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Critical illness is a stressful condition not only for an individual who acquires a serious life threatening condition, but also for the whole family. Another perspective which creates stress is the amount of money required to spend on the treatment of critically ill person. Sometimes it becomes impossible to fulfill the financial needs, and the whole family gets handicapped. There is an insurance policy, which can fulfill all the financial needs required at the time of critical illness. Critical care insurance makes it possible to remain independent, since at many occasions, a person requires the help of others in order to fulfill his financial requirements. For instance if he develops certain medical problems, like cardiac issues, liver problems and any other life threatening condition, he would not be able to fulfill his own financial needs. However, at that time if he possesses critical care insurance, he would not require to rely upon others, since his financial needs will be fulfilled by insurance company.

The financial cover or the critical care insurance provides peace of mind and relaxation. A person does not hesitate to take his or her treatment on immediate basis if there is a company for the provision of all facilities and financial requirements. Individuals are provided with a lump sum amount that not only be sufficient during his or her stay in the hospital, but also provide all the necessities of life during the period of rehabilitation. There are several types of health insurances, like the sickness insurance, life insurance or critical care insurance, etc. A person may get puzzled and unable to decide that which type of insurance he requires. This is to decide with clear mind and in the state of relaxation that what could be the future problems and how he would become able to solve them. Among all types of health insurances, the critical care cover is a wonderful entity. This type of insurance is meant for providing the financial support at the time when it is intensely needed. If you want to acquire the critical illness nsurance , you can get full and complete information on the internet. First of all evaluate your own needs and requirements, and then decide how and when you will require such type of critical illness cover . It is better to have this policy, since in this way you can save yourself and your family.

Related Articles –
Critical Illness Insurance, Critical Illness, Critical Illness Cover,

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Critical illness is a stressful condition not only for an individual who acquires a serious life threatening condition, but also for the whole family. Another perspective which creates stress is the amount of money required to spend on the treatment of critically ill person. Sometimes it becomes impossible to fulfill the financial needs, and the whole family gets handicapped. There is an insurance policy, which can fulfill all the financial needs required at the time of critical illness. Critical care insurance makes it possible to remain independent, since at many occasions, a person requires the help of others in order to fulfill his financial requirements. For instance if he develops certain medical problems, like cardiac issues, liver problems and any other life threatening condition, he would not be able to fulfill his own financial needs. However, at that time if he possesses critical care insurance, he would not require to rely upon others, since his financial needs will be fulfilled by insurance company.

The financial cover or the critical care insurance provides peace of mind and relaxation. A person does not hesitate to take his or her treatment on immediate basis if there is a company for the provision of all facilities and financial requirements. Individuals are provided with a lump sum amount that not only be sufficient during his or her stay in the hospital, but also provide all the necessities of life during the period of rehabilitation. There are several types of health insurances, like the sickness insurance, life insurance or critical care insurance, etc. A person may get puzzled and unable to decide that which type of insurance he requires. This is to decide with clear mind and in the state of relaxation that what could be the future problems and how he would become able to solve them. Among all types of health insurances, the critical care cover is a wonderful entity. This type of insurance is meant for providing the financial support at the time when it is intensely needed. If you want to acquire the critical illness nsurance , you can get full and complete information on the internet. First of all evaluate your own needs and requirements, and then decide how and when you will require such type of critical illness cover . It is better to have this policy, since in this way you can save yourself and your family.

Related Articles –
Critical Illness Insurance, Critical Illness, Critical Illness Cover,

Email this Article to a Friend!
Receive Articles like this one direct to your email box!Subscribe for free today!

While many people take special care to establish wills, trusts, or estate plans that meet their individual wishes and needs, they often overlook an important legal document that could make a huge difference in their health and happiness. That document is a living will.A living will actually differs greatly from a “normal” will. It specifies your wishes concerning the kinds of medical treatments you would like to be given, in the event that you reach a point in an illness when you are unable to make those wishes known in the moment. If, for example, a doctor has determined that you are permanently unconscious and must remain on life support to survive, a living will may outline if you want to be kept on life support, and/or what procedures may be performed on you during this time. They can also state your wishes on topics like pain relief, feedings, and the administration of CPR.This type of will can be an important document. It can make sure that your personal wishes are met, even when you are unable to state them yourself. Of course, you may have some doubts about whether or not a living will is something you really need. Here are some things to think about when considering establishing a living will.1. Who do I want to make decisions about my healthcare?If your answer is that you want to make sure that you are the only person in charge of making all your healthcare decisions, then you absolutely need the security of a legally protective document. If there is a family member or other person you trust enough to make these decisions for you, then setting up a healthcare power of attorney will most likely suffice for your situation. 2. So what is the difference between a living will and a healthcare power of attorney?With a healthcare power of attorney, you are giving someone else the legal right to make decisions on your behalf, trusting that that person would do the same thing you would do, if you were able to act for yourself. The will, on the other hand, clearly sets forth your own wishes. The decisions you make in your living will must be followed by whomever you designate to carry them out. 3. Is a living will hard to set up?It is important that your will be extensive, covering as many possible scenarios as possible, in order to make sure that your personal wishes will always be met, no matter the circumstance. Because it can be a complicated process, it is important that you consult with a lawyer to make sure that the document is completed properly. You may also want to discuss possible scenarios, specific to your health needs, with your doctor. Finally, most people choose a designee, someone they trust to carry out the instruction specified within the living will. 4. Can I change my living will when I choose?Absolutely. Changes in your health, your personal opinions, or any number of other factors may prompt you to want to change your will. This is certainly acceptable, and can be done properly with the help of an experienced attorney. Because the document can be changed, it is even possible to start out with a more general will, one to which you can add or change specifics later. In fact, it is important that you keep your will up to date, in order to ensure that it still complies with all of your wishes concerning your healthcare. If it is important to you that your medical decisions be made by you and you alone, then a will is an important document for you to have. Contact an attorney with experience in living wills to help you. The result will be a document that could potentially help you and your loved ones make extremely difficult decisions a little easier.

While many people take special care to establish wills, trusts, or estate plans that meet their individual wishes and needs, they often overlook an important legal document that could make a huge difference in their health and happiness. That document is a living will.A living will actually differs greatly from a “normal” will. It specifies your wishes concerning the kinds of medical treatments you would like to be given, in the event that you reach a point in an illness when you are unable to make those wishes known in the moment. If, for example, a doctor has determined that you are permanently unconscious and must remain on life support to survive, a living will may outline if you want to be kept on life support, and/or what procedures may be performed on you during this time. They can also state your wishes on topics like pain relief, feedings, and the administration of CPR.This type of will can be an important document. It can make sure that your personal wishes are met, even when you are unable to state them yourself. Of course, you may have some doubts about whether or not a living will is something you really need. Here are some things to think about when considering establishing a living will.1. Who do I want to make decisions about my healthcare?If your answer is that you want to make sure that you are the only person in charge of making all your healthcare decisions, then you absolutely need the security of a legally protective document. If there is a family member or other person you trust enough to make these decisions for you, then setting up a healthcare power of attorney will most likely suffice for your situation. 2. So what is the difference between a living will and a healthcare power of attorney?With a healthcare power of attorney, you are giving someone else the legal right to make decisions on your behalf, trusting that that person would do the same thing you would do, if you were able to act for yourself. The will, on the other hand, clearly sets forth your own wishes. The decisions you make in your living will must be followed by whomever you designate to carry them out. 3. Is a living will hard to set up?It is important that your will be extensive, covering as many possible scenarios as possible, in order to make sure that your personal wishes will always be met, no matter the circumstance. Because it can be a complicated process, it is important that you consult with a lawyer to make sure that the document is completed properly. You may also want to discuss possible scenarios, specific to your health needs, with your doctor. Finally, most people choose a designee, someone they trust to carry out the instruction specified within the living will. 4. Can I change my living will when I choose?Absolutely. Changes in your health, your personal opinions, or any number of other factors may prompt you to want to change your will. This is certainly acceptable, and can be done properly with the help of an experienced attorney. Because the document can be changed, it is even possible to start out with a more general will, one to which you can add or change specifics later. In fact, it is important that you keep your will up to date, in order to ensure that it still complies with all of your wishes concerning your healthcare. If it is important to you that your medical decisions be made by you and you alone, then a will is an important document for you to have. Contact an attorney with experience in living wills to help you. The result will be a document that could potentially help you and your loved ones make extremely difficult decisions a little easier.

As our lives progress rapidly in the midst of troubled times, it’s absolutely essential not to ignore or forget the responsibilities and proactivity necessary to care for our parents. In particular, those of us solidly representing the “Baby Boomer” generation are now deep into the age where our parents really need help and practical support. Only 2 years away, when the clock strikes midnight on January 1, 2011, the oldest of the baby boomers will turn sixty-five. This remarkable generation, the largest in American history, will continue to have an enormous impact on the nation socially, economically and politically as later it ages, transforming old age as no other generation has before in history. It is, however, their newly-gained responsibility to transform the way our parents are managed and cared for, and following are 3 absolute must-do tasks and responsibilities for dealing with your parents as they quickly age.

As men and women born between 1946 and 1964 grow older, their parents are also aging. Those who have not already experienced the impact of aging on their parents will very likely do so in the next decade – and it can happen at absolutely any time, precipitated by any event, whether health, financial or social-related. You may find quickly yourself in a new season of life where you are an adult child of an aging parent. The physical and mental costs of travel, communication, direct assistance and hired help are particularly tough on your family and lifestyle when you don’t live in the same area as your aging parent – but it’s the additional load of worrying and guilt that can be unbearable.

Is he / she all right?
How will I know if he / she isn’t?
Should I be visiting more?
Should I take time off from work?
Why won’t others help?
Can I get affordable help?
Am I giving enough?

Thoughtful preparation on your part could help to minimize the guilt trip, minimize expenses, and minimize the constant worry and anxiety. Make the most of your visits and the time you can give, whether in person or remotely via the phone and email (as possible). Now more than ever organization and preparation are the keys to your success and your survival.

1) Lovingly Watch Out for Your Parent

Here are a few tips for organizing from a distance.

Establish a local support network as soon as possible. Make a list of friends, family or neighbors who live near your parent. Let these people know of your concern. They can be extra ears and eyes as well as caring friends. They can alert you when they notice signs of trouble and be available if there is an emergency.
If your parent lives alone, see if a relative, friend or neighbor will stop by occasionally to see how your parent is doing or perhaps drop off a meal or offer a ride into town. A synagogue, might know of volunteers who can check on your loved one. You may be able to hire a companion to spend time with your family member.

Learn about any local elder watch programs, for example “Meals on wheels”

Phone calls don’t always tell you what you need to know. Visit your parent so you can see for yourself what’s really going on, and so you can make adjustments to your parent’s home or get additional help when necessary.

2) Visit Your Parent

Nothing is truly more important than in-person visits, companionship and dialogue with an elder parent – it can be incredibly rewarding, satisfying and productive for both you, your family members and most of all your parent. It’s certainly much more effective than long-distance phone calls or emails, though the proliferation of Internet-based communication tools can bridget the gap – for example using online conferencing softward. This, however, requires significant attentiona and maintenance of computer resources; additionally, your parent may simply not be interested or able to leverage it. Look into Internet tools – but plan first and most often to actually visit.

In advance of visiting, plan what you want to accomplish, who else might attend, and anything you might need to discuss with your parent.

If you live far away, organize your visits in advance so you can accomplish as much as possible. If you need to meet with a doctor, lawyer, social worker, religious leader or other professional (or other friends and acquantainces of your parent), set up appointments at least a month in advance, as their schedules get filled quickly. Be sure to confirm these appointments closer to the date, and confirm your parent’s ability to attend as necessary. It’s probably not a good idea to bring the grandchildren to every visit – especially if your primary goal is targeted assessment and assistance of your parent’s basic needs.

When you are with your parent, take a mental and physical inventory of their health and living situation. Try to foresee trouble before it happens:

Does your parent seem wobbly or dizzy?
Are they well groomed, or has their personal hygiene deteriorated?
Is there ample food in the refrigerator?
Is the food spoiled and moldy, and the kitchen unkempt?
Are there significant issues with landscaping or home maintenance?
Are there piles of unopened mail or unpaid bills, notices, or newspapers in the driveway?
Do they use the computer? Check (or have someone check) its status, whether full of viruses, spam, attempts of identity theft, unusual communications or purchases.
Are finances in order? Check the visa bill, bank statement, online accounts and checkbook for unusual charges or purchases.
Do they still do the things they used to, like read, knit, play the piano or do the crossword puzzle?
Does it appear that they’re getting out, seeing friends? Are they calling on her?
When they do go out, are they unreasonably forgetful, in appearance, action or conversation?

If things seem askew or different than they used to be, it may be a sign of underlying trouble…depression, confusion, illness, diminishing eyesight, loss of financial resources, deterioration of living conditions, or simply a signal to you that your parent needs more help at home and opportunities to get out.

Include some time during your visit to talk with nearby relatives, friends or others who see your parent regularly – both to hear their thoughts and concerns and to thank them for helping in any way that they do.

Check out local services and facilities. See what hospital is best, what nursing homes are acceptable, and what community services are offered. Ask your personal life coach for more information, both to help your parent, and help yourself.

Even though your life is busy be sure to spend some time simply being with your parent, chatting and listening, watching a movie or just sitting together quietly, reminiscing together on life yesterday, now and the many tomorrows ahead. A trip that’s all business misses a critical element. Find time to relax, listen to offer support. Most importantly, try and plan visits that your parent enjoys, whether it includes a lot of noise and bustle (i.e. with the children), or is very tranquil and quiet.

3) Help Your Parent Prepare for Emergencies

Discuss and call a company that provides an emergency response system to help your parent get immediate help in case of a fall or other health emergency. This can include wireless alerting mechanisms, perimeter alarms, Internet cameras, etc. – there are many very reasonable options available. Wecams in particular are an easy way for you to check in on your parent, at any time, from any location with your mobile phone.
Set up speed dial to automatically dial out to multiple persons, for help on your parent’s phone and/or computer. Create an easy-to-find folder for emergency medical technicians with instructions of who to call, including pictures of the people they will be reaching. It might also be helpful if your parent’s personal address / phonebook is set up with small photos along with the contact information. This information should be electronically copied and stored as well, forwarded to several others who may be in a position to help – including those who help you, such as your trusted personal life coach.
Arrange, as possible (if not yourself), to routinely monitor and check the living arrangements for safety and protection – the smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, locks on doors and windows, alarms, plumbing and gas fittings, appliances, the car, transit areas in and out of the house, snow/ice removal assistance, landscaping dangers (like dead trees), etc. There are many inherent dangers about living alone, without ability, resources or inclination to deal with the proper upkeep of a living environment.

Above all take care of yourself. Recognize and accept the limits of what you can do and give yourself credit for all you are doing. Don’t hesitate to ask for help or use community services. And finally, get support from friends or a Seasons of Life Coach to help you alleviate stress and guilt.

This article is an update to a series of personal life coaching articles from Louisville, KY life coach expert Janie Behr – search and find many more in addition to personal assistance for caring for elderly parents, at JBLifeCoach dot com.

This article released with permission by Janie Behr, Louisville KY Personal Life Coach. Read more about Elderly Care and Family/Personal Life Coaching options for individuals or groups on her site. Virginia Konrad writes and comments about Internet business news and information on a regular basis, publishing material across several news channels and social media outlets, including Northern Virginia and Washington DC Business News.

As our lives progress rapidly in the midst of troubled times, it’s absolutely essential not to ignore or forget the responsibilities and proactivity necessary to care for our parents. In particular, those of us solidly representing the “Baby Boomer” generation are now deep into the age where our parents really need help and practical support. Only 2 years away, when the clock strikes midnight on January 1, 2011, the oldest of the baby boomers will turn sixty-five. This remarkable generation, the largest in American history, will continue to have an enormous impact on the nation socially, economically and politically as later it ages, transforming old age as no other generation has before in history. It is, however, their newly-gained responsibility to transform the way our parents are managed and cared for, and following are 3 absolute must-do tasks and responsibilities for dealing with your parents as they quickly age.

As men and women born between 1946 and 1964 grow older, their parents are also aging. Those who have not already experienced the impact of aging on their parents will very likely do so in the next decade – and it can happen at absolutely any time, precipitated by any event, whether health, financial or social-related. You may find quickly yourself in a new season of life where you are an adult child of an aging parent. The physical and mental costs of travel, communication, direct assistance and hired help are particularly tough on your family and lifestyle when you don’t live in the same area as your aging parent – but it’s the additional load of worrying and guilt that can be unbearable.

Is he / she all right?
How will I know if he / she isn’t?
Should I be visiting more?
Should I take time off from work?
Why won’t others help?
Can I get affordable help?
Am I giving enough?

Thoughtful preparation on your part could help to minimize the guilt trip, minimize expenses, and minimize the constant worry and anxiety. Make the most of your visits and the time you can give, whether in person or remotely via the phone and email (as possible). Now more than ever organization and preparation are the keys to your success and your survival.

1) Lovingly Watch Out for Your Parent

Here are a few tips for organizing from a distance.

Establish a local support network as soon as possible. Make a list of friends, family or neighbors who live near your parent. Let these people know of your concern. They can be extra ears and eyes as well as caring friends. They can alert you when they notice signs of trouble and be available if there is an emergency.
If your parent lives alone, see if a relative, friend or neighbor will stop by occasionally to see how your parent is doing or perhaps drop off a meal or offer a ride into town. A synagogue, might know of volunteers who can check on your loved one. You may be able to hire a companion to spend time with your family member.

Learn about any local elder watch programs, for example “Meals on wheels”

Phone calls don’t always tell you what you need to know. Visit your parent so you can see for yourself what’s really going on, and so you can make adjustments to your parent’s home or get additional help when necessary.

2) Visit Your Parent

Nothing is truly more important than in-person visits, companionship and dialogue with an elder parent – it can be incredibly rewarding, satisfying and productive for both you, your family members and most of all your parent. It’s certainly much more effective than long-distance phone calls or emails, though the proliferation of Internet-based communication tools can bridget the gap – for example using online conferencing softward. This, however, requires significant attentiona and maintenance of computer resources; additionally, your parent may simply not be interested or able to leverage it. Look into Internet tools – but plan first and most often to actually visit.

In advance of visiting, plan what you want to accomplish, who else might attend, and anything you might need to discuss with your parent.

If you live far away, organize your visits in advance so you can accomplish as much as possible. If you need to meet with a doctor, lawyer, social worker, religious leader or other professional (or other friends and acquantainces of your parent), set up appointments at least a month in advance, as their schedules get filled quickly. Be sure to confirm these appointments closer to the date, and confirm your parent’s ability to attend as necessary. It’s probably not a good idea to bring the grandchildren to every visit – especially if your primary goal is targeted assessment and assistance of your parent’s basic needs.

When you are with your parent, take a mental and physical inventory of their health and living situation. Try to foresee trouble before it happens:

Does your parent seem wobbly or dizzy?
Are they well groomed, or has their personal hygiene deteriorated?
Is there ample food in the refrigerator?
Is the food spoiled and moldy, and the kitchen unkempt?
Are there significant issues with landscaping or home maintenance?
Are there piles of unopened mail or unpaid bills, notices, or newspapers in the driveway?
Do they use the computer? Check (or have someone check) its status, whether full of viruses, spam, attempts of identity theft, unusual communications or purchases.
Are finances in order? Check the visa bill, bank statement, online accounts and checkbook for unusual charges or purchases.
Do they still do the things they used to, like read, knit, play the piano or do the crossword puzzle?
Does it appear that they’re getting out, seeing friends? Are they calling on her?
When they do go out, are they unreasonably forgetful, in appearance, action or conversation?

If things seem askew or different than they used to be, it may be a sign of underlying trouble…depression, confusion, illness, diminishing eyesight, loss of financial resources, deterioration of living conditions, or simply a signal to you that your parent needs more help at home and opportunities to get out.

Include some time during your visit to talk with nearby relatives, friends or others who see your parent regularly – both to hear their thoughts and concerns and to thank them for helping in any way that they do.

Check out local services and facilities. See what hospital is best, what nursing homes are acceptable, and what community services are offered. Ask your personal life coach for more information, both to help your parent, and help yourself.

Even though your life is busy be sure to spend some time simply being with your parent, chatting and listening, watching a movie or just sitting together quietly, reminiscing together on life yesterday, now and the many tomorrows ahead. A trip that’s all business misses a critical element. Find time to relax, listen to offer support. Most importantly, try and plan visits that your parent enjoys, whether it includes a lot of noise and bustle (i.e. with the children), or is very tranquil and quiet.

3) Help Your Parent Prepare for Emergencies

Discuss and call a company that provides an emergency response system to help your parent get immediate help in case of a fall or other health emergency. This can include wireless alerting mechanisms, perimeter alarms, Internet cameras, etc. – there are many very reasonable options available. Wecams in particular are an easy way for you to check in on your parent, at any time, from any location with your mobile phone.
Set up speed dial to automatically dial out to multiple persons, for help on your parent’s phone and/or computer. Create an easy-to-find folder for emergency medical technicians with instructions of who to call, including pictures of the people they will be reaching. It might also be helpful if your parent’s personal address / phonebook is set up with small photos along with the contact information. This information should be electronically copied and stored as well, forwarded to several others who may be in a position to help – including those who help you, such as your trusted personal life coach.
Arrange, as possible (if not yourself), to routinely monitor and check the living arrangements for safety and protection – the smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, locks on doors and windows, alarms, plumbing and gas fittings, appliances, the car, transit areas in and out of the house, snow/ice removal assistance, landscaping dangers (like dead trees), etc. There are many inherent dangers about living alone, without ability, resources or inclination to deal with the proper upkeep of a living environment.

Above all take care of yourself. Recognize and accept the limits of what you can do and give yourself credit for all you are doing. Don’t hesitate to ask for help or use community services. And finally, get support from friends or a Seasons of Life Coach to help you alleviate stress and guilt.

This article is an update to a series of personal life coaching articles from Louisville, KY life coach expert Janie Behr – search and find many more in addition to personal assistance for caring for elderly parents, at JBLifeCoach dot com.

This article released with permission by Janie Behr, Louisville KY Personal Life Coach. Read more about Elderly Care and Family/Personal Life Coaching options for individuals or groups on her site. Virginia Konrad writes and comments about Internet business news and information on a regular basis, publishing material across several news channels and social media outlets, including Northern Virginia and Washington DC Business News.

As our lives progress rapidly in the midst of troubled times, it’s absolutely essential not to ignore or forget the responsibilities and proactivity necessary to care for our parents. In particular, those of us solidly representing the “Baby Boomer” generation are now deep into the age where our parents really need help and practical support. Only 2 years away, when the clock strikes midnight on January 1, 2011, the oldest of the baby boomers will turn sixty-five. This remarkable generation, the largest in American history, will continue to have an enormous impact on the nation socially, economically and politically as later it ages, transforming old age as no other generation has before in history. It is, however, their newly-gained responsibility to transform the way our parents are managed and cared for, and following are 3 absolute must-do tasks and responsibilities for dealing with your parents as they quickly age.

As men and women born between 1946 and 1964 grow older, their parents are also aging. Those who have not already experienced the impact of aging on their parents will very likely do so in the next decade – and it can happen at absolutely any time, precipitated by any event, whether health, financial or social-related. You may find quickly yourself in a new season of life where you are an adult child of an aging parent. The physical and mental costs of travel, communication, direct assistance and hired help are particularly tough on your family and lifestyle when you don’t live in the same area as your aging parent – but it’s the additional load of worrying and guilt that can be unbearable.

Is he / she all right?
How will I know if he / she isn’t?
Should I be visiting more?
Should I take time off from work?
Why won’t others help?
Can I get affordable help?
Am I giving enough?

Thoughtful preparation on your part could help to minimize the guilt trip, minimize expenses, and minimize the constant worry and anxiety. Make the most of your visits and the time you can give, whether in person or remotely via the phone and email (as possible). Now more than ever organization and preparation are the keys to your success and your survival.

1) Lovingly Watch Out for Your Parent

Here are a few tips for organizing from a distance.

Establish a local support network as soon as possible. Make a list of friends, family or neighbors who live near your parent. Let these people know of your concern. They can be extra ears and eyes as well as caring friends. They can alert you when they notice signs of trouble and be available if there is an emergency.
If your parent lives alone, see if a relative, friend or neighbor will stop by occasionally to see how your parent is doing or perhaps drop off a meal or offer a ride into town. A synagogue, might know of volunteers who can check on your loved one. You may be able to hire a companion to spend time with your family member.

Learn about any local elder watch programs, for example “Meals on wheels”

Phone calls don’t always tell you what you need to know. Visit your parent so you can see for yourself what’s really going on, and so you can make adjustments to your parent’s home or get additional help when necessary.

2) Visit Your Parent

Nothing is truly more important than in-person visits, companionship and dialogue with an elder parent – it can be incredibly rewarding, satisfying and productive for both you, your family members and most of all your parent. It’s certainly much more effective than long-distance phone calls or emails, though the proliferation of Internet-based communication tools can bridget the gap – for example using online conferencing softward. This, however, requires significant attentiona and maintenance of computer resources; additionally, your parent may simply not be interested or able to leverage it. Look into Internet tools – but plan first and most often to actually visit.

In advance of visiting, plan what you want to accomplish, who else might attend, and anything you might need to discuss with your parent.

If you live far away, organize your visits in advance so you can accomplish as much as possible. If you need to meet with a doctor, lawyer, social worker, religious leader or other professional (or other friends and acquantainces of your parent), set up appointments at least a month in advance, as their schedules get filled quickly. Be sure to confirm these appointments closer to the date, and confirm your parent’s ability to attend as necessary. It’s probably not a good idea to bring the grandchildren to every visit – especially if your primary goal is targeted assessment and assistance of your parent’s basic needs.

When you are with your parent, take a mental and physical inventory of their health and living situation. Try to foresee trouble before it happens:

Does your parent seem wobbly or dizzy?
Are they well groomed, or has their personal hygiene deteriorated?
Is there ample food in the refrigerator?
Is the food spoiled and moldy, and the kitchen unkempt?
Are there significant issues with landscaping or home maintenance?
Are there piles of unopened mail or unpaid bills, notices, or newspapers in the driveway?
Do they use the computer? Check (or have someone check) its status, whether full of viruses, spam, attempts of identity theft, unusual communications or purchases.
Are finances in order? Check the visa bill, bank statement, online accounts and checkbook for unusual charges or purchases.
Do they still do the things they used to, like read, knit, play the piano or do the crossword puzzle?
Does it appear that they’re getting out, seeing friends? Are they calling on her?
When they do go out, are they unreasonably forgetful, in appearance, action or conversation?

If things seem askew or different than they used to be, it may be a sign of underlying trouble…depression, confusion, illness, diminishing eyesight, loss of financial resources, deterioration of living conditions, or simply a signal to you that your parent needs more help at home and opportunities to get out.

Include some time during your visit to talk with nearby relatives, friends or others who see your parent regularly – both to hear their thoughts and concerns and to thank them for helping in any way that they do.

Check out local services and facilities. See what hospital is best, what nursing homes are acceptable, and what community services are offered. Ask your personal life coach for more information, both to help your parent, and help yourself.

Even though your life is busy be sure to spend some time simply being with your parent, chatting and listening, watching a movie or just sitting together quietly, reminiscing together on life yesterday, now and the many tomorrows ahead. A trip that’s all business misses a critical element. Find time to relax, listen to offer support. Most importantly, try and plan visits that your parent enjoys, whether it includes a lot of noise and bustle (i.e. with the children), or is very tranquil and quiet.

3) Help Your Parent Prepare for Emergencies

Discuss and call a company that provides an emergency response system to help your parent get immediate help in case of a fall or other health emergency. This can include wireless alerting mechanisms, perimeter alarms, Internet cameras, etc. – there are many very reasonable options available. Wecams in particular are an easy way for you to check in on your parent, at any time, from any location with your mobile phone.
Set up speed dial to automatically dial out to multiple persons, for help on your parent’s phone and/or computer. Create an easy-to-find folder for emergency medical technicians with instructions of who to call, including pictures of the people they will be reaching. It might also be helpful if your parent’s personal address / phonebook is set up with small photos along with the contact information. This information should be electronically copied and stored as well, forwarded to several others who may be in a position to help – including those who help you, such as your trusted personal life coach.
Arrange, as possible (if not yourself), to routinely monitor and check the living arrangements for safety and protection – the smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, locks on doors and windows, alarms, plumbing and gas fittings, appliances, the car, transit areas in and out of the house, snow/ice removal assistance, landscaping dangers (like dead trees), etc. There are many inherent dangers about living alone, without ability, resources or inclination to deal with the proper upkeep of a living environment.

Above all take care of yourself. Recognize and accept the limits of what you can do and give yourself credit for all you are doing. Don’t hesitate to ask for help or use community services. And finally, get support from friends or a Seasons of Life Coach to help you alleviate stress and guilt.

This article is an update to a series of personal life coaching articles from Louisville, KY life coach expert Janie Behr – search and find many more in addition to personal assistance for caring for elderly parents, at JBLifeCoach dot com.

This article released with permission by Janie Behr, Louisville KY Personal Life Coach. Read more about Elderly Care and Family/Personal Life Coaching options for individuals or groups on her site. Virginia Konrad writes and comments about Internet business news and information on a regular basis, publishing material across several news channels and social media outlets, including Northern Virginia and Washington DC Business News.

You may have heard the old adage, “the proof is in the pudding.” While the origin of this cryptic verse is lost in the mists of time, one modern application for the phrase concerns filing a patent in order to protect your intellectual property.Before a product, device, invention, gadget, widget, gizmo, machine or doo-hickey is ever released onto the unsuspecting public, there’s usually been some brainstorming, planning, logistics work, research, and trial and error that has gone into the design and creation of the physical creation. Oftentimes these inventions appeal to a limited group of consumers and don’t end up making much money for the producer or the inventor, since their appeal is limited to the narrow band of society that enjoys or needs what they have created.Sometimes, however, an invention or creation is generated that has amazing, mass appeal. Currently, “crazy bands” (the rubber bands that hold a physical shape such as an apple, a cowboy, a monster, a surfer girl) are all the rage – everyone from 6-year olds to university professors are enjoying their strange fascination. Who’d have thought THAT was possible? Answer – the man, woman or group of people who filed the patent, guaranteeing that they owned the intellectual property – and thus the financial rights – to developing, selling and profiting from the sales of crazy bands. Filing a patent for the idea or design for the product, BEFORE it was even produced, helped to ensure that the generators of the initial idea for crazy bands were the ones to benefit from their creation.Filing a patent can be a complicated, often arduous process, and wise inventors know that a good portion of filing a patent is to ensure that someone else, somewhere else, has not already had the same idea and patented it previously. Imagine the incredible discouragement that comes from researching, investing in and inventing a new device or process, only to see it reach fruition and receive a legal notice to ‘cease and desist’ because someone else has already staked their claim to a similar invention or device?!Investigating similar patent claims, researching the best method to present your patent filing, and filing the actual patent are wise ways to ensure the successful development of your new process, idea or invention. Patent lawyers exist for just such purposes, and fledgling as well as experienced inventors and entrepreneurs are encouraged to seek the help of these knowledgeable men and women while pursuing their goal of creating a new item or process for use by others in the world.