Most seniors accumulate quite a few pill bottles and blister packs over the years, and keeping all those drugs in the house can be risky. Anyone who steps into the home could accidentally or purposefully take some of the drugs, and those situations must be avoided at all costs. Luckily, most drugs can easily be disposed of in a matter…
Once the decision has been made that your aging family member needs in-home care, what’s the next step? Choosing a caregiver for your loved one is a huge responsibility. After all, the caregiver will be spending many hours with your loved one, and it’s important to know he or she is someone you can trust. When searching for the right…
Seniors face several challenges when it comes to toileting. For example, they may experience incontinence and fear not making it to the bathroom in time. As you work with your senior loved one to find solutions for these challenges, use these toileting tips to manage this critical part of his or her daily routine. 1. Install Adequate Lighting Bathrooms are…
The ability to adapt to changes in life is essential for seniors, who can expect things to change as they grow older. While your senior loved one might have gotten away with things such as eating unhealthy foods in his or her younger years, he or she may notice that minor changes add up to a big difference in health…
With age, the body experiences many changes, but this doesn’t mean your senior loved one should become inactive or less social. It’s important to adapt your loved one’s favorite games to his or her mental, physical, and emotional capabilities. This makes the activities more fun and enjoyable. Here are some sit-down games your loved one should consider playing, whether he…
When an elderly loved one with dementia is in denial over the diagnosis, it makes it more challenging for you to ensure your family member receives appropriate treatment and care. It also makes it difficult for everyone involved to prepare for future challenges. These five tips can make it easier to talk to your loved one about the diagnosis. 1.…
Sweet potatoes aren’t just a tasty treat for holiday meals. These root vegetables are actually rich in essential vitamins and minerals that offer many benefits for people over 65. Here are a few of the reasons your aging loved one might want to eat more sweet potatoes. 1. Boost the Immune System As people get older, their immune systems don’t…
Many members of today's “sandwich generation”—people who are caring not only for their children but also for their aging parents—often feel overwhelmed. These feelings can be further magnified when a senior loved one’s care needs change dramatically as the result of health conditions or cognitive decline. When family caregivers become stressed and overwhelmed, it’s important to know help is available.…
Affecting more than 5 million Americans, Alzheimer's disease is expected to impact many other lives as the baby boomer generation continues to age. While the memory problems associated with the progressive condition are well known, there are some other facts about Alzheimer's that may surprise you. 1. Alzheimer’s Is Usually Accompanied by Other Conditions Many people living with Alzheimer's have…
Receiving an Alzheimer's diagnosis is life changing, and it's easy for seniors and their families to feel overwhelmed about what the future will bring. Being prepared with a set of questions when you go to the doctor's with your aging loved one can ease concerns and help you both better understand what to expect in the months and years ahead. Here…