a safe and tidy environment.
Help care for the client’s much-loved pet
Companions at Eximius will happily support looking after client’s pets by feeding them and taking them on regular walks.
Reasons to choose Eximius
Consistency
We believe in keeping the same carer in place for as long as possible. This means less anxiety for the person with dementia and that the carer can learn a clients likes and dislikes and what might trigger an adverse reaction.
Dementia specific Support
Our GP Dr Bashir is an expert in elderly care and in Dementia. Our clinical lead Claire dancer is a specialist in mental health and addiction. Between the 2 of them they offer a wealth of knowledge and support to clients and family members struggling with the impact of dementia.
Carers training
All our carers are trained in dementia and many of them have extensive experience in different types of dementia, including Alzheimer’s, vascular, Lewy bodies and Korsakoff.
Choosing the correct care is an important decision and our experienced team are here to help every step of the way. Please do not hesitate to contact us, we are more than happy to help.
It’s Carers Week from 6th to 12th June 2022 which is the perfect time to celebrate the carers in your life. Or, if you are a carer, to take a moment and appreciate the wonderful job you do every day, paid or unpaid.
Carers play a key role in our society with around 6.5 million carers in the UK today. It can be a very challenging role but also very fulfilling. Immense bonds can be formed and carers affect real, genuine improvements in peoples’ lives. They play a key role in helping people get better or improving and maintaining their quality of life.
So, what makes a good carer? Practical skills required for a carer’s role can be taught but the personality traits that make a wonderful carer can’t. Whether you are interested in a career in care, or you are wondering what qualities to look for when hiring a carer, this post is for you.
Qualities of a good carer
Reliable
Carers must ensure that meals, medication, and appointments are all managed on time so being reliable is key.
Empathetic
Having empathy for the person you’re caring for is so important. They may be having difficulty coming to terms with their situation so having a carer they can connect with is very important.
Respectful
Caring for someone means being in their space, both their home and in their personal space. This may feel very difficult for someone who has been independent their whole life. It’s important to avoid patronising them and be respectful to them.
Patient
With the elderly or unwell, there are many reasons why someone may become angry, frustrated, or irritable. Memory lapses are common too. In these situations, it’s important for a carer to remain calm and patient.
Practical
With a caring roll comes many jobs that require rubber gloves, an apron, and a smile on the face. A good carer can roll up their sleeves and get stuck in with the jobs that need doing – and whistle while they work!
Observant
When caring for someone it’s important the carer can notice changes when they occur, so they can act in a timely manner. In the elderly or the unwell, changes can happen rapidly. These could be physical changes, mental health changes, weight loss, or confusion for example.
Good sense of humour
Elderly people, or people with complex health issues who need a carer can often suffer from low mood, depression, and anxiety. Having a carer who can light up the room goes a long way towards cheering someone up.
Caring
The most important quality! A carer must have a caring personality to care for someone else.
Experienced
It’s always beneficial if a carer has experience but a caring attitude and a willingness to learn are more important. Remember, experience doesn’t have to come from a previous paid carers role. Many of us have had experience caring for others in some capacity in our lives.
Qualified
There are many different care qualifications out there but many roles don’t require specific qualifications. Again, a caring attitude and the desire to learn are the most important.
Qualities of a live-in carer
Live-in care takes a special type of person since they will be moving into the home of their clients for weeks at a time. They must enjoy spending quality time with their clients, having meaningful conversations, and understand the importance of maintaining independence and a sense of self at home for the client. Their role will include all the caring tasks you would expect, along with deep personal interaction such as taking part in hobbies with the clients or taking them on days out and to family events. Being a constant companion to them, someone they can rely on and trust with their life.
Eximius Carers – Work for us
We are always looking for high-quality carers so if you have the qualities listed and a desire for a rewarding career in care, contact us. We take pride in looking after our carers as much as our clients.
How Eximius can help you or your loved-one
If you are considering hiring a carer for yourself or your loved-one, look no further. We would love to hear from you and arrange an informal chat to see how we can help. We can arrange care for you nationwide.
What is Live-In Care?
When people can no longer live alone, either because they are elderly, or have a condition that means they can’t cope on their own, live-in care can enable them to stay safely at home.
Many people don’t realise that there is a viable alternative to a care home or full-time nursing care. If they do know about live-in care, they often imagine it is far more expensive than it is in reality.
Many people would much rather stay at home, surrounded by their own belongings and memories, with friends and family visiting frequently. They would much rather continue to live the life they love, rather than go into a care facility.
If you or a loved one needs support, it’s important you have information about all the options that are open to you. Read on to find out about the different sorts of live-in care, the benefits, and questions people frequently ask when considering this option.
What is live-in care?
If you or a loved one needs support for day-to-day life, live-in care is a safe and cost-effective alternative to residential or nursing care.
Professional carers, or companions, live with their client and look after their personal, medical, and domestic needs. This means they can stay safely in their own home and continue to live their life to the fullest in familiar surroundings.
Types of live-in care
Companions provide support for the elderly, or people who need help with day-to-day life. They provide companionship for their clients, and peace of mind for their families who know their loved ones are safe and cared for.
We also have a team of professional, dedicated, clinically trained carers, who look after people with long-term conditions, or who need support after a life-changing accident.
Some people only need help at night as their families can care for them during the day. In this case a dedicated carer can stay awake at night and will be there if their client needs help and take care of tasks such as turning, or repositioning, toileting, or pain management.
Caring for a relative or friend full time can be exhausting. It’s important to realise that if you’re taking care of someone, while also working or keeping up with other family commitments, you take a break. Sometimes you may need to go away for other reasons, such as to visit friends or family, and this can be difficult if you are responsible for caring for a loved-one full-time.
Live-in respite care can help. We can cover you for a week, or for as long a time as you need. Our carers will work with you to make sure they understand everything about your loved-one’s routine and requirements before you go away, and they’ll stay in touch while you’re away, so you can relax, knowing your loved one is in safe hands.
What are the benefits of live-in care?
Your loved one can remain at home, and continue to live their usual life – safely, and comfortably. For many of the people we care for, the fact they can continue to stay in their own home, surrounded by their belongings and memories, is the most important benefit of live-in care.
It’s also easier for them to continue to live the life they are comfortable with. Family and friends can come and go easily. Your loved one can continue to live with beloved pets, enjoy their pastimes and hobbies, and the freedoms they are used to. They can continue to eat the food they love, enjoy their garden and stay in touch with their local community – without the stress of dealing with domestic chores.
Everybody deserves to live a full and happy life, and most people prefer to stay in their home rather than move to a residential facility. For some people, such as those with dementia, continuing to live in familiar circumstances makes a huge difference to their health as well as their quality of life.
Many of our families tell us that the most important benefit for them is peace of mind. They know their parent or relative is safe, well-cared for, and happy. They also feel involved in their life and care. They get to know the companion or carer well, and can easily monitor the care they receive.
For many people, especially couples, live-in care is also far more cost-efficient than full-time residential care.
Frequently asked questions about live-in care
How much does it cost?
Live-in care does not cost as much as you might think. The cost will vary according to the type of care required, so please contact us for more details. The cost is certainly comparable to a care home and can work out much more cost-effective if we provide care for a couple.
Is it as safe as a care home?
The one-to-one attention (or one-to-two in the case of couples) means the quality of care your loved one receives is unrivalled. Our live-in carers are dedicated, professional, and highly trained. They are there all the time, so can provide an immediate response to medical or other emergencies.
How will I know how well my loved-one is being cared for?
Good live-in care companies also have systems and procedures to make sure the health and safety of their clients are continually monitored. Families can check in with their loved ones at any time and are involved with all decisions about their care. We also use the PASS app, which will keep you always up to date with your loved ones care.
How do you select your carers?
All our carers and companions are fully vetted and trained. They also work directly for us, meaning you don’t have to worry about any employment obligations.
At Eximius, we carefully select a carer or companion who has the experience, training and personality to match the needs of our clients. One huge advantage our clients enjoy, is they get to know their carer or companion well, rather than having to cope with different people coming and going. Their carer or companion becomes an integral part of their life and a close family friend.
About Eximius
Eximius live-in care was founded by Kate in 2016, inspired by her own fiercely independent mother. We aim for our clients to enjoy a full, safe and happy life, and for their families to enjoy peace of mind that their loved ones are well cared for.
If you or a loved-one needs support, please contact us for further information. We’d love to help.
What is respite care?
Although for the majority a family carer’s main concern is to look after their loved one, at Eximius we understand how emotionally and physically demanding this can be. It is important that family carer’s take time out to look after themselves. This is crucial in preventing them becoming exhausted and run down. Respite care provides family carer’s the opportunity to do this.
Eximius can provide outstanding, professional carers for a short period of time. This allows a family carer to take a break and ensures that a client can continue being cared for in the comfort and familiarity of their own home.
In many cases family carers can be hesitate about taking up this type of care as they believe it is a sign of weakness or acknowledgment that they cannot cope. However, Eximius do not see it like this. We see it as an opportunity for family carers to refuel, prevent the breakdown of a relationship and come back being the best carer possible.
Companions at Eximius go above and beyond to ensure a client is satisfied and supported whilst family carers take a break. This ensures that family members can relax, rest, and feel assured during their break knowing their love one is receiving the highest quality care.
Furthermore, respite care can provide a trial run/opportunity for families to try live-in care for the first time. It provides families with further understanding of how live-in care works, whether a client enjoys having a carer in their house and can help emphasis to families the benefits of live-in care for both the client and the family carer.
How our companions can help during respite care
Managing and administering medications
All companions at Eximius are fully trained and qualified in the administration of medication. We ensure that companions understand and aware of client’s medication usage before they go into placement. This helps ensure a smooth and accurate handover. Additionally, companions are required to document the administration of medication on a secure care electronic system. This helps companions monitor intake and let a clients family know that their loved one is being looked after. This can be extremely reassuring. Companions will also ensure that repeat prescriptions are made and will collect medication from the pharmacy. This takes all pressure of the client’s family and helps a family carer relax and rest of their break.
Personal care
Companions are Eximius can help assist clients with personal hygiene. We understand that this can be a sensitive matter and ensure that the client’s dignity is respected whilst helping with personal care. Additionally companions can help with assisted care such as supporting clients with appearance, dressing and grooming.
Help them stay socially active
Our companions can help keep clients stimulated by ensuring they keep in touch with friends, remain active and attend activities they enjoy and love. This is good for a client’s confidence, mental wellbeing and helps ensure they remain connected to the local community. Companions can also escort clients on daytrips to museums, concerts and on holiday. This helps ensure that our clients experience a quality life that they deserve.
Additionally, companion’s at Eximius can play a vital role in ensuring clients carry out exercise and rehabilitation. Activity is the best way to keep a client’s body healthy, improve mental health and to avoid complications. Research has demonstrated the benefits of activity in maintaining health and function as well as recovery. They may need to relearn basic skills, such as walking or talking. Companion’s can ensure that daily rehabilitation takes place whilst family carers take a break.
Help with domestic tasks
Companions at Eximius are required to keep a client’s house clean. All rooms are regularly cleaned and vacuumed ensuring that the upkeep of the house is kept to a high standard. This can be reassuring to a client’s family knowing that there relative is in a safe and tidy environment.
Help care for the client’s much-loved pet
Companions at Eximius will happily support looking after client’s pets by feeding them and taking them on regular walks.
Eating and drinking
At Eximius companions help with the client’s food shopping and cook healthy well-balanced meals. Meal’s choices can be prepared based on the client’s desires and preferences. This ensures that the client regularly eats/drinks and receives essential vitamins. This is important in remaining healthy and keeping their immune systems strong helpful in fighting illness. Each companion is provided with an Eximius recipe book when going into a placement. The recipe book is filled with tasty healthy meals helpful in ensuring clients receive a range of delicious meals.
Companionship
Companions at Eximius can provide excellent emotional support and assistance during a family carers break. Our companions are carefully selected by our recruitment manager, ensuring that all companions employed by the company are of an outstanding care standard. Companions are perfectly matched to a client to ensure they share similar interests and hobbies. This enables a client to continue living an interesting and stimulating life.
Reasons to choose Eximius
Flexibility
As we are a small we able to move quickly and put carers in place for short-term cover. We can always adapt should plans change at short notice.
Companionship
All our carers are cheery and friendly and will make sure your loved one is looked after while you’re away taking a break. You can then return fully rested knowing they’ve been well cared for.
Choosing the correct care is an important decision and our experienced team are here to help every step of the way. Please do not hesitate to contact us, we are more than happy to help.
A spinal cord injury can be life changing for both clients and families. Facing a long-term condition requiring significant specialist rehabilitation and care, typically outside of a family’s expertise and capacity, can be overwhelming.
A cohesive rehabilitation and care programme can help clients return to the highest level of function and independence possible, while improving the overall quality of life – physically, emotionally, and socially. When this is combined with the right live-in clinical care, clients can continue to stay in their own home, and lead fulfilling, active, and independent lives.
What is a spinal cord injury?
Spinal cord injuries are usually caused by trauma; but can also occur as a result of infection or a disease. The spinal cord is made up of nerves that run through the backbone and help control the body’s muscles, enabling a person to move their body, feel pressure and control vital functions such as their breathing, bladder, and bowels. When the spinal cord is damaged, messages travelling from the brain to the rest of the body are disrupted and can result in a loss of sensation and movement from below the point of injury. Each spinal cord injury is unique with individuals suffering varying degrees of sensation and loss of mobility.
Bespoke spinal injury care service
At Eximius, we provide a bespoke spinal cord injury care as part of our Live-in Clinical Care service. We can create an individual care plan tailored to meet the physical, emotional and social needs of you or your loved one. Our nurse-led clinical care team work with other health professionals, such as discharge teams, occupational therapists, neurologists, and specialist consultants to ensure all equipment and person-centred care planning is in place. This can include:
Diet and hydration
- Diet and hydration are closely monitored with support provided for eating and drinking, dependant on what levels of spinal cord injury the individual has sustained.
- If a client has difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), fluids and solids can be modified accordingly.
- Our team is trained in PEG tube or nasogastric feeding.
Continence care
- The input and output of catheter day bags and night bags, alongside the colour of urine, are observed for expected activity and any visible signs of infection.
- Catheter tubing is regularly examined to check there are no kinks or bends or catheter bypassing.
- A spinal cord injury can disrupt communication between the brain and the nerves in the spinal cord that control bowel function. Bowel dysfunction is known as neurogenic bowel. Treatment options that can help improve control for bowel movements include diet, fluid intake, medication, and nerve stimulation.
Manual handling
- Due to the nature of spinal cord injuries, any necessary manual handling of the client is supported by specialist equipment including ceiling track hoists, shower chairs, hospital beds, powered wheelchairs, and splints.
- Massage and physio can be beneficial to both the physical and mental health of those with spinal cord injuries and can improve circulation, muscle tone, skin elasticity, and relieve pain.
Skin integrity
- By ensuring clients are repositioned throughout the day, any pressure related areas can be relieved and monitored. We can liaise with the district nurse over any areas of concerns.
Why use Eximius?
At Eximius Care, bespoke spinal cord injury care is part of our Live-in Clinical Care service, and sits alongside our other services – Live-in Day Care, Live-in Respite Care and Live-in Night Care.
Our team is an extraordinary group of clinical care specialists who are trained to the highest level, and provide a professional, compassionate, and person-centred care service. As well as internal nurse led training, we utilise the Spinal Injury Association (SIA) and the British Association of Brain Injury and Complex Case Management (BABICM) for additional specific training.
Remaining in a home that is known and loved, surrounded by families and belongings, and living as normal a life and routine as possible can make an overwhelming difference to the quality of life for those with a spinal cord injury and their families.
If you or a loved-one would like to understand more about our bespoke spinal cord injury care or any of our services, please get in contact, we’d love to help.
Are you considering live-in care? Maybe for yourself or a loved one? If you’re at the early stages of considering live-in care, this blog post is for you.
Here we will discuss what live-in care is and answer some of the most common questions we hear related to live-in care.
What is live-in care?
When people can no longer live alone, either because they are elderly or have a condition that means they can’t cope on their own, live-in care can enable them to stay safely at home. Live-in care provides support for day-to-day life and is a safe and cost-effective alternative to residential or nursing care.
What is expected of a live-in carer?
Live-in carers provide dedicated support to a person whilst maintaining dignity and independence. Although the role of the carer or companion is tailored to the client’s individual needs, there are essential responsibilities that most carers will be required to do at some point.
These include:
- Personal care – such as dressing, bathing, bathroom assistance
- Cooking meals
- Cleaning and laundry
- Handling medication
- Shopping and other errands
- Mobility assistance
- Supporting with public outings, appointments and social activities
A live-in carer becomes an essential part of someone’s life, providing friendship and companionship in addition to the physical care provided.
Do live-in carers do housework?
Live-in carers will support their clients with all the housework tasks necessary to run a home. Cleaning, tidying, laundry, ironing and cooking are all part of the role of the carer if that is what the client needs assistance with.
How many hours a day should a live-in carer work?
Live-in carers often work around 8-10 hours a day. There is usually a rest period of 2 or 3 hours during the day which is arranged at a time when someone else (maybe a friend or family member) is available to stay with the client. If night care is also needed, another carer will be assigned to allow the live-in day companion to rest.
Do live-in carers need their own bedroom?
Yes, a live-in carer needs their own bedroom. It needs to be adequately heated and ventilated with space to unpack and store clothes and belongings. A spare bedroom isn’t always available so converting another room in the house may be needed. The care provider company will likely come to assess the carers living arrangements first.
Do live-in carers need their own bathroom?
No, a private bathroom is preferable but by no means necessary. The bathroom must be clean and functioning with a place for the carer to store toiletries.
Do live-in carers buy their own food?
There are no rules in place stipulating how a food allowance is provided. Whether a food allowance will be provided or not, and how much, is dependent on three factors:
- The live-in care company
- The carers requirements
- The client package
Very often a carer will cook and eat meals with the clients so buying a lot of food separately is not usually necessary. Again this will depend on the individual needs of the client and the care package that is in place.
Sitting down to a scrumptious home-cooked meal is one of life’s essential pleasures. In essence of this Eximius has produced its very own recipe book provided to all clients and carers. Guiding our companions to share suitable nutritious recipes, cooking tips and techniques, to master all of those satisfying staples.
Providing caring, experienced, professional and friendly live-in companions is our speciality here at Eximius. If you’d like to chat about how we can help we’d love you to get in touch.
It’s always important to eat well. But it’s even more important that we eat well as we age to promote a long and healthy life.
Food is our fuel. Eating the correct food allows the body to perform at its best, fight ageing, fight disease and boost immunity.
We all know that eating the right food promotes health and wellness by giving us all the vitamins and minerals needed to function effectively. However, eating the wrong foods can cause our bodies unnecessary stress.
As we age, we need fewer calories, but still need lots of nutrients. However, appetites wane as we get older. You may notice a change in your sense of smell and taste which may cause food to seem bland and less enjoyable.
Weight gain and weight loss can become a problem with age
Older adults may become underweight due to:
- Reduced appetite
- Reduced ability to shop regularly for fresh and nutritious foods
- Reduced ability to cook
Older adults may become overweight due to:
- More reliance on convenience and processed foods
- Increased sugar intake (from convenience foods)
- Reduced movement and exercise
So how do you eat well as you age? Here are some tips to get you started.
Eating well as you age
The Eatwell Guide shows the different types of foods and drinks we should consume – from which food groups and in what proportions – to have a healthy, balanced diet.
- Ideally, eat at least 5 portions of a variety of fruit and vegetables every day.
- Base each meal on a source of carbohydrate such as potatoes, bread, rice, pasta or other starchy foods and choose wholegrain varieties where possible.
- Choose some dairy or dairy alternatives (such as soya drinks) each day, choosing low fat and low sugar options where possible.
- Include some protein each day. This can be in the form of beans, pulses, fish, eggs, meat and other proteins (2 portions of fish every week, one of which should be oily, e.g. tuna, mackerel, pilchards).
- Choose unsaturated oils and spreads and eat in small amounts.
- Drink 6-8 cups/glasses of fluid a day.
If you are regularly consuming food and drinks high in fat, salt, or sugar then it’s a good idea to try and have these less often and in small amounts (ideally very rarely).
Sugar, fat and salt
Diets that are high in sugar, fat and salt have been linked to common health conditions such as heart disease, cancer, high blood pressure, stroke, obesity and tooth decay. Unfortunately, many of the processed convenience foods, ready meals and savoury snacks can be high in sugar, fat, and salt.
Eating too much salt can increase your risk of high blood pressure and stroke. So, look for low-salt versions of foods where you can. Also, try adding salt to your food at the table rather than when you cook. Often, less salt is consumed when added at the end.
Foods that are high in saturated fat such as cakes, sausages, and cheese, increase cholesterol levels in the blood and raise your risk of heart disease and stroke. These are often everyday food items but should in fact only be eaten very occasionally.
Tips for people who don’t enjoy eating as much as they’ve got older
- If food tastes bland, try adding some stronger flavours. Sweetener, ginger, garlic, chilli, herbs and fresh lemon or lime, all add flavour without adding salt or sugar.
- Don’t get hung up on certain meals at certain mealtimes. If you want breakfast for dinner, or vice versa, go with it!
- Try eating smaller meals more regularly if a large plate feels too much in one sitting.
- When you cook, make bigger batches, and freeze some so you’ve always got a meal ready to heat up on days you don’t feel like cooking.
- Calorie packed smoothies and finger foods are also good for smaller appetites.
Good nutrition as you age is very important to help you stay as healthy as possible. While tastes and appetites can change, it’s essential to try and consume a range of food from all food groups. In addition to this, reducing the amount of sugar, fat and high salt processed foods, can improve health as we age.
As we age sleep patterns may change, and you may find you have difficulty staying asleep. Poor sleep patterns can contribute to many problems and lead to a reduced quality of life.
Research suggests that weighted blankets may benefit the elderly in a variety of ways. Here you will learn about weighted blankets, their benefits and precautions to be aware of.
What are weighted blankets?
A weighted blanket provides a deep constant pressure on the body that mimics touch pressure therapy. The weight of the blanket puts enough pressure on the body to possibly trigger the production of serotonin (the feel good hormone), a bit like getting a cuddle. It can aid relaxation, have a calming effect and help achieve a deeper sleep. This can have benefits for the elderly.
What are the benefits of weighted blankets for the elderly?
There hasn’t been a lot of research done relating to the use and benefits of weighted blankets but there has been a few smaller studies which you can find here.
Weighted blankets may benefit the elderly in the following ways:
- Improve quality of sleep
- Reduce symptoms of stress and anxiety
- Relieve symptoms of depression
- Relieve the perception of pain
- May reduce the need for some medications
- Reduce symptoms related to certain conditions such as dementia and Alzheimer’s, arthritis, and Parkinson’s
Sleep
Weighted blankets stimulate the production of our natural sleep hormone, melatonin, while also lowering the body’s stress hormone, cortisol. This helps us fall into a faster and deep sleep.
Stress and anxiety
Weighted blankets activate the body’s parasympathetic nervous system (the calm response) – breathing and heart rate slow down, allowing the body to enter a deep state of calm. It undoes the work of the sympathetic nervous system (stress response) which produces the feelings of stress and anxiety.
Depression
Weighted blankets stimulate the production of mood-boosting chemicals like serotonin and dopamine, making us feel happy and content and reducing feelings of depression.
Chronic pain
Research around weighted blankets suggests that they may help combat relentless pain by lowering stress, improving sleep quality and reducing perception of pain.
Medications
Weighted blankets don’t interfere with existing medications, providing a low-risk way for the elderly to find relief from certain health conditions.
Health conditions
Dementia
Dementia often causes anxiety and depression which in turn often lead to insomnia. Weighted blankets can improve sleep quality and quantity leaving people feeling more rested the next day. This can help ease feelings of anxiety and agitation through the day.
Parkinsons
For people with Parkinson’s, a weighted blanket can help relieve anxiety, improve sleep, help with body stiffness and pain as well as help keep tremors a bay.
Arthritis
It is common with arthritis for someone to be kept up at night with reduced motion, pain and stiffness. Pain feels worse without enough sleep and so the vicious cycle begins. A weighted blanket can help relieve pain and improve sleep quality.
How to choose a weighted blanket
Weighted blankets come in various weight increments as in the chart below. As a rule, the maximum weight of the blanket should be within 10% of the adult’s body weight. A properly sized weighted blanket should provide the pressure needed for better mental and physical health without being so heavy that removal is difficult.
Source: healthline.com
Precautions with weighted blankets
When choosing a weighted blanket for an elderly person, safety is paramount. Although weighted blankets are generally safe, there is a suffocation risk for older adults that are particularly frail. They should never be pulled over the head and face.
A heavy blanket could make an elderly person feel restricted which could lead to feelings of panic. It could also hinder their movement or increase the risk of falling if they need to get up during the night.
There are also certain conditions a person may have which means they shouldn’t use a weighted blanket. These include some sleep disorders, sleep apnoea, respiratory problems and some medical conditions.
In conclusion
So weighted blankets can have many benefits and with the right precautions, can be very beneficial for the elderly in many ways. They are widely available and come in a range of textures and colours, so why not give one a try!
Eximius are dedicated to the care of the elderly and those with complex medical conditions. Check out the blog for lots more helpful advice.