Whether you help your senior loved one with errands a few hours after work each day or provide around-the-clock care in your own home, being a family caregiver can be an overwhelming and stressful responsibility. If you experience feelings of guilt, anxiety, or stress related to your role as a caregiver, here are a few healthy habits that can relieve…
Senior runners know few things are as exhilarating as a brisk run on a favorite trail. However, it’s important for family caregivers to keep in mind that running safety strategies may need to be adjusted as their senior loved ones get older. These tips can ensure your loved one stays safe while running so he or she can enjoy maximum…
Living a sedentary lifestyle has been associated with developing high blood pressure. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports nearly 400,000 people in the United States die each year due to hypertension. However, seniors can reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular disease or reverse their symptoms by getting regular exercise. Here are a few exercises seniors should do to…
Once they’ve passed their initial recovery, stroke survivors are typically advised to exercise for at least 15 to 20 minutes each day. The right exercises will be challenging yet simple enough to do without causing frustration. All these exercises target common issues stroke survivors face with regaining their strength and mobility. 1. Sit-Stands Seniors need to be able to sit…
Hospital readmissions can cause new health issues for seniors and financial hardships for families. Most hospitals have programs in place to lower the risk of readmissions, but they still occur in large numbers. Here are some common factors that increase hospital readmission risk. 1. Multiple Prescription Medications Medication side effects and drug interactions can cause heart issues, abnormal blood glucose…
There’s growing evidence suggesting a link between high blood sugar and cancer. Researchers are specifically focusing on people who have type 2 diabetes, a condition characterized by fluctuating blood sugar levels. The link appears strongest with kidney, colorectal, and pancreatic cancers. High Insulin Levels The strongest correlation between high blood sugar and cancer involves high insulin levels often associated with…
Retaining mobility is understandably a big part of maintaining as much independence as possible for older adults. Even seniors with conditions impacting their degree of flexibility and stability may be able to safely retain their mobility by considering any of the following suggestions. Exercising Based on Abilities There’s no age limit on exercise, and many seniors can benefit from regular…
The Alzheimer’s Association reports that approximately 15 million people in the United States care for a loved one who has Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. Most family caregivers likely agree the task is quite challenging, and there are several factors they must consider to ensure they’re providing effective care. Become Educated Gain information about care techniques as well as…
Diet and exercise are essential for achieving and maintaining optimal health at any age. For seniors, it can be more challenging to strike the best balance between getting the nutrition they need while controlling the number of calories they eat. With age, metabolism slows, so seniors need fewer calories to stay at a healthy weight. At the same time, consuming…
Obesity increases the risk of many diseases in older adults. The excess weight can have a negative impact on the organs and body systems, which is why seniors need to do everything possible to control their weight as they grow older. Here are some tips for older adults who want to prevent obesity. Don’t Skip Meals Although seniors need to…