Skin cancer is a very real concern for the elderly. It's estimated that about 40 to 50 percent of Americans age 65 and older will have had skin cancer. In addition to helping your aging loved one prevent skin cancer, it's important to encourage him or her to see the doctor or a dermatologist regularly to get checked out for…
After spending many weeks or months caring for your senior loved one, you may not know what to do during your downtime. Regular breaks are essential for the prevention of caregiver burnout, and making the most of your free time could help you provide a higher level of care to your loved one. Consider trying the following things during your…
Caring for a spouse can be difficult, especially for older adults who need to manage their own health. Watching a spouse age can put mental and emotional strain on seniors. However, there are a few ways to make caring for an elderly spouse easier. Ask for Assistance Spouses sometimes feel obligated to provide all the care for their loved one…
A protein deficiency can lead to several health conditions, including a compromised immune system, chronic fatigue, decreased appetite, blood sugar spikes, and joint pain. Caregivers need to make sure their aging loved ones are eating plenty of high-protein meals and snacks throughout the day to prevent these health issues. Here is a quick look at five sources of protein that…
If you are caring for an aging loved one, you might already be taking measures to reduce his or her risk of dementia. What you might not be doing, however, is taking similar measures for yourself, especially if you smoke, avoid social interaction and physical activity, or engage in other unhealthy lifestyle choices. Luckily, there are a few things you…
Seniors with limited mobility don’t have to be isolated or inactive, and family members can encourage them to engage in fun activities. Here are a few safe and fun hobbies older adults with mobility issues are sure to appreciate. 1. Exercising Many long-term care facilities and community centers offer exercise programs for seniors with limited mobility. There are also…
Aging puts seniors at a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, which is why family caregivers should do everything possible to help their loved ones stave off this health condition. Caregivers and their families need to know what symptoms and signs to watch out for, which includes damage caused to the sensory memory systems. Take a closer look at how…
Getting a good night’s rest can help caregivers stay healthy and maintain a high quality of life. In fact, sleep can be just as necessary as healthy eating and exercising. Here are some of the reasons proper sleep is important for family caregivers. 1. Encourages Better Eating Habits Lack of sleep can disrupt appetite hormones, making caregivers dependent on unhealthy…
Technology is finally catching up to the needs of caregivers, and you can find a variety of apps, gadgets, and safety systems today to make your duties much easier. However, family caregivers are sometimes so strapped for time that they do not have the opportunity to explore new types of technology or learn complicated procedures. The following types of technology…
Involuntary weight loss is a concern in the senior years since it can be a warning sign of many different physical and mental health conditions. It can be alarming to discover your senior loved one has lost a significant amount of weight in a short time. When you notice your loved one looks thinner than normal, use these strategies to…