10 Easy Steps to Teach Seniors to Use a Computer

Some of our experienced eldercare companions have taught their clients to use a computer with great success. Many of these clients now communicate with their children, grandchildren and even great grandchildren via email, Facebook and Skype. For many seniors, it has opened up a new avenue for them to keep in close contact with their loved ones and share in the milestone moments of their grandkids. Others have reported reconnecting via Facebook with friends they haven't heard from in 50 years. It is a great tool for seniors. And we have found many of our older clients tend to really embrace the technology once they get over the initial fear factor.

Teaching Seniors Computers - 10 Tips
Written By : Michael Gorzka

I've been teaching library computer classes since 1997. Here are my top 10 tips for teaching
seniors how to use a computer.

1) State the goals of the class before you begin instructing. People will come into a class with different skill levels. Advanced students will often work ahead or surf the web if the class material is too basic for them.

This can distract you and other people in the class.

After everyone in the class has been seated, I introduce myself and then say something like: "Just to
make sure we're all on the same page here, this the Introduction to Email Class". In this class we cover the
very basics of sending and receiving email messages. Is that why we're all here?"

2) Use real life parallels whenever possible...Read entire article

Posted by Wee Care Companions

National Nanny Recognition Week- September 18-24, 2011

National Nanny Recognition Week was started in 1998 by a group of industry professionals including the National Association of Nannies (NAN), to promote and honor professional nannies.

Happy National Nanny Recognition Week to all the exceptional nannies who go above and beyond to care for their charges. Wee Care Nanny sincerely thanks you and greatly appreciates the wonderful and valuable service you provide throughout the year.

For Families, if you employ a nanny there are many ways you can recognize their hard work and show your appreciation:

• Take her out to lunch or dinner with the family.
  
• Give her a gift certificate to her favorite restaurant, spa or bookstore.
  
• Give her a letter letting her know how much you and your family appreciate her and what she means to your family.
• Send a gift basket with her favorite chocolates, sweets, coffee, tea or a fruit basket. Please don't forget to include a personal thank you note.
  
• Ask your children to write a thank you letter and make a special gift showing how much they love and appreciate her.
• If possible, let her go early one day and pay her for the full day.
• Provide a gift certificate for yoga or dance classes or to the theater or movies etc.
• Most importantly, remember to sincerely thank her for everything she does throughout the year for your family and peace of mind.
  

Thank you again for your hard work and the valuable service you provide!

Posted by Wee Care Nanny Agency

Pets for Seniors - Enhance Quality of Life

Pets for Seniors - Enhance Quality of Life
Written By : G. Dube

Recent studies indicate that seniors who own pets, live longer, experience better health and enjoy life much more than the senior who has no pet companionship. Results have shown that pet owners often experience a decrease in temperature, stress level, and even blood pressure! In addition to this luxury of companionship, pets can provide joy, entertainment, love and security and even calm the pet owner. Pets love you for being you -- not for the psychological games you play -- not "only" for the treats you shell out frequently -- they are forgiving, loyal and love you unconditionally.

Learn the 6 ways pet ownership can enhance a senior's quality of life: Continue article here

Posted by Wee Care Companions

Teaching Children to Be Critical Thinkers and Other Life Lessons

I found this article from the NYT interesting and wanted to share it.

School Curriculum Falls Short on Bigger Lessons

By Tara Parker-Pope

Now that children are back in the classroom, are they really learning the lessons that will help them succeed?

Many child development experts worry that the answer may be no. They say the ever-growing emphasis on academic performance and test scores means many children aren’t developing life skills like self-control, motivation, focus and resilience, which are far better predictors of long-term success than high grades. And it may be distorting their and their parents’ values...continue article here

Posted by Wee Care Nanny

When Seniors are Resistant to Eldercare

Found this article to be helpful and on point.

When Seniors Say No to Help
By : Steven Freese

Caregiver Support Series Helps Families Overcome Resistance

A family caregiver’s job, by definition, is already a difficult one. Time away from work and family, and the worry of caring for a senior adult all can take a toll. But when you consider that many seniors often resist help, that job becomes overwhelming for so many caregivers in our own area.

A study of family caregivers conducted for the Home Instead Senior Care^® network revealed that more than half of the respondents (51 percent) said that their aging relative was very resistant to care. These seniors often object to help whether it’s from a family caregiver or a professional who tries to come into their homes to assist.

This is a real problem for family caregivers worried about the safety of a senior loved one who might be forgetting food on the stove or neglecting to take their medications. Some seniors are so resistant I’ve heard stories of them calling the police when their family members have arranged for a caregiver to visit their home...Continue article

Posted by Wee Care Companions

Financial Misconduct of the Elderly

As an agency that places companions and caregivers with seniors, we found this to be an interesting article as this is a subject that can unfortunately rear its ugly head without proper vetting and thorough background checks on a caregiver as well.

Financial Abuse of the Elderly

Written By : Bill Hayes

When a loved one gets older, it is common for use to worry about them. Are their needs being met? Should they be put in a home? Can we trust those who are looking after them?

Sadly, these causes for concern are justified. Cases of abuse are far too common for us to pretend they don't exist. One of the most common forms of elder mistreatment is financial abuse. This article will examine what financial abuse is, how it happens / who does it, and what you can do legally to correct the problem....continue article here

Posted by Wee Care Companions

Gardening, A Great Way for Seniors to Stay Active

Why Gardening is Great For Seniors
Written By : SeniorsList

Gardening in our retirement years can be a great experience. Not only does it provide a place of respite and peace, but it provides a great source of exercise. In fact, the medical community now recognizes the power for hobbies and everyday activities to provide exercise for the body. Just think of all the movements it takes to grow and maintain a garden. You’re digging, carrying dirt, bending down, standing up, and moving your muscles and joints. No wonder gardening is such a great activity! And that’s not to mention all the fresh air and sunshine you get as well... Continue reading article

Posted by Wee Care Companions