INSIGHT & PODCAST RESOURCES FOR LEADERS IN AGING

In Canada, care providers play a critical role in ensuring smooth and successful transitions for clients returning home from hospitals, rehabilitation centres, or long-term care communities. Unfortunately, these transitions don’t always go smoothly, and individuals may risk being readmitted to the hospital.

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End-of-life care is a critical aspect of the aging journey, as it focuses on providing comfort, dignity, and support to every individual. It involves complex emotional, physical and spiritual approaches to care, depending on each individual's needs. For Aging Services Professionals, it is essential to be well-prepared to address any concerns clients may have as they navigate care options.

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According to a 2021 AARP survey, 77% of adults aged 50 and older wish to remain in their homes for the long term. However, despite this desire to age in place, a 2018 survey by HomeAdvisor reported that only 40% of homeowners aged 55 and older had made home modifications to make their homes safer and more accessible.

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In 2022, over 13.4 million Canadians aged 15 years and older—representing 42% of the population—provided unpaid care to children, youth, or adults with long-term conditions or disabilities. Among these caregivers, 1.8 million found themselves in the challenging position of providing care to both young and elderly dependents, forming part of Canada’s growing "sandwich generation."

Focusing on our physical, mental, and emotional well-being can lead to a healthy and fulfilling life as we age. To pursue a path of positive aging, it is important to have support and resources, such as access to health care, social connections, and opportunities for continued learning and engagement.

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Building and retaining a strong team is one of the most critical challenges in the aging services sector. As professionals committed to delivering high-quality care, we understand that our success is deeply rooted in the dedication and commitment of our staff.

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Transitioning into a new living situation for older adults can bring about a number of symptoms that can be complicated by chronic diseases, cognitive impairment, dementia, mobility, and sensory deficits.

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For individuals living with dementia, everyday activities have a major impact on their brain function, behavioral responses, functional abilities and sense of well-being. When it comes to home care, having a person-centered approach to care can make a big difference in overall outcomes.

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Restorative care is part of an ongoing nursing model and often follows rehabilitation. Licensed staff and professional caregivers provide restorative care to preserve a person’s optimum level of functioning and independence, which makes living their day-to-day lives as comfortable as possible.

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Caring for an individual with dementia requires a multifaceted approach focused on enhancing their quality of life. One particularly transformative method within dementia care is dance.

Aging is a part of life for everyone, but how we experience these later years is far from universal. Many people imagine this process happening in a retirement community or a nursing home. For some, this is an amazing option that fulfills their personal and medical needs.

As the U.S. population ages, the prevalence of disability and functional limitations and the demand for long-term services and supports (LTSS) will increase. In fact, according to a report from the University of Michigan, 88% of older adults ages 50 to 80 feel it’s important to remain in their homes for as long as possible.

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Did you know? Approximately 6.5 million individuals are living with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and other forms of dementia in the U.S. With the aging population on the rise, so too is the prevalence of these conditions.

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Infection prevention is of the utmost importance in all health care settings, but it holds particular significance when it comes to home care. The home serves as a sanctuary for vulnerable individuals, where they can receive the care they need while minimizing their exposure to infectious agents.

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Did you know? One best practice approach for someone with dementia is person-centered dementia care, which prioritizes the individuals with dementia and their caregivers, placing them at the heart of care delivery. This method emphasizes a holistic perspective, aiming to maintain their overall well-being and enhance their quality of life.

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Are you aware of the distinctions between the services offered by in-home care and medical home health providers? According to a Johns Hopkins study, approximately 25 million older Americans depend on home-based services as they age in place.

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Many older adults make significant life decisions in crisis moments — but many don’t realize that doing this could harm their well-being. That’s because making rash decisions typically involves a lack of resources, information, and tools needed to make the best choices.

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Professional caregivers wear numerous hats, and that’s because they do so much more than only look after their patients. In fact, professional caregivers provide support in a number of ways, including monitoring their patients’ health, creating a safer environment, providing friendship and companionship, allowing respite for the families of their patients, and so much more.

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Parkinson’s disease may paint a singular diagnosis, but its impacts are as diverse as the individuals themselves. Episode fourteen of the ComForConections podcast, “Strategies for Implementing Person-Centered Parkinson’s Care,” dives deep into approaches that tailor care to the unique needs, preferences, and aspirations of each person living with Parkinson's.

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Facing the reality of end-of-life care comes with a whirlwind of emotions. But within its twists and turns, there exists a source of comfort and support: home care’s vital role in hospice. Episode thirteen, “Best Practices Considerations: Home Care’s Supportive Role in Hospice Care,” opens a space for connection and empathy, providing guidance and compassionate insights for those working in the senior care industry.

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For those who’ve bravely served our nation, navigating post-service life can feel daunting. Episode twelve, “Understanding Home Care Benefits for Veterans,” shares the world of home care benefits specifically designed for veterans and their families.

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Technology is playing an increasing role in the care management of older adults. When it comes to medication self-management, there are several challenges, especially when managing polypharmacy for chronic conditions.

Episode ten, “Aging Life Care Professionals & Impact on Care,” shines a spotlight on the invaluable allies in the senior care industry known as Aging Life Care Professionals (ALCP). Going beyond just senior care, we explore the multifaceted role ALCPs play in ensuring a smooth and fulfilling journey through aging.

Moving from one care setting to another, whether it’s assisted living or memory care, can be disruptive and even upsetting for seniors. Episode 9, “Strategies for Quality Transitions of Care,” allows you to understand the emotional and logistical challenges associated with care transitions, bridging the gap between old and new care settings to ensure seamless continuity of care.

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Fall prevention isn’t just about safety; it’s about maintaining independence and confidence. Episode eight, “Best Practices: Fall Prevention Strategies,” equips you with tips and proven methods to create a secure, supportive environment for your clients. Listen in and get ready to empower seniors to move through life with a newfound sense of assurance.

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“Nourishing Mind, Body, and Spirit in Aging,” episode seven, delves into holistic practices seniors can follow to care for their well-being. We go beyond the physical, nourishing the mind with intellectual pursuits, the body with gentle movement, and the spirit of meaningful connections. Tune in to learn how to nurture the whole person, mind, body, and spirit in aging.

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Discover how innovative tools can enhance safety and peace of mind in episode six, “Leveraging Technology for Fall Risk Detection.” We explore how cutting-edge advancements have paved the way for proactive care, ensuring your clients are safe from preventable falls that occur in the home.

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Episode five of our home care marketing podcast, “Strategies for Implementing Person-Centered Dementia Care,” unlocks the secrets to tailoring care to individual needs and fostering meaningful connections for those living with dementia. We go deeper than just medical management, giving you ways you can honor your clients’ individual preferences to create a truly personalized care experience.

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Episode four, “Frontotemporal Dementia: Best Practice Strategies,” tackles a lesser-known form of dementia, offering guidance and support for caregivers. We delve into misconceptions surrounding the disease, equipping you with practical tools and compassionate insight for optimal care.

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Unsure if in-home care or medical home health care is the right fit? Episode three, “Best Practice Considerations: In-Home Care vs. Medical Home Health,” breaks down the differences, empowering you to choose the perfect match for your career path.

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In episode two, “Alzheimer’s Facts, Figures, & Best Practices,” we explore the realities of Alzheimer’s care with empathy and equip you with practice strategies for support. We shed light on crucial information so you can care for your clients with confidence.

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On the premiere episode of our home care podcast, “Welcome to ComForConnections,” we unpack the complexities of home care, offering a warm introduction to the resources and support available to those working in senior care.