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How Smell Loss Impacts Safety, Nutrition, and Well-Being

Anosmia is the loss of the sense of smell. It can often be overlooked despite affecting quality of life in various ways. It is essential to recognize Anosmia Awareness Day to educate families, caregivers, and the community about how the loss of smell impacts activities of daily living and how the care we provide can make a world of difference.

What Causes Anosmia?

Anosmia can manifest as a partial or complete loss of smell. It can sometimes occur gradually for some or suddenly for others. Sometimes the effects are temporary, as with illnesses like the common cold, or permanent, as in some head injuries to the olfactory system, which is the sensory system responsible for smell. Some other causes of anosmia are:

  • Viral infections (e.g., COVID-19)
  • Aging-related sensory decline
  • Neurological conditions (e.g., Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease)
  • Chronic sinus conditions

For some, smell loss may seem minor. However, it affects safety, nutrition/appetite, and emotional well-being, especially for older adults and individuals living with disabilities.

Effects Of Anosmia
  1. Safety Concerns – Smell alerts us to danger. Without a good sense of smell, it can be hard to detect the following in the home:
  • Gas leaks
  • Smoke or fire
  • Spoiled food
  • Chemical fumes

For seniors who live independently or alone, loss of smell can increase risk. Additionally, veterans living with multiple health conditions may face this added safety concern if smell loss goes undetected.

2. Nutrition & Weight Changes – Smell and taste are very closely connected. When we do not sense food’s aroma, it can seem bland and less appealing than for someone with an intact sense of smell. This can lead to:

  • Reduced appetite
  • Weight loss
  • Nutritional deficiencies
  • Dehydration

For older adults, maintaining a healthy diet is essential for strength, immune function, and overall health.

3. Emotional & Mental Health Impact – Scents are tied to memory and emotion. Therefore, it makes sense that familiar smells can lead to comfort or nostalgia. This sometimes happens when we smell a favorite meal, coffee, or seasonal fragrances. Losing this connection can contribute to:

  • Depression
  • Social withdrawal
  • Reduced enjoyment of daily life      

For individuals with cognitive disorders like Alzheimer’s disease, sensory changes can also increase confusion and frustration, leading to irritability.

How Caregivers Can Support Clients Living With Anosmia

At Oasis In-Home Care, our caregivers provide non-medical assistance tailored to each client’s needs. Here are some ways staff and family caregivers can help people with smell loss stay safe and improve their quality of life.

  1. Safety Support:
  • Check food expiration dates regularly
  • Monitor refrigerators for spoiled items
  • Ensure smoke and gas (carbon monoxide) detectors are functioning
  • Assist with safe meal preparation
  • Consider automatic shut-off appliances

Caregivers can be an extra layer of awareness to reduce the risk of smell loss.

2. Nutrition Support:

  • Prepare visually appealing meals with varied textures
  • Use herbs and seasonings to enhance flavor
  • Encouraged hydration throughout the day
  • Monitor appetite changes and report to family members
  • Label and date food clearly for when to discard leftovers

Even when smell is lost, the presentation, temperature, and texture of food can make meals still enjoyable.

3. Emotional Encouragement:

  • Validate feelings
  • Engage in memory-based conversations about foods/scents
  • Encourage social mealtimes
  • Offer other sensory alternatives like music, touch, or visual stimulation

Holistic support can help prevent smell loss from leading to isolation. Gentle reassurance and companionship can go a long way.

***Remember, sudden smell loss should always be discussed with a healthcare provider, as it can be a signal for an infection or neurological change.***

Safety Checks For Today

On this Anosmia Awareness Day, we encourage families to check these in your home:

  • Test alarms
  • Check food storage areas
  • Review emergency plans
  • Observe eating habits
  • Ask about changes in taste or appetite

Small proactive steps can prevent major concerns. Smell loss is invisible, and many do not talk about it because it can seem minor. However, early conversations about it can promote safety and better support.

Our Commitment

At Oasis In-Home Care, we are urged to promote dignity, independence, and comfort at home. Unseen conditions deserve attention to provide care grounded in awareness, attentiveness, and compassion. By staying informed and proactive, our caregivers help seniors, veterans, and people living with disabilities remain safe in their homes.

If you or a loved one could benefit from our in-home care services, our team is ready to help you. Please connect with us today by filling out the form below or by calling us at 931-266-4441.

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Enteral Feeding in the Home: Safety, Awareness, and Support

At Oasis In-Home Care, we support clients with a variety of complex needs. Nevertheless, dignity, safety, and compassion remain at the center of care. The first week of February is National Feeding Tube Awareness Week. Here, we want to provide education on enteral tube feedings and share practical tips for both caregivers and clients in the home setting.

What is Enteral Tube Feeding?

Some clients we care for may receive nutrition via enteral feeding. Essentially, these are liquid feedings that are delivered through a tube to bypass the mouth and esophagus. These feedings are sometimes necessary when a person can no longer chew and swallow safely. Feedings may be delivered slowly through a pump continuously or intermittently at scheduled times. There are several types of feeding tubes:

  • Nasogastric Tube (NG-tube): This tube is inserted through the nose to eventually reach the stomach. These are more commonly used in the hospital setting and can be placed by a registered nurse. They are often used for the short term. 
  • Gastrostomy tube (G-tube): This tube is surgically placed by a provider directly into the stomach from the abdomen. These are more commonly seen in home care settings. This is a long-term nutritional support.
  • Jejunostomy tube (J-tube): This tube is surgically placed by a provider into a section of the small intestine called the jejunum. Essentially, this tube has bypassed the stomach, and feedings may be delivered at slower rates to assist with feeding tolerance. 
  • Mic-Key button: This is a low-profile tube that is connected to the stomach or intestine, sitting against the skin of the abdomen, and connects to extension tubing only during feedings.

Tube feedings can seem complex, but simply put, they are a way for someone to get the nutrition they need to be healthy. By understanding the different types of tube feedings, caregivers can feel more confident and prepared when supporting clients at home.

Scope of Practice of the Unlicensed Caregiver in Tennessee

As a reminder, unlicensed caregivers in Tennessee have an observational role only when caring for clients and their feeding tubes. You should NOT:

  • Insert, remove, replace, or adjust the positioning of feeding tubes
  • Administer tube feedings, flushes, or medications through the tubes
  • Adjust feeding pumps, rates, or tubing connections
  • Troubleshoot equipment beyond basic reporting
  • Provide medical treatment or make clinical decisions

Caregivers CAN:

  • Assist with the client’s bodily positions during and after feedings
  • Practice proper hand hygiene
  • Report concerns or unusual observations promptly

Suppose you are unsure if a task is within your scope, pause and report. Your most important responsibility is to observe and report safety concerns.

Caregiver Tips: What You Can Do Safely
  1. Observe Skin Around The Tube
    • Report to the nurse, family, or supervisor of redness, swelling, warmth, drainage, bleeding, foul odors, increased pain, or skin breakdown. The site should be clean and dry.
  2. Support Safe Client Bodily Positioning
    • Aspiration is a serious safety concern during tube feedings, where fluids enter the lungs. Caregivers should ensure the client sits upright during feedings and avoid lying the client flat during or immediately following feedings. Report any coughing, choking, wet-sounding breathing sounds, or distress immediately.
  3. Digestive Issues
    • Notify the nurse or family of new or worsening diarrhea, abdominal pain, vomiting, or gagging.
  4. Maintain Cleanliness
    • Good hand hygiene is essential. Wash your hands before and after assisting the client. If tubing becomes disconnected or damaged, report it promptly.
  5. Communicate And Document
    • Caregivers are an essential part of care teams. Report changes promptly. Document observations. Remember, when in doubt, ask or report—never guess.

As a caregiver, your role is to observe and focus on safety and communication. You are not expected to manage feedings, but always report what you notice. Your eyes can prevent complications and support our clients’ comfort and well-being.

Our Commitment at Oasis In-Home Care

We understand that tube feedings can feel overwhelming. With the support of our caregivers, clients can thrive at home. At Oasis In-Home Care, we are committed to:

  • Staying within the scope of practice
  • Prioritizing safety and dignity
  • Supporting caregivers with education and guidance
  • Partnering with nurses, families, and providers for the best outcomes

If you have questions or concerns about tube feeding care in the home, please reach out to our care coordinators in the office at 931-266-4441. We are here to support you.

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Supporting Individuals with Dementia During the Holidays

The holiday season is upon us! This is a time that is often full of warmth and celebration of traditions. However, for people living with a dementia diagnosis and those who care for them, this time of year can bring increased levels of stress, overstimulation, and other challenges. Staying present, being patient, and planning can make all the difference. This article will highlight compassionate and practical tips to ensure that this holiday season stays meaningful and comfortable for everyone in the home!

Keep the Environment Calm and Predictable

Gatherings, especially during the holidays, which often involve many moving parts and out-of-town visitors, can be filled with increased noise and decorations. This can disrupt the routines that are typically in the home and cause a sense of overwhelm for someone with dementia. To reduce disruptions to routine, try to keep the familiar spaces uncluttered. Also, when attempting to decorate spaces in the home, try to do it gradually or room by room, so the environment does not change all at once. Simple décor may be best to keep some familiarity in the space intact. Keep the environment well-lit with soft lighting and try to have music playing at a soft or moderate volume. These tips can help keep the space predictable and familiar.

Prioritize Routines

Routines help with comfort. It is important to try keeping regularly scheduled meal times, sleep schedules, and daily rituals (e.g., walking at the same time of day). Small adjustments can be acceptable if not avoidable, but try to avoid major disruptions, as they may cause fatigue, confusion, or agitation.

Plan Short, Meaningful Activities

While some holiday traditions can be long and elaborate, they don’t always have to be in order to be special. Select activities that align with your loved one’s comfort level. This may be in the form of a familiar holiday song, looking through old holiday photos, or enjoying a family baking recipe. This can be an amazing time for connection.

Prepare Guests

Not everyone understands dementia and the changes that your loved one is experiencing. Have open and honest conversations with guests before gatherings so that expectations can be set and empathy can be encouraged. If applicable, please inform the guests that your loved one may require more time or become tired more easily. Encourage guests to be patient and use kind communication, speaking sentences simply and at a slower pace if needed.

Have a Retreat Space

Celebrating in shorter visits with fewer people may be more affirming for your loved one with dementia than a big, bustling party. However, if this is not possible, then try to have a retreat space. Planning is a powerful tool to reduce possible overstimulating environmental factors that can arise during a gathering. However, sometimes things go unplanned, and your loved one may need a space to take a break. Having a designated quiet and familiar room can be helpful. Incorporate their favorite comfort items into the space. Examples can include but are not limited to favorite blankets, music, and photo albums. Let them retreat as often as they need, and reassure them that it is okay to take a break. 

The Emotional Landscape

The holidays can cause us to reflect on memories. These may be joyful, and some may be bittersweet. Someone with dementia may experience moments of clarity or confusion. This can create an emotionally vulnerable space. Offering a warm hand or reassuring word can help validate their feelings.

Take Care of You, Too!

To all caregivers, whether family members or staff, you give so much of yourselves to help others. Your well-being is essential to maintaining your patience and compassion. Make time for you, too. Ask for support when you need it, and share responsibilities when possible.

We’re Here to Help

If you believe your loved one may benefit from additional support or need help adjusting caregiving hours during this time, please contact our office. We are here to help ensure that your family has comfort, coverage, and peace of mind throughout the season.

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Caregiving in November—National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month

November is recognized as National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month. This marks a time to remember those living with a family member who has memory loss, along with the caregivers who provide care to them each day. Memory changes can be confusing and frightening, mainly when they affect a loved one. Sometimes, it can be difficult to distinguish between memory lapses caused by normal aging and those caused by another condition. This article will explore the fundamentals of memory change and guide on caring for individuals with dementia.

***Disclaimer: This article provides general information and does not substitute for or replace medical advice from a medical or mental health professional.***

Normal aging

While many types of dementia involve changes in memory, it is also essential to recognize the normal changes that occur in memory with aging. For example, with normal aging, slower speed processing and difficulty with word finding can occur without meeting criteria for a dementia-related diagnosis. Forgetting a word here and there or misplacing glasses can be a normal occurrence. The difference here is that function and intact memory of recent/important events are often preserved with normal aging. In other words, with normal aging, people can still maintain daily tasks and are aware of their forgetfulness.

Delirium

Delirium is often confused with dementia as well. However, delirium is an acute onset change in mental status with rapid progression and usually has an underlying acute cause. For example, in many older adults who contract a UTI, they can progress to have symptoms of delirium. Folks with delirium are often disoriented and have fluctuating symptoms throughout the day.

Depression

Depression in older adults can present with memory changes, including difficulty recalling information. Symptoms related to memory decline due to depression are often gradual and accompanied by mood disturbance. Folks with depression are usually not disoriented and do not have fluctuating symptoms throughout the day.

Dementia

Dementia typically has a gradual onset and progression. People with dementia can experience disorientation and have fluctuating symptoms throughout the day. Daily tasks can become hard over time. Alzheimer’s is the most common type of dementia. Other types of neurocognitive disorders can include frontotemporal, HIV-related, Huntington’s, Lewy Body, Parkinson’s, Prion-related, Substance or Medication Induced, TBI/Vascular, Due to Other Medical Condition, Multiple Etiologies, and Unspecified. Some dementia risk factors include age, genetics or family history, sensory deficits, sedentary lifestyles, HIV, head trauma, and other medical conditions like cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, diabetes, and hypertension. Protective factors can include maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, practicing proactive vision and hearing care, and controlling blood pressure.

Caring for Someone with Dementia

When caring for a client with dementia, it is essential to establish a strong alliance with them. Remember, caring for someone with dementia is a journey in itself.  What works today may not work tomorrow. Here are ideas:

  • Set realistic expectations
  • Focus on connection, not perfection
  • Keep routines
  • Maintain familiar surroundings
  • Use reminders like calendars, clocks, and to-do lists
  • Schedule bathroom breaks
  • Encourage activity—dancing, walking, music, and art
  • Limit noise and clutter to avoid overstimulation
  • Offer choices
Safety Tips

Memory changes can change the way we approach safety. It is essential to plan. Here are some considerations regarding safety and changes to memory:

  • Driving: A lack of insight can lead to poor safety awareness (e.g., believing driving skills have not changed despite a dementia diagnosis). It is essential to discuss when it may be time to stop and plan for alternative transportation options
  • Medication: supervision can help prevent medication errors (e.g., pill boxes and pill reminder technology)
  • Food preparation: meal delivery services and cooking supervision can help ensure nutrition and safety
  • Financial management: plan with a trusted legal support and family member
  • Firearms: keep out of reach and minimize access by locking them away
  • Wandering: safety locks and door alarms help prevent your loved one from wandering
  • Falls: remove hazards like loose rugs to minimize injuries related to falls
  • Emergency information: post emergency numbers in clear view (e.g., on the refrigerator)
  • Elder abuse: watch for neglect or abuse (e.g., bed sores or malnutrition) and report it when you are concerned
Caring for the Caregiver

Caregiving requires heart, patience, and strength. Caregiving is so meaningful and rewarding. Caregivers, it is essential to take care of yourselves as well. We recognize that stress and burnout are genuine concerns. Unfortunately, it can also lead to unfavorable outcomes for clients. Utilize caregiver resources, such as support groups, respite programs, and self-care initiatives. Be sure to take breaks and ask for help when you need it to maintain your own health and continue caring for others with compassion.

We’re Here to Help

Every family and every individual with dementia is different. The journey to obtain the care needed to empower those with dementia does not have to feel isolated. Here at Oasis In-Home Care, we support older adults and their families by providing compassionate care and assistance. If you would like to discuss support options or receive guidance on our resources, please get in touch with the office. We want to make your home a safe and comforting place: an Oasis.

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Honoring Our Veterans from Oasis In-Home Care

Yesterday was Veterans’ Day! This week, we honor all veterans who served our country. We are grateful for the service of our veterans – many of whom are part of our Oasis In-Home Care family as clients, caregivers, or staff.

A Salute for Our Veteran Clients

We are honored to serve clients who are veterans. Every veteran has their own unique story that involves service, sacrifice, and resilience. Our caregivers and staff at Oasis observe how qualities like discipline, perseverance, respect, and humility are integral to our veteran clients’ day-to-day lives. Our team enjoys the privilege of supporting them in living comfortably in their homes. The call to serve our country did not end once they retired their uniform – it continues in how they live, support their family, and engage in the community.

A Salute for Our Veteran Staff and Caregivers

Our team comprises office staff and caregivers, some of whom are also veterans. The service that these individuals bring to our team has strengthened our values for integrity, teamwork, attention to detail, and compassion. When our caregivers enter our clients’ homes or our office staff call our clients, we respect their dignity and foster trust and reliability, which are traits that are also reflected in those who serve our country. Thank you to all the veterans who are part of our Oasis In-Home Care team.  You possess many skills, character, and leadership qualities. Your work with us enriches our culture and care delivery.

“Our debt to the heroic men and valiant women in the service of our country can never be repaid. They have earned our undying gratitude. America will never forget their sacrifices.”
Harry Truman
The Meaning of “Home”

For some veterans, “home” has a deep meaning. It represents stability, comfort, connection, and healing. At Oasis In-Home Care, our mission is to help our clients remain in their home environment, preserving their dignity and independence. We believe that being able to live in a familiar environment filled with memories and loved ones is an act of honoring the life that was served for. Part of our commitment to in-home care is preserving the individual’s identity. For veterans, this can mean helping them maintain their routines, encouraging them to share stories of service, enabling companionship, and fostering a sense of purpose.

How to Say “Thank you” to Veterans This Week
  • Listen to their story (if the veteran is comfortable with sharing). The gift of time and attention is an act of kindness that can go a long way.
  • Write a personal note card. A short “thank you for your service” note can brighten a veteran’s day.
  • Share a moment by watching a Veteran’s Day parade on TV or listening to patriotic music. This moment can create connection and comfort.
  • Display a tribute by gifting a small flag, ribbon, or flower arrangement. This can serve as a reminder that their service is honored and remembered.
The Oasis Commitment

Oasis In-Home Care is locally owned in Clarksville and the surrounding areas of Middle Tennessee. Our agency is community-focused, having been here in Middle Tennessee since 2007. We believe that the ability to provide care to veterans is a special privilege. We are committed to providing personalized and compassionate care in your home, for both veterans and non-veterans alike. By prioritizing personalized care, our focus takes into account your history, service, and ongoing life journey.

We Are Here to Help!

If you or your loved one who has served our country and currently lives in Clarksville or the surrounding areas, we are here to support you! We would be honored to serve you! Please call us at 931-266-4441 to schedule an assessment.

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Finding Comfort and Connection at Home This Halloween

Halloween is here, a time filled with pumpkins on porches, the laughter of children in costumes, and the crisp change of fall in the air. For many, it’s a season of lighthearted fun and nostalgia. But for older adults or those receiving in-home care, holidays like Halloween can bring a mix of emotions, fond memories, but sometimes loneliness or sensory overwhelm too.
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Understanding Dementia Care at Home

Caring for a loved one with dementia can be one of the most emotional and challenging experiences a family faces. As memory loss and confusion progress, daily routines that once felt simple, like preparing meals, taking medication, or even recognizing familiar faces, can become difficult. Many families want to provide the comfort and safety of home for their loved ones while ensuring they receive the professional care they need. That’s where dementia care at home becomes an invaluable option.
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What Seniors in Clarksville, TN Can Do This Fall: Cozy, Connected, and Curious

Fall in Clarksville carries a unique charm, the leaves turning gold, crisp air rich with possibility, and the city’s slower pace inviting deeper connection. For seniors in our community, this season isn’t just about staying inside, it’s an opportunity to explore, engage, and enjoy what our city offers. Here’s a guide to fall in Clarksville, especially for those looking for gentle, meaningful ways to spend their time.
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Prioritize Home Safety: Creating a Safer Space for Seniors to Thrive

When it comes to caring for a loved one at home, safety should always come first. While comfort, companionship, and quality care are essential, a safe environment is what allows seniors to truly enjoy their independence and well-being. As we age, everyday tasks can become more challenging, and even a small hazard, like a loose rug or dim lighting, can lead to serious injuries. That’s why the best way to protect your loved one is to prioritize home safety.
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