Dimly lit, poorly kept rooms, unkempt elderly sitting or lying listlessly in their beds surrounded by smell of decay mixed with strong disinfectant, some knick-knacks lying around to fill the available space, and disinterested staff talking among themselves or shouting at the elderly, going about their business of managing things. This is the image that generally comes to mind when one thinks of old age homes. Having visited scores of senior living facilities around the country as part of my work in building Samarth Eldercare, I can say this is not too far from reality for a very lar ..read more

Caring for an older adult can be an isolating experience. But knowing that a larger caregiving community exists can help you feel less alone. A free YouTube TV series called Ruth & Erica is a realistic story about the struggles, fears, and sacrifices that family caregivers often face. Golden Globe winner Maura Tierney, Philip Baker Hall, and Lois Smith play out this family drama over 13 eight-minute episodes. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VlLHMWFVgvk The post A TV Series about care-giving and aging appeared first on SamarthCare ..read more

Since the last 10 years I have known Lakshmi, she has been juggling caring for her mother with a full-time job and looking after her family of 3. We used to work together but she decided to go part-time last year and now does freelance work. We are good friends and talk about nearly everything under the sun. Lately, she has become quite negative and despondent. One day she told me that she wished that the day-in and day-out responsibilities of caregiving would just end, relieving her and her mother both. As we talked, she suddenly felt extremely guilty for wishing death upon her loved one and ..read more

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Dementia is a progressive disorder that presents unique challenges for both the individuals affected and their caregivers. As the condition advances, communication can become increasingly difficult, and traditional verbal interactions may not be as effective as they once were. However, adopting a positive approach and using nonverbal communication techniques can significantly improve the quality of life for both seniors with dementia and their caregivers.  The Importance of a Positive Approach&nbs ..read more

Yamini and Shivam Sharma were going through many sleepless nights, anxious about Nandini, Yamini’s mother, who was living alone. They had seen her struggle a bit more than usual lately. Even though they visited every other day and helped her with household chores, stocking up the pantry and taking her out for a change, they didn’t feel good about her spending the night alone. Nandini was suffering from Alzheimer’s, and the doctors had indicated that she was approaching the second stage of the disease. Concerned for her safety and well-being, Yamini and Shivam made the difficult decision that i ..read more

Parents. The people who’ve seen it all, been through the thick and thin, and have stories that could fill a library. Engaging them isn’t about bringing out the old bingo board or setting them in front of a movie. It’s about diving deeper and making a connection that’s genuine and lasting. Let’s chat about how we can truly engage our parents in a meaningful way. Start Slow and Steady. We’ve all heard the phrase “slow and steady wins the race,” right? When it comes to engaging parents, it couldn’t be truer. There’s no need to jump in with both feet immediately. Sometimes the best way to begin is ..read more

Growing old is a natural part of life, just like how dusk follows dawn. However, as our parents age, the care they need becomes paramount. In our fast-paced world, where commitments pile up, we need to ensure our parents receive the care they deserve. Understanding the Hesitation First off, you might find your parents resisting the idea. Their refusal might stem from the age-old wish to stay independent or, perhaps, from a previous bad experience. Remember, the generation before us values their independence and might see professional support as admitting defeat. Tip: Start the conversation ear ..read more

Travelling with your parents can be an incredibly rewarding experience. It provides an opportunity to create lasting memories, strengthen your bond, and share new adventures. However, it’s important to plan your trip with your parents’ comfort and preferences in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.   Here are some valuable tips for making the most of your travels with older parents: Experiences Rather Than Places When planning your trip, shift your focus from merely visiting tourist destinations to curating senior-friendly experiences that your parents will truly enjoy. Consider ..read more

“Ever felt a twinge of guilt, imagining your childhood home in India, once filled with laughter, now echoing with the silence of your aging parents?” As you stroll through the bustling streets of cities like London or Dubai, memories of freshly brewed chai and Bollywood tunes might tug at your heartstrings. But with each passing day, a nagging question arises: Are your parents getting the senior care they deserve back home? Recognizing the signs that they might need care for elderly in India isn’t just crucial—it’s a profound responsibility.   It’s not just about looking after our parents ..read more