Water is the most life-sustaining substance on the earth, and your aging loved one uses it to stay hydrated, bathe, and clean the home. Since we’ve all been around water since the day we were born, it may be baffling to discover that your loved one is suddenly afraid of it. Seniors with dementia sometimes develop a fear of water…
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that more than 600,000 people die every year from some form of heart disease. Cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of death for men and women. Seniors diagnosed with heart disease can prevent progression of the disease processes by eliminating certain foods from their diet. 1. High-Fat Foods Red meat and high-fat…
Senior centers are rapidly becoming the hub of many communities, yet people often fail to realize how important they are. Whether your aging loved one is curious about visiting one or you want to lobby to have one added to your community, here are just a few of the reasons senior centers are important. Provide Learning Opportunities Older adults are…
While Alzheimer's impacts every person differently, many people’s experiences follow a similar trajectory. Alzheimer's researchers have tried to clarify this trajectory via phase models. While some experts stick to a simple three-phase model, the most popular system was developed by Dr. Barry Reisberg, who identified the following seven distinct stages of Alzheimer's disease. Stage 1: Preclinical In stage one, seniors…
As older adults progress in age, their nutritional needs are likely to change. Each food your parent consumes may have a different effect on his or her body. Here are some of the reasons nutrition is important for your loved one. 1. Lowers Blood Pressure Blood circulation is controlled by the heart. When the heart doesn’t get the nutrients it…
Sudden weight loss in a senior needs to be addressed as soon as possible. Losing weight quickly can signify a serious medical disorder, so the sooner it’s recognized and addressed, the more likely your aging parent is to have a favorable outcome. Here are steps you can take if your loved one loses weight suddenly. Have a Discussion As soon…
Moving is a big deal for seniors, especially those living with conditions such as dementia. The uncertainty of a new move could make them nervous, confused, and agitated, which is why family caregivers need to find ways to make the transition to another home easier on aging parents who are living with dementia. Here are some tips your family can…
Caring for a senior loved one could leave you exhausted, emotional, and stressed out. When caregiving becomes overwhelming, it’s a good idea to hire respite care, which provides family caregivers with temporary relief. Here are six warning signs you might need some extra assistance. 1. You Lose Your Temper Often When caregivers are under too much stress, they often experience…
For many seniors, entering retirement means adhering to a stricter budget. However, they may not know the most effective ways to cut costs, which can make budgeting more challenging. Here are seven areas where seniors can spend less. 1. Food There are several ways seniors can spend less on food. First, they should look into senior discounts. While restaurants are…
Medication mishaps can result in deadly health complications. Without a comprehensive medication management plan, your aging loved could accidentally grab an extra pill first thing in the morning or go to bed without taking all of his or her prescriptions. Luckily, those issues can usually be avoided with a solid plan and a little bit of diligence. Here are some of…