It can be difficult for anyone to admit they need help, but this is especially true for adult children providing care for aging parents. Caregivers may be embarrassed, ashamed, and, in some cases, afraid they’ll be seen as failures if they seek assistance or professional help. However, caregiver support groups are designed specifically to help overwhelmed caregivers overcome such feelings.…
Obesity continues to be a growing problem in the United States, and in recent years, nationwide statistics have shown that obesity is especially prevalent among the senior population. In fact, a 2010 study indicated nearly 70 percent of elderly adults are considered either overweight or obese. Here’s some important information about elderly obesity for seniors and their families. Increased Risk…
There are more than 1,000 diseases the National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) classifies as uncommon. Here are four rare medical conditions elderly people are at risk for developing. 1. Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) MSA is a rare degenerative neurological disease typically affecting seniors over the age of 60. It’s often associated with Parkinson’s disease because it has similar symptoms,…
For seniors with fibromyalgia, the pain can be pretty intense. Here are a number of different treatment options to ease the pain as well as other symptoms of the condition. 1. Medication For some time, doctors weren’t exactly sure how to treat fibromyalgia, but today they rely on medications to combat the symptoms. For example, antidepressants may be prescribed to…
Caregiver burnout is a legitimate health condition caused by unrelieved anxiety, and its symptoms include excessive fatigue, social withdrawal, sleep disorders, and mood swings. Here are eight ways caregivers can reduce their risk of burnout. 1. Make Time for Friends Many caregivers are so busy their relationships with friends and family members take a back seat. However, it’s important to…
Aging can have a negative impact on the emotional wellbeing of seniors. Whether they're living with limited mobility, smaller social circles, or a lack of purpose in life, it's fairly common for older adults to feel depressed. Here are a few easy ways to help seniors boost their emotional wellbeing. Take an Active Interest in Physical Health Enhancing physical fitness…
Despite being well worth the commitment and personally rewarding in many ways, caring for an elderly loved one can also be physically and mentally draining at times. However, because care needs can steadily increase with age, it can be difficult for family caregivers to get well-deserved breaks. One appealing solution is in-home respite care, which offers benefits for both caregivers…
Aggression typically develops in the later stages of Alzheimer's. However, it may occur during the early stages. Although aggression isn’t uncommon in people with Alzheimer's, your aging loved one should get a checkup to rule out physical causes for aggressive behavior. In the meantime, here are some ways to handle aggression in a senior with Alzheimer's. Determine the Cause Aggression…
It’s important to protect a senior’s skin during the summer season. Aging skin is more susceptible to sun damage than younger skin, so caregivers should ensure outdoor outings are safe for their senior loved ones. To keep your loved one’s skin free from sunburns all summer long, consider the following tips. Choose the Right Sunscreen Sunscreen is the best defense…
The foods seniors eat can have a major impact on their mental health and cognitive abilities. Countless studies have shown eating a healthy, well-balanced diet can enhance memory, verbal skills, reasoning, hand-eye coordination, and focus. Here are five delicious superfoods that can boost your senior loved one’s brain health and slow age-related cognitive decline. 1. Walnuts In addition to containing…
