Elderly Depression During the Holidays Those of us that work with the elderly approach this time with trepidation. It is a period when they enjoy time with their loved ones, but may mourn all they have lost in terms of loved ones as well as physical capabilities. I have tried to put together some helpful…
Are you looking for someone who can provide senior care for your elderly or disabled loved one? If so, you might be shopping around for a caregiver to ensure that you choose the right person. Here are five home health aide qualities that may indicate you’ve found a good match. 1. Patient Caring for an…
According to the Automobile Club of America (AAA), statistics for car crashes in the 75 and older age group is similar to those for teens. The difference is that they are far less likely to survive these car crashes than their younger counterparts. That is not even taking into account the harm that can be inflicted…
An interesting and useful infographic by Home Healthcare Adaptations Elderly Falls Every single year, a third of all elderly adults suffers a fall. And, an adult who falls is twice as likely to do so again as compared to someone who hasn’t fallen. Falling is the most common cause of traumatic brain injuries and hospital treatment…
Merrian-Webster defines activity as involving mental function designed to stimulate learning and energy; usually done for pleasure and often involves other people. Think how difficult it is for those diagnosed with cognitive loss to perform purposeful activities such as self-care (bathing, eating, dressing, toileting, etc.) and socialization when the ability to initiate these interactions have been compromised. Dementia…
Dr. Sarah Brewer is a medical nutritionist, nutritional therapist and the author of over 60 popular health books. We are excited about her guest blog post on this vital topic. At one-time, vitamin D was all about ensuring good calcium absorption from the diet to maintain healthy bones. Researchers now realize this important vitamin does a…
Nearly one million people in the U.S. suffer from Parkinson’s disease, a chronic and progressive movement disorder. Symptoms can vary from person to person. However, in general, people with Parkinson’s disease lose control over their range of motion which gets worse over time. The good news is that Parkinson’s can be managed and many…
Definition Polypharmacy is on the rise. It is a term for taking five or more drugs concurrently. While this is a cause for alarm in the young, polypharmacy in the elderly is much more alarming. They usually take a panoply of medications prescribed to them by their stable of specialists along with their internist or…
High Risk of Institutionalization About 5 million Americans have Alzheimer’s Disease and 90% of those are abusive. This is important because this situation puts these patients at higher risk for institutionalization, greater functional decline, and domestic abuse. Up to this point, prescribing medication has been the preferred method for managing and controlling the Behavioral and…
Caregiving for a loved one can be an emotionally challenging task. Not only is it often a 24/7 job, but it can be especially difficult to find a balance between providing and caring for your loved one and maintaining your own physical and emotional well-being. Here are 5 practical tips that will help you in…