Memory loss and dementia are common among aging adults. However, there are some factors that can speed up the rate of cognitive degeneration and make your senior loved one highly susceptible to dementia. Here are a few things that may be causing your senior loved one’s brain function to deteriorate faster than you know. 1. Other Medical Conditions Some medical…
Parkinson's is a progressive disorder that impacts each individual differently. However, family caregivers should look for some early signs of the disease so they can take their aging loved ones to the doctor for testing and treatment. Most early symptoms are due to adverse impacts on the nervous system and how body parts move and operate. Tremors This is one…
Falls can have devastating consequences for seniors. From broken hips to serious head trauma, seniors often experience significant injuries that can alter the course of the rest of their lives. Fortunately, most major falls are preventable when you and your aging loved one take some basic precautions. 1. Encourage Your Loved One to Stay Active Seniors need strong core and…
Hearing a physician diagnose your aging parent with Alzheimer's isn’t easy. The news could be life-changing for everyone involved, especially your loved one. Regardless, it’s necessary to build a plan to address the lifestyle changes your family will face, from medical treatments to cognitive issues, behavioral problems, and scheduling difficulties. Handling these steps early on can make the process more…
Brain health is vital for seniors because it affects their thinking, memory, decision-making, and more. Therefore, you must incorporate brain-boosting strategies that are mentally engaging and increase your elderly parent’s overall wellbeing. Brain-stimulating activities can stave off conditions like dementia while allowing your loved one to safely age in place with more confidence and independence. Here are a few ways…
Confusion and disorientation can lead to different challenges for aging adults with dementia, including wandering. Wandering can put your elderly parent’s safety and health at risk. Therefore, it’s necessary to create a list of strategies to handle wandering and possibly prevent the issue altogether. 1. Hide Keys & Lock Doors Your loved one could go to the bathroom and walk…
Every year, many seniors encounter dangerous situations in the one place they should feel safe. Accidents often occur at home, where a senior might be alone for long periods. Home caregivers provide the following types of personalized care that can help your aging loved one thrive in safe, comfortable surroundings. 1. Provide Support for Mobility Challenges Slip-and-fall accidents are a…
Dementia is a condition that causes nerve cell damage or loss and disrupts their connections to the brain. As a result, older adults with dementia often face challenges with daily activities, putting their health and safety at risk. Although dementia affects each senior differently, some symptoms are common, as are the signs that at-home care is necessary. To slow down…
Nursing home stays can be expensive, considering the admitted senior receives 24-hour skilled nursing care from nursing home staff. Before admitting an aging loved one to a nursing home, consider less-costly options, such as assisted living facilities and in-home care. Oftentimes, seniors will be admitted to a nursing home for a short period, typically to recover or receive rehabilitation services…
Strong feelings may emerge during the course of serving as a caregiver to a loved one. Family members may either be new to the role or have significant experience providing care. No matter what the experience level, emotions arise, and caregivers should know they are valid and important. Starting out on the journey of caregiving can be an emotionally taxing…
