Category: Senior Care

Your senior loved one does not need to stop leaving their house or stop traveling just because they are getting older. In fact, when you are older is when travel means more. Your loved one has a lifetime of knowledge that allows them to fully appreciate the new experience they are having. After all, if not for travel, why did they work so hard for so many years? Getting older does mean, however, that your senior loved one cannot travel the same way that they used to. This does not mean upgrading to a proper hotel from a hostel. What this refers to are the physical and cognitive limitations many seniors need to work around. Thankfully, there are some steps you and your senior loved one can take to keep them safe while traveling out of the house. 1. Get it in Writing It is important to make a list of all over-the-counter medications,…

As humans, we are social creatures. This is why it is no surprise that social engagement helps keep us mentally and physically healthy as we grow older. The importance of social interaction is well-documented in many studies. It is linked to reducing the risk of some cancers, rheumatoid arthritis, cardiovascular problems, and osteoporosis. Moreover, social interaction has been linked to reducing the occurrence of mental health issues including depression. Individuals who regularly involved in social activities are around 50 percent less likely to display cognitive decline than those who are isolated or lonely. Cognitive performance can be improved from just 10 minutes of daily social engagement, according to the University of Michigan. Furthermore, individuals who regularly participate in social activities have an increased chance of exercising, eating healthy, and engaging in intellectual activities like reading. In contrast, high blood pressure, depression, as well as a greater risk of death have been associated with social…

We all find ourselves stressed out from time to time, but what happens when you’re stressed all the time? For some people, normal stress can bubble over into anxiety and start affecting your life in serious ways. According to Anxiety.org, people over 65 are often left with anxiety that’s untreated and undiagnosed. Recognizing and addressing the source of anxiety can make a big impact on your mood. Here are common (but subtle) stressors you may not have considered.   Relationships If a specific relationship in your life is contentious, it’s probably occurred to you that it might be a source of stress. However, a relationship doesn’t have to be bad to be anxiety-inducing. Sometimes, the people who you love and who love you most can cause stress, simply by being stressed themselves. Stay aware of your loved one’s moods, and recognize if you’re picking up on their energy. Acknowledging that their problems are not…

Enjoying a warm summer day does not have to be a distant memory for your senior loved one. Many senior loved ones find great joy residing in senior communities where they are provided with the amenities and care that they require to live an engaging, safe, and fun life among their equals. Nevertheless, even though the majority of elderly relatives adore their homes in senior living communities, it is essential that they are able to go on fun adventures with family and friends. Here is a list of tips to keep your senior loved one active this summer. Although most senior living communities offer many exciting adventures for their residents to do as a community through an elderly home care business, there is something extra special about planning fun adventures with friends and family only. This can be an excellent way to lift a senior loved one’s spirits while also giving families much quality…

Many aging loved ones feel as though there is no benefit in staying active or motivated and have an outlook of “what is the use?” This illustrates the importance of facilitating engaged aging for your loved ones. Still, most aging loved ones want to remain independent and do not think about how being inactive adds to various health conditions that can and do prevent independence. This need for independence is one reason why an aging relative may opt for a senior home care business rather than an in-patient facility for their day-to-day care. Consider this guidance when setting up senior  home care for loved ones. Motivating an aging relative to remain engaged and even exercise often means much work for you. With the many health challenges an aging individual face, they often develop a mindset that is not easily influenced. Remaining patient, kind, and positive when attempting to motivate your aging loved one to…

The stresses of caregiving can be overwhelming, particularly if you feel you have little control over the situation, or you are in over your head. If these stresses are left unchecked, they can take a toll on your relationships, state of mind, health and eventually lead to caregiver burnout. It is difficult to do anything when you are burned out, especially take care of someone else. That is why taking care of yourself is a necessity. If you believe you are experiencing too much stress, consider the qualified services of a home health care business to take on some of your caregiving stressors. Caregiver Burnout & Stress Caregiver burnout is emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion resulting from the overwhelming and prolonged stress of caregiving. Although caring for an aging loved one can be extremely rewarding, it does involve stressors. As caring for a senior loved one is often long-term, the stressors it tends to…

For most family caregivers, the challenges of caring for a senior loved one are just a part of life. Nevertheless, caregiving is a demanding job that requires help. That is the reason why respite care is crucial. Respite care from an in-home care business as well as out-of-home care business can provide caregivers with a short but necessary break that can be helpful in reducing stress, promote balance in your life, and restore your energy. Respite care can also provide stimulation and variety for your aging relative, helping to make the caregiving process a more rewarding and enjoyable experience for both of you. What is Respite Care? Respite care provides the primary caregiver with a much-needed break from the everyday demands of caring for your elderly loved one. Respite care can occur at a day-care center, your own home, or at a residential nursing facility that provides overnight stays. Whether respite is needed for…

No matter what summer activities your senior loved one and yourself engage in, or which ones they pursue on their own, it is vital to be aware of the risks the summer sun can pose to the elderly.   Tips to Keep in Mind Make sure your senior relative is well hydrated at all times. Stay away from any situation that may lead to heatstroke. Know how to spot the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Ensure your aging loved one is always protected from the sun with protective clothing, umbrellas, hats, and sunscreen. Even if the summer heat has caused your loved one’s appetite to decrease, always be sure they are eating well.   Recommended Activities for Seniors Loved Ones This Summer Summer is a busy time of year: families get together for barbecues and reunions, kids are on school vacation, and everyone is gathering at the beach to swim. Aging may lead…

Exercise is important whether you’re 8 or 80. However, as you age or your loved one is aging, it is important that you exercise safely while getting the most benefit. One way to do that is with water aerobic exercise. This is less impactful on the joints of your body and will also give you a maximum workout with minimal effort. It is great for those who deal with pain from arthritis too as it is not jarring the body as activities such as running, or walking can do.

Seniors have many things to think about after retirement, from their physical health to the safety of their homes. For some, making sure they have the right Medicare plan can be a long and drawn-out hassle that comes with confusing terminology, and when an individual is dealing with mental health issues, time is often of the essence. From anxiety to depression, there is an entire spectrum of disorders that many seniors are living with these days, and these feelings can become problematic when it comes to staying healthy. Depression, in particular, can affect a senior over time and lead to much more serious health conditions. The good news is that there are many ways you can get help with a mental health condition through Medicare. With an Advantage plan, you can see a trained counselor or therapist as well as get the prescription medications you need. It’s important to do a little research into…