Seniors Can Age Healthy!
Slowing down is not the definition of aging in place. Caregivers can play a role in healthy aging of loved ones. There are many ways to ensure your loved one ages with grace. As you know, it is necessary to prioritize health and wellness. With age, bones shrink in size and density, making them more […]
Breast Cancer and Elders: Cancer, no Respect of Person!
October is breast cancer awareness month. We are all encouraged to learn about awareness and prevention. Guidelines can vary, but a mammogram should be done yearly, primarily if risk factors exist. Risk factors are anything that might increase the risk of the disease in your family, and genetics is a part of the risk factor. […]
New Caregivers-You are not Alone!
Caregivers are people who help others with activities of daily living. We know they are often family members, friends, or neighbors of their loved ones. When caring for older people, talking to them about their needs and concerns is seldom done, but it is necessary. Health problems should not be a secret as we age. […]
Loved Ones Dependent on Wheelchair Use
How many times have you heard stand tall and not lean over? Keeping body alignment is vital so that as we age, our frame does not start to tilt over. On a visit to a nursing facility, I observed many residents in wheelchairs. I also observed the positioning of many of them. Despite the multiple […]
To Help Love Ones Vote with Health Conditions
November is around the corner, and the Presidential election will be in full swing. As of this article, we have 43 days until voting begins. Caregivers, helping your loved one learn about candidates and preparing for transportation to the polls is a part of your caregiving responsibilities. Keep in mind that accessibility concerns may need […]
Caregivers- Know Loved One’s Insurance Plan
As a case manager for many years, I have had to stay current on insurance and all it provides to my patients. As a proactive caregiver advocate, insurance knowledge is still very much required as I help families navigate the community side of caring for loved ones. Many caregivers do not understand their loved ones’ […]
Making Use of Time Using Memories and Storytelling
As our loved ones age, they often have more time on their hands. Since we can never get back our time, caregivers can help by taking advantage of the time granted to our elders. One of the best ways to use time is by engaging elders in stimulating discussions with friends and family on current […]
Concerns for Exercise and Multiple Medications
Caring for a loved one on multiple medications can be a challenge, especially when understanding how these medications might react during exercise. It’s essential to know the signs and symptoms of medication reactions. There comes a time when it’s necessary to step in and discuss long-term medications with the healthcare team. Any warning signs in […]
Dementia Support and Reality Orientation
The role of the caregiver is pivotal for loved ones with dementia who have lost time, space, orientation, and familiarity with life and family. They need cues to keep them engaged as much as possible, regardless of their reaction or awareness. While some remembrances may be lost forever, the caregiver’s role in engaging with loved […]
The Heat and Older Loved Ones-Caution Required
Hot weather can pose risks for elderly individuals. Why? This is because older adults do not adjust to elevated temperature changes. They are more likely to have chronic medical conditions affecting their body’s heat response. Medications your loved ones take may also influence their ability to regulate temperature. High temperatures can exacerbate existing health conditions, […]