As adults get older, their bones lose calcium and other nutrients if not replenished. The spine may curve, and seniors often become shorter due to bone shrinkage. Bone density loss causes an increased likelihood of fractures. Likewise, muscle mass diminishes and the tissues grow weaker. Seniors can face a variety of age-related challenges. Though some families choose to take on the caregiving duties, there may come a time when they…
Read Article
For many family caregivers, managing behavioral changes is one of the most challenging parts of their day. Trying to manage behaviors such as agitation and wandering may leave you feeling exhausted at the end of the day, and you may have serious concerns about how negative behavior changes affect your relationship with your loved one. While you may not be able to change all of the behaviors, you can use…
Read Article
Seniors often require changes to their care plan as they advance in age or receive a new health diagnosis. However, the changes in abilities are often so subtle that you might not notice them right away. Watch for the following warning signs that your aging loved one’s care needs are changing so you can make the appropriate arrangements. A Long-Term Health Condition Is Advancing In the senior years, long-term health…
Read Article
Losing weight can be a challenge for older adults, but they need to remain fit to protect their mental, physical, and emotional health. Family caregivers should encourage their aging loved ones to make lifestyle changes that help them maintain a healthy weight. Here are some of the healthy ways your aging loved one can lose weight in the golden years. 1. Drink Plenty of Water Drinking water is an easy…
Read Article
Due to divorce, the death of a spouse, or having never been married, many older adults live alone. According to the Administration on Aging, statistics indicate that in 2010, 1.3 million seniors lived alone. Here are a few risks involved with solitary living in the golden years. 1. Medication Management Older adults with memory deficits or cognitive impairment may not be able to manage their medications. They may forget to…
Read Article
The decision to become a family caregiver is not one you should take lightly. While you may be looking forward to spending more time with your senior loved one, it is also normal to worry about whether or not you have what it takes to keep him or her healthy and happy. While there is no easy answer, you can make the right decision for your family by understanding the…
Read Article
A stroke can occur whenever blood flow to the brain is blocked, and it is often caused by a blood clot or a broken blood vessel. Having a stroke may result in various health issues that take time and patience to heal. During stroke recovery, the primary focus is on increasing physical health and helping the person restore lost brain functions. If your senior loved one has recently experienced a…
Read Article
Being a family caregiver offers the chance to spend quality time with an older loved one while making treasured memories. However, over time, the task can become quite challenging for many reasons. If you keep in mind a few tips, you can ensure your own health and wellbeing while preventing burnout. 1. Eat Right While it is often easier to grab a quick bite of fast food, you need more…
Read Article
According to the National Stroke Association, over 790,000 Americans have strokes every year. While strokes can occur at any age, most of these events take place after the age of 65, which is why it is important for family caregivers to look out for new ways to reduce the risk of strokes among the elderly. Minimize Exposure to Smoke Even if your loved one has given up smoking or never…
Read Article
Many caregivers experience stress and exhaustion as they care for their senior loved ones. Taking on the extra responsibility can be challenging, but respite care can lighten the load. Here are some of the reasons family caregivers opt for respite care. 1. Receive Assistance Having family and friends help is ideal for family caregivers, but it is not always an option. Family members may live far away, have busy schedules,…
Read Article
9250 University Avenue, Suite 116
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Copyright © 2018 Home Care Assistance
Speak with a Care Manager Now: