4 types of caregivers for seniors and tips to choose

4 types of caregivers for seniors and tips to choose

Due to physical limitations, health issues, or other circumstances, older adults may require additional support to manage their daily activities as they age. In such situations, the role of a caregiver becomes crucial. Caregivers can provide such seniors with personal care, medical assistance, and emotional support. The caregiver’s support depends on the recipient’s requirements. However, caregiving can be broadly classified into four types based on the nature of the support provided. Professional caregivers When seeking care services, it’s important to rely on trained and certified professionals for the best possible care. Fortunately, many options are available for healthcare professionals who specialize in various areas of caregiving. For instance, one can find registered and practical nurses trained to provide medical care and ensure well-being. Professional caregivers also include certified nursing assistants to assist with activities of daily living (ADLs). Nurses and nursing assistants are usually available for help at a senior living facility, hospice care center, or hospital. Home health aides can be hired to provide personal care and support for those looking for professional caregivers at home. In addition, physical, occupational, and speech therapists can also be hired if specialized care and rehabilitation services are needed. Family caregivers Sometimes, family members become caregivers. These include parents, spouses, children, and siblings of individuals who need care. This usually happens when the care needs are basic and do not require the caregiver to have professional training. Sometimes, a senior may have a family caregiver working alongside a professional caregiver. Informal caregivers Along with family members providing caregiving assistance, a senior may have few informal caregivers. These may include friends, neighbors, and acquaintances willing to support the person’s care needs. Volunteer caregivers These are individuals who work with community centers or nonprofit organizations. They provide unpaid support and caregiving services to those who need it.
Top 5 crossover SUVs with superior safety features

Top 5 crossover SUVs with superior safety features

Crossover SUVs are a popular choice for people looking to buy a new car. They offer more space for both cargo and passengers and are capable of some light-duty towing. A critical factor most people consider when buying a crossover SUV is safety. Thankfully, many models from famous carmakers come with top-class protection and driver assistance features. We’ve compiled a list of the best safe crossover SUVs in this article. 2022 Nissan Rogue The latest Nissan Rogue has been awarded the IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). It’s equipped with impressive standard safety techs, such as automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, rear automatic braking, blind-spot warning, high beam assist, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure warning. The 2022 Nissan Rogue also features ten strategically-placed airbags and zone body construction, which helps absorb the energy of an impact, protecting passengers. 2022 Mazda CX-5 Mazda is known for highly-safe vehicles, and its 2022 CX-5 is no exception. All-wheel drive is now standard on all CX-5 trims. The car comes with blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning with lane-keeping assist, rear cross-traffic alert, radar cruise control, adaptive front-lighting system, smart braking system, and driver attention alert system. These safety and assistance features make the vehicle a worthy purchase. 2022 Hyundai Tucson The newest Hyundai Tucson earns excellent ratings in crash tests from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Safety and driver-assistance features across trim variants include lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist, rear-seat reminder, driver attention monitoring, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. The vehicle also has a blind-spot view monitor and a smart cruise control system. 2022 Subaru Forester The 2022 Subaru Forester scores well in safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA. All models come with all-wheel drive and Subaru’s award-winning EyeSight® driver assist technology, which monitors traffic movement, optimizes cruise control, and warns drivers swaying outside their lanes.
8 mistakes to avoid while looking for senior living apartments

8 mistakes to avoid while looking for senior living apartments

Finding the right senior living apartment can be a complex process, fraught with potential pitfalls. Whether searching for oneself or helping a loved one, it’s essential to approach this decision with thorough preparation and clear understanding. Making the wrong choice can significantly impact one’s comfort and quality of life. Here are eight common mistakes to avoid to ensure one finds a suitable senior living apartment that meets all the requirements. Overlooking important amenities Many individuals focus solely on the apartment and neglect the amenities that enhance daily living. Ensure the facility offers convenient amenities like laundry services, fitness centers, and social areas, which are crucial for a fulfilling lifestyle. Ignoring access to healthcare Healthcare needs increase as individuals age. It’s vital to choose a location with easy access to healthcare facilities. Overlooking the proximity to clinics and hospitals can lead to several challenges, especially in emergencies. Not considering future needs While an apartment might meet one’s current needs, it’s important to consider how one’s requirements might change. Facilities that offer flexible care options and amenities that cater to varying levels of mobility and health can provide comfort even as one’s situation evolves. Disregarding staff and community interaction The attitude and professionalism of the staff can greatly influence an individual’s experience in a senior living community. The community’s atmosphere and the social interaction it fosters are crucial for mental and emotional well-being. Visiting the site multiple times at different hours can help one gauge these aspects accurately. Failing to read contracts thoroughly Rushing through administrative processes can lead to misunderstandings about costs, services, and rights. Always take the time to read contracts thoroughly and understand every clause, seeking legal advice if necessary. Underestimating costs Budget mismanagement is a common pitfall. Be sure to understand all costs, including monthly fees, service charges, and potential hidden costs.
6 tips to ensure safe internet browsing for seniors

6 tips to ensure safe internet browsing for seniors

The internet is one of the richest information sources and a platform to enjoy content. However, the flip side to the net is that there are too many ways one could fall prey to scammers, hackers, or viruses. While it could happen to anyone, seniors who do not fully understand the internet might be at a greater risk of getting scammed. Here are five tips to help safeguard everyone’s interest, including seniors, while navigating the internet. Avoid unsecured transactions While the internet has made paying for things much easier, one should never do this on a public, unsecured network. Sometimes, scammers intentionally create these networks to gain access to all the sensitive information a user has on their device. Update systems regularly Hackers constantly look for loopholes to access user data. This is why manufacturers work around the clock to patch these weak points and strengthen a device’s security. Therefore, it is essential to update each device regularly to keep it safe from cyber threats. Do not click on unfamiliar email links If one receives an email from an unfamiliar address, one should not open or click links in its contents. These links could secretly install malware on an electronic device, such as a computer, and damage it. It may also grant unauthorized access to the scammer, who may siphon vital data, such as that associated with banking. Be aware of scareware Sometimes hackers might find ways to transmit a popup to smartphones or computers, usually referred to as scareware. An “urgent” window may appear on the screen that the device is compromised and needs repairing. However, clicking the link may ask for payment to clean the computer. However, one should close such popups immediately. If these appear after installing a particular app or software, it’s recommended to uninstall and delete all associated files right away.
Common mistakes to avoid when buying travel insurance

Common mistakes to avoid when buying travel insurance

Travel insurance is an essential financial cover that protects one from unforeseen circumstances while traveling. From losing luggage to hotel cancellations, there are a few incidents against which insurance can be claimed. But before opting for one, it is important to thoroughly understand the policy document, including what is covered in the insurance and what is not. Here are a few common travel insurance mistakes that travelers can easily avoid. Ignoring credit card perks Several credit card companies offer travel insurance benefits to card holders. If you purchase a ticket using the card, you may be eligible for insurance. Credit card-based travel coverage may include claims against delayed, lost, or damaged baggage; trip cancellation or interruption; medical emergencies; evacuation; travel mishaps; or rental car insurance. With these advantages, frequent travelers might not need to get additional insurance. Not reading the details of the insurance Most travel insurance policies have a “cancel for any reason” provision. However, the requirement for this is often overlooked. The “cancel for any reason” coverage often has to be bought 7 to 21 days after paying the original trip deposit. Additionally, one can only receive compensation if they cancel their trip 48 hours in advance. Depending on one’s level of insurance, the reimbursement amount may vary. Most of the time, 50 to 75 percent of the trip’s cost will be refunded. So, it is advisable to carefully examine the terms before choosing any insurance. Buying the wrong policy One can opt for travel insurance that covers particular requirements or concerns for one’s upcoming trip. For instance, one may not need to carry much baggage on a brief business trip. In this instance, it may be preferable to forego baggage or personal item loss coverage and avoid paying premium prices. Similarly, customers who wish to take a cruise in 2023 might need to get cruise insurance.
6 safest SUVs in 2022

6 safest SUVs in 2022

A sports utility vehicle, or SUV, has become a go-to choice for many American families. One of the main reasons people consider buying SUVs is that it feels safer than other cars, thanks to their large and sturdy build. Moreover, modern SUVs are loaded with a wide range of safety and driver assistance features, making them incredibly safe and reliable. If you’re in the market for a new SUV, you must consider some latest options. 2022 Acura RDX This crossover SUV from Acura is currently one of the safest vehicles on the market. The automaker has outfitted all trim variants of the 2022 RDX with a suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies, including lane-departure warning, pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assist, automated emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and traffic sign recognition system. 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge If you’re looking for a compact electric SUV with excellent safety features, the 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge should be your choice. It’s equipped with vital safety and driver-assistance features, like lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist, automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, and blind-spot detection. The vehicle also has an advanced body structure and a unique battery safety cage that can protect all passengers in a collision. 2022 Subaru Ascent With three rows and a seating capacity of up to 8 passengers, the 2022 Ascent is Subaru’s largest SUV. Its standard EyeSight driver assists technology can monitor traffic movement, optimize cruise control, and warn drivers when they’re outside their lane. Higher trim variants of the Ascent feature extra safety technologies like rear cross-traffic alert, reverse automatic braking, among others. 2022 Mazda CX-5 Mazda is a Japanese carmaker known for making safe SUVs; the 2022 CX-5 is no exception. Armed with Mazda’s i-Activsense®1 safety technology, the SUV offers superior protection to the driver, passengers, and pedestrians. Features like adaptive cruise control, automated emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, and more are standard on all CX5 variants.
7 early warning signs of dementia and care options

7 early warning signs of dementia and care options

Dementia is an umbrella term that encompasses a multitude of symptoms and health conditions. It can impact a patient’s memory and cognitive functioning. Statistics provided by the World Health Organization suggest that there are more than 55 million dementia patients worldwide. Symptoms can differ from one patient to another; however, some warning signs of dementia remain common irrespective of its cause. It is more commonly seen in patients above 60 years. Short-term memory changes Issues with one’s memory are the most common and noticeable signs of dementia. These subtle changes observed in patients are often associated with their short-term memory. These changes include forgetting their tasks and the placement of items. Problem finding the right words Problem with communication of thoughts or the inability to find the right words to express one’s thoughts is a common sign of dementia. This can lead to stopping in the middle of a sentence. Conversing with dementia patients, therefore, takes a longer time. Mood change The slightest of things can cause mood changes in dementia patients. Differences in their surroundings, disruption of routine, inability to find items, and more can make them anxious, upset, agitated, or give rise to other emotions. It is one of the early warning signs of dementia. Confusion Dementia patients are prone to confusion. Their poor memory causes them to forget landmarks, people, events of the day, and more. The loss of their belongings and the inability to recognize their surroundings are some of the many reasons that can give rise to confusion. Problem completing tasks Change in the person’s ability to carry or complete a task can also be a warning sign for dementia. These can involve day-to-day tasks that were once easily accomplished. New activities can be daunting for the patient. Difficulty accepting change A typical early sign observed in patients with dementia is their inability to accept change.
4 safest SUVs to buy in 2023

4 safest SUVs to buy in 2023

The first thing people tend to look for when buying an SUV is the list of its safety features. Safety is key in determining whether a car will make the cut. Luckily, you don’t have to be the sole judge of whether or not the functions provided are good enough. Organizations like IIHS and NHTSA do the hard lifting and test these cars for us. And their ratings help determine which are the safest rides. 2022 Tesla Model Y Like the other SUVs on this list, the Tesla Model Y has a high rating from both IIHS and the NHTSA. The base models come with the standard safety features you expect from a modern-day SUV. However, if you wish to experience the car’s self-driving capability, it would require shelling out an extra $10,000 or more. The package unlocks parking assistance, autonomous lane changing, traffic light assistance, and other similar features. 2022 Mazda CX-5 The 2022 Mazda CX-5 was awarded a five-star safety rating by the NHTSA. Digging deeper, we found that car got five stars for the rollover test and four for the side and front crash tests. It was also named in the top safest SUVs list by the IIHS. Some standard safety features that make this SUV a trending choice for 2023 are lane departure warning, emergency braking, pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assistance. 2022 Toyota Highlander The 2022 Toyota Highlander earned a five-star rating from the NHTSA and was named one of the safest SUVs by IIHS, with high scores in all crash tests. The Highlander comes with the Toyota Safety Sense™ 2.5+ and other active safety functions and driver assistance features, such as adaptive cruise control, road sign recognition, automatic high beams, lane-keep assist, and automatic braking. 2023 Nissan Murano Nissan Murano is one of the top-rated and safest SUVs predicted to be trending in 2023, just as it did in 2022.
3 best no-contract cell phone plans

3 best no-contract cell phone plans

Several popular networks in the country offer 4G and 5G coverage to cell phone users of all ages. However, the myriad of options can make it challenging for you to choose the best plan. Factors like the number of minutes, texts, available data, connectivity, cost, and exclusive services are a few things you must consider. To help you get started, we have scoured the internet to find the three best no-contract mobile phone plans. Mint Mobile If you are looking for an unlimited data no-contract cell phone plan, Mint Mobile offers you one for $30/month. You can switch to their network and still keep your current number. The plan is also compatible with unlocked phones, so you can bring your own device to avail of the offer. But ensure to check out the official Mint Mobile website to understand network coverage and make sure your area code offers the best speeds for downloads. If you prefer limited data, worry not! Mint also features 4GB, 10GB, and 15GB plans starting at just $15/month. Boost Mobile If you are scouting for a network that supports your 5G device, this one is for you. Boost Mobile offers a sweet 5G-enabled no-contract cell phone plan. You can retain your existing number from any network and avail exclusive coverage across states and cities that support 5G calling and data. The brand offers unlimited texts, calls, and 1GB of internet for just $5/month. Alternate no-contract plans include 5GB of data for $20/month and unlimited 5G internet for $35/month. All three plans support unlimited minutes and texts, where you will be charged only for additional data usage over and above the fair policy. Twigby Mobile Seniors interested in availing of no-contract cell phone plans can benefit from Twigby Mobile deals. The service offers affordable pricing across a wide range of plans starting at just $6.50/month.
3 crucial tips for managing dementia

3 crucial tips for managing dementia

The degeneration of brain cells can lead to the development of various health concerns. It can compromise the person’s cognitive and physical function and deteriorate their lifestyle. To avoid these complications, doctors often recommend adopting a healthy lifestyle. Eliminating unhealthy foods and adopting a healthy lifestyle can prevent the brain’s and other organs’ free radical damage. Here are three essential tips that help avoid the degeneration of brain cells due to dementia. Have these foods to prevent degeneration Proper nourishment is essential for brain functions, and providing the correct nutrients helps prevent this organ from rapid damage. Here are some foods to consider: Nuts Regular inclusion of nuts in meal plans can help develop better cognitive skills. It can also help keep other systems running smoothly. Nuts have also been linked to having a better memory. Green vegetables Two servings of green vegetables a week can help prevent the degeneration of brain cells. Those who include leafy vegetables in their daily meals are better protected against cognitive decline. Fatty fish Omega-3 fatty acids are abundant in fish like salmon, tuna, and herring. This nutrient also benefits people with low cognition and those at risk of developing degenerative brain disorders. Berries Berries are rich sources of anthocyanin, a compound with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This compound helps prevent free radical damage and brain cell degeneration. Olive oil People who regularly use olive oil for cooking show better cognitive function. It helps in slowing down brain cell degeneration and the onset of symptoms. Get personal care For patients who can’t afford a long wait to see their physicians or can’t travel to a clinic, Optum Care can be of great help. The organization partners with healthcare professionals and clinics to provide better healthcare services by caring for patients’ primary and special-care needs.
5 cheap Corvettes for sale

5 cheap Corvettes for sale

Chevrolet made quite a bold move when it released the mid-engined Corvette. The model has retained some of its top features like being front-engined and having the rear-wheel-drive layout, and all Corvettes have been designed in the same way. Here, we have listed the top options if you are looking for cheap Corvettes for sale: C6 Corvette C6 Corvette is the sixth generation of Corvette and is one of the best options to consider if you are looking for cheap Corvettes for sale. You can check out the used 2005 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe available for $12,995 on Autotrader. It comes with precision red exteriors and tan interiors and offers a mileage of 16 and 24 mpg in the city and on the highways, respectively. You can save time by making the deal on this 8-cylinder 4-speed automatic Corvette online. 2004 Chevrolet Convertible Available for $14,995 on TrueCar, a trusted online reseller, this model offers great performance. It comes in a stunning blue metallic color, is equipped with a rear-wheel-drive feature, and offers a mileage of 18 mpg on the city and 25 mpg on the highway. Also, there have been zero accidents reported for the Corvette. Chevrolet Corvette 2002 convertible This model is available for $15,500 but is worth the price. It is available on Autotrader in a dark red color with classic black interiors and is one of the coolest cheap Corvettes for sale. It is a 9-cylinder automatic transmission Corvette that runs on gas and offers a mileage of 18 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. Chevrolet Corvette 2003 convertible Available for $16,697 on TrueCar, this model has a lot of stunning features to offer. It comes with black exteriors and interiors and is equipped with 6-speed manual transmission. It also has cruise control, traction control, and stability control, along with front reading lamps and power windows.
10 Dog Food Deals to Expect During Black Friday 2023

10 Dog Food Deals to Expect During Black Friday 2023

Taking care of a pet is a full-time responsibility. And it always starts with ensuring the best nutrition that supports the growth from puppy to adulthood. Since their daily consumption and nutritional requirements vary drastically, buying and stocking up on different dog foods makes sense. Fortunately, pet food brands also offer great discounts on popular varieties of dog foods sold online. Save big with Black Friday offers on pet foods ahead of the sale. Kibble variants The Kibble variety of dog foods is the first choice among pet owners since storing them longer without compromising their nutrient efficacy is very convenient. Kibble Black Friday deals promote offers for bulk buying as the average consumption for kibble is one bag a month, costing around $50 for the generic brands. With an average cost of $600 annually, consider availing buy one get one discounts promoted every shopping sale across the top brands like Royal Canin and Blue Buffalo to save big this shopping season. Canned dog food Canned foods feature tasty recipes that dogs of all ages love. This is mainly because the protein is braised in a meat sauce with added flavor. Canned dog food is suitable for breeds that outgrow their taste for standard options and require something delicious daily. Canned food is also cheaper to buy by the pound and is featured every Black Friday with discounts of up to 50% across popular products. Semi-moist dog food Semi-moist dog food is different from canned alternatives for a simple reason: it is more palatable compared to wet and dry foods. For dogs who don’t have underlying diabetes or any food sensitivities, semi-moist food is easy to digest and suitable for most breeds. Previous year sales indicate discounts of up to 50% on popular dog food subscription orders sponsored by popular brands trending today.