It’s not something that’s usually brought up in conversation, but for the rookie caregiver, this topic is probably at the forefront of their minds: “How do I help my elderly loved one use the bathroom?” Here are a few steps to maintain as much of their independence as possible and make your job a lot […]
Local Resources for Caregivers
Taking care of a person can be an exhausting, lonely role. If you’re a caregiver to a spouse, parents, family member, or friend, you know this all too well. It can often feel like the life you once knew is gone and has been replaced by tiring work and constant sacrifice. Very often, it can […]
How to Reduce the Risk of Falling
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2.8 million older people are treated in emergency departments for fall injuries each year. Falls not only cause bruises and breaks or fractures—more than 95% of hip fractures are caused by falling—but they can also lead to more serious injuries. Falls are the most common cause […]
Make Valentine’s Day Special For Senior Adults
While Valentine’s Day is a time to celebrate and show your appreciation for your significant other, it can be a lonely time for many older adults. Many of them will celebrate this season without their spouse, some for the first time. Because of this, Valentine’s Day for older adults is often accompanied by sadness or […]
How to Combat Malnutrition
There’s an epidemic that’s creating a huge problem for elderly people in the United States—malnutrition. Malnutrition is when the body doesn’t get enough nutrients from food to work properly. According to the National Council on Aging, up to 10% of older Americans are malnourished. About 60% of older adults in hospitals and 35-85% of older […]
How to Keep Elderly People Warm in the Winter
January is one of the coldest months of the year. While the cold can be inconvenient and uncomfortable for everyone, it especially takes a toll on elderly people. As individuals age, they are increasingly susceptible to the cold for a variety of reasons. There is a natural decrease of their metabolic rate, which means they […]
Can an Alzheimer’s Patient Not Even Know They’re Ill?
It’s a scary thought – an Alzheimer’s patient in the throes of the disease may not even be aware that he or she is sick. They may think they’re perfectly healthy and be completely oblivious to the symptoms taking over their lives, to the horror of friends and family. Yet this phenomenon – called anosognosia […]
Family Conflicts: Fighting Over Parent Care
Taking care of an aging parent can take a toll on you personally, but it can also take a toll on your family. If you have siblings, the responsibility of taking care of your parent can be divided amongst the siblings or handled by just one. In either situation, a family conflict can occur. Arguments […]
Caregiver Burnout: 5 Signs to Look For
Being a caregiver for a loved one can be a demanding and stressful job. It’s also a job that can take a huge toll on the caregiver’s mental and physical well-being. If you don’t take the necessary steps to stay healthy, you could quickly become burned out — but how can you know if it’s […]
What to Do When Your Parent No Longer Drives
Helping your parent make the decision to stop driving can be hard, but choosing a new form of transportation for your loved one doesn’t have to be. Many different transportation services exist. After assessing your parent’s medical condition, financial capability, and other needs, choosing a new way to get from point A to point B […]