Seniors Find Health in Music

Neurologist Gottfried Schlaug conducted a recent study on the effects of learning music, showing that music helps exercise the mind, lift spirits, and initiate physical movements. Other researchers found that the music we love stimulates the release of neural growth factors that promote the vigor, growth, and replacement of brain cells.

Music keeps the mind healthy and resilient. The challenge of learning music can encourage seniors to engage in other, new activities. With homecare, caretakers assist and support client activities, including music. They are able to drive clients to and from scheduled activities or classes. READ MORE »

Dear Katy - Can a client or family member interview caregivers before they're assigned? L.V., Salt Lake City, UT

Dear L.V. - Families are always welcome to interview caregivers before they begin working with the family. A reputable agency should first do an assessment and develop a plan of care. Using this plan, the agency will select several candidates that could be a good fit for the client. All of the prospective caregivers should have the correct skills but the interview is a great time to learn more about their personality. Since this is someone that will be in a client's home for quite some time, it is really important that the client feels comfortable with the caregiver and that they are compatible.

Dear Katy - Can a client receive more than one caregiver? T.M., San Jose, CA

Dear T.M. - A patient can have as many caregivers as they want. In fact, some clients will "try out" several different caregivers for a shift and then decide who they will like to work with (as opposed to interviewing ahead of time). From my experience, most families want consistency so they usually want to keep the number of caregivers to a minimum. If a client is receiving care seven days per week, they will have two caregivers, one working during the week and another on the weekends. One of the advantages of working with an agency is that back-up caregivers will be arranged if needed.
(Submit your questions to kdougherty@professionalhc.com. Follow her on twitter.)

Top 5 Therapeutic Musical Instruments

1. Piano- Widely used in classical music, the piano is a solo instrument that provides a soothing tune.
2. Classical Guitar- Six string solo instrument that is convenient and portable.
3. Violin- A four string instrument which brings the highest pitch in the violin family.
4. Cello- The second largest bowed string instrument that sounds a strong double bass
5. Harp- The harp is one of the oldest musical instruments and is used in classical and modern music.

Vol. 2, No. 5

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