Some seniors are perfectly capable of handling health appointments and related tasks. But there may come a time when you'll need to be more involved with this aspect of care, as may be the case if your aging loved one has chronic health conditions, mobility limitations, or a progressive form of dementia. With situations like these, you'll need to regularly…
The Stroke Awareness Foundation reports more than 795,000 people experience strokes every year. More than 60 percent of these individuals are over the age of 65. Hundreds of thousands of people assume caregiving duties for their recovering senior loved ones. The stroke caregiver role presents a number of difficult challenges. Meeting a Variety of Needs Two-thirds of stroke survivors experience…
You chose to be a family caregiver to give your senior loved one the support he or she needs to thrive. When you signed up for your role, one of the last things you might have considered is that you also need support. Family caregivers who can rely on multiple sources of assistance can also enhance the lives of their…
At some point, seniors with dementia display behaviors that aren’t typically characteristic of their personalities. They might become unusually sad, angry, aggressive, or frustrated, and the events may occur for a variety of reasons. You have the ability to calm your older loved one using different techniques that don’t include medications. Stay Calm The unusual behavior your loved one displays…
Sleep is important at any age, but it’s even more essential for older adults because they tend to benefit more from the recuperative effects of high-quality sleep. But for some older adults, enjoying sufficient sleep is easier said than done if a sleep-related disorder is involved. Below, you'll find five common sleep disorders in older adults along with some tips…
Statistics suggest approximately 300,000 older adults are hospitalized each year after experiencing hip fractures. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports women represent up to 75 percent of those with hip fractures. As the baby boomer generation ages, these numbers are likely to rise. Recent studies indicate vitamin D deficiencies contribute to falls and hip fractures and impede recovery.…
Oral hygiene is important at any age, but it’s especially crucial for seniors. Brushing teeth twice a day, flossing once a day, and visiting the dentist regularly can prevent several unpleasant health conditions. Here are some of the main reasons seniors need to pay attention to their oral health. Seniors Often Have Dry Mouth Saliva can keep the mouth healthy.…
A survey by AARP found most older adults today prefer to age in place, referring to the desire to remain in a familiar and comfortable home. If you're providing care for a senior loved one, you may be tempted to put aside such wishes and explore options with nursing homes or assisted living facilities, especially if your parent’s care needs…
As the years go by, researchers gain a better understanding of the physiological events that contribute to Alzheimer's development. There are also many stress factors that may be more likely to lead to the disorder. Some of the stressors are preventable, while others require medical intervention. 1. Depression The majority of people become depressed at one time or another. However,…
Seniors may need to spend long periods inside to protect their health. They might need to shelter at home to avoid exposure to viruses going around their communities or while recovering from illnesses. During these times, seniors still require socialization, and they can connect with people using these online resources. 1. Take a Virtual Class Many seniors rely on classes…