Each day, family caregivers need to make decisions, and some are less difficult than others. For example, choosing what activity your senior loved one takes on may not be as stressful as deciding to approve a surgical procedure for a chronic condition. However, as a family caregiver, you must make difficult choices sometimes. Below are tips you can use when…
When an aging parent needs some assistance on a regular basis, it's often one family member who becomes the designated caregiver. Figuring out your parent's needs and finding a healthy balance with your own responsibilities and needs is a healthy and efficient way to fill this role, but it's not always such a simple task. Below, you'll find six ways…
Being healthy is mostly associated with maintaining a nutritious diet and regular exercise routine. Oftentimes, the positive changes in health that come from maintaining healthy habits are gained over the long term. However, seniors can receive an instant health boost by making just a few simple changes to their lifestyles. 1. Take a Deep Breath Seniors should take breaks from…
Managing dementia-related mood swings is a difficult task for many caregivers, and these emotional outbursts can take place multiple times a day. If your aging loved one has been diagnosed with dementia, you need to come up with some strategies to help you handle his or her rapid mood changes. With a solid plan in place, you might be able…
More than 25 percent of adults aged 65 or older live with diabetes. Even more are likely living with the disorder undiagnosed and untreated. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the risk of developing diabetes rises until the age of 65. At that time, the level of prevalence is no different than in younger age groups. For…
Perhaps other responsibilities in your life have prevented you from providing the care your elderly loved one needs, or maybe he or she is facing new challenges that require additional assistance. Whatever has led you to seek out professional caregiving services, here’s how to choose the caregiver who is best suited for your loved one’s needs. Decide What Type of…
Even though strokes sometimes come without warning, seniors and their caregivers can take preventive measures to reduce the risk. Here are a few tips on how you can prevent your senior loved one from having a stroke. Treat Atrial Fibrillation Atrial fibrillation (Afib) causes the heart’s upper two chambers to beat out of sync with the lower two. It’s important…
Older adults often experience a significant decrease in muscle mass as they age, but there are ways to turn it all around. Maintaining a healthy weight and living an active lifestyle can help seniors strengthen their bones. Continue reading to learn some of the different ways your aging loved one can build muscle strength. 1. Stay Physically Active Exercise is…
Seniors should avoid foods that can increase the risk of infections, worsen chronic conditions, or interfere with medications. For example, undercooked eggs and meat may contain harmful bacteria like salmonella, while raw seafood and unpasteurized milk or juice can lead to serious infections. Soft and processed cheeses carry bacteria or high sodium, and fried or heavily processed foods can contribute…
Sleep problems are one Alzheimer’s symptom you may need to address as a family caregiver. Seniors in general tend to have difficulty sleeping, but Alzheimer’s disease adds to the challenge by altering comfort levels and behavior patterns. Sleep problems are best handled by using several different strategies to get your senior loved one to relax and sleep through the night. …
