Family caregivers are among the most important and underappreciated people in the nation. Countless families across the United States make untold sacrifices as they take on vital responsibilities that make a difference in the lives of their aging parents, grandparents, and other elderly relatives. Family caregivers undoubtedly help older adults survive and thrive, but they can’t do it over the…
Stroke is currently the third leading cause of death and a major cause of disability among older adults. In fact, age is one of the single highest risk factors for stroke, even if the senior has no other health conditions. To protect your aging loved one from stroke, it’s important to learn as much as possible about stroke risk factors…
People with Alzheimer's sometimes become combative, and while this behavior is typically associated with the disease’s late stages, it sometimes occurs in those who have early-stage Alzheimer's. Seniors with Alzheimer's who are combative may hit, push, or grab people. Here are some things you should know if your aging loved one with Alzheimer’s is displaying combative behavior. Confusion & Discomfort…
While curative care focuses on restoring seniors to good health, palliative care programs seek to boost quality of life for older adults with chronic diseases and those who are terminally ill. The goal of palliative care is not only to alleviate pain, address symptoms, and increase comfort but also to help seniors and family members better handle the challenges they…
A Parkinson’s diagnosis often leaves family members confused and unsure of how to move forward with their senior loved one’s care. While planning for long-term care and outside assistance will be necessary, families should also look into therapy programs. There are many therapy programs available that are specifically designed to help seniors with Parkinson’s maintain and enhance their motor skills…
Some seniors tend to wake easily, have difficulty falling asleep, and often experience insomnia, making a good night's sleep seem impossible. However, research suggests exercise can help seniors have more restful nights. After clearing a new physical routine with your loved one’s physician, try the following exercises. Walking Many seniors experience disruptions to their natural body clocks, which results in difficulty…
Alzheimer's causes cognitive deficits, which can pose challenges for both seniors and their caregivers. Fortunately, there are things you can do to help your aging loved one handle the disease. Here’s a guide to caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's disease. Allow Independence Even though most seniors with Alzheimer's are unable to independently care for themselves, they can still…
Transitioning from the hospital to home can be complicated and overwhelming for a senior and his or her loved ones. It’s not uncommon for things to become confusing if the parties involved are unsure what questions to ask or what information is needed for their senior loved one to return safely home. Here are a few tips to ensure a…
In 2002, a report from the World Health Organization claimed 4 of the 20 countries with the highest life expectancies were in the Mediterranean region (France, Italy, Spain, and Greece). This is likely due in no small part to the diet commonly followed in these areas. In recent years, the Mediterranean diet has become more popular in the United States,…
Because the impact of pneumonia is far greater on seniors than it is on people in other age groups, it’s important for families to help their elderly loved ones remain healthy and stave off this serious illness. Here are four ways your loved one can prevent pneumonia. 1. Maintain Good Hygiene Pneumonia can easily develop following a viral or bacterial…