Alzheimer’s is a concern for many seniors because it has many potential causes, which makes it difficult to prevent. However, identifying and understanding its major risk factors gives them a better chance of preventing the disease. Here are some common risk factors for Alzheimer’s and tips on what your aging loved one can do to reduce his or her risk. …
Painful feelings are a natural consequence of caregiving. When caregivers experience guilt, they shouldn’t react by dwelling on their feelings of shame or bottling up their emotions. Here are five tips for caregivers who want to manage their guilt in productive ways. 1. Face the Guilt Head-On Caregivers often neglect their own emotional needs. Keeping emotions bottled up is never…
Just because your aging loved one has been diagnosed with dementia doesn’t mean he or she can’t live a happy and fulfilling life. With proper care and a little bit of diligence, you might be able to minimize or delay some of the worst symptoms for years. Coming up with a long-term treatment and care plan can enhance your loved…
Families are often left to figure out how to best manage their senior loved ones’ symptoms after a Parkinson’s disease (PD) diagnosis. While your loved one’s medical team will be your best source of information, there are some things you should know that the doctor may not tell you in the beginning. 1. Medication Side Effects Can Be Worse than…
The decision to opt for in-home care for an elderly parent includes finding the right caregiver. It’s a process that can be time-consuming and even a little frustrating at times. Take some of the stress out of the selection process by having a clear idea of what your loved one wants and needs before making arrangements. Determine the Necessary Care…
Older adults all around the world are taking advantage of smartphone apps. Some mobile apps provide entertainment for elderly people, while others can save their lives. Take a look at these popular apps seniors can use on their smartphones and learn why each app is beneficial for them. 1. WebMD The symptom checker feature on WebMD can come in handy…
One of the top priorities for family caregivers should be to create safe living environments for their senior loved ones. Caregivers also need to make sure their loved ones are safe outside the home, whether they’re running errands, going to local venues, taking walks, or meeting with other family members and friends. Here are some of the major safety hazards…
Eating a nutritious diet is vital for an older adult’s immune system, heart health, cognitive abilities, and more. Therefore, family caregivers need to monitor their senior parents’ eating habits and determine if they need more assistance or different diet plans. Below are some ways to discover if your loved one isn’t eating properly and ways to address each problem. 1.…
Though some seniors have physical health conditions that deserve attention, it’s just as important to focus on their mental and emotional wellbeing. Many aging adults are choosing to go back to school after retirement not only because they have the time to do so but also because they believe it can have a significant impact on these two aspects of…
Denial is a powerful psychological tool sometimes used as a defense mechanism until a person can get used to a new health diagnosis. However, seniors who are in denial about dementia diagnoses place their safety and health at risk. If you provide care for a senior loved one, it’s important to understand denial is often masked as other behaviors that…