It's that time of year again—shorter days and grayer skies. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of seasonal depression, usually occurring in the winter, which affects millions of people a year between September and April with the peak occurring in the winter months of December, January, and February. True SAD is a seriously disabling illness, preventing people from functioning normally. (Combine this with caregiver stress and holiday stress, and the results can be disastrous).
Signs and Symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder
The symptoms of SAD occur cyclically with a return of symptoms each year during the winter months. These symptoms tend to be the atypical symptoms of depression, including:
increased sleep
increased appetite and carbohydrate cravings
weight gain
irritability
interpersonal difficulties (especially rejection sensitivity)
heavy feeling in the arms or legs.
Causes of Seasonal Affective Disorder
SAD is believed to be caused by a disturbance in the normal circadian rhythm of the body. Light entering through the eyes influences this rhythm. When it is dark, the pineal gland produces a substance called melatonin which is responsible for the drowsiness we feel each day after dusk. Light entering the eyes at dawn shuts off the production of melatonin. During the shorter days of winter, when people may rise before dawn or not leave their offices until after sunset, these normal rhythms may become disrupted, producing the symptoms of SAD.
If you or your loved one experiences the above symptoms, see your doctor.
Today's quote:
"For him who has perception, a mere sign is enough. For him who does not really heed, a thousand explanations are not enough." — Idries Shah.
This article was written by Rebecca Sharp Colmer, a Certiified Senior Advisor and the creator of MeAndMyCaregiver(s), a service designed to help both the care-receiver and the caregiver. It is a lot more than just a personal health record stored online. It is a personal life record and life management system.
Monday, August 17, 2009
Caregiver tips Assistive Technology: Information for Senior Caregivers
Assistive technology is one of the most exciting areas of gerontology. We use it to extend the independence of older workers and frail elders. Caregivers even use it to help their care-receivers.
Assistive technology refers to any service, system, or device that helps someone accomplish activities that they may have always done and now must do differently. An online Organizer is an example of assistive technology. It is an extremely powerful resource. Other examples are wheelchairs, walkers, electric scooters, and motion detectors.
Most seniors and caregivers do not take full advantage of assistive technology. However, using this technology can help to reduce health care costs and increase the level of care. The future of AT is bright. One day your loved one may have their own robot!
Today's quote:
"Every individual must himself tread the path of realization, for only the knowledge that is won by experience has living, i.e., life-giving value." — Govinda
This article was written by Rebecca Sharp Colmer, creator of MeAndMyCaregivers, a communications hub for everyone on the caregiving team. She is also the creator of the Family Caregiver Starter Kit, which contains useful resources, forms and information for caregivers.
Assistive technology refers to any service, system, or device that helps someone accomplish activities that they may have always done and now must do differently. An online Organizer is an example of assistive technology. It is an extremely powerful resource. Other examples are wheelchairs, walkers, electric scooters, and motion detectors.
Most seniors and caregivers do not take full advantage of assistive technology. However, using this technology can help to reduce health care costs and increase the level of care. The future of AT is bright. One day your loved one may have their own robot!
Today's quote:
"Every individual must himself tread the path of realization, for only the knowledge that is won by experience has living, i.e., life-giving value." — Govinda
This article was written by Rebecca Sharp Colmer, creator of MeAndMyCaregivers, a communications hub for everyone on the caregiving team. She is also the creator of the Family Caregiver Starter Kit, which contains useful resources, forms and information for caregivers.
Caregiver Help: Holiday Stress Relief for Caregivers
You are probably already familiar with the effects of stress. With the upcoming holidays it is almost a sure bet your stress level will go up. You may start to feel more tired than usual. You may worry more. You may feel like everyone else is piling their stress onto you. Here are a few things you can do to help lessen your stress level. Even the relatively small things can add up.
1. Keep your expectations in check. You have no control over anyone else's behavior. There are going to be a number of people who are frazzled just because it is the holiday season. You have complete control over how you respond to their behavior.
2. Don't try to do too much. If you are a caregiver, your plate is already full. Encourage your friends and family to reach out to both you and the care-receiver. Remember what is important, stay focused. Find out what is important to the care-receiver.
3. Stay healthy. Wash your hands frequently. Stay away from the booze and junk food. Make a concerted effort to get some exercise. Practice deep breathing several times a day.
4. Practice the power of a positive attitude. Put a positive spin on everything you say and do. Turn-off negative self-talk.
5. Stay organized. Don't forget the basics. It is okay to streamline holiday traditions. In fact, it is okay to start new trend.
6. Get enough sleep. Don't burn the candle at both ends.
7. Schedule some time off. This time is invaluable to both the caregiver and care-receiver. Ask for respite help from family members, neighbors, and friends.
8. Keep a "Joy Journal". Every day write down your top five joys of the day. Finding joy and compassion in your surroundings is very freeing. It takes a lot more energy to be angry and inpatient.
9. Utilize your support system. Share your feelings with family and friends you trust. You are not alone. Help is available. There are millions of people in similar situations. Be proactive and locate resources within your family circle and within your community, whether or not you intend to use them.
10. Tune in to the care-receiver and encourage him/her to talk from the heart and share their wisdom. This can be a wonderful gift and rewarding experience. Use this holiday season to capture special memories. Don't be afraid to laugh and enjoy the season.
It is natural to have emotional reactions to the challenges and responsibilities of your job. Stay aware of your feelings because they influence your behavior and judgment. Don't use the holidays as an excuse to let your stress level boil over. Take it easy, one day at a time.
Today's quote:
"Harmony is unity in diversity." — Sri Ram
This article was written by Rebecca Sharp Colmer, a Certiified Senior Advisor and the creator of MeAndMyCaregiver(s), a service designed to help both the care-receiver and the caregiver. It is a lot more than just a personal health record stored online. It is a personal life record and life management system.
1. Keep your expectations in check. You have no control over anyone else's behavior. There are going to be a number of people who are frazzled just because it is the holiday season. You have complete control over how you respond to their behavior.
2. Don't try to do too much. If you are a caregiver, your plate is already full. Encourage your friends and family to reach out to both you and the care-receiver. Remember what is important, stay focused. Find out what is important to the care-receiver.
3. Stay healthy. Wash your hands frequently. Stay away from the booze and junk food. Make a concerted effort to get some exercise. Practice deep breathing several times a day.
4. Practice the power of a positive attitude. Put a positive spin on everything you say and do. Turn-off negative self-talk.
5. Stay organized. Don't forget the basics. It is okay to streamline holiday traditions. In fact, it is okay to start new trend.
6. Get enough sleep. Don't burn the candle at both ends.
7. Schedule some time off. This time is invaluable to both the caregiver and care-receiver. Ask for respite help from family members, neighbors, and friends.
8. Keep a "Joy Journal". Every day write down your top five joys of the day. Finding joy and compassion in your surroundings is very freeing. It takes a lot more energy to be angry and inpatient.
9. Utilize your support system. Share your feelings with family and friends you trust. You are not alone. Help is available. There are millions of people in similar situations. Be proactive and locate resources within your family circle and within your community, whether or not you intend to use them.
10. Tune in to the care-receiver and encourage him/her to talk from the heart and share their wisdom. This can be a wonderful gift and rewarding experience. Use this holiday season to capture special memories. Don't be afraid to laugh and enjoy the season.
It is natural to have emotional reactions to the challenges and responsibilities of your job. Stay aware of your feelings because they influence your behavior and judgment. Don't use the holidays as an excuse to let your stress level boil over. Take it easy, one day at a time.
Today's quote:
"Harmony is unity in diversity." — Sri Ram
This article was written by Rebecca Sharp Colmer, a Certiified Senior Advisor and the creator of MeAndMyCaregiver(s), a service designed to help both the care-receiver and the caregiver. It is a lot more than just a personal health record stored online. It is a personal life record and life management system.
Caregiver Resources: Unrealistic Expectations about Caregiving
Many long-term caregiving situations occur due to unrealistic expectations by adult children and/or aging parents. It is not unusual for adult children to "promise" to never move parents out of their homes or put them in nursing homes. Some adult children try to avoid bringing outside help into their parents' homes because they believe they can do a better job than an outsider.
Some adult children end up changing their lifestyles, depleting their savings, and foregoing careers in order to care for an aging parent.
On the other hand, aging parents often make unreasonable demands about accepting help or relocating. Use every opportunity you have to explore options for getting more care. In many cases, it takes a crisis before the aging parent accepts a caregiver. In these cases where there is a lot of denial and reluctance to get help, there is an increase of caregiver burnout.
Today's quote:
"It is a mistake to think that service of a humble character is not of importance. It is the attitude of the server which is important." Sri Ram.
This article was written by Rebecca Sharp Colmer, a Certified Senior Advisor and the creator of MeAndMyCaregivers, a company who offers management and peace of mind over your loved one’s medical, financial and social well being.
Some adult children end up changing their lifestyles, depleting their savings, and foregoing careers in order to care for an aging parent.
On the other hand, aging parents often make unreasonable demands about accepting help or relocating. Use every opportunity you have to explore options for getting more care. In many cases, it takes a crisis before the aging parent accepts a caregiver. In these cases where there is a lot of denial and reluctance to get help, there is an increase of caregiver burnout.
Today's quote:
"It is a mistake to think that service of a humble character is not of importance. It is the attitude of the server which is important." Sri Ram.
This article was written by Rebecca Sharp Colmer, a Certified Senior Advisor and the creator of MeAndMyCaregivers, a company who offers management and peace of mind over your loved one’s medical, financial and social well being.
Caregiver Help: Caregiving and a Glimpse into Our Future
Being a family caregiver will have a significant impact on your life. You will probably never view the world exactly the same way again. While caring for your loved one, you may ponder what the future holds for you near the end of your life. It is almost impossible not to think about your own mortality as you watch someone grow old and die.
For some caregivers this is a wake-up call to lead a more healthy life and purposeful life. These caregivers understand the importance of having a plan for aging and retirement.
Other caregivers are overcome with hidden emotions such as guilt, resentment, anger, fear, grief, and sadness. They become paralyzed and dread getting older.
While being a caregiver it is essential that you take the necessary steps to avoid increased stress and burnout. Acknowledge your emotions and discuss your feelings with a friend or family member. Caregivers need emotional support, information, and resources/services. Learn how to focus on the joys and not the challenges. It is never too late to start planning for the rest of your life.
Today's quote:
"So let us seek the True, in everything, in everybody, in every circumstance, with patience, with humility, with love." — Clara Codd
This article was written by Rebecca Sharp Colmer, a Certified Senior Advisor and the creator of MeAndMyCaregivers, a company who offers management and peace of mind over your loved one’s medical, financial and social well being.
For some caregivers this is a wake-up call to lead a more healthy life and purposeful life. These caregivers understand the importance of having a plan for aging and retirement.
Other caregivers are overcome with hidden emotions such as guilt, resentment, anger, fear, grief, and sadness. They become paralyzed and dread getting older.
While being a caregiver it is essential that you take the necessary steps to avoid increased stress and burnout. Acknowledge your emotions and discuss your feelings with a friend or family member. Caregivers need emotional support, information, and resources/services. Learn how to focus on the joys and not the challenges. It is never too late to start planning for the rest of your life.
Today's quote:
"So let us seek the True, in everything, in everybody, in every circumstance, with patience, with humility, with love." — Clara Codd
This article was written by Rebecca Sharp Colmer, a Certified Senior Advisor and the creator of MeAndMyCaregivers, a company who offers management and peace of mind over your loved one’s medical, financial and social well being.
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