Adult children should consistently watch for signs their aging parents may be experiencing changes in health. However, many of these signs develop slowly and are subtle enough to be missed during a short visit. If you’re concerned about your loved one’s ability to live independently, stay alert for the following physical changes that could signify a need for assistance, support,…
Food-related concerns such as severe weight loss and malnutrition are extremely common among seniors with Alzheimer’s care, and caregivers must thoroughly plan all snacks and meals to prevent those complications. Diet can have a major impact on a senior’s cognitive health, energy levels, and emotional stability. Spending a little extra time in the kitchen could help you and your aging…
Seniors in movies and on television are often portrayed as being forgetful, angry, or isolated. These portrayals can lead viewers to believe these things are a normal part of aging, but nothing is further from the truth. Learn the reality behind these common myths and see how they may affect your senior loved one’s care. Memory Loss Is an Inevitable…
Older adults crave sweets because aging reduces taste sensitivity, smell perception, and brain regulation of appetite. Sweet flavors are easier to detect than bitter or salty foods, making sugary items more appealing. Emotional comfort, nutrient gaps, medications, and cognitive conditions like dementia can also increase sugar cravings in seniors. As people age, managing daily nutrition can become challenging, especially when…
If your senior loved one has experienced a stroke, his or her physician may recommend trying to exercise as much as possible. If your parent is still mobile and doesn’t exhibit extreme balance issues, walking may be an integral component of his or her therapeutic plan of care. Here are some reasons walking is a good exercise for stroke survivors. …
The idea of caring for an aging parent seems like the right solution for many adult children. Providing in-home care can serve as an alternative to a long-term care center and allow your family to spend more time with your loved one. However, caregiving isn’t always as easy as you may think. The truth is there’s a lot to the…
Injuries are a major concern for seniors because they can take a long time to heal, and if they’re improperly treated, they can be the source of more serious complications. Skin tears, fractures, and head trauma are some of the leading injuries among seniors. If you’re concerned about the safety of an aging loved one, here are a few things…
Alzheimer's doesn’t occur as a result of the normal aging process. However, the chances of developing the disease increase as adults become older. People can’t help getting older, but there are a number of causes and risk factors associated with Alzheimer's that seniors have the ability to address, and family members can take an active role in encouraging their aging…
Parkinson’s disease can develop when seniors are in their 50s or 60s and inhibit many of their abilities, such as walking, talking, and eating. There’s no cure for Parkinson’s, and it progresses over time. However, there are lifestyle choices that can slow the progression and boost quality of life. Here are a few things you can do as a family…
Caregiver burnout prevention strategies often focus on encouraging you to get enough sleep, eat right, and exercise. Even though those are helpful suggestions, there may be times when they’re not as effective as they could be. When you find yourself feeling those early symptoms of burnout, use these creative solutions to give your mood a boost. Create a Relaxation Basket…
