Advantages of Assisted Living Homes

Everyone needs some kind of help at one point or another in their lives. Taking that help can be somewhat of a shot in the arm when it comes to pride. Assisted living homes allow the elder adult to keep their pride while accepting the help that they need.

There are tons of advantages to living in assisted living homes. There are several different models to choose from that are ideally situated to all personality types.

Companionship - Number One Advantage of Living Assisted

The truth of the matter is that with aging comes loneliness. Elderly people sometimes feel isolated and alone. Their children have long ago moved away and now have children and sometimes grandchildren of their own. Many older people simply feel forgotten in the busy lives of their families. By far the greatest advantage of living in one of the assisted living homes is companionship. This can literally make or break the quality of life. Having folks that have similar memories and histories living nearby or in the same home can really bolster the quality of life.

Making friends at any age and feeling like you are part of a group is sure to promote a thriving atmosphere. In addition to the friendships that are forged there is of course staff that is ever present that can provide advice, companionship, medication supervision and provide a doorway to an active lifestyle. Knowing that someone is there is a big part of the assisted living lifestyle.

Activities and Services

Assisted living homes usually have a full itinerary of activities that are available for participation. Of course the participation is not mandatory but many folks are geared up and ready to have some fun. Many elder adults can no longer drive, and one of the great features of living in assisted environment is the ability to be shuttled around, instead of waiting for a friend or relative to stop by for running errands, shopping, and visiting the doctor.

No one likes to be a burden; living in an assisted living environment removes that feeling of burdening someone else. It is all part of the agreement. Getting to the doctors when you need to get there is taken care of. Getting to the hair dresser or the barber shop is also taken care of.

Many homes plan day trips and some even offer extended trips. There are usually classes that are offered and exercise programs. Things that most elder adults would never venture to do on their own suddenly seem very possible in the group home environment.

Supervision

In some cases supervision is really needed. Adult group homes offer supervision without intrusion. This is an ideal situation for folks that really want to remain independence but can use a little overseeing.

There are so many advantages to living in one of the many adult group homes. They can really provide the perfect answer for the elder adult that can use a little help in life.

Senior Assisted Living: Consider the Options Before You Choose

If you have older relatives that are still rather independent but should not live alone, you should look into senior assisted living. This is perfect for those who do not need to go to a nursing home, but should not or do not want to continue to stay in their own home alone. Before you decide whether this kind of atmosphere is best for your loved one, consider the options available from most such homes.

The type of building that the senior assisted living center is in often varies. Usually, each person gets his or her own apartment unit, though some locations are in a large building with separate bedrooms and shared community areas. Consult with your relative to find out their preference, and also consider how comfortable you would be with the arrangement based on their health and daily needs.

Most senior assisted living homes provide multiple services to make the lives of their residents a bit easier. This may include maid services for their room or apartment unit, prepared meals, assistance bathing or getting dressed. Of course, not everyone needs these services, but they are nice to have access to as one ages. In fact, older residents may need to eventually move into a nursing home, so finding a center associated with one works best to make the transition easy.

Some seniors still drive, but most senior assisted living locations help arrange transportation if necessary. This may include help getting to doctor appointments, the grocery store, or other necessary duties. It may also include getting around the area to visit family and friends. You can usually choose the level of assistance needed every month, and pay accordingly.

Many homes provide plenty of activities for seniors to do in order to encourage them to stay active and busy. Some centers feature community activities to help seniors meet other people, such as dances and general social gatherings. Some may even offer classes, especially if there is a gym available on the premises, as this encourages seniors to stay active and healthy.

You and your loved one should go over the available options near you before choosing the best senior assisted living home. Make sure that you both understand the level of independence needed by your relative, as well as the amount of assistance. Selecting the right center after lots of thought will ensure that he or she is content with their new residence, and that you have some peace of mind that you made the right choice.

Senior Care Franchises: A Growing Industry

The enormous generation that is referred to as the baby boomers was the largest generation ever born in the U.S. That generation has meant an aging current U.S. population and a boom in senior care franchises. The increasing life expectancy is also adding to the number of seniors and for the need for senior care services. In fact, seniors are the fastest-growing age demographic all over the world. About 12 percent of the U.S. population is 65 or older, providing an enormous customer pool for the businesses that cater to that age group.

Senior care franchises aren't likely to slow down, either. The number of seniors is increasing every year and is projected to continue increasing through at least 2050. That makes a franchise that focuses on seniors part of a growth industry that will always be in demand.

As seniors get older, they have all new needs that senior franchises can profit from fulfilling. Some of these needs include the need for seniors to stay in their homes with some assistance, special health care needs and being able to use assisted living facilities that care for those who can no longer live independently. All of these franchise types provide valuable services that are increasingly needed by our parents, grandparents and great grandparents.

Some senior care franchises provide medical help to those who need it, but not all of these businesses are medical in nature. Some simply provide useful services that seniors need to keep their independence or to make life a little easier. Personal care and companion services to seniors who need a little help around the house are becoming popular as more and more people want to make sure that their parents safe and comfortable in their homes.

The number of retirees is growing each year, with the 65+ age range growing by more than 300,000 a year. Worldwide, there will be almost a billion seniors in the world by 2030. There are now almost 40 million people in that age range in the U.S., providing an enormous market for senior care franchises. There is room for these business types in virtually every community in the country, from large urban areas to the smallest rural town.

Because of the great demand for these types of services, the supply of senior care businesses has not yet met the demand. Many areas are finding that their growing senior populations have put a strain on the few local resources available to them. This makes now the perfect time to get involved with senior care franchises.

Senior franchise businesses often focus on particular aspects of senior care that have proven to be needed in a number of senior households. Different franchises cater to different senior needs, with some providing medical staff for seniors who need constant care in their homes. Other businesses provide care just a few hours a day or provide on-call services to seniors who need special care. Entrepreneurs have an array of franchise options to choose from if they want to enter the much-needed senior care industry.

Helping Seniors Transition to New Living Arrangements

Geriatric Care Managers often get requests to help senior adults find new housing. These requests may come from the seniors who are overwhelmed with their current situation, the adult children sandwiched between their immediate families and their parents, or concerned friends. There are many things to consider when looking at making a change to different living arrangements. Geriatric care managers are positioned well to assist in guiding these decisions because they typically have walked this road with other clients before you. The care manager will be able to give you much insight into community resources, living arrangements that might be most suitable for your needs, and options that are affordable for you.

When considering new living arrangements, there are many things to consider. Is now the time to consider moving closer to your children geographically? Many folks find that they would like to be closer to their families, while others feel that staying close to their lifelong friends and circles of activities are a better option. What is your budget? Do you have resources that you haven't yet tapped into such as VA benefits, Home and Community based programs, long term care insurance, or savings that you would like to use for housing? Do you have equity in your home that can be used for the next phase of your life? Your geriatric care manager can help you look at financing options and recommend a financial planner if needed.

What level of housing do you need? There are many differences in the levels of care available for seniors, including independent living apartments, service supported independent living, assisted living facilities, residential homes for the aged, and nursing homes. Do you want a complex that offers care across a continuum of levels? For example, there are complexes across America that offer independent living apartments, assisted living, and nursing home care all on the same campus. These are places that you can call home for the rest of your life, knowing that you'll always be able to get the care that you need.

Don't make any decision without thoroughly weighing all the options. Your geriatric care manager can help you with information that will set you on a clear path to the best decision for you individually. For help finding a professional, well qualified, geriatric care manager, I recommend www.caremanager.org.

Moving Elderly People

Moving always has the potential to be stressful, but it can be particularly challenging for the elderly, especially if they are moving from a home that they have lived in for most of their lives into a smaller living space or an assisted living facility. Here are some tips to help you make the move as easy and efficient as you possibly can:

Planning: Leave nothing to chance; it is important to plan every the move as thoroughly as possible to avoid causing any necessary stress or discomfort. A young family may be able to sleep on the floor of an empty house for a day or two if something goes wrong, but it is not right to put the elderly in such an uncomfortable or unhealthy situation.

Discuss the move with them: Even if your elderly family members are no longer able to live as independently as they were once accustomed to, they are adults and deserve to be treated as such. Discussing the move with them and explaining the importance and benefits of the move will make them more receptive to the idea. Be respectful of their opinions and try to genuinely address any concerns they may have.

Help them sort through their stuff: This will probably be the most emotional part of the moving process as seniors may have many belongings for which they hold a sentimentally attachment. Help them decide which items to keep and which to donate to charity or to give to other relatives. Again, it is important to be respectful rather than simply insist on throwing everything that away, even if you cannot appreciate the value of certain items.

Make a checklist: Stay organized by making a checklist of all the things that need to be done, such as filing a change of address form with the post office, finding a new physician, transferring prescription information, and obtaining all necessary documents.

Hire professional movers: Many people would have a hard time moving a sofa or TV themselves even in the prime of their life. For those who are getting on in years, it is best to hire a professional to handle all of the heavy lifting and other physical labor. Speak with the movers ahead of time and introduce them to the elderly person you are moving so that he or she can be included and can trust the movers.

On moving day: Make sure that the seniors you are moving are well rested and discourage them from trying to help out with the move. Make sure that you have their medications handy and that any prescriptions that may be running low have been filled.

After the move is complete, help them unpack and settle in. Show them around their new surroundings and do what you can to help them feel comfortable and more at home. Assisting the elderly with a move can be challenging, but with planning, patience and professional movers, you can reduce the stress significantly.

Helping Aging Parents Thrive

As your parents age, it can be difficult to maintain the same parent-child dynamic you've always had while increasingly taking on the role of caregiver. Whether your parents are enjoying an active retirement or are part of the community in a skilled nursing center or assisted living facility, these 8 tips can help you help them to thrive during this time of transition.

Encourage Them to Get Active

One of the best ways to improve your parents' state of mind as well as their physical health is to encourage them to stay active. This encouragement can take the form of a gym membership or home exercise equipment purchase, but a free and fun alternative is to exercise with them.

If your schedule allows it, make time to visit your parents and take a walk together. Allow them to set the pace, and chat together as you exercise. You could also enroll in water aerobics or take a yoga class. The shared time will provide just the incentive your parents need to get active, and you'll both strengthen your bond as you strengthen your muscles.

Improve Their Mental Health with Classes

Fitness classes aren't the only way to improve health. In fact, learning something new in the form of a community education class can help seniors stay sharp. You can encourage your parents to take exciting new classes by focusing on the activities that have interested them over the years. Brainstorm together by making a list of everything your parents have enjoyed. Then look through those items to identify what they have in common.

Once you've narrowed down the topics, get out the course catalog from your local community college, library or senior center. Make another list of the classes that match up, and present the options to your parents. If they seem reluctant, you might offer to take the class together.

Bring the Mental Exercise to Them

Another great way to maintain mental focus is to engage in tricky mental activities. Even if your parents are dealing with physical challenges that make it difficult for them to take a community education class, you can bring the mental exercise to them.

Pick up a selection of crossword puzzles, Sudoku books, and mind puzzlers and spend the afternoon together working through a few of the puzzles. Or involve them in a family game of Trivial Pursuit. Alternatively, if your parents aren't fans of these activities, drop off a great selection of books or surprise them with a subscription or two to an interesting magazine.

Help Them Pass on Their Life Lessons

Whether your parents are living independently or require assistance, feeling valued and useful are important for their emotional health. In addition, many people can benefit from the knowledge and wisdom they have gained over the years. Try some of these ideas to help them to pass on some of their life lessons and experiences:

• Encourage them to volunteer in the community. Whether they choose to mentor new entrepreneurs with a program like MicroMentor or work with school children learning to read, everyone benefits from the experience.


• Help them make a list of life lessons and print the list up in book form. Topics might include favorite recipes and cooking tips, parenting advice, or other useful tidbits.


• Work with your parents to record their stories. You can do this in the form of a book or audio tape, or you could work with a professional to create something very special. Whatever method you choose, you and your parents will both be glad that you took the time to preserve their life stories.

Give Them a Social Outlet

While frequent visits and phone calls to your parents are sure to be appreciated, research suggests that having positive friendships actually may be even more important for longevity than regular contact with family. Whether your parents are living independently or with help, encourage them to interact with friends as much as possible.

If your parents are living independently, you might persuade them to start a book club or join a band. Regular card games, dance classes, and senior center activities can also be great places to establish and further cement positive friendships.

For those who have limited mobility, being social may be even more important. While most facilities have extensive social programs, getting involved can seem overwhelming to some seniors. Work with your parents to pick a few activities that interest them, and these can provide a great social outlet.

Get in Touch with a Support Group

Although your role in your parents' lives is changing, you still may find that you cannot provide all the emotional support they need. The retirement years can be challenging for several reasons, including the loss of loved ones, financial challenges, significant life changes, and health concerns.

Listening to your parents can help them navigate these challenges, but many people also need the help of a support group or therapist. These resources may be available in your parents' skilled nursing or assisted living facility. If not or if your parents are living independently, you can encourage them to find a support group or therapist through their local senior center or through a hospital.

Provide a Change of Scenery

No matter what your parents' living situation is like, a change of scenery can be extremely helpful in making the world feel like a bigger, better place. If your parents are healthy, travel is a great way to boost mood and see some amazing sites. Work with them to set up a dream vacation to Europe or a short jaunt to a nearby city.

For those with limited mobility, a change of scenery may mean an outing to a favorite restaurant or a night at the movies. Pick activities your parents will enjoy and coordinate your efforts with the nursing facility or assisted living center where they live. These facilities may be able to provide transportation if your parents need help.

Encourage Them to Practice Mindfulness

One key to helping your parents stay positive and enjoy their retirement years is to encourage them to notice and be present in the moment. When they were raising a family or building a career, they were likely rushing from one task to the next. Now they have a chance to slow down and see the beauty in the world.

You can encourage mindfulness by asking your parents to make a note of or take pictures of something beautiful every day. Then, at the end of the week, take some time to look through what they've created. This activity will boost their moods and yours, and it will also provide an opportunity to bond.

Take Care of Yourself

It's easy to get caught up in the very important role you now fill in your parents' lives. However, remember to take some time for yourself as well. Maintaining balance in your own life will make you a better caregiver, and that will go a long way toward enhancing your parents' retirement years as well.

How Do Assisted Living Caregivers Help Patients Suffering From Alzheimer's?

Because Alzheimer's is chronic and progressive, victims are totally dependent on others and often receive care from relations, which can be both a mental and physical burden for families. As conditions worsen and memory loss progresses, caregivers must devote more time to loved ones. Assisted living care providers can assist families with elderly loved ones suffering from Alzheimer's disease and make a huge difference in the well being of individuals suffering from Alzheimer's. The following article discusses how caregivers can provide help.

Assisted living caregivers must have patience, understanding, and experience to compassionately work with Alzheimer's patients-many elderly care providers complete courses for accreditation in Alzheimer's and Dementia before working with care recipients. Elderly care for Alzheimer's patients includes carefully planning the daily schedule of a loved one to reduce stress, orientate them to reality, simplify surroundings, and avoid fatigue. Assisted living caregivers and elderly care providers specialize in providing care for seniors with Alzheimer's, and offer the following suggestions:

Reduce Stress: It's well known that stress can worsen the symptoms of most illnesses, Alzheimer's disease included. Take care that your loved one is protected from any potential sources of stress, including rapid routine changes, changes of surroundings, and care provided by different caregivers. Additional sources of stress include an overdose of stimuli, fatigue, and illness.

Establish a Routine for Your Loved One: For elderly loved ones with Alzheimer's, establishing a routine and keeping daily activities stable can be very comfortable because patients can relax and respond automatically. It's important to make a schedule for your loved one's daily care, and include any recreational activities he or she enjoys. Before sleep, establish a bedtime ritual to promote relaxation and better sleep. Stick to the daily schedule you've created as closely as possible, and provide copies of this schedule to any other caregivers who look after your loved one.

Orient Your Loved One - Reality Orientation: It's a good idea to remind your loved one during the day, "Good morning, it is Thursday and a beautiful spring morning. Let's eat breakfast."

Avoid Fatigue: When planning activities, take into consideration that morning is typically the most energetic time for elders. During activities and outings, keep in mind that your loved one will need frequent breaks to re-orient himself/herself and avoid becoming overtired. Assisted living care providers know that Alzheimer's patients lose the ability to concentrate for long periods of time, especially as the disease progresses. Schedule longer breaks with less activity if this is the case.

Simplify Surroundings: If you're planning on an outing with your senior loved one, don't bring them to a busy and crowded environment. Avoid malls and opt for a quiet, serene space such as a park. He/she will feel more relaxed. If necessary, use illustrations to guide your loved one's actions, for instance, place an image of a toilet on the bathroom door for clarification.

Patience: Be patient with your loved one and don't pressure them, be demanding, or expect too much. Each Alzheimer's patient has his or her own unique set of needs, feelings, and limitations. Demanding behavior will only create stress and frustration. Provide help when necessary and reorient your loved one whenever necessary to reduce frustration.

According to the Alzheimer's Association in Chicago, 10 million American's struggle to care for relatives and loved ones with Alzheimer's or other forms of dementia, and are prone to overworking themselves and possibly developing anxiety and depression. If you're currently providing care for a loved one, learn more about assisted living caregivers and elderly care providers. They help out with household chores, assist loved ones, and provide personal care services.

Experienced assisted living caregivers are available to provide in elderly care 24 hours a day to allow elderly individuals remain in their own homes and improve the quality of their lives. Assisted living caregivers and elderly care providers offer joyful companionship, meal preparation and diet monitoring services, errands and shopping, and many other services. Learn more about how an individualized elderly care program can improve the life and health of your loved one.

Divorce and Separation After Brain Injury - Findings of 3 Research Studies

It's a common belief that most marriages end in separation or divorce after a spouse has a traumatic brain injury. Certainly the physical, cognitive, social, behavioral and communicative changes caused by brain trauma can affect a couple's relationship. These changes are just the primary losses. Additional changes, known as secondary losses, can range from loss of income, to loss of friends, jobs or careers. As roles and responsibilities formerly shared by a couple are reexamined and redistributed after a spouse is injured, the relationship between a husband and wife changes in many ways. There is very little scientific research on marital relationships so much is still unknown about the impact of brain trauma on marriage. Reasons for a marriage dissolving are always complex, but this may be even more so when one partner has a disability or impairment due to a brain injury. So it is important to look at the findings from 3 research studies on this topic.

• One study conducted by Thomsen in 1984 found a very high rate of 78% for marital breakdown. But it is important to note that this was a very select group of individuals who were studied. It examined only 9 couples who were 10-15 years post-injury. In addition, many of them had severe brain injuries and most were living in a residential assisted living program. So one must question how applicable these findings are today.


• The second study led by J.C. Arango-Lasprilla was more recent in 2008. It also was much larger, including 927 individuals who were injured. In contrast to the earlier study, the marital breakdown rate was only 15% within the first 2 years post-injury. This study offers much more hope for relationships to survive the stresses and challenges of daily living after a partner has been hurt.


• The third study led by J. Kreutzer in 2007 not only found that 25% of relationships broke down but that this occurred an average of 4.1 years after a spouse's injury.

Research has found that several factors make a difference in whether couples stay together or separate after one of the partners has a brain injury. The highest rates of marital breakdown are found among younger couples and in shorter or more recent marriages. Another risk factor is domestic violence. Couples with a more severely injured member were also found to be at greater risk for separation or divorce.Much more research is needed to understand why some couples manage to stay together and others separate. But one thing is clear - research does not support the common belief that there is a much higher incidence of marital separation and divorce when one partner or spouse has a brain injury.

Assisted Living Facilities Should Take Advantage of the Recession

The Common Reaction To An Economic Downturn

Yes, we are in a recession. And the odds of a double-dip are increasing. In such times, typical business owners, including assisted living management, batten down the hatches. They cut spending, consolidate responsibilities, and attempt to weather the storm.

As monthly financial statements and census reports come in, owners stress out. Compared to last year, things look grim. Margins are down, sales are down, and morale is down. Does this sound familiar?

Could There Possibly Be Any Good News In A Down Economy?

The recession has a bright side. It comes from the fact that your competition is facing the same situation. They are most likely reacting to the recession in the typical fashion mentioned in the first paragraph. So, if everyone is using the same strategy based on spend less and do less, who has the strategic advantage? It could be you.

I suggest a change in perspective. Take advantage of what the recession has to offer:

• Increase in market share. This takes precedent over profits. While competition scales back, you should be aggressive in marketing and communications, as well as maintaining and even adding services.


• Refine operations. The big cutback during a recession should be the cutback in the waste of time, talent and systems. Efficiency can allow you to do what is necessary to increase market share while containing costs.

The Strategy Is Proactive

Step #1:

Especially in a down economy, it is critical to make each dollar spent responsible for a result. When an employee is given a job, they are held accountable to complete the task. Treat your dollars the same way. Employ your marketing expenditures to produce revenue, improve productivity, and/or increase customer loyalty. And make them report their results - utilize tracking.

By holding dollars accountable, unnecessary expenses are automatically cut. At the same time, dollars spent that attain desired results may be increased. This prevents the numbers oriented, "across-the-board" expense cuts that stifle productivity and devastate morale. And it encourages investment and growth in areas that prove successful.

Step #2:

Market aggressively and apply the responsible dollar strategy to your marketing plan. By tying revenues to marketing costs, expenses become responsible for results. By testing campaigns and coding responses, inefficient marketing expenditures can be stopped. On the other side of the coin, marketing expenditures that increase customer base, utilize key employees, and/or boost profit are continued, or may even be increased.

Step #3:

Service, service, service your customer. Add improvements, even when your service leads the competition by a mile. This makes sure the customer continues to feel special and drives word-of-mouth marketing. The least little extra is a big deal to your customer because services are being cut everywhere else. These extras can have little or no cost.

Remember: Superior service is an attitude.

Service improvements give you leverage in the market when all other variables (price, quality, features) are equal. Also, with an increase in business failures eminent during a recession, this leverage turns into increased market share. In fact, I recommend that you have a plan in place to be the hero if you hear that a competitor is closing. (Be prepared to buy a portion of the distressed business - appropriate residents who choose to move to your facility along with the best employees. In many instances you can pay over time with the new revenue, keep residents with staff members they know and love, and save some jobs.)

This Opportunity Is There For Those Who Want It

Does all this sound easy? No. The strategy is simple. But it takes hard work planning, discipline, teamwork, trust, the ability to change, and patience. Can this be managed during these difficult times?

Now is the perfect time! The pain of the recession is the ally of opportunity. It creates the leverage you need to institute and sustain changes in operations. It unites management and staff to fight for the good of the company. And it offers chunks of market share to those planning to grow out of the recession

Alzheimer's Whisperer - 5 Keys

The Alzheimer's Whisperer has the unique ability to communicate with, care for, and comfort a person with Alzheimer's while preserving her own well-being.

First there was The Horse Whisperer, then The Dog Whisperer, and The Ghost Whisperer. I wonder when will we see The Cat Whisperer? While waiting, I met a unique individual in the world of dementia-The Alzheimer's Whisperer. S/He provides guilt-free quality care without losing him/herself.

The Alzheimer's Whisperer demonstrates five keys to caregiving:

1. Know How

She learns as much as she can about Alzheimer's from organizations like the Alzheimer's Association, the Alzheimer's Foundation of America, Caring.com's Steps & Stages, and the National Family Caregivers Association. She draws wisdom from others through support groups, educational offerings, and online chats. If she is employed and can't make time for the above, she read books and informational materials in order to know what to expect.

2. Compassion

With knowledge, he is better able to accept the reality his loved one's condition. He exhibits greater compassion while coping with disruptive behaviors and anticipating needs.

5 KEYS to becoming The Alzheimer's Whisperer

1. KNOW HOW

2. COMPASSION

3. COMMITTED

4. EMPATHY

5. UNCONDITIONAL LOVE

The Alzheimer's Whisperer recognizes that caregiving is a temporary, yet life-changing journey taken by very special people.

3. Committed

She is committed to providing quality care, despite her intermittent tears and joys. She takes advantage of the continuum of care--adult day care, in-home care, respite care, assisted living or skilled nursing care--and draws on others to help make her job easier. In the tradition of the great animal whisperers, she weighs the value of a pet to bring joy to her loved one.

4. Empathy

Each day, and sometimes every hour, he visualizes how he would want to be cared for if the roles were reversed. This enables him to enter fully into the world of his loved one while not losing himself.

5. Unconditional Love

Developing the first four keys, she experiences an open heart that elevates her own life purpose and meaning in ways she could never anticipate. Despite the challenges, she feels strength.

What better gift can a caregiver share with one with Alzheimer's or another form of dementia than practicing the five keys of The Alzheimer's Whisperer?

The Need for Senior Living Jobs

For people currently looking at different career options, there are several things that you need to weigh. You need to pursue a career that you will thoroughly enjoy doing, that will allow you to help people, and that will pay you a decent amount of money. Senior living jobs are fall under all those categories, and they are in very high demand. There is expected to be a shortage of those working in the elderly healthcare industry, making it something that high school and college students should consider.

There are plenty of different types of senior living jobs, some that don't require any schooling after high school, to those that require a Masters degree or a Doctorate degree. In other words, you can essentially decide how much time you want to spend in school and choose your career helping seniors accordingly. Or, you can go to convalescent homes and apartments, as well as assisted living communities, and volunteer. You will be able to get a lot of experience working with the elderly, and they will enjoy the company quite a bit.

One of the best parts of working with the elderly, in fact, is how much that they enjoy the company of others. There are very few industries quite like the senior healthcare industry in that respect. The people that you are helping will be so happy to see you and so thankful for you every day. If that isn't enough to help sway your decision though, you will be happy to learn that the average salary of those in the senior living industry is between $40,000 and $60,000. That is not a bad amount of money to make at all, especially in the current economy, where jobs are scarce.

The other benefit to senior living jobs is the fact that you will be able to make your own schedule. Since there is a need for people working every hour of every day, that gives you a lot of flexibility with regards to when you will work. If you are someone that does not like the idea of working Monday through Friday from eight in the morning until five at night, then this is definitely something you should think about. In the end, you will find the senior healthcare industry to be a very rewarding road to go down.

Things to Know in Selecting In Home Caregiving Services

Caregiving for a loved one is a demanding, challenging job and no one is outfitted to do it alone. For many, the challenges of caring for a loved one are part of daily life. If your senior loved one has difficulty living independently, you have options other than a nursing home, assisted living or other senior care facilities. With home care services, your loved one can receive 'round the clock' or hourly assistance to help them live life according to their needs and on their terms. Even for seniors who only need a little help in their daily living, in home care services may be a good option.

Live-In Home Care

Live-in home caregivers stay for multiple days at a time in the senior's home. They are expected to provide the senior with full-service, day and night care as needed. Live-in caregivers are able to give their complete attention to sustaining a well-conditioned and positive environment for your loved one. When selecting a live-in home care provider, make sure you choose someone who has enough experience and staff to give senior clients proper safety, care, companionship, and emotional support.

Hourly Home Care

Many elderly people do not need 24-hour or live-in care, and so they use their care providers on an hourly basis. For example, they may need assistance and appropriate care only during the morning evening, on Saturdays and Sundays, or when they visit their doctors or other appointments. With this choice, elderly people can get the appropriate care they need, in the proper place and at the right time.

By obtaining help as required, seniors are able to maintain their normal day-to-day schedules as independently as possible. Thus they can thrive by being in their familiar surroundings, with their own possessions and pets as they are given the help they need.

When searching for an hourly, or "come and go" caregiver, you should look for someone with the same expertise as a live-in home care provider. This includes the agency or the caregiver you may hire. Like a 24-hour or live-in caregiver, the hourly person should also be able to provide safety, emotional support, and companionship to their senior clients. They should also be devoted to the well-being and protection of their clients.

Care Outside Home

During hospital admissions caregivers can also be used for providing companionship and monitoring to your loved one. They may also accompany seniors on vacations or travel to insure their comfort and safety. Now you can have your much needed peace of mind knowing a reliable, professional caregiver is there for your loved one.

Here are some things you may want to consider when preparing to find an agency that will provide quality care to your loved one:

Working with agencies

- Conduct an in-depth appointment interview with each selection. Screening applicants on the phone should always be followed with a face-to-face personal interview. Initially this interview will be with the agency management, but later you will want to meet their proposed caregiver(s).

- Be particular of all the tasks, abilities, and daily activities that are required for your situation.

- Discuss compensation and payment schedules. Do not pay for services in advance. Payment should never be made directly to the caregiver, but instead the agency should issue invoices for payment.

- Ask for several work and personal reference sources, and then check them thoroughly. Confirm the information provided, and ask all sources about experience, credibility, punctuality and the care provider's capability to deal with stress and difficult tasks.

- Demand the highest levels of general and professional liability insurance coverage.

- Hire only an agency that has properly background checked and credentialed all of their proposed caregivers. Additional credentialing should also include health screenings, drug testing, proper licensing and training.

Be sure to ask the following questions:

- How are your employees screened?
- Do you guarantee a compatible "fit" of your proposed person with the client?
- Is your agency licensed, and by whom?
- Does your agency have any special accreditations, such as the Joint Commission?
- Are your proposed personnel payroll employees of your agency, or independent contractors?
- Can I see a copy of your business insurance coverage's? Does this include bonding of your employees?
- Do you require an upfront deposit or length of service commitment?
- What are the training programs and standards of experience for your personnel?
- Will you provide specific competency training to meet our unique family needs?
- How, and by whom, are your personnel supervised? Do you charge for these management services?
- What are your processes for emergencies or caregiver cancellations?
- Is your agency licensed and insured to provide medical services as well as basic in home care services?
- How do you include the extended family in the provision of your services?
- Does the program offer transportation, meal preparation, laundry and light housekeeping?
- What is the cost of services? How do you handle invoicing arrangements?

Using these criteria are a great starting point to define the agency and caregiving services that will be required for your situation. Doing this level of homework will protect the client at a critical point in their lives when they need care at home. Doing all these things will allow you to start care with the confidence that you have done your best to select the highest level of care for your loved one. After the start of services, ultimately the real determination about the effectiveness of your decision will come down to the level of the actual care provided in the home, and the relationship that develops with the agency, caregiving staff and the client. This dynamic should be reviewed regularly by the family and adjustments made as necessary to insure continuation of the best possible care for their loved one.

Geriatric Social Workers - Working With the Elderly Population

A geriatric social worker is an exciting and challenging career working with senior citizens. Many social workers in the geriatric field have to deal with clients that are experiencing depression, memory issues, anxiety and schizophrenia. The clients can have many challenges due to health issues as well as death of loved ones as well as facing their own mortality.

Many social workers in the geriatric field have a bachelor degree as well as a two year degree from a masters program that gives them the msw degree. The training for this field will provide thorough knowledge of mental health and aging such as medical knowledge, patient care and communication skills. There are opportunities available for both the bsw and msw degrees. If you are working in an assisted living facility, you generally need the master's degree in social work. For private practice, be aware that many people are on fixed incomes and have medicare so it is important to apply to be a medicare provider and get the npi number.

Some settings to work with the elderly include community organizations, assisted living facilities, senior residential centers, hospitals, state psychiatric centers and family service agencies. Some home health agencies now hire social workers to go into homes because many senior citizens are able to live alone in their home but require counseling, discussion of their concrete needs and companionship. Elderly clients often don't want to burden their children with their concerns and a counselor can help the person recognize it's important to let their kids know of their needs or contact them.

Some other job options for those with msws in the geriatrics field include the organizing and planning of programs for senior citizens. People who work in this field must have a strong love for working with the elderly and be able to deal with the multiple issues, worries and moods of their clients. This position requires a mature and compassionate person to work in this field.

In addition, this service is very helpful to seniors that don't have a lot of help from family members. The main goal of a geriatric social worker is to help elderly clients to become comfortable with aging and live a productive lifestyle.

Elderly in Home Care Doesn't Mean a Lack of Socialization

While the vast majority of seniors prefer to age in one place, many seek assistance from home health companies and assistant living services because of an increased need for personal assistance or in home care. Numerous studies have been conducted that show that seniors having social connections through family members, friends, social organizations, even companion animals is directly linked with their overall good health, prolonged survival from serious illness, and longevity in general. As seniors age, the need for socialization is even more important to help maintain overall good health. Evidence of the connection between a strong social connection and good health include:

o Studies show that people who are able to get out and interact and spend more time with people during cold/flu season actually get fewer colds and illnesses than those who spend most of their time alone.

o People that have companion animals to interact have fewer illnesses that people who do not have a companion animal.

o People who use words such as "I', "mine", and "me" often during casual conversation are more susceptible to heart attacks than those whose conversations don't focus on themselves.

o Our immune system has natural killer cell activity that is negatively affected by a lack of social support.

o Our natural killer cells are more sluggish if we are lonely.

o Feeling grateful for what we have in life is associated with better physical and emotional health. The elderly can be at risk of isolation, which can directly affect overall health and longevity. If one spouse becomes ill, the other spouse tends to be the primary caregiver, which can consume much of their time. Caring for an ailing spouse can lead to isolation from the people and activities that were once enjoyed together on a regular basis. Seniors may also face the loss of a spouse. This event often further isolates you from some of the activities that you might have once enjoyed as a couple, as well as isolation from some of the friends that you interacted with together. Seniors are also at risk of decreased socialization as they age if they can no longer drive. Giving up driving for many means giving up on independence and access to the people and activities they rely on for social support. It's critical to take into account the importance of socialization as we age. Getting the personal care that is needed doesn't have to eliminate the opportunity to maintain social connections.

Most communities have resources for seniors to foster good health and social connections. Many towns offer a variety of activities through local seniors' centers, support groups, libraries,religious organizations and active retirement communities. For those unable live independently, assisted living communities and home care companies offer a variety of services. Seniors should be encouraged to participate in assisted living community activities and outings. Those living at home should be encouraged to look for the right home care company-one that recognizes the value of a support network and social connections. The elderly no longer need to sacrifice socialization for quality senior care.

Can Everyone Afford Assisted Living Costs? Compare Prices From Leading Facilities

Deciding on how much you are willing to spend on an assisted living facility for yourself or a loved one is a very crucial matter. Your budget will determine the kind of services available to you or your family member and the overall facility. Expensive doesn't necessarily mean excellent services; there are affordable costs that provide superior retirement care even beyond the standards of a pricier fancy senior home facility. Because of the wealth of choices for assisted living homes, taking time to take a personal tour or doing research and comparison of prospective choices should be considered by anyone who wants to find the most appropriate living facility to satisfy their personal, social and even medical needs.

If you have no time to personally visit facilities, searching for good retirement homes online can yield as much information and save a lot of time. Many websites can assist you in your search and can even match you to several assisted living homes that fit your budget and preferences including location and the type of dwelling. Just fill in the forms required in any of the sites including your budget range and the preferred location of the facility. The computer will search and match you with a listing of institutions in your preferred locality which have costs that fit your financial capability. You can get several quotes and compare the results of your online search to pick the best value for your money without sacrificing comfort.

On average, the daily cost of living in a facility is $ 1800 to $ 2400 dollars a day which includes only the standard amenities such as the room rent, electricity, water, laundry and meals. The basic cost may include housekeeping services such as putting fresh linens, cleaning the room and taking out the garbage.

Residents who require additional services such as personal attendants, participation in activities, parking and medical attention will have to pay for the miscellaneous charges which can range to an additional $300 to $1200 per month, which can translate to an average total of as much as $4000 per month.

In the United States, payment options for assisted care can be from Medicaid, long-term care insurance or straight from the pocket. Many facilities accept Medicaid, but they will cover the assisted living costs only if the assisted living care is medically necessary otherwise government assistance is denied. Long-term care insurance includes paying for as much as $3000 for annual premiums and one should apply while one is still well to be able to use it when the need arises. The long-term care insurance benefits can be determined on a per-day or per-month basis but when the maximum is reached, additional costs will not be shouldered by the insurance company.

When you want to get the best care for your loved one or for yourself on retirement, assisted living costs need not be too steep to deprive you of the comfort that you deserve. When comparing prices from leading facilities, take time to examine and compare the strength of a program before making a final choice. Assisted living costs can in reality be affordable in any facility that possess first-class service and provide quality home care all at the same time. Go online and find an assisted living institution that will match your budget and located in an area that you can call home.

The Top 5 Must-Haves for Seniors to Live Independently

Ideally, we would all love to allow our senior loved ones to continue living in their beloved home, the repository of all their most treasured memories, instead of forcing them to live in a nursing facility. However, letting seniors live independently does have its own challenges. The most obvious of such challenges are the issues of safety and security. All the common health problems an average senior faces can essentially transform their usually cozy abode into a haven of endangerment, with the constant threat of a fatal accident awaiting their every turn. But while challenging, it is not altogether impossible. There are many ways to senior-proof a home, but the following five are indispensable.

1. Modify your senior-loved one's home: The very first step you must do to ensure that your senior loved one can live not only independently, but also safely and comfortably in their own home is by ensuring that the house indeed is safe and comfortable. A huge percentage of fatal accidents involving seniors occur in their own homes, mostly due to neglect or failure to adjust the home situation to the changing needs of the senior. You may hire a professional to assess the senior's home and identify how to make it safe, or you can just visit the website of the American Association of Retired Persons, where you can find helpful information about how to do the modifications without spending a lot of money. Often, changing light bulbs with brighter LED ones can go a long way to reducing the risk of accidents.

2. Home Security Alarm System: If your senior loved one is living alone, ensuring the home's security is indispensable. There are several ways you can do this. The most basic, of course, is getting them a good guard dog, such as a Labrador retriever. Such guard dogs can also serve as guide for seniors with vision problems, especially when going out or crossing the road. However, you must be sure that the dog is trained to respond well to emergency situations, or at least, would not jump on the senior (and thus causing reckless endangerment) when excited. The other way to establish the home's security is by installing a wireless home security and video surveillance system. Contrary to what you may assume, even advanced home security systems are now affordable. And even if you have to spend about $500, that should still be a small amount in exchange for your senior loved one's security. Many alarm system packages, especially those manufactured by established and highly reputable companies such as GE and Honeywell or Ademco, can provide accurate round-the-clock security for only a couple of hundred dollars. For a few hundred dollars more, you can get a full system with digital video surveillance-some of these systems come with a digital video recorder that can store several months of video surveillance footage in their built-in hard drives.

3. Medical Alarm System: If the home security alarm system serves to guard the house, then the medical alarm system provides security on a personal level. Such a personal alert system almost always come in the simplest configuration consisting of a home base unit connected to the phone line and a wearable panic button (worn as a bracelet or necklace pendant) that communicates wirelessly to the home base unit. When pressed, the panic button instantly establishes communication to the base unit, which functions like a modified speakerphone that allows the alert system provider's monitoring center to be quickly on the line and communicate with the senior in distress. The monitoring center also has the capability to alert emergency alternatives should the senior is unresponsive, such as contacting and dispatching medical emergency personnel and notifying the nearest trusted neighbors and the senior's relatives. And the best thing about these alerts: they're inexpensive. With monthly fees ranging from $15 to $30, which is already inclusive of equipment rental and the 24/7 monitoring, it would be difficult to think of anything more valuable than the affordable service provided by such personal alert systems.

4. Automatic medicine dispenser or a similar service: Commonly, seniors have to take several medicines a day, and it can be confusing for them to remember all the pills and the right dosage. Buying an automatic medicine dispenser, which can store up to a month's worth of daily medicines, can help ensure that your senior never forgets to take their meds. Some personal alert system providers also offer this type of medicine dispenser as an accessory to their main products.

5. In-home care assistance: You should also get the services of an agency that provides visiting caregivers that can provide professional care for your loved one, especially during those times you're not around to care for them. The in-home care assistance service is usually flexible in terms of schedule and fees, and it is a great complement to the medical alert system.

Traumatic Brain Injury Poses Huge Risk to Senior Safety and Independent Living

Living independently is important for many of today's seniors. With the benefits of living alone though come plenty of risks. Protecting yourself from risks like traumatic brain injury resulting from fall related injuries is one way that you can greatly increase the length of your independence.

Did you know that falls are by far, the leading cause of traumatic brain injury? People over the age of 75 have the greatest probabilities of hospitalization or even death as the result of traumatic brain injury. Prevention of falls and fast access to care are the greatest weapons against permanent damage resulting from traumatic brain injury.

Symptoms of Traumatic Brain Injury

Mile TBI (traumatic brain injury) will often include these types of symptoms: low grade and lingering headache, changes in sleeping patterns, difficulty with concentration and memory, dizziness, blurred vision, increased or unusual sensitivity to light or sound, and a constant ringing in the ears.

Moderate TBI may include any of the symptoms of mild TBI as well as slurred speech, numbness in arms and/or legs, loss of coordination, seizures, pupil dilation in one or both eyes, worsening headache that will not leave, and nausea.

How Should You React if You Suspect TBI?

If you've fallen and had a blow to the head accompanied with the symptoms above it is a good idea to see your doctor right away. You should also see your doctor or emergency medical service provider immediately if you are taking aspirin, Coumadin, or any other blood thinners and hit your head (with or without any of the above symptoms).

When you see your doctor be sure to bring a list of all prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. Medications can have very dangerous interactions with one another in the best of circumstances. In the event of a traumatic brain injury those risks may be more profound.

Why does TBI Pose such a Great Risk to Seniors?

The problem with seniors when it comes to traumatic brain injury is that there are many times when they do not get the necessary treatment or care quickly enough. Many seniors live alone and are injured or disoriented enough that they cannot get to a phone and dial the numbers to get emergency medical attention immediately after the injury occurs. At a time when seconds matter, minutes can do irreparable damage, and hours can be more like days compared to the amount of damage that can ultimately be corrected or recovered from.

It is often the case that traumatic brain injury among the elderly isn't discovered until it is far too late to undo the damage that has been done because aging adults often live alone and frequently live very insulated and isolated lives. The other problem is that elderly or aging adults are at greater risks for these damaging falls whether by environmental hazards for tripping and falling or loss of coordination due to aging, medication side effects, or lack of exercise.

Medical alert systems can be an excellent first line of defense against permanent damage due to TBI that results from falls. You owe it to yourself or your loved ones to make sure that this line of protection is readily available.

Hospice Care and What to Expect

In the United States, hospice care development and services are guided by the Medicare Hospice Benefit (MHB). Because 95% of hospice care is in the form of routine home care, clinicians and patients may not be aware that there are 4 distinct levels of care. Patients may be admitted into a hospice program at any level and may transfer between levels as needed.

Hospice Care Levels

Routine Home Care
The most common type of hospice service in the United States is routine home care. A trained hospice team provides core services in the patient's home, whether a private residence, an assisted living facility or nursing home, essentially anywhere the patient may live. Hospice care includes physician or specialist visits as needed, along with nursing and home health aide visits 1-3 times per week. Counseling, medications, medical equipment and supplies, lab services and physical therapy are also included.

Respite Care
Respite care allows family members time away from the emotional and physical demands of care-giving. When the patient is not qualify for inpatient or continuing home care, respite care is available for the full-time caregiver. This is short-term in-patient care, limited to 5 consecutive days. The patient will be admitted to a hospice facility so that care-takers can relax, knowing the patient is well-cared for.

General Inpatient Hospice Care
The MHB provides for care in an acute care hospital or other setting where intensive nursing and other support may not be possible in the patient's home. This might be necessary in situations of uncontrolled and distressing physical symptoms or psycho-social problems. If around-the-clock support is deemed necessary, there are three kinds of inpatient facilities offering hospice care:

1. Free standing facility - These are owned and operated by a hospice company and are staffed with hospice trained staff. There is a limited supply of these types of facilities and may not be an option for everyone in need.

2. Hospital - A hospice company may lease a unit in or contract with the hospital to provide inpatient care. In this case, hospice-trained staff would provide around the clock care.

3. Long term care facility - A hospice company may lease of contract with a facility to provide hospice care.

Inpatient care is considered short-term and would be re-evaluated, allowing the patient to move to another level of care at any time.

Continuous Home Care
Continuous home care is intended for patients who qualify for general inpatient hospice care, but who prefer to stay in their own homes and need support through brief periods of crisis. The services of a home health aide or general homemaker services may be provided for 8-24 hours per day. This is a more intense form of support than routine home care, with the nurse and/or home health aide remaining in the patient's home to administer medications, treatment and support until the crises is under control.

What to Expect in Hospice Care
First, a referral is made by a physician, another medical professional or even the patient or family member. Then a doctor must sign an order stating that the patient is terminal, with fewer than six months to live. If a patient is terminal and wishes to receive hospice care, but the doctor is reluctant to sign the hospice order, then it is the patient's decision to do so-not the doctor's.

Next, the patient is admitted to hospice by a social worker and a nurse. They will meet with the patient and the family to explain hospice, develop a plan of care and complete paperwork.

Once a patient is admitted to hospice, he or she will be visited by several members of the hospice team. The staff members include nurses, chaplains, social workers, home health aides and trained volunteers. The nurse will provide a weekly assessment, and will make more visits if needed. During the visits, a patient's physical, spiritual, emotional, and social needs are determined and addressed. A typical visit consists of checking health status, administrating medications, changing bandages and providing equipment. Visits may also include engaging the patient in a favorite activity or special event. Some visits may involve assisting with funeral arrangements, power of attorney and living wills. The hospice experience has proven to be an important part of medical care and has become a valuable and comforting support for patients and families.

Assisted Living Seniors Are Happy

Studies have shown that assisted living seniors are happier and live longer than others who live alone or with estranged families. It is a simple truth that when you have attentive care and pleasant company you tend to overcome the pitfalls of ageing more successfully.

Independence Is Encouraged

In the US alone, over seventy thousand such facilities exist as single independent units and branches, providing care under government regulations since its organized beginning in the 1990s. In an attempt to provide a healthier, safer and a more dignified existence, these facilities provide round the clock trained staff, house keeping services and medical assistance. However, they also encourage independence because it is observed that lesser reliance on assistance goes a long way in boosting the morale of elders.

Assisted living seniors typically live in complexes where there are others like them. The facility also is designed in such a manner that it is slightly more than a home and a little less than a full fledged hospital. So even though wheel chairs and gurneys may be a common place in such facilities, it definitely not meant to function like a full fledged hospital. Typically these are places that provide enough assistance to ensure a better quality life, without taking away the independence. It is important that we make this distinction.

Some may need care to perform function like eating, washing, dressing up but nothing more than that. They will not need an intensive nursing effort. These are places where assisted living seniors are known to help each other and live in a community fashion. It is here that the psychological benefits on these assisted living seniors are more apparent.

Remember that well designed social interaction programs to improve general mood can come only from a trained professional and not from you. Though there are others who are less fortunate and might require greater medical attention, but that is a different story.

Encouraging Social Interaction

Most facilities organize trips and visits as a part of their social agenda. Visits from local schools and volunteers also add to quality interaction. Some arrange it as a part of their services while others might have restrictions about visitors. Ask a few questions regarding this might help in the long run. For example, a few assisted living seniors find it depressing if they cannot have their pets with them. So make sure you ask the right questions before choosing a facility. If all else works out, then rest assured the facility you have selected will always make your loved ones happy. It is not without proof that people say that assisted living seniors are a happier lot.

Is A Granny Cam A Good Way To Monitor My Elderly Parents?

As our parents, siblings, and relatives get older, we have to make sure they are being cared for. No matter if they are being taken care of in their home, your home, or in an assisted living facility, you need to make sure they are not being abused. Rest easy with a hidden Granny Cam that will be your eyes while you are not there.

You see a lot of horror stories about the people who are suppose to be taking care of our elderly parents, and are caught on video either stealing money or pills, physically abusing them, or just not taking good enough care of them. The question of if you should have a Granny Cam is not necessary, you owe it to your loved ones to have one. The real question will be which one should you choose? Granny Cams or Nanny Cams are just tiny video surveillance cameras that are hidden inside an everyday item to catch someone doing something they should, or should not be doing. Then, it transmits the video over several different methods so it can be viewed.

You can choose hidden cameras that are Color, Black/White, or Color that turns to B/W when it gets dark. You can add a low lux feature that helps you see in the dark, and some of the wireless cameras have a high-power addition that can increase the broadcast distance from 700 to 3,000 feet.

There are four basic types of hidden cameras that use different ways to transmit the video.

• Wired Cameras


• Wireless Cameras


• SD Card DVR Cameras


• Secure IP Internet Accessible Cameras

Wired Cameras: The wired hidden cameras have been around the longest, are the most cost efficient, and offer very good quality. They are tiny wired board cameras put in an everyday item that requires electricity, so a cord won't look out of place. Usually the item will work as planned, like a pencil sharper, can opener, air purifier, or fan.

They also have a male video cable adaptor, so you can plug in a video cable to run the video feed to a Quad, PC, or DVR. A PC can be set up with software to monitor the feed on the computer, or over the internet for additional costs. These work best when your parent is staying at their house or your house, as the video cable might get detected in an assisted living facility.

Wireless Cameras: A wireless hidden camera has an internal 2.4GHz transmitter that sends the video silently across the air to a receiver, which is set up in another room. No hidden cables that could be found, and these make for some of the best hidden cameras, as they can be put inside a Pringles can, tissue dispenser, wall clock, etc. They also have internal battery packs to supply the power to the camera. Since there are no wires or cables sticking out, it is very hard to know it is recording your every move, unless you use a hidden camera detector.

The video could have interference if you use other 2.4GHz devices, or other receivers might tap, or conflict with your signal. You can also feed the video into a PC with surveillance software and monitor them from the PC, or install software that will allow you to monitor the camera from the Internet. This is a good choice for home use, though if you use it at an assisted care facility, you will need to change the battery packs frequently (8-12 hours).

SD Card DVR Cameras: These are the next generation in hidden camera surveillance systems. They use a tiny internal DVR that records the video directly to a hidden SD card for playback later. No wires or signals to be discovered, they are 100% self contained. The advantage of this set up is that you can just set down an item like a desk clock, boom box, or even hang up a wall clock, arm it with the keychain remote, and come back later to remove the SD Card for viewing on a computer or T.V. This is the best camera to use in an assisted living or hospital situation, as there would be no way anyone would know the device is recording their every move.

Secure IP Cameras: If you are looking for a way to monitor your parents without having to buy extra software or hardware, the Secure IP cameras offer a very easy way to monitor them over the Internet. They use the electrical wires in the house to transmit the video directly to your computer, which can be accessed anywhere in the world with an Internet connection.

The camera is hidden in an ever day item like a desk clock or air purifier that plugs into an adaptor, that plugs into the wall socket. The video is carried over the electrical lines to another adaptor that plugs into your computer. Using the installed software, you can see what the camera is doing at any time, and you can hook up to six cameras and monitor them all in real time.

They are best for your home or their home, as the camera will have to be plugged into the wall, into a small adaptor that could be noticed. Not recommended for assisted care living as it only works in the building where the camera is.

These are the four ways you can monitor your parents or loved ones who need assistance with their living. A hidden Granny cam will give you peace of mind and a good nights sleep.