Getting older involves learning how to accept the changes that occur in physical and mental health. Some changes may be unavoidable, but the effects of others can be reduced by practicing good self-care. These are the six most common age-related changes seniors can expect to experience along with some tips for addressing them. 1. Memory Lapses “Senior moments” are called…
Gum disease raises the risk of Alzheimer's disease and hastens its progression. Read on to learn about the link between poor dental health and cognitive decline as well as how to optimize your senior loved one’s oral hygiene. Gum Disease Complications There are two types of gum disease: gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis is the result of plaque, a sticky film…
There are several medications and treatments designed to alleviate or reduce Parkinson’s symptoms. However, for some seniors, medications may not provide satisfactory results. Instead, they might want to consider adopting more natural methods. Here are a few natural treatments to relieve common symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. Brahmi The Brahmi plant is a common herb used in Ayurvedic medicine. In the…
Proper dental care is important for everyone, but it’s particularly significant for older adults. It's also one of the things that can easily be pushed aside as more pressing health concerns arise. However, there are good reasons to make oral health a priority. Make sure your elderly loved one sees the dentist at the suggested intervals and promptly has any…
When taking care of an elderly loved one, communication is key, and it’s important to have a strategy to establish how effective communication will take place between you and your loved one. Rather than going into the situation unprepared, knowing the best ways to communicate with your parent will be instrumental in ensuring his or her care needs are met…
Many older adults in the United States end up living alone and facing isolation, which poses several physical, emotional, and cognitive health risks. However, there are a few creative ways family members can prevent isolation. Provide Transportation Older adults who no longer have the mental or physical capabilities needed to drive a vehicle are likely to become isolated. Family members…
Over the last 15 years, it’s estimated that alcohol abuse in seniors has escalated by more than 100 percent. The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence reports that more than 2.5 million older adults in the United States have alcohol or substance abuse disorders. People who abuse alcohol habitually experience a wide range of medical conditions, including cirrhosis of…
Older adults who maintain active lifestyles can preserve their cognitive health and maintain many skills during their golden years. Therefore, you should find fun hobbies for your senior loved one and promote healthy habits that boost his or her cognitive health and keep him or her positively engaged. Below are some ideal ways to keep the brain active with age. …
People with Parkinson’s disease experience a slow progression of symptoms, such as tremors and freezing, that change their lives over time. Naturally, the changes that occur in people with Parkinson’s begin to affect others who are close to them. If your aging loved one is diagnosed with Parkinson’s, make sure to think about the following ways the disease affects the…
Research has shown that Alzheimer's occurs secondary to the accumulation of beta-amyloid and tau proteins that adhere to and damage neurons in the brain. The tangles that develop also disrupt communication between the cells. The loss of communication and neurons causes the disease process. For some, genetics plays a role in Alzheimer's development. However, there are many other possible causes. …