Emotional wellbeing is especially important for seniors. The challenges of aging put our elderly loved ones at risk for loneliness and depression, which can have serious physical effects. Here are some keys to helping your loved one maintain a positive mental outlook and robust mental health. Exercise Exercise releases brain chemicals that elevate mood, reduce pain, and increase energy. Although…
Parkinson’s disease can make everyday tasks more challenging for seniors, but they don’t have to resign themselves to a lower quality of life. Here are some of the ways you can help your elderly loved one handle the disease and accomplish some of these important tasks. Eating The tremors and swallowing difficulties associated with Parkinson’s disease can make mealtimes a…
While aging can’t be avoided, many older adults absolutely do remain involved and productive well into their golden years. Yet there are some lingering misconceptions about getting older that may prevent some seniors from realizing what's possible or achievable. Below, some of the more common misconceptions about aging are discussed. Brainpower Diminishes with Age Some degree of cognitive decline does…
Alzheimer’s disease affects one in three seniors, so it’s important for family caregivers to know about and recognize Alzheimer’s symptoms. If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, being familiar with the condition can help you prepare to provide appropriate care. Here are some of the most common symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. Memory Loss Memory loss is a…
Assisted living facilities can be helpful when seniors are too ill to live alone, but often, seniors can get more focused care at home. However, it can be challenging for seniors and their families to get used to the big change. If you want to make the transition easier for you and your aging loved one, follow these tips. Get…
Exercise is a primary component of staying healthy well into the golden years. However, a person’s flexibility, strength, and agility begin to decrease after the age of 50, and this can pose a few challenges for getting the right types and amount of exercise. To combat these age-related changes, workouts can be modified using these effective strategies. Choose Low-Impact Cardio…
Caregivers experience a wide spectrum of emotions, from grief and gratitude to anger and anxiety. When they cycle back and forth between these emotions, the conflict often resolves into feelings of ambivalence. Learn why caregivers sometimes feel ambivalent and how they can manage these mixed emotions. Confront the Conflict of Caregiving Caregivers often have dreams and passions they've put on…
Many people believe celiac disease only develops in babies and younger children, but it’s becoming more common among seniors, especially if they’re taking medications that contain gluten. There’s no cure for this disease, but it can be managed. Here are some of the ways celiac disease can develop as well as what seniors can do to prevent the disease or…
Though scientists are still hoping for a breakthrough that will lead toward completely preventing Alzheimer’s disease, they’ve recently focused on the drugs donepezil and memantine in an effort to slow the condition’s progression. Here is some information on the studies on these two medications and how they could affect Alzheimer’s. Donepezil vs. Memantine Donepezil has long been used to treat…
Gardening is a favorite hobby for many seniors, and it has many benefits for their health. Your aging loved one will be inspired to soak up those lovely rays of sunshine when he or she has plants outside to serve as a motivator. Seniors with dementia also benefit from spending time surrounded by plants, and growing their own vegetables can…