Finding Home Finding a Safe Place for Older Loved Ones
The holiday season is a time for gathering with your loved ones, but it can also be a reality check for many families. Their older loved ones may appear “not all there,” disheveled, or just simply off. It may be a sign that the older adult is in need of extra care, whether that’s found in an assisted living or nursing facility or through an at-home caregiver. As you decide, keep these telltale signs of good and bad elder care options in mind. This can prevent an all-too-common issue: elder abuse. The Ugly Side of Caregiving Because senior populations may rely on others for daily functions, they can be susceptible to abuse and neglect. Often, there are issues that can alert a family member to such occurrences. For instance, if a facility has a strong smell of urine or feces, this is a sign that the facility may not have enough staff to help older adults use the restroom, so residents live in unsanitary conditions. Other common signs of neglect or abuse include a lack of privacy — staff members don’t knock — or mistrust of staff. Texas-Sized LAUGHS
When touring a new facility, monitor resident interactions with staff and daily activities to gauge the health of the facility. Ask for references when interviewing at-home caregivers. Signs of a Good Facility and Caregiver A great facility will be active. There will be activities posted on a bulletin board, regular celebrations, decor matching the theme of the season, and residents milling about in common areas. Another positive sign is outdoor space and plant life. If a facility has patios, bird-watching spaces, and blooming plants, the staff cares about creating a relaxing environment for their residents. It’s also a great idea to inquire about volunteers. Scouting troops, churches, and local resource centers will often partner with the best local senior services to provide activities and workshops for their residents. This is a sign that caregivers are invested in the well-being of their residents. Choosing the right care options for your loved one isn’t easy, but feeling confident in the people you trust with your loved one’s care can offer peace of mind. If that comfort is dashed by signs of elder abuse, contact Aulsbrook Law Firm today. We can help you fight for justice.
CELTIC YULE CUPCAKES
INGREDIENTS
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2 eggs
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3/4 tsp baking powder
1/2 cup butter
1 tbsp milk
1/2 tsp vanilla extract Orange zest, to taste
1 1/3 cups raisins 2 tbsp hot water
2/3 cup sugar 1 1/4 cups flour
2 cups powdered sugar
DIRECT IONS
1. Preheat the oven to 375 F. 2. In a large bowl, beat together the eggs, butter, vanilla, orange zest, and sugar. 3. Add the flour and baking powder, then fold in the milk and raisins. 4. Grease a cupcake tin before pouring the batter into it. 5. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until cooked through. Let cool. 6. In a small bowl, blend the hot water and powdered sugar to create the icing. 7. Ice your cupcakes and serve!
Inspired by RecipesForAPaganSoul.weebly.com
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