Uncategorized – FrannyCares

Happy Pride Month!

National Pride Month is a time to honor and celebrate the LGBTQ+ community, their achievements, and their resilience. As care professionals, we should recognize and respect the unique needs and experiences of LGBTQ+ older adults. Providing sensitive and inclusive care ensures they feel valued, supported, and safe. Here are a few essentials to keep in mind:

Foster a welcoming environment:
Create a safe space where LGBTQ+ older adults can be open about their identities. Don’t avoid the subject, be genuinely curious if they are open to talking about their paths.

Educate yourself:
Take the time to learn about LGBTQ+ history, terminology, and the unique challenges faced by this community. This knowledge will help you provide better care and establish trust.

Click here for a great video explainer on working with LGBTQ+ older adults

Use inclusive language:
Respect preferred pronouns and avoid assumptions. Allow individuals to self-identify and be mindful of using inclusive language in all interactions.

Click here for language guidance

Acknowledge healthcare disparities:
LGBTQ+ individuals may have faced discrimination or barriers to healthcare throughout their lives. Understand their health needs and if you are accompanying them to the doctor make sure the doctors are fully understanding what their patients are saying (a good tip for all doctor visits!)

Click here to learn more about why there are health disparities

Connect with LGBTQ+ resources:
Familiarize yourself with local LGBTQ+ organizations, support groups, or healthcare providers experienced in serving this community. They can offer valuable resources and guidance.

Remember, the path to sensitive caregiving begins with empathy, open-mindedness, and a commitment to creating an inclusive environment. By nurturing an atmosphere of respect and understanding, we can ensure that LGBTQ+ older adults receive the compassionate care they deserve during National Pride Month and beyond.

FrannyCares celebrates diversity and equality in all aspects of our lives!

Stay Amazing Caregivers!

~ Franny

Hello Caregivers!

A restful sleep is so important for your mental and physical health. That’s why when you accept a night shift, it may be hard on your mind and body if you are used to working during daylight hours. Below are a few tips to help you adjust to an upcoming night shift schedule.

It is almost impossible to get ready for the night shift in just a couple of days. If you have the time, it’s best to train your body and mind for a few weeks to acclimate to the change.

Create a perfect space for sleeping during the day by mimicking night. This may include using blackout curtains, a sleep mask and possibly ear plugs to minimize any distractions to your sleep. Also keep the room cool and tell people in your household to be as quiet as possible while you rest. It’s not easy to reset your body’s natural circadian rhythm!

On your night shift, it can be tempting to consume foods or beverages with sugar or caffeine for a much needed jolt. But these can offset all the hard work you have put into training your body’s clock. Opt for healthier alternatives such as berries, nuts, yogurt and lots of water. For a quick pick-me-up try a brisk walk, a cold compress to your face and neck or do some jumping jacks. Anything to get your mind and body moving again!

My favorite sleep mask and ear plugs I personally use:

Stay Amazing!

~ Franny