There’s nothing better than a tall, cold drink on a hot summer day, but when dysphagia in the elderly is a concern, this simple pleasure could be downright dangerous. Dysphagia – or trouble with swallowing – impacts millions of older adults, due to weakened mouth and/or throat muscles. Alzheimer’s, MS, cancer, and stroke are all […]
Tips to Help Manage Dysphagia in the Elderly Read More »
Exactly what are your very first thoughts when you wake up in the morning? Are you looking forward to what the day holds, or would you like to crawl back underneath the covers and remain there? If you’re experiencing more dread than delight as you consider your caregiving tasks for the day, you are not
Caregiving Tips for Overcoming Common Feelings of Caregiver Dread Read More »
Even when memory loss and confusion escalate throughout the end stages of Alzheimer’s, there’s a fascinating and welcome reprieve that often occurs. Previously termed “terminal lucidity,” it’s more commonly referred to now as “paradoxical lucidity.” It signifies an unexpected, temporary regaining of clarity to a nearly pre-dementia state of mind. During this time period, the
The End Stages of Alzheimer’s: What We Can Learn When Lucidity Returns Read More »
It’s been more than a year since the COVID-19 pandemic began; a year of fear, loneliness, and isolation for many seniors. Physical distancing has eliminated the ability to provide the warmth and comfort of a hug and even an in-person smile in many cases. Yet humans are social creatures, and this diminished socialization has numerous
How Scammers Prey Upon Lonely Seniors and How to Identify It Read More »
There are certain milestones we might experience in our lives that, while not fundamentally negative, are known stressors. Losing a job. Starting a new job. Getting divorced. Getting married. And one that individuals in the home care industry are particularly mindful of: the physical and mental impact on family members who are caring for aging
Caring for Aging Parents: Family Therapy Read More »
The isolation and fear as a result of COVID-19 have wreaked havoc on the wellbeing of the elderly, with nearly 50% of seniors surveyed in a Kaiser Family Foundation poll stating that their amount of stress and worry was adversely impacting their own health. And while it still may be hazardous to visit in person
Supporting Senior Mental Health While Apart Read More »
Primary caregivers for anyone with dementia are all too acquainted with the complications experienced in trying to take a quiet minute or two alone – to use the restroom, get a brief shower, or even step into another room. Those diagnosed with Alzheimer’s can experience enhanced fear when a close member of the family is
Dementia Care Tips for Shadowing Behaviors Read More »
Although this season is typically viewed as the season of joy, for some older adults, the holidays are a period of intense unhappiness. Yearning for holidays past, despair over the loss of family and friends, and difficult changes to health can magnify during the holiday season, and it’s imperative to take steps to help senior
Elderly Care Tips for Helping Seniors Through the “Holiday Blues” Read More »
Family care providers give so much of themselves to attend to their senior loved ones, frequently sacrificing their own individual desires and needs in the process. It may seem natural to presume then that caregivers would feel good about themselves, with high self-esteem and a sense of purpose. Yet the exact opposite is usually true
Let Go of Family Caregiver Guilt and Gain Freedom Read More »
Looking at the past several months, family caregivers have had to handle seemingly unsurmountable challenges connected with the care of the seniors they love. With COVID-19’s specific dangers to the elderly and those diagnosed with underlying health conditions, such as COPD, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and others that are common in seniors, families have struggled with
Is Senior Home Care Safe Now? Read More »
