Preparing makes sense for Older Americans. Get Ready Now. FEMA

Posted on August 26, 2016 by jwatrel

Preparing makes sense for Older Americans. Get Ready Now. FEMA

Preparing makes sense for older Americans. Get ready now.

The likelihood that you and your family will recover from an emergency tomorrow often depends on the planning and preparation done today. While each person’s abilities and needs are unique, every individual can take steps to prepare for all kinds of emergencies from fires and floods to potential terrorist attacks. By evaluating your own personal needs and making an emergency plan that fits those needs, you and your loved ones can be better prepared. This guide outlines common-sense measures older Americans can take to start preparing for emergencies before they happen. Preparing makes sense for older Americans. Get Ready Now.

  1. Get a kit of Emergency Supplies:

The first step is consider how an emergency might affect your individual needs. Plan to make it on your own for at least three days. It’s possible that you will not have access to all medical facility or even a drugstore. It is crucial that you and your family think about what kinds of resources you use on a daily basis and what you might do if those resources are limited or not available.

Basic Supplies: Think first about the basics for survival-food, water, clean air and any life-sustaining items you require. Consider two kits. In one kit,  put everything you will need to stay where you are and make it on your own for a period of time. The other kit should be a light-weight, smaller version you can take with you if you have to leave your home. Recommended basic emergency supplies include:

*Water, one gallon per person per day for at least three days for drinking and sanitation.

*Food, at least a three day supply of non-perishable food and a can opener if kit contains canned foods.

*Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both.

*Flashlight and extra batteries

*First Aid Kit

*Whistle to signal for help

*Dust mask to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter in place.

*Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation.

*Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities

*Local Maps

*Pet food, extra water and supplies for your pet or service animal

Include Medications and Medical Supplies:

If you take medicine or use a medical treatment on a daily basis, be sure you have what you need on hand to make it on your own for at least a week. You should also keep a copy of your prescriptions as well as a dosage or treatment information. If it is not possible to have a week-long supply of medicines and supplies, keep  as much as possible on hand and talk to your pharmacist or doctor about what else you should do to prepare.

If you undergo routine treatments administered by a clinic or hospital or if you receive regular services such as home health care, treatment or transportation, talk to your service provider about their emergency plans. Work with them to identify back-up service providers within your area and the areas you might evacuate to. If you use medical equipment in your home that requires electricity to operate, talk to your health care provider about what you can do to prepare for its use during a power outage.

Additional Items: In addition, there may be other things specific to your personal needs that you should also have on hand. If you use eyeglasses, hearing aids and hearing aid batteries, wheelchair batteries and oxygen be sure you always have extras in your home. Also have copies of your medical insurance. Medicare and Medicaid cares readily available.

Include Emergency Documents: Include copies of important documents in your emergency supply kits such as family records, wills, power of attorney documents, deeds, social security numbers, credit card and bank information and tax records. It is best to keep these documents in a waterproof container. Include the names and numbers of everyone in your personal support network as well as your medical providers. Also be sure you have cash or travelers checks in your kits in case you need to purchase suppliers.

2. Make A Plan for what you will do in an Emergency:

The reality of a disaster situation is that you will likely not have access to everyday conveniences. To plan in advance, think through the details of your everyday life. If there are people who assist you on a daily basis, list who they are and how you will contact them in an emergency. Create your own personal support network by identifying others who will help you in an emergency. Think about what modes of transportation you use and what alternative modes could serve as back-ups. If you require handicap accessible transportation be sure your alternatives are also accessible. For every aspect of your daily routine, plan an alternative procedure. Make a plan and write it down. Keep a copy of your plan in your emergency supply kits and a list of important information and contacts in your wallet. Share your plan with your family, friends, care providers and others in your personal support network.

Create a Personal Support Network: If you anticipate needing assistance during a disaster, make a list of family, friends and others who will be part of your plan. Talk to these people and ask them to be part of your support network. Share each aspect of your emergency plan with everyone in your group, including a friend or relative in another area who would not be impacted by the same emergency who can help if necessary. Make sure everyone knows how you plan to evacuate your home or workplace and where  you will go in case of a disaster. Make sure that someone in your personal support network has an extra key to your home and knows where you keep your emergency supplies. Practice your plan with those who have agreed to part of your personal support network.

Develop a family communication plan:

Your family may not be together when disaster strikes, so plan how you will contact one another and review what you will do in different situations. Consider a plan where each family member calls or emails the same friend or relative in the event of an emergency. It may be easier to make a long-distance phone call than to call across town, so an out-of -town contact, not in the impacted area, may be in better position to communicate among separated family members. You may have trouble getting through or through or the phone system may be down altogether but be patient. For more information on how to develop a family communications plan visit http://www.ready.gov.

Deciding to stay or Go: Depending on your circumstances and the nature of the emergency, the first important decision is whether you stay or go. Use common sense and available information to determine if there is immediate danger. In any emergency, local authorities may or may not immediately be able to provide information on what is happening and what you should do. However, you should monitor TV or radio news reports for information or official instructions as they become available. If you’re specifically told to evacuate or seek medical treatment, do so immediately. If you require additional travel time or need transportation assistance, make these arrangements in advance.

Consider your pets: Whether you decide to stay put in an emergency or evacuate to a safer location, you will need to make plans in advance for your pets and service animals. Keep in mind that what’s best for you is typically what’s best for your animals. If you must evacuate, take your pets with you if possible. however, if you are going to a public shelter, it is important to understand that only service animals may be allowed inside. Plan in advance for shelter alternatives that will work for both you and your pet; consider love ones or friends outside of your immediate area, pet-friendly  shelters and veterinarians who would be willing to take in you and your pets in an emergency. For more information about pet preparedness, visit http://www.ready.gov.

Staying Put: Whether you are at home or elsewhere, there may be situations when its simply best to stay where you are and avoid any uncertainty outside. Consider what you can do to safely shelter-in-place alone or with friends, family or neighbors. Also consider how a shelter designated for the public would meet your needs.

There could be times when you will need to stay put and create a barrier between yourself and potentially contaminated air outside. This process is known as ‘sealing the room’. Use available information to assess the situation. If you see large amounts debris in the air or if local authorities say the air is badly contaminated, you may want to take this kind of action. For more information about ‘sealing the room’, visit http://www.ready.gov.

Evacuation: There may be conditions in which you will decide to get away or there may be situations  when you may be ordered to leave. Plan how you will get away and anticipate where you will go. Choose several destinations in different directions so you have options in an emergency. Ask about evacuation plans at the places where you spend time including work, community organizations and other places you frequent. If you typically rely on elevators, have a back up plan in case they are not working.

Fire Safety: Plan two ways out of every room in case of fire. Check for items such as bookcases, hanging pictures or overhead lights that could fall and block an escape path. Check hallways, stairwells, doorways, windows and other areas for hazards that may keep you from safety leaving a building during an emergency. Secure or remove furniture and objects that may block your path. If there are aspects of preparing your home or workplace that you are not able to do yourself, enlist the help of your personal support network.

Contact your local Emergency Information Management Office: Some local emergency management  offices maintain registers of older people so they can be located and assisted quickly in a disaster. Contact your local emergency  management agency to see if these services exist where you live or visit http://www.ready.gov to find links to government offices in your area.

3. Be Informed about what might happen: Some of the things you can do to prepare for the unexpected, such as assembling an emergency supply kit and making an emergency plan are the same regardless of the type of emergency. However, it’s important to stay informed about what might happen and know what types of emergencies are likely to affect your region. For more information about specific types of emergencies, visit http://www.ready.gov or call 1-800-BE-READY.

Be prepared to adapt this information to your personal circumstances and make every effort to follow instructions received from authorities on the scene. Above all, stay calm, be patient and think before you act. With these simple preparations, you can be ready for the unexpected.

Preparing make sense for older Americans. Get ready now.

This information was developed by the US Department of Homeland Security in consultation with AARP, the American Red Cross and the National Organization on Disability.

Disclaimer: This information was taken directly from the pamphlet from FEMA on Preparing makes sense for Older Americans. Please refer to the above phone numbers and websites for more information on preparing for the future.

Posted in Bergen County NJ Programs, Disaster and Terrorism Training Programs, Federal Caregiver programs, Health and Life Support Services, Men's Programming, New Jersey Senior Programming, Senior Caregiver Programs, Senior Services, Support Services for Seniors, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Together We Prepare: Five Actions for Emergency Preparedness American Red Cross (Together, we can save a life)

Posted on August 26, 2016 by jwatrel

Together we prepare: Five Actions for Emergency Preparedness. The American Red Cross.

In today’s climate, it’s more important than ever that all of us be prepared for possible emergencies. Natural or other disasters can strike suddenly at any time and anywhere but here are five actions everyone can take that can help make a difference…

Five Actions:

  1. Make a plan
  2. Build a kit
  3. Get trained
  4. Volunteer
  5. Give Blood

Join other members of your community through the American Red Cross in taking these first steps. You never know how many people your actions will affect, how many lives you might change. When we become part of something bigger than us all. Find out what you can do today. For more information, contact http://www.redcross.org.

Disclaimer: This information was taken directly from the American Red Cross pamphlet of the 5 actions for emergency preparedness. For more information, please contact their above website.

Posted in Corporate Programming for the public, Disaster and Terrorism Training Programs, Federal Caregiver programs, Health and Life Support Services, Legal Assistance Programs, Men's Programming, New Jersey State Program, Senior Disability Programming, Senior Services, Support Services for Seniors, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Preparing Makes Sense. Get Ready Now. FEMA

Posted on August 26, 2016 by jwatrel

Preparing Makes Sense.

The likelihood that you and your family will survive a house fire depends as much on having a working smoke detector and an exit strategy as on a well-trained fire department. The same is true for surviving a terrorist attack or other  emergency. We must have the tools and plans in place to make it on our own at least for a period of time, no matter where we are when disaster strikes. Just like having a working smoke detector preparing for the unexpected makes sense. Get ready now.

  1.  Get a Kit of Emergency supplies:

Be prepared to improvise and use what you have on hand to make it on your own at least three days maybe longer. When there are many things that might make you more comfortable, think first about fresh water, food and clean air.

Consider two kits. In one, put everything you will need to stay where you are and make it on your own. The other should be a lightweight, smaller version you can take with you if you have to get away.

You’ll need a gallon of water per person per day for drinking and sanitation. Include in the kits a three day supply of non-perishable foods that are easy to store and prepare such as protein bars, dried fruit or canned foods. If you live in a cold weather climate, include warm clothes and a sleeping bag for each member of the family.

Some potential terrorist attacks could send tiny microscopic “junk” int0 the air. Many of these materials can only hurt you if they get into your body, so think about creating a barrier between yourself and any contamination. It’s smart to have something for each member of the family that covers their mouth and nose, such as two to three layers of a cotton t-shirt, handkerchief or towel or filter masks readily available in hardware stores. It is very important that the mask or other material fit your face snugly so that most of the air you breathe comes through the mask, not around it. Do whatever you can to make the best fit possible for children.

Also include duct tape and heavyweight garbage bas or plastic sheeting that can be used to seal windows and doors if you need to create a barrier between yourself and any potential contamination outside.

2. Make a Plan for what you will do in an Emergency:

Plan in advance what you will do in an emergency. Be prepared to assess the situation. Use common sense and what ever you have on hand to take care of yourself and your loved ones.

Develop a Family Communication Plan. Your family may not be together when disaster strikes, so plan how you will contact one another and review what you will do in different situations. Consider a plan where each family member calls or emails, the same friend or relative in the event of an emergency. It may be easier to make a long distance phone call than to call across town, so an out of town contact may be in a better position to communicate among separated family members. Be sure each person knows the phone number and has coins or a prepaid phone card to call the emergency contact. You may have trouble getting through or the phone system may be down altogether but be patient.

Depending on you circumstances and the nature of the attack, the first important decision is whether you stay put or get away. You should understand and plan for both possibilities. Use common sense and the information you are learning her to determine if there is immediate danger. Watch television and listen to the radio for official instructions as they become available.

Create a Plan to Shelter in Place. There are circumstances when staying put and creating a barrier between yourself and potentially contaminated air outside, a process known as sheltering in place and sealing the room can be a matter of survival. If you see large amounts of debris in the air or if local authorities say the air is badly contaminated, you may want to shelter-in-place and seal the room. Consider precutting plastic sheeting to seal windows, doors and air  vents. Each piece should be several inches larger than the space you want to cover so that you can duct tape it flat against the wall. Label each piece with the location of where it fits.

Use all the available information to assess the situation. If you see large amounts of debris in the air or if local authorities say the air is badly contaminated, you may want to shelter-in-place. Quickly bring your family and pets inside, lock the doors and close windows, air vents and fireplace dampers. Immediately turn off air conditioning, forced air heating systems, exhaust fans and clothes dryers. Take your emergency supplies and go into the room you have designated. Seal all windows, doors and vents. Understand that sealing the room is a temporary measure to create a barrier between you and contaminated air. Watch TV, listen to the radio or check the Internet for instructions.

Create a plan to Get away. Plan in advance how you will assemble your family and anticipate where you will go. Choose several destinations in different directions so you have options in an emergency. If you have a car, keep at least a half tank of gas in it at all times. Become familiar with alternative routes as well as other means of transportation out of your area. If you do not have a car, plan how you will leave if you have to. Take your emergency supply kit, unless you have reason to believe it is contaminated and lock the door behind you. Take pets with you id you are told to evacuate, however, if you are going to a public shelter, keep in mind they may not be allowed inside. If you believe the air may be contaminated, drive with your windows and vents closed and keep the air conditioning and heater turned off. Listen to the radio for instructions.

Know Emergency Plans at school and work. Think about the places where your family spends time: school, work and other places your family frequents. Take to your children’s schools and your employer about emergency plans. Find out how they will communicate with families during an emergency. If you are an employer be sure you have an emergency preparedness plan. Review and practice it with your employees. A community working together during an emergency also makes sense. Talk to your neighbors about how you can work together.

3. Be Informed about What might Happen:

Some of the things you can do to prepare for the unexpected such as assembling a supply kit and developing a family communications plan are the same for both a natural or manmade emergency. However there are significant differences among potential terrorist threats such as biological, chemical, explosive, nuclear and radiological which will impact the decisions you make and the actions you take. By beginning a process of learning about there specific threats, you are preparing yourself to react in an emergency. Go to http://www.ready.gov to learn more about potential terrorist threats and other emergencies or call 1-800-BE-READY (1-800-237-3239) for a free brochure.

Be prepared to adapt this information to your personal circumstances and make every effort to follow instructions received from authorizes on the scene. With these simple preparations, you can be ready for the unexpected. Get ready now.

4. Get involved in Preparing your Community:

After preparing yourself and your family for possible emergencies, take the next step and get involved in preparing your community. Join Citizens Corps, which actively involves citizens in making our communities and our nation safer, stronger and better prepared. We all have a role to play in keeping our hometowns secure from emergencies of all kinds. Citizen Corps works hard to help people prepare, train and volunteer in their communities. Go to http://www.citizenscorps.gov for more information and to get involved.

Recommended Supplies to Include in a Basic Kit:

*Water: one gallon per person per day for drinking and sanitation.

*Food: at least a three day supply of non-perishable food.

*Battery-powered radio and extra batteries.

*Flashlight and extra batteries

*First Aid Kit

*Whistle to signal for help.

*Filter mask or cotton t-shirt, to help filter the air.

*Moist towelettes for sanitation.

*Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities.

*Manual can opener for food (if kit contains canned food).

*Plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter in place.

*Garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation.

*Unique family needs such as daily prescription medications, infant formula or diapers and important family documents.

This common-sense framework is designed to launch a process of learning about citizen preparedness. For the most current information and recommendations, go online to http://www.ready.gov. This document in partnership with Citizen Corps.

Disclaimer: This information was taken directly from the FEMA pamphlet on Preparing for a Disaster. More information can be seen online at http://www.ready.gov. It is never too early to prepare for a disaster.

 

Posted in Bergen County NJ Programs, Disability Programming, Disaster and Terrorism Training Programs, Federal Caregiver programs, Fire Fighting/First Responder Programming, Health and Life Support Services, Men's Programming, New Jersey Senior Programming, Senior Caregiver Programs, Senior Services, Support Services for Seniors, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Living Strong Living Well Ridgewood YMCA

Posted on August 26, 2016 by jwatrel

Living Strong Living Well

A Strength and Fitness Program for Cancer Patients and Survivors

Developed by Stanford University

The Ridgewood YMCA

112 Oak Street

Ridgewood, NJ  07450

(201) 444-5600

http://www.ridgewoodymca.org

*The YMCA: For youth development For Healthy Living & For Social Responsibility

About the Program

Living Strong Living Well is a 12-week small group program designed for adult cancer survivors who have recently become deconditioned or chronically fatigued from their treatment and/or disease. Our goal is to help patients build muscle mass and muscle strength, increase flexibility and endurance, and improve functional ability.

Additional goals include reducing the severity of therapy side effects, preventing unwanted weight changes and improving energy levels and self esteem. A final goal of the program is to assist participants in developing their own physical fitness program so they can continue to practice a healthy lifestyle as a way of life.

The program consists of one 12-week session that meets 2x per week for 75 minutes. The program is without costs to participants.

LSLW is a free YMCA community service program and participants are enrolled as Triangle members at no cost.

Program Goals

The primary goals are to:

*Empower cancer patients/survivors

*Improve functional capacity

*Increase quality of life through an organized program of fitness & strength

LSLW is also intended to:

*Help patients build muscle mass and strength

*Increase flexibility and endurance

*Improve functional ability

*Reduce severity of therapy side effects

*Prevent unwanted weights changes

*Improve energy levels and self-esteem

The final goal at the completion of LSLW is to assist participants in developing their own physical fitness program so they can continue to practice a healthy lifestyle.

Program Description

Program Set Up

*Initial Assessment

* Goal setting

*Strength and cardio orientation YMCA Strength and Conditioning Gym

Weekly Program

*Perform progressive individual strength program with instructor guidance.

Strength Program Includes:

*Cardio, progressive strength training, flexibility and stretching, range of motion and balance of mind and body.

Program Completion:

*Fitness assessment

*Recommendation for independent continuation of fitness program.

Participant Criteria

Living Strong, Living Well is recommend for adult patients who are in or have recently completed their cancer treatments.

Participant Expectations:

*Have a strong desire to commit to the program

*Attend all 24 classes in a 12-week session

*Complete all pre-program health history and screening forms

*Give permission for the Director to contact physician or treatment provider for consent to participant in the program

Program Scehdule:

Where:

Ridgewood YMCA

112 Oak Street, Ridgewood

When: Winter, Spring and Fall

Mon and Wed from 12:30pm to 1:45pm or

Tues and Thurs from 10:30am to 11:45am

Contact : Carol Livingstone

(201) 444-5600 x330

Email: clivingstone@ridgewoodymca.org

Living Strong Living Well is under the direction of Carol Livinstone, YMCA Health & Fitness Director. Carol was trained by Stanford University to instruct and direct the Ridgewood YMCA Living Strong, Living Well program.

Carol and the YMCA certified instructors are trained in the elements of cancer, post-rehab exercise, nutrition & supportive cancer care. Each participant receives instruction during the entire LSLW session.

Disclaimer: This information is taken directly from the YMCA of Ridgewood, NJ Living Strong Living Well program pamphlet. I have never used this program so I have no opinion of the program, yes or no. Please call the YMCA for more information on the program.

 

Posted in Bergen County NJ Programs, Cancer Programming, Depression Programming, Disability Programming, Health and Life Support Services, Medicare/Medicaid Programming, Men's Programming, New Jersey Senior Programming, Senior Caregiver Programs, Senior Disability Programming, Senior Services, Support Services for Seniors, Uncategorized, Woman's Programming | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Alzheimer’s New Jersey: Program, Services and Volunteer Opportunities

Posted on August 13, 2016 by jwatrel

Alzheimer’s New Jersey  Programs, Services and Volunteer Opportunities

Helpline (808-280-6055): is a professionally staffed, toll-free contact center that provides caller with confidential and personalized in-depth guidance about Alzheimer’s disease and dementia to assist with planning, problem solving, referrals to community resources and emotional support.

The Respite Care and Wellness Program: Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s can be emotionally and physically exhausting and span a period of years. Our Respite Care and Wellness program is designed to provide family caregivers with information and education about the importance of regular time-off from caregiving and help link them to available community based respite care resources. We also provide a financial scholarship of $1,000.00 to help offset the expense associated with respite care services.

Family Support Group Programs: are always free and open to the community. The groups provide families and caregivers with the emotional support and education they need to better understand Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia disorders. Our support group facilitators receive specialized training about Alzheimer’s disease and dementia and group facilitation, as well as ongoing support and evaluation.

Community and Professional Education and Training: Education and training are the core of our mission. We are dedicated to providing education and training to individuals and families, healthcare providers and all the various business and public and community agencies throughout New Jersey. We offer programs throughout the year in a variety of community and professional venues, including an annual Education and Research Conference where leading experts in the field of Alzheimer’s disease speak to New Jersey physicians and healthcare providers.

Clinical Trial Connection Program: Clinical research trials test new ways to detect, treat and prevent Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Clinical trials offer the opportunity for individuals to participate in studies, while also helping others through the advancement of research. Recruiting and retaining clinical trial participants is one of the greatest obstacles to developing the next generation of Alzheimer’s treatments. The Clinical Trial Connections program helps individuals and families interested in participating in a clinical trial. Find out more about available trial programs in and around the communities where they live.

Always safe: is a safety awareness and promotion program designed for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia who have a great personal safety risk due to their impairment in memory and cognition. In addition to a registry database, Always safe provides individuals and families with educational information and resources about home and personal safety and provides professional education and training about Alzheimer’s and dementia to New Jersey law enforcement and emergency first responders. Should someone with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia wander and become lost, we work hand in hand with law enforcement professionals and the media to help raise awareness about the missing individual during the search and rescue process and provide support and counseling to family and friends.

Volunteer Opportunities: Volunteers are the key to our success. There are many opportunities for you to contribute your time and talent in a way that truly makes a difference in the lives of those who are affected by Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.

*Community Outreach: Raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and our programs and services at Health and Wellness fairs and community events.

*Advocacy: Join our advocates as they organize letter-writing campaigns, speak to legislators, phone interested individuals and more.

*Special Events: Assist with the tasks that help our office run effortlessly-mailing, phone calls, data entry and more.

*Host Your Own Benefit Event: Host your own event to raise funds and awareness for Alzheimer’s New Jersey

Alzheimer’s New Jersey

400 Morris Avenue, Suite 251

Denville, NJ  07834

http://www.alznj.org

Call us toll free: 888-280-6055

*Disclaimer: This information is taken directly from a handout from Alzheimer’s New Jersey and since I have never used the service, I don’t have an opinion, yes or no, to what it is like and how it has helped people. Please call the number above for information and please ask their customer service representatives.

 

 

Posted in Alzheimer's and Parkinson Disease Programs, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's Treatment, Health and Life Support Services, Medicare/Medicaid Programming, Men's Programming, New Jersey Senior Programming, Senior Caregiver Programs, Senior Services, Support Services for Seniors, Uncategorized, Woman's Programming | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Alzheimer’s New Jersey: The Respite Care & Wellness Program

Posted on August 12, 2016 by jwatrel

The Respite Care and Wellness Program of Alzheimer’s New Jersey

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Respite Care?

Respite Care is a form of short term relief for the primary family caregiver. “Respite” is for the caregiver; “Care” is for the person with Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disease that destroys memory and thinking skills and eventually, the ability to carry out the simplest tasks of daily living. It is the most common cause of dementia. The continual demand for care can create emotional and physical stress for caregivers.

What is The Respite Care and Wellness Program?

The Respite Care and Wellness Program has been designed to help family caregivers learn about and experience  the importance of respite care services when the family member is providing primary caregiving services for someone with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. The program offers family caregivers information about available community respite care resources such as home health care, adult day care and residential respite, as well as a one-time financial scholarship to help offset the cost of respite care.

Funding for The Respite Care and Wellness Program is limited, so we do not guarantee that an applicant will receive a financial scholarship. However, we encourage you to apply. If the funding is not available when you apply, your application will be kept on file until June 30th following your date of application. Applicants will be required to complete and submit a new application after June 30th if they are still interested in being considered for the Program.

Who is eligible for The Respite and Wellness Program?

To be accepted into The Respite Care and Wellness Program,

*the primary family caregiver and the person with Alzheimer’s disease must live together full-time in the State of New Jersey.

*the primary family caregiver must be a United States Citizen.

*the primary family caregiver must submit medical certification from a physician that the person receiving care has Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia.

*the primary family caregiver must submit an application complete with all required information. This application will require a notarized financial attestation.

How does the program work? What is the amount of financial assistance received through The Respite Care and Wellness Program?

The Respite Care and Wellness Program provides a one-time per family, financial scholarship of $1,000 to the primary family caregiver who is in need of respite care services.

When the completed application packet is received and it is deemed to be complete and all the eligibility criteria have been met it is then approved. If there is scholarship funding available, the scholarship is awarded by mail.

If the application is deemed to be complete and is approved, but there are no funds available at that time, the application will be maintained on file until June 30th following the date you apply. No applications are carried forward after June 3oth. An applicant must reapply following this date in order to be considered for the new fiscal year funding allocation.

If your application is deemed to be incomplete or you do not meet the eligibility criteria, you will receive a letter, which will detail the reason your application is not being approved.

Why do I need to fill out a W-9 form (Request for Taxpayer Identification Number and Certification)?

Alzheimer’s New Jersey is required by the Internal Revenue Service to report our financial activities. As a result, recipients of scholarships through The Respite Care and Wellness Program will be sent a 1099-MISC (miscellaneous income) form for the tax year in which a scholarship was received. Please consult your own tax advisor with any questions.

What kinds of respite services can the scholarship funding be utilized for?

*In-Home Services: personal care services provided in the home by a certified home health aide (CHHA) employed and supervised by a licensed health care services firm or licensed home health care agency or a companion supervised by a licensed health care services firm.

*Adult Day Services: care provided in a social adult day care program or a licensed adult day health services program. Social day care is defined as a program of recreational and social group activities designed and staffed specifically for the daycare of individuals needing supervision for safety and activities of daily living.

*Overnight Respite: temporary placement in a licensed facility to allow the caregiver to travel, receive medical care or have a complete rest.

Alzheimer’s New Jersey Helpline can provide information about respite care services available throughout our service area but we do not make any specific recommendations concerning the choice of respite services. The family caregiver is responsible for the selection and arrangement of respite care services.

What if I receive the Scholarship Award but don’t use it all for respite services. What am I required to do?

If you do not utilize the complete $1,000.00 financial scholarship as outlined by the terms of the program, you are required to return the amount you did not use as a donation back to the program.

Can you reapply for participation in The Respite Care and Wellness Program?

No. An applicant can only be a recipient of the scholarship award once.

Fore more information:

For more information about the Respite Care and Wellness Program, please contact us: toll-free at 888-280-6055 or 973-586-4300. Website: http://www.alznj.org

This was revised 12/21/2015

Disclaimer: This information was taken directly from the Alzheimer’s New Jersey pamphlet and since I have never used the service, I don’t have an opinion, yes or no, on what the program is like. Please call their number that is enclosed for more information and any questions you might have for them.

 

Posted in Alzheimer's and Parkinson Disease Programs, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's Treatment, Health and Life Support Services, Medicare/Medicaid Programming, Men's Programming, Senior Caregiver Programs, Senior Services, Uncategorized, Woman's Programming | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

50 Ways to Support a Caregiver

Posted on August 10, 2016 by jwatrel

Practical Tips: 50 Ways to Support a Caregiver: For family & Friends

Have you ever wanted to help a friend or family member who is overwhelmed or stressed because of their caregiving duties? Here are 50 things you can do that can make a real difference.

  1. Let the caregiver know that it is OK to ask for help-no one can do it alone.
  2. If your offer of support is turned down, keep trying. Accepting help from others may not come easily to some people.
  3. Offer to bring the caregiver a meal.
  4. Create a sign-up calendar (online or offline) for others who want to bring food.
  5. Buy a gift certificate for a favorite store or takeout restaurant.
  6. Pick up a few extra groceries when you stop.
  7. Ask friends to chip in to hire a cleaning service (every week or every once in a while).
  8. Help with home safety changes like grab bars or ramps.
  9. Help organize the home to reduce clutter and avoid accidents.
  10. Help make a list of regular household tasks that others can do.
  11. Mow the lawn, rake leaves or shovel snow.
  12. Vacuum the house.
  13. Offer to pick up laundry. Return it clean and folded.
  14. Clean the refrigerator.
  15. Wash and vacuum the caregiver’s car.
  16. Pick up medication at the pharmacy.
  17. Help organize medications (create a chart or calendar).
  18. Send a card, email or text-let the caregiver and the family know you are thinking about them. Let them know you don’t expect a response.
  19. Offer to keep friends and family informed.
  20. Create a schedule of visitors or others who can help.
  21. Arrange for a trusted person to call regularly to check in.
  22. Join the caregiver for a walk.
  23. Walk the dog.
  24. Troubleshoot computer problems.
  25. Watch the caregiver’s kids.
  26. Give the caregiver a break.
  27. Stay with the person who needs care for an afternoon or weekend.
  28. Take the person who need care for an outing.
  29. Share a joke or humorous story-laughter is a good way to relieve stress.
  30. Lend a good book or movie-it may encourage the caregiver to rest.
  31. Return library books or movie rentals.
  32. Gently ask direct questions such a “Are you able to sleep?” or “How is your own health?”
  33. Encourage the caregiver to visit his or her own doctor or dentist.
  34. Treat the caregiver to a haircut, massage or manicure.
  35. Bring flowers.
  36. Find benefits, programs or community resources for the disabled, veterans or seniors.
  37. Find an attorney who can help with legal issues. Many communities offer free or low-cost legal services.
  38. Help with financial or insurance paperwork.
  39. Make calls for the caregiver.
  40. Help connect with other caregivers.
  41. Look online or in the community for chat or support groups.
  42. Research information about the loved one’s condition.
  43. Send links to sites that have helpful hints.
  44. Be thoughtful about the information you provide-don’t overwhelm them with too much.
  45. Allow the caregiver to complain, laugh or cry. You may not be able to fix the problem, but listening can help ease the stress.
  46. Offer to drive them to appointments.
  47. Offer to drive to their place of worship.
  48. Ask if you can research counseling options for the caregiver or the person who needs care.
  49. Find classes, books or online resources that teach stress reduction techniques such as deep breathing, yoga or medication.
  50. Help a caregiver create a list of things they are grateful for. Post the list where they will see it often. Positive thoughts can help get them through hard moments.

**Providing care for an older, ill or disabled loved on can be very rewarding. But it can be stressful too. Getting support from others can help caregivers cope with the stress. Look inside to find 50 ways to help support a caregiver.

**Disclaimer: This pamphlet was written by Nancy Calhoun for Journeyworks Publishing. This pamphlet is not a substitute for medical care. If you have questions or concerns, please talk with a healthcare provider.

Don’t go out this alone, learn to ask for help!

Journeyworks Publishing

P.O. Box 8466

Santa Cruz, CA  95061

1-800-775-1998

http://www.journeyworks.com

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Stress and the Caregiver: A Guide for Caregivers

Posted on August 10, 2016 by jwatrel

Ten Steps to Managing Stress: Stress and the Caregiver: A guide for Caregivers

Caring for a person with an ongoing illness or for an older adult can be very stressful. These tips will help you manage the stress that comes with the difficult job of caregiving.

  1. Talk with other Caregivers:

*Talking about the stresses of caregiving can give you a great deal of relief.

*Join a support group. Sharing with others who are going through the same kinds of things can help you feel better. You may also learn new ways to cope.

*You may want to talk with a friend or relative. Or, you may be more comfortable talking with a counselor.

2. Take Care of Yourself:

*Make sure you take time off caregiving. Time to yourself is essential!

*By taking breaks, you will be able to avoid ‘burnout’ and do a better job of caregiving.

*You will also be saving your health and emotional well being.

*Consider hiring a health aide to give you a regular break.

*Don’t forget to take of yourself. Get regular check-ups-your health is also important.

3. Ask for Help:

*Caregiving is a huge job-and it is too much to do alone.

*Ask family or friends to pitch in. Make a list of ways they can help. Have it ready when they offer.

*Use respite services. Contact your local social services to find out about respite care, adult day care and other resources in your area. For more information, visit ww.eldercare.gov on the Internet. Or, call the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116.

*Consider hiring someone to clean your house and run errands.

4. Learn to Let Go:

*Focus on those things are most important. Let go of less important commitments.

*Accept that you may not be able to do things the way you used to. For example, you may not be able to clean your house as often or do the dishes after every meal.

5. Rest as much as you can:

*Without good rest, you will quickly wear down. Things that used to be manageable may seem unbearable.

*Help the person you are caring for get on sleep schedule so that you can too.

*If possible, sleep in a different room. Use a monitor to let you know if the person wakes up.

*Have someone else stay with the person one or two nights a week so that you can catch up on sleep.

6. Eat Well:

*Food is out body’s fuel. Without good food, we quickly wear down.

*East regular, healthy meals. Make sure you get plenty of fruits, vegetables, grains and protein.

*Avoid eating too much sugar, fat and salt.

*Avoid foods and drinks with caffeine.

7. Avoid Alcohol:

*Alcohol and other drugs may seem like they are helping stress, but in the long run, they will wear your body down.

*If you are using alcohol or other drugs to help you deal with stress, talk to your doctor or a counselor.

8. Keep your sense of humor:

*Try to find humor in difficult situations.

*Spend time with friends who are fun and make you laugh.

*Laughter can actually release chemicals in your body that will help you feel better.

9. Exercise:

*Exercise is one of the best ways to reduce stress. Even a few minutes a day can help!

*Try walking. Walking with friends will give you a social outlet as well as exercise.

*If you can’t leave your house or caregiving duties, you can exercise by stretching, walking or jogging in place.

*If the person, you are caring for needs exercise do it together. Try walking, dancing or seated exercises.

10. Be Good to yourself:

*You are doing a tough job and you deserve a reward.

*Buy yourself flowers, go out to dinner or watch a sunset.

*Think about what you can do for yourself (or what others can do for you) that will make you feel good. Then make it a priority!

This pamphlet was written by Mardi Richmond for Journeyworks Publishing.

For: Journeyworks Publishing

P.O. Box 8466

Santa Cruz, CA  95061

**This pamphlet is meant to help the caregiver out.

**Disclaimer: This pamphlet is meant to help the caregiver. Always take time out for yourself and consultant with a doctor when needed.

 

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Balancing Caregiving, Family & Work

Posted on August 10, 2016 by jwatrel

Caring for an older, ill or disabled adult: Balancing Caregiving, Family and Work: tips to make your job easier.

Caring for an older, ill or disabled person can take a lot of time and energy. For people who work or have other family obligations, caregiving can be very challenging. The tips below can help you find balance.

  1. No one can do it all:

*If you are working, taking care of a family and trying to provide care for an aging, ill or disabled adult, you may feel tugged in different directions.

*You may not be able to give 100% everywhere. This is a time when you will have to make hard choices.

*Be gentle with yourself. No one can do it all.

2. Set Priorities:

*Make a list of your personal, caregiving, family and work obligations.

*Let go of less important commitments wherever you can.

*It is important to put your personal needs first. You cannot care for another person if you are not healthy.

3. Talk to your employer:

*Find out if you have Employee Assistance Program that offers support to caregivers.

*Keep your work and your caregiving responsibilities as separate as possible. For example, make phone calls to find caregiving resources on lunch breaks not during  work time.

*Consider job sharing or working part time if possible. Or find out about flex-time schedules.

4. Join Together:

*Don’t try to carry the load alone. Enlist the support of other family members. Even children can help in some ways.

*Talk with your spouse and children about how difficult it is to be torn between responsibilities. Protect those family times that are most important.

5. Call a family meeting:

*If other family member are not helping enough, call everyone together to discuss options. Don’t wait until you are burnt out.

*Even distant family members can help by making regular phone “visits”, paying bills or researching local agencies by phone.

6. Seek help outside the family:

*A friend or coworker may be able to help by running errands or walking your dog.

*Consider hiring help for household chores and other tasks you would normally do yourself.

7. Use Community Resources:

*Use professional caregivers or adult day care. Try meal delivery, transportation services or volunteer support.

*Think about hiring a care manager. This is a social worker or nurse who specializes in finding care for older or disabled adults.

*Talk with an attorney or finance outside care.

*Free or low-cost care management and legal aid may be available in your county.

8. Take Care of Yourself first:

* Taking care of yourself means that you can provide better care for your loved one. You have to be your first priority.

*Try-no matter how hard it is-to have a life outside of caregiving. This will help you stay healthier, both mentally and physically.

*Be sure to eat healthy meals, get enough rest and exercise regularly.

*If you are feeling overwhelmed, talk to a family member, friend, counselor or health care provider. Consider joining a caregiver support group.

*See a health care provider if you are depressed, drinking alcohol more than normal or using prescription or other drugs to help you cope.

*Take time away from responsibilities for few hours each week.

9. Consider Alternatives:

*It is important to reassess your loved one’s needs periodically-and your ability to provide care.

*You have the right to get help and relief from the stress of caregiving.

**Balancing caregiving with other family and work obligations can be overwhelming at times. Getting help is essential. So is taking care of yourself! To find information about support groups and other services in your area, consult your local phone book. You can also call the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116 or visit its website at http://www.eldercare.gov on the Internet.

Pamphlet was written by Mardi Richmond for Journeyworks Publishing.

Disclaimer: Please remember everyone to take care of yourself and keep yourself healthy. The advice they give is quite helpful. Please remember to use your best judgment.

 

 

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Tips for Caregivers: Dealing with Anger

Posted on August 9, 2016 by jwatrel

Tips for Caregivers: Dealing with Anger; Practical ways of helping you care for a person with memory loss and confusion.

People with memory loss and confusion sometimes become agitated, angry or violent. These behaviors can be very hard on caregivers and may even become dangerous. The following tips are designed to help you avoid and defuse angry outbursts.

  1. Remember that anger is a symptom:

*Try not to take angry outbursts personally.

*Remember that anger is often the result of loss of control or frustration.

*Look for early signs of frustration, such as fidgeting. Try to distract the person before violent outbursts occur.

2. Respond calmly:

*Respond to anger and outbursts in a calm and direct manner.

*Make eye contact. Speak in clear, short, easy-to-understand sentences.

*Approach the person slowly and from the front.

3. Look for physical causes:

*Check for pain, illness or constipation. These can cause frustration and anger.

*Have a doctor check for problems with vision or hearing that may cause confusion.

*Some medications can cause anxiety, hallucination or paranoia.

* Find out if medication may decrease symptoms.

4. Avoid Confusion:

*Limit choices that cause confusion.

*Avoid situations with a lot of noise, activity and people.

*Do the same things at the same time each day.

5. Plan for quiet times:

*Make sure the person is getting enough sleep.

*Alternate quiet times with other activities.

*Try listening to soft music or reading aloud.

6. Reduce Stress:

*Notice if the person is acting lost, confused or frightened. Calmly reassure him or her.

* Take a break if you are feeling angry or frustrated. The person may react to your mood.

*Plan stressful activities such as bathing for when the person is relaxed.

*Allow plenty of time for all activities and give clear, step-by-step directions.

*Try a daily walk to reduce stress.

*Provide soothing objects such as stuffed animals.

7. Assess Danger:

*Make sure the person cannot hurt him or herself.

*Try moving five steps back from the person to defuse the anger.

*Avoid holding or restraining the person. This may make the situation worse.

*If possible, avoid an upsetting situation or lead the person away from it.

*Try to distract the person with a favorite food or activity.

8. Keep yourself safe:

*If the person is violent, make sure you are safe. If necessary, stay out of reach or leave the room to avoid getting hurt.

*Call friends, family, neighbors or your doctor for help.

*If violent episodes are repeated, make an emergency plan to keep you and the person safe.

*If you feel unsafe or threatened, call 911 or your local emergency number.

9. Evaluate Episodes:

*After a violent episode, do not remind or blame the person. He or she may have forgotten what happened.

*Look at what caused the problem. See if there is any way to avoid the situation in the future.

*Remember that by responding calmly, you can sometimes help avoid outbursts.

10. Create a calm and safe home:

*Reduce clutter in the home. Provide good lighting to lessen confusion caused by shadows.

*Avoid changing living environments and caregivers when possible.

*When a change or move is necessary, include familiar objects in the new home.

*Try to make changes gradually.

**This pamphlet is not a substitute for professional medical care. If you have questions or concerns, please talk with a health care provider.

This was written by Mardi Richmond for Journeyworks Publishing.

P.O. Box 8466

Santa Cruz, CA  95061

**This information was taken directly from the pamphlets provided by Journeyworks Publishing to help caregivers.

Disclaimer: I have not used the methods provided in this pamphlet and please consult with a doctor before taking any new steps in caregiving.

 

 

 

 

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