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Emma Hamilton's blog

Broken hip: Precautions after a hip replacement

It's important following a hip replacement that older people and their caregivers follow certain precautions to avoid hip dislocation. Depending on the type of surgery you have your health provider will instruct you on what you can and cannot do following surgery.

Communicating in a meaningful way

If you're a personal care assistant working in an aged care home you most likely spend most of your shift running from resident to resident. Physical tasks like showering, toileting and feeding a resident will take up a majority of your shift.

But have you ever stopped to think about the content of your conversations with an older person?

Personal story of a carer

If you're caring for a frail older person you would know that something as simple as a cold can often lead to a spiral of events that can have devastating consequences. This personal story was sent to me recently and I think it highlights how an elderly person's health can quickly deteriorate.
 
Unfortunately when an aged care resident is moved from one aged care facility to the next, communication between staff and facilities can often breakdown, paper work can be misplaced and clinical signs overlooked by untrained nursing staff.

Talking to someone at the end of life

Communicating difficult news can be an uncomfortable task for many carers. As a caregiver you may have to talk to someone you love and care for about a diagnosis or change in care arrangements. Perhaps you have to deliver bad news to family or friends or relay information from health professionals.

What is Mild Cognitive Impairment?

Over recent years the term Mild Cognitive Impairment or MCI has been used to describe a type of memory impairment that sits somewhere between normal age related memory loss and early Alzheimer's.

People experiencing MCI typically have problems with memory, thinking, judgement and language. But unlike early stages of Alzheimer's, MCI does not necessarily have a major impact on daily living skills. 

Caregiver tips for Xmas day

For most of us the holiday period is a time of celebration, family get-togethers and parties. But for many older people Xmas time can be a reminder of how quickly time has passed or how much they miss the company of close family and friends.

Caregivers too can often feel guilty if they can't live up to everyone's expectations over the holiday period. Many older people spending their first Xmas in residential care may mourn the loss of the family home and old traditions. But even if your loved one is in an aged care home you can still include them in family celebrations.

Disclaimer: This site is for information purposes only and should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem, nor as a substitute for professional advice with a qualified health professional or doctor.

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