Tuesday, March 31, 2020

Senior Veterans Care Network March 2020 Blog Post

Posted on 03/28/2020
4 Steps to Help Seniors Plan for a Move to Assisted Living with Pets
4 Steps to Help Seniors Plan for a Move to Assisted Living with Pets    Your pets are like family. So,... View More
Posted on 03/26/2020
March 29th: National Vietnam War Veterans Day, how you can participate in virtual events to honor those who served.
LANSING, Mich. – March 29th is National Vietnam War Veterans Day, a national holiday meant to recognize... View More
Posted on 03/25/2020
NATIONAL VIETNAM WAR VETERANS DAY IS THIS SUNDAY, MARCH 29
PORT ANGELES – Sunday, March 29 is National Vietnam War Veterans Day. It’s the newest of 7 days that have... View More
Posted on 03/24/2020
WWII Vet Who Lived Through Great Depression On Coronavirus: 'We Will Prevail'
SLEEPY HOLLOW, N.Y.  —  During a crisis, perspective can be valuable. As coronavirus turns... View More
Posted on 03/23/2020
76 hours of battle: Dyer WWII veteran recalls invading Tarawa
DYER — Joe Bomersback had been a pretty regular patron of the library. Until the COVID-19 outbreak, he'd... View More
Posted on 03/20/2020
'Welcome home Tio," nephew says as Tucsonan missing in Korean War is finally laid to rest
After nearly 70 years listed as missing in action, Korean War veteran Army Cpl. Arthur Contreras Ramirez’s... View More
Posted on 03/19/2020
WWII and Korean War veteran hopes for 100 virtual birthday wishes
AMARILLO, Texas — Chairman of the Veterans Land Board George P. Bush asked the community for 100 hundred birthday... View More
Posted on 03/17/2020
Korean POW remains are coming home
The Lima VFW Post was notified last Thursday that remains of Korean war veteran, Private William Junior Winchester,... View More


Posted on 03/16/2020
VA postpones 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War Commemoration events
As a commemorative partner to the Department of Defense led 50 th Anniversary of the Vietnam War Commemoration program,... View More

Posted on 03/13/2020
Community Rallies to Fix Up Korean War Vet’s Home
An 89-year-old Korean war veteran and Purple Heart recipient arrived home Friday to a clean and renovated house after... View More
Posted on 03/12/2020
Iraqi War veteran and family recipient of newest Homes for Heroes
A veteran in our area was surprised with the gift of a new home.  Russell Snodgrass is an Iraqi War... View More
Posted on 03/11/2020
Veteran looking to give home away to fellow service member
ALTOONA, PA— A Korean War veteran who recently moved out of the area is looking to give away his home... View More
Posted on 03/10/2020
A 94-year-old WWII veteran in Denton gets her due
Why does a young woman, a self-described “poor ol’ country girl,” leave tiny Rockford. Ill., to... View More
Posted on 03/09/2020
96-year-old World War II veteran shares his story of finding love again
LOS ANGELES -- World War II veteran Sam Reiner, 96, is an American hero. He was deployed to the Pacific theater... View More
Posted on 03/06/2020
Rosalind P. Walter, original 'Rosie the Riveter,' dies at 95
Rosalind P. Walter, the  original inspiration for "Rosie the Riveter"  and longtime PBS supporter,... View More
Posted on 03/05/2020
Memorial service to be held for decorated WWII Navy veteran
A 96-year-old U.S. Navy veteran assigned to protect merchant shipping during World War II will be remembered next... View More
Posted on 03/04/2020
Two Marine veterans of Battle of Iwo Jima meet on its 75th anniversary
CAMDEN —Two nearly 100-year-old veterans of the Battle of of Iwo Jima met for the first time on its 75th anniversary... View More
Posted on 03/03/2020
Korean War veteran who dropped out for the Army receives his diploma
On Friday it was a high school graduation ceremony more than 50 years in the making. Avery Hall left Wayne Memorial... View More

Decorated World War II Veteran Celebrates 100th Birthday
World War II veteran Eugene Edwards walked into Jesse Soby American Legion Post No. 148 in Langhorne Borough Friday... View More

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Three Ways Technology Keeps Seniors Safer

Three Ways Technology Keeps Seniors Safer

When most people think about personal-use technology, flashy phones, wearable cameras and trendy headphones come to mind.  But technology has advanced in ways that can truly help people live safer, more fulfilling lives. In fact, almost no population benefits more from user-friendly technology than senior citizens. 
Below are three such tools.  
Medical Alert Systems:
Medical Alert Systems have come a long way from the often parodied “I’ve fallen and I can’t get up” commercial.  Units now are fashionable, they can be worn as necklaces, bracelets or even watches.  Most have fall detectors, GPS for elderly people who still drive, walk, hike or get out and about and the services, and ranges have expanded immensely. 
Reasons to Have A Medical Alert System
The fear of falling or suffering any medical emergency is certainly the primary motivator, but not the only reason to consider getting a medical alert system. Medical alert systems assist in other types of emergency help, as well. If a fire breaks out, the device can contact the fire department. Some systems even monitor for fire, smoke or carbon monoxide. A push of the button will alert the police of a suspected break in or other suspicious activity. Some mobile devices come with GPS tracking. Other medical alerts can also track activity through motion detectors and beacons. This would allow someone to know something is wrong or if the user has been in one place for an unusual amount of time.

Features to Look For

When choosing your device, there are some features you will want to consider:

 

Risk-Free Trial

A risk-free trial will allow you to test one or more devices at home and choose the one you’re most comfortable with. 

Water-Resistant or Waterproof
It’s best to look for a device that is 100 percent waterproof or at the very least, water-resistant so, you can wear it in the shower or bath.

Long Battery Life

Most systems and devices have a battery life that will last a week or up to a month before needing to be recharged - do your research to find out the average battery life of the system.

Signal Range

Medical alert systems either operate through a landline or cellular service. A landline service operates through your traditional telephone line covering a range up to 1,000 feet. A better bet would be cellular coverage which should work anywhere there is cell service.

Live Assistance Availability
It does you no good if you have a monitored medical alert and no one answers when you call. Look for a monitored service who has medically trained representatives available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.

Fall Detection

As mentioned, many monitored and non-monitored systems come with fall detection. Technology allows the device to automatically detect if you fall. It will call for help without you having to do anything. 

GPS Tracking

GPS tracking is a great technological advance that is offered on many medical alert systems. It can pinpoint your location and make it easier for someone to find you.

For further information about medical alert systems, including who should consider them and unbiased reviews of the most popular systems visit AginginPlace.org.

Medication Minders

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) up to 50 percent of prescribed medications are taken incorrectly.

Medication management doesn’t have to be hit-or-miss. “Smart” medication management devices can be set to open at certain times when certain medications are needed. 

Devices like PillPack, Reminder Rosie, Pillo have voice recognition software that can tell you about the medications you’re taking and listen to your commands. They can also be connected to your phone or computer. This is all in the name of making the process of taking medication safer, quicker, and easier.

Key components to look for include:

Voice Recognition 
A nice value-add is a unit that can understand and answer your questions.

Automatic Refills
Some services allow the user to avoid having to go to pharmacies for refills.  Simply upload your rx and they will send your refills to your home.

Alert Volumes and Reminders
Make sure the volume and type of alert will be heard and acknowledged by the user.  Also research how often it reminds the user they need to take their medicine should they fail to do so with the first alert.

Drug Interaction Checker
Most pill trackers notify users of dangerous drug interactions, food and alcohol’s damaging effects.

Prescription Refill Reminder
A reminder to refill prescriptions can be just as vital as a reminder to take the medication.


Telehealth/Telemedicine

Systems like Grandcare, Curavi and Vivify Health have created a suite of services track things such as daily activity and your health information in real time (heart rate, weight, glucose level, blood pressure, oxygen) and uploads this information to a safe website where your long distance caregiver can access it. 

You can also make specifications as to when you should receive alerts say, “alert me when mom doesn’t go for her daily walk” and so on. The interesting thing about this device is that it comes with many other features such as Facebook to connect with your loved ones, video games to challenge your brain, and music to relax you.

These systems can be customized to an individual’s needs/desires but some things you may want to include are:

Touchscreen
This system will only be used if it is easy to do so.  Make sure there is one, touchscreen hub that operates all tools.

Medication Management
Most units come with varying types of medication reminders – be sure to choose one that is user friendly.

Social Media
Services include, email with family members, access to online social media, games or local news.

Caregiver Alerts
Receive alerts if you forget to take medicine or upload wellness readings.

Wireless Transmitters
Make sure your system can upload readings from wireless devices like blood pressure or blood glucose monitors.

Fortunately seniors are embracing technology, the Pew Research Center reports four-in-ten seniors now own smartphones, more than double the share that did so in 2013.  Once the stigma or fear of not being tech savvy is overcome, seniors could age in place more safely and their loved ones could enjoy greater piece of mind and connection with their elders.


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4 Steps to Help Seniors Plan for a Move to Assisted Living with Pets


  • 4 Steps to Help Seniors Plan for a Move to
    Assisted Living with Pets
    Your pets are like family. So, when it comes time to transition into an assisted living facility, it
    only makes sense to factor them into the equation. If you are just beginning your search and
    plan for the right assisted living community, you may find these tips extremely helpful.
    How to Find Pet-Friendly Assisted Living
    If you’re not sure where to start when it comes to finding an assisted living home for you and
    your pet, then services like those from Senior Veterans Care Network may come in handy. You
    can use these online search tools to locate local assisted living and senior care options on your
    own, or you can speak with a rep over the phone who can help you locate pet-friendly assisted
    living communities near you.
    Wondering what to look for in assisted living aside from a welcoming pet policy? Well, that can
    depend on your needs, but you want to ensure your new home is safe and comfortable. If you
    want to be near loved ones, you should look for an assisted living facility that is close by, but

  • also consider moving to one that provides the services you need now as well as easy transitions
    to additional services you may need in the future.
    How to Pay for Pet-Friendly Assisted Living
    You should be able to find a pet-friendly facility or community in your preferred location, but
    having that extra amenity could result in higher costs. Average assisted living costs are right
    around $3,628 per month, but average monthly rates can vary from state to state. Plus, you may
    end up paying for a pet policy or other features, like a private room or concierge services. It’s
    important to keep these rates in mind and to confirm costs with your top picks for pet-friendly
    assisted living, so you can create a reasonable plan for paying for care costs. If you are a
    veteran, you may be able to receive a monthly stipend to help out with your assisted living
    expenses, but other seniors can also turn to loved ones or even consider self-funding care. If
    you are merely planning ahead, you can also look into long-term care insurance policies.
    How to Provide Care for Pets in Assisted Living
    In addition to planning for long-term care costs, you may also need to plan for pet care. If you’re
    concerned about physical or mental health limitations impacting your ability to care for your pet,
    then picking up a few helpful pet supplies could be the solution. Cat water fountains, for
    example, can provide fresh water for your feline companions and save you the hassle of
    constantly bending over to refill bowls. Not to mention that keeping your cat hydrated can
    reduce the risk of health problems, which is important for avoiding costly vet bills.
    For dog owners, ensuring pups get enough exercise can be a challenge. So, if your assisted
    living community does not offer dog-walking services, consider hiring a dog walker instead.
    How to Prepare Pets for a Move to Assisted Living
    With your assisted living and pet care plans all sorted out, you can begin preparing for the
    transition to assisted living. Keep in mind that as stressful as this move may be for you, moving
    can be even more stressful for pets. Moving with pets, especially if they have anxiety, requires
    proper planning and preparation, so begin making arrangements now to keep your best friend
    calm and healthy. Pick up any pet-proofing essentials you may need in your new home, and
    also be sure to pack your pet’s belongings last. That way, you will be able to open that box first
    to help your dog or cat settle into the new place. Settling yourself in can also take some
    planning, but it can be helpful for both you and your pet to stick to routines and explore your
    new community. Above all, have some patience as you both adjust to your new life and home.
    Bringing your pets can ease the move into assisted living. Just make sure you have the right
    plan for finding a community, paying for care, and keeping your pet happy and healthy.
    Photo Credit: Unsplash

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