Category: Caregiver Resources

Holiday Decorating with Dementia

Christmas ornaments

When a loved one who lives with you has Alzheimer’s disease, the holiday season can present more than a few unique challenges. One of those challenges is decorating. Decking the halls for Christmas or Hanukkah is a tradition many families enjoy doing together every year. The tinsel and twinkle add to the festive nature of… Read more »

Alzheimer’s Wandering Kit for Winter

senior man walking on a road in the winter

As winter begins to make its return, caregivers who have a loved one living with Alzheimer’s disease should be prepared. One way to do so is by developing an Alzheimer’s Wandering Kit. If the unthinkable happens and your loved one wanders on a cold and snowy winter day, this kit can help rescue workers launch… Read more »

How Online Caregiving Communities Can Help

lady on a laptop

Caregivers face challenges they may never have expected. Many are caring for aging parents while struggling to juggle their own children’s needs and a full-time job. Others are providing care for a senior loved one who has Alzheimer’s disease and trying to find ways to manage difficult behaviors. What we know about caregivers is that… Read more »

9 Gift Ideas That Are Perfect for Someone in the Hospital

gifts wrapped in paper

If your friend or family member is in the hospital, it’s natural to want to bring them something when you visit. However, how do you know what gift will be appropriate and appreciated? To help you out, here are some hospital gift ideas (that aren’t flowers!) that are perfect for older adults. What to Bring Someone in… Read more »

9 Fall Activities to do With Your Senior

close up view of pumpkins

Autumn is here, with beautiful colors, abundant harvests, and gorgeous weather that makes most of us want to get outdoors and enjoy all the fall activities Central Ohio has to offer. Here’s a list of nine activities to do in the area, even better they are all free or inexpensive! Apple picking: Enjoy the pretty… Read more »

Pack Up a Healthier Picnic

food set out for a picnic

If your summer fun includes a senior loved one, planning heart smart menus is important. Many picnic and party foods are high in fat, salt, and sodium. All three are known to contribute to an increase in blood pressure and can exacerbate existing conditions such as Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease… Read more »

8 Gift Ideas for Mother’s Day

daughter gifting flowers and a box for mothers day

Mother’s Day is just around the corner and when brainstorming gift ideas it can be hard to know what to get, especially for the mom that “don’t want anything”. A Digital Photo Album A digital photo frame is a great way to share new pictures with your mom that she can easily display in her… Read more »

Power of Attorney and Living Will

signature of documents

In the event of an emergency, Power of Attorney and Living Will documentation are helpful to have in place. These documents protect your wishes and finances for your family. Health Care Power of Attorney First let’s look at what the Power of Attorney for Health Care covers: This document allows you to designate a person… Read more »

Visiting a Loved One at Optalis

family smiling and laughing at each other

We are thrilled to help our residents safely visit with their families! Understanding risk, but also recognizing the benefits of visiting with loved ones, Optalis residents are able to enjoy visitation, with some guidance provided by the CDC and CMS in regards to the core principles of infection control to mitigate the risks to our… Read more »