According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), heart disease is the leading cause of death in America. While poor diet is one of the key risk factors associated with heart disease, studies show when caregivers encourage their senior loved ones to adopt alternative diets, such as that of the Japanese, it may reduce the risk of heart…
Lying to an elderly loved one with dementia may seem unscrupulous to many families. However, when used carefully and compassionately, this strategy may actually alleviate dementia symptoms. This article examines therapeutic lying and the role it may play in comforting seniors with dementia. Lying as a Means of Validation Many dementia caregivers are tempted to try to correct or reason…
Debt is an unfortunate reality for many adults, and seniors who live on fixed incomes are at higher risk for going into debt than younger adults. Here are a few of the most common reasons seniors accumulate debt and some tips on how to help your aging loved one stay debt-free. Medical Expenses Regardless of the type of health insurance…
If you’re a caregiver for an elderly loved one, you may be vulnerable to various types of injuries, which could negatively affect your ability to provide care. Fortunately, there are things you may do to lessen your risk of getting hurt. Here are some ways to prevent injuries related to caregiving. Maintain a Healthy Weight Being overweight could make you…
Each year, approximately 795,000 people have strokes. In fact, stroke is the third leading cause of death in the United States, and those who survive must often live with changes in physical and mental abilities that impact overall quality of life. While these are alarming statistics, there are strategies that may be employed to lower stroke risk. 1. Maintain Healthy…
Commonly used by teachers, the Montessori method requires practitioners to consider the needs and capabilities of students when designing lessons that provide challenges without causing frustration. Gerontological psychologist Dr. Cameron Camp believes this technique may easily be modified to stimulate the senses of seniors with Alzheimer’s and help family caregivers interact with their aging loved ones. The days, weeks, and…
As a family caregiver, your main concern is your senior loved one’s wellbeing. However, in the pursuit of caring for aging relatives, caregivers often neglect their own health and wellbeing. This may cause numerous physical and emotional problems that compromise the ability to care for a loved one. To safeguard your health and be the best caregiver possible, take note…
New family caregivers often take on more than they’re able to handle, and it doesn’t take long for signs of burnout to develop. While respite care may seem like a luxury, taking time away from your duties allows you to boost your health and enhance your relationships. Here are a few ways hiring respite care could prove beneficial. 1. Promotes…
Dementia is a neurodegenerative condition that gradually reduces mental functioning. The later stages of dementia are noticeable, but this condition may go undiagnosed for years. In the earlier stages of dementia, symptoms are mild and easy to miss. When caring for a senior loved one, keep an eye out for the following warning signs of dementia. 1. Personality Changes Since…
Dementia is a general term used to describe memory loss and a variety of other disorders that affect how the brain functions. Some various types of dementia include Lewy body dementia, Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, Huntington’s disease, Parkinson’s disease dementia, and normal pressure hydrocephalus. The most common form of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease, which accounts for up to 80 percent of all…
