California low grade for long-term services for elderly and disabled

According to a story in the Ventura County Star, California has been ranked 15th among the states on providing long-term services for older adults and the disabled. This report was based on a study by the AARP Public Policy Institute. The findings by the Institute show that California ranks last in support for caregivers and the quality of life of those needing care. The report also points out that much of the problem in all states is the budget cuts in the area of public programs.

Dehydration a concern for both caregiver and aging and ill patients

Dehydration manifests itself similar to many diseases. As people age, they are more prone to becoming dehydrated. Similarly, those who are ill must strive to stay hydrated to maintain quality of life. Many times it is up to the caregiver to determine the hydration level of the care receiver. In order for the caregiver to be able to monitor the patient, the caregiver must also be hydrated. I know when I was my aunt’s caregiver my attention was always directed at her health, not mine. I carefully monitored her liquid intake without ever thinking about mine. Looking back, I know that some of my fatigue, headaches, and lack of focus were because I was not staying hydrated myself. The aging parents and elder care site provides a very good discussion of the signs and symptoms of dehydration and a list of the water content in foods that you can offer your patient and munch on yourself.