Get expert tips and insight into promoting health and wellness at every age It’s been said that age is just a number, not a definition. Still, as we age into […]
As we grow older, the body’s ability to absorb certain nutrients decreases and eating a balanced diet becomes even more essential. This is especially true for those who have chronic health conditions such as diabetes or heart disease. Maintaining a good diet is increasingly important for seniors, but can be challenging for some. If you think your loved one isn’t able to prepare balanced meals like they used to, it may be time to consider other options.
A senior loved one who is finding it difficult to keep up their physical appearance or wash and care for their wardrobe may need a little extra help with their personal care and household chores. Solutions include a home health aide to assist with light housework, laundry, bathing and dressing, or an assisted living community that includes such services as part of their levels of care, providing choices based on the support your loved one needs.
A little alone time is OK for older adults, but excessive isolation with no social outlet can be a warning sign. If you notice that your loved one rarely leaves the house or constantly declines social opportunities, you might want to determine why. Is it challenging physically for them to leave their home, or is socializing too burdensome due to hearing loss or memory decline? Prolonged social isolation can lead to an almost 30% increase in the risk of premature death through health conditions including diabetes, heart attacks, insomnia, and dementia.
Considering senior living is an emotional time for seniors and their families, and there are many fears associated with the move. We identify five of those fears and dispel them.
If an older loved one is intent on living in their home as long as possible, but you have concerns for their safety, it’s important to know what to look for around the house. We list the areas around the house – and specific things in them – to take into account when making the decision to stay at home or move to a senior living community.
The occasional minor incident or accident are to be expected as a loved one grows older, but when they wander, fall frequently, mistake or forget their medications, get lost, or forget to turn off the stove or oven, it’s time to consider senior living options.
