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. …
Seniors in their sixties and beyond have a greater chance of reentering the hospital within 30 days of discharge compared to all other age groups. However, over the past two decades, doctors, nurses, and other officials in the medical field have been creating and encouraging seniors' families to take part in programs that prevent readmission. Some health issues are more…
A variety of health conditions can develop with age, making it difficult for some seniors to make important legal and financial decisions. Because of this, it's important to understand what power of attorney is and why you should help your elderly loved one take care of designating it before any health challenges arise. It Makes Decisions Easier Aging loved ones…
Holidays are one of the best times for family members to enjoy spending time together. However, there are also additional safety risks present during this time of year. With the right preparation, family caregivers can keep their senior loved ones safe during the holiday season. Be Aware of Symptomatic Confusion Holidays are busy, especially on days when there are family,…
Your senior loved one may get more set in his or her ways with age. Seniors sometimes cause themselves to become isolated when they suddenly stop trying to do new things or meet new people. While your loved one may balk at the idea of going to a party, there are some easy ways to incorporate socialization into his or…