Long before the classic symptoms of tremors and gait instability appear, Parkinson’s disease, which affects 1.5 million Americans, might be diagnosable allowing for the possibility for earlier intervention and amelioration of the disease. Consequently, detecting Parkinson’s disease early may buy valuable time. Studies find that many of those diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease had experienced the…
There is no shortage of stories about senior citizens who put up resistance to leaving their homes. Emotional attachment, the comfort of a familiar place, and independence – all are arguments older Americans cite when asked why they don’t want to relocate. This is quite understandable. However, even when this seems like a favorable option…
Mother’s Day approaching and May being Older Americans month, I started thinking about caregivers at the beginning and at the end of life, for those young and old. Understandably, people most often associate caregiving with the harried young mother who has no time to shower or get dressed as she feeds, bathes and runs after…
Social Media for the Elderly A study out of England and Italy found that when the elderly are trained in the use of social media and email, they perform better cognitively and experience improved health. Ironically, while social media has decidedly negative effects in teens, it is a very good thing for the elderly. As such…
There are few things scarier for the elderly than a fall. A fall can result in an array of problems and pain — or worse. So what can you do to prevent elderly falls in a senior’s home? Here are some tips that can help. 1. Prepare the Home Elderproofing your home is critically important.…
Most nurses can attest to the frustration felt when going through a medication reconciliation with an elderly patient. Oftentimes the elderly patient will come to the ER with a pill box and no idea of what medications it contains. They may simply be able to recognize certain pills based on color and size. They may…
When a loved one is struggling with daily chores and self-care, some difficult decisions lie ahead. One way to lighten his load, keep him safe and help him living at home is to hire a home healthcare services provider. Finding a qualified, compassionate and trustworthy person to bring into your loved one’s home is serious…
Taking care of an aging parent, spouse, or loved one at home is challenging—some moments more-so than others. For instance, you and your elderly loved one may not agree on a bathing schedule. Often the elderly are resistant in this area. Bathing a parent or loved one can also be uncomfortable, and even embarrassing, for…
Becoming a caretaker is almost always a rewarding experience. Being able to care for a loved one who needs you is an enriching and satisfying feeling. However, taking on the role of permanent or even part-time caregiver for a family member can quickly turn negative. It can bring on feelings of immense stress, helplessness, anger,…
If you have retired or have retired early to take care of a loved one full-time, you might be interested in “consulteering.” Consulteering is when you use your consulting skills on a volunteer basis. “It’s my trifecta. Paid work, giving back, and relaxation. I call it ‘consulteering’, said Dane Peters.” Dane Peters, a seasoned educator and…