It might surprise you to learn that older adults watch more television than younger people do. Watching TV comprises most of the leisure time for adults aged 70 to 105 years old. Television can be an avenue to learning new things, connecting with the world, creating a diversion, and providing some light entertainment. However, it [...]
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) each year 48 million illnesses, 128,000 hospitalizations, and 3,000 deaths in this country can be traced to foodborne pathogens. We’ve probably all heard our older loved ones comment that they have always (insert poor food storage adage here) and it was fine. However, bacteria have [...]
Sixteen million Americans suffer from diagnosed COPD, with millions more likely suffering from the effects but undiagnosed and untreated. If your loved one suffers from breathing challenges, they could have COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease). COPD is not just one disease but an identifier for a group of diseases that cause breathing-related problems, including the [...]
Seniors are prone to eye disorders, so exams are crucial. Problems develop painlessly and have no symptoms and individuals may not notice changes in their vision. Seniors and Vision Loss: How to Adapt to Changes in Sight The importance of sight exams Getting an annual eye exam is important for people of all ages, but [...]
May is stroke awareness month. Below are signs and symptoms put together by stroke.org and The American Heart Association. Learn and share the F.A.S.T. warning signs, you might save a life! F.A.S.T. is a quick way to identify stroke symptoms and act quickly. Recognize the warning signs and call 9-1-1 immediately. This can make the [...]
The Alzheimer's Association shared that more than 6 million Americans of all ages have Alzheimer's in their 2021 Facts and Figures Report. The report also shared that people age 65 and older survive an average of four to eight years after a diagnosis of Alzheimer's dementia, yet some live as long as 20 years with [...]
Can you believe it's been over a year since we had to social distance and isolate? Social distancing has made it tough to celebrate special moments with loved ones. Vaccines are now rolling out, and many family members can reunite with peace of mind. Whether you must continue to socially distance or you are finally [...]
Has your older loved one had multiple hospital visits due to falls? Does your loved one have bumps and bruises but won't tell you why? The CDC says millions of older people—those 65 and older—fall each year. More than one out of four older people fall each year, but less than half tell their doctor. [...]
Spring cleaning is a great way to freshen up the house! If you are a caregiver, include your elderly loved one in your spring cleaning. Keep idle hands busy while you tackle essential tasks. The very elderly cannot lift heavy objects or hunch over to scrub, but you can have them sort through old clothes [...]
Short-term memory often fades quicker for Alzheimer's patients than long-term memory. Procedural memory is part of long-term memory. The brain's long-term memory is stored in the hippocampus. Procedural memory allows Alzheimer's patients to continue doing routine habits and skills. While it is frustrating to see your loved one lose skills, focus on the ones they [...]
