A diagnosis of Parkinson's disease is life-changing and raises many questions. What is Parkinson’s disease? What symptoms are expected in each stage? How will everyday life be affected? In honor of Parkinson’s Awareness Month, CareTime, American, Advocate, and Whitsyms In-Home Care offer the following information to help families provide the best care for a loved one at all stages of the disease. What Is Parkinson’s Disease? Parkinson’s occurs when dopamine, a neurotransmitter responsible for transmitting signals in the brain, is deficient. This reduction in dopamine levels leads to the manife ..read more

As we journey through life, planning for milestones like career advancements, family expansions, and dream vacations is natural. Yet, one aspect of life often gets overlooked or pushed aside: planning for our healthcare needs, especially as we age. However, having an advance healthcare directive in place is not just for the elderly or those with serious medical conditions—it's important for everyone. The Florida referred care providers at CareTime, American, Advocate, and Whitsyms In-Home Care share what advance directives entail, why they're crucial, and how discussing end-of-life wishes can ..read more

We’ve long known that good sleeping habits are vitally important for our physical and emotional health. Now, researchers have identified even more evidence to prioritize sleeping well: a link between deep sleep and dementia prevention. The study revealed that the likelihood of developing problems, such as difficulty with thinking and making decisions and impaired memory, increases by 27% with as little as a 1% reduction in deep sleep. These sobering statistics give us even more incentive to understand what deep sleep is and to help older loved ones – as well as ourselves – sleep better. The Sc ..read more

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), chest pain or discomfort are the primary symptoms of a heart attack. This sensation can feel like pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain in the center of the chest. While chest pain is the most well-known symptom of a heart attack, it's important to recognize that men and women often experience other distinct warning signs. The referred care providers at CareTime, American, Advocate, and Whitsyms In-Home Care share information about the unique warning signs of a heart attack and how in-home care services can help aid recovery a ..read more

As you’re shopping for heart-shaped boxes of candy and cards this month, it’s also a great reminder to consider heart health! February is American Heart Month, a dedicated time to raise awareness about maintaining a healthy heart and emphasize the importance of adopting heart-friendly habits. Heart disease remains a significant health concern globally, but the good news is that simple lifestyle changes can substantially reduce the risk. The Florida referred care providers at CareTime, American, Advocate, and Whitsyms In-Home Care share seven critical strategies to promote heart health and lowe ..read more

Caring for a loved one with dementia is a journey that requires patience, understanding, and resilience. Family caregivers play a crucial role in providing support, compassion, and maintaining the well-being of a loved one with dementia. Sometimes, the challenges of caring for someone with dementia may seem overwhelming. The experts at CareTime, American, Advocate, and Whitsyms In-Home Care offer the following strategies and tips for family caregivers. Top 10 Dementia Care Tips for Family Caregivers Learn to Communicate Effectively. Communicating with someone with dementia requires patience a ..read more

Caring for a loved one with dementia is a journey that requires patience, understanding, and resilience. Family caregivers play a crucial role in providing support, compassion, and maintaining the well-being of a loved one with dementia. Sometimes, the challenges of caring for someone with dementia may seem overwhelming. The experts at CareTime, American, Advocate, and Whitsyms In-Home Care offer the following strategies and tips for family caregivers. Top 10 Dementia Care Tips for Family Caregivers Learn to Communicate Effectively. Communicating with someone with dementia requires patience a ..read more

The holiday season often brings families together, providing an opportunity to reconnect and share in each other's lives. During these gatherings, you might have observed that Mom or Dad could benefit from some additional support at home. Taking the initiative to address these concerns through a well-structured family meeting is crucial in determining the best course of action in caring for older parents. The referred care providers at CareTime, American, Advocate, and Whitsyms In-Home Care share helpful tips for organizing an effective family meeting, ensuring everyone's input is valued and y ..read more

The holiday season often brings families together, providing an opportunity to reconnect and share in each other's lives. During these gatherings, you might have observed that Mom or Dad could benefit from some additional support at home. Taking the initiative to address these concerns through a well-structured family meeting is crucial in determining the best course of action in caring for older parents. The referred care providers at CareTime, American, Advocate, and Whitsyms In-Home Care share helpful tips for organizing an effective family meeting, ensuring everyone's input is valued and y ..read more

If you find yourself squeezed between caring for your aging parents and growing children, you're not alone. More than half of all Americans aged 40 and over are in the same boat. The journey of being part of the sandwich generation can be rewarding but undeniably challenging. Managing caregiver stress is crucial for your well-being. The referred care providers at American, Advocate, and Whitsyms In-Home Care share some tips to help you find that delicate balance. How Can the Sandwich Generation Relieve Caregiver Stress? Prioritize Self-Care. It may sound cliché, but the oxygen mask analogy ho ..read more