It’s National Immunization Awareness Month. Immunization saves millions of lives every year and is widely recognized as one of the world’s most successful health interventions. 59.4% of people 12 and older in the US – and more than 80% of those over 65 – have been fully vaccinated for COVID-19. While there have been “breakthrough” cases of COVID-19, especially with…
Muscle mass begins decreasing around the age of 30 and continues as individuals grow older. However, there are other reasons older adults may experience leg weakness. Many of the underlying causes can easily be remedied. Physical Inactivity Due to cardiovascular issues or other medical conditions, some seniors may not be very physically active. If muscles aren’t regularly used, they start…
Color therapy, also known as chromotherapy, can be helpful for family caregivers who want to ensure their senior loved ones remain emotionally healthy. Though the reasons color is so therapeutic are still unclear, many studies have shown just how effective chromotherapy can be in promoting elderly health. Here are a few of the ways it can enhance your loved one’s…
Many seniors experience memory loss due to dementia or general aging, which typically affects short-term memory first, but there are ways to keep the memory alive and well. Here are some simple activities to provide mental stimulation for your senior loved one. Scrapbooking Sorting and organizing old pictures into albums can tap into your loved one’s recollection of family…
Changes in the brain can lead to false realities for seniors with dementia, causing them to hear, feel, see, taste, and touch things that aren’t present. Some don’t experience hallucinations, while others experience the symptom in the middle and late stages of the condition. Below are some of the reasons seniors with dementia might hallucinate as the disease progresses. Headaches…
Staying physically fit is important for people of all ages. However, it may be even more vital for older adults, as being fit can reduce complications from age-related illnesses. Here are some ways to help your senior loved one remain physically fit so he or she can stay healthier during the golden years. Monitor Weight Because of a sedentary…
More than 60,000 new cases of type 2 diabetes are documented each year, making it one of the fastest-growing diseases. Though this may concern many family caregivers, knowing the risk factors for this condition may prevent your senior loved one from developing it. Inactivity As people get older, they tend to become less active. This can lead to obesity and…
Providing home care for a senior loved one can sometimes become overwhelming, and you may need to take a break now and then to protect your own health. However, you may still need to secure assistance for your loved one for the times you’re not around. Here are some ways to accomplish this and reduce your risk of burning out.…
As people age, their risk of strokes rises. While little can be done about family history or genetic predisposition, changes in lifestyle habits can reduce an aging adult’s stroke risk. Here are some alternate ways your senior loved one can lower the risk of strokes. 1. Consume Fish Oil Oils found in salmon, mackerel, and tuna are rich in omega-3…
As the days get longer and the temperatures rise, seniors should be encouraged to go outside and enjoy the pleasant weather. A few hours of sunshine can increase vitamin D production and boost mood. Here are six outdoor activities perfect for the season. 1. Walking For mobile seniors, spring is the perfect time of year for outdoor exercise. They…
