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Tag: Senior Health

Why Are Seniors Prone to Depression?

Posted on by ltcep2023

Seniors face a lot of different health issues, including depression. While it might seem that aging adults are more prone to depression, that’s not really true. They can very easily experience depression, however, especially if they spend too much time alone. There are other factors that can contribute, so it helps to understand what they are and what might help. One solution that works well is companion care at home.

Physical Health Problems

Physical issues, like health problems, are a common reason for seniors to become depressed. It’s understandable how that could cause distress for someone, especially when illness affects mobility and causes pain. Constantly struggling with health problems is not enjoyable and seniors may self-isolate. When companion caregivers stop by and spend time with them, that can help immensely.

Grief and Loss

Often seniors have experienced a lot of loss and grief throughout their lives. This can leave them feeling alone. Experiencing multiple losses makes it difficult for seniors to bounce back and cope with life’s demands. Spending time with other people can often help to alleviate some of those feelings.

Social Isolation

Seniors can become isolated for a lot of different reasons. They may gradually experience worsening mobility which keeps them home alone more or they may find that friends and family members move away or are increasingly busy with their own issues. For whatever reasons seniors are more isolated, what matters most is that they find a way to spend time with others. Companion care at home can do that for them.

Cognitive Changes

Seniors who are experiencing cognitive changes may need more hands-on help from home care providers. But they can also feel more isolated and experience depression because of the changes they’re experiencing in their lives. Routines that include time with companion caregivers can help seniors feel connected to the world around them again.

Medications

Sometimes the medications that seniors take to solve some of their health problems have side effects that aren’t very fun, like depression. If this is the case, seniors may want to talk to their doctors about what options might work better for them, if possible. Sometimes that isn’t possible, so it’s important for seniors to look for other ways to reduce depression, like spending time with other people and on self-care.

Changes in Living Situations

When seniors have to face changes in their living situations, especially ones they weren’t prepared to experience, that can lead to depression. Becoming more comfortable at home and having companion caregivers available to spend time with them can help quite a bit. Stability and a sense of security are easier to experience when seniors have something to look forward to.

If seniors are experiencing depression, it’s important for family caregivers to take the time to figure out what might be contributing to the depression. The solution might not always be as easy as bringing in companion care at home, but having someone to spend time with regularly is something that can be a positive solution regardless.

If you or an aging loved one is considering companion care at home in Clayton, CA, please contact the caring staff at Golden Heart Senior Care of Walnut Creek. (925) 203-3039.

Tips and Tricks to Help Seniors Improve Brain Health

Posted on by ltcep2023

It makes sense that as seniors age, they worry more about preserving their mental capacity and general well-being. And while it’s true that aging can cause changes in brain function, seniors who focus on a few tips and trips may increase their chances of staying mentally sharp and energetic for years. Here are some of the ways seniors can improve brain function and how elder care might help them achieve their goals.

Remain Physically Active

Exercise is important for keeping the brain healthy in addition to being good for the body. Frequent exercise enhances overall cognitive function, stimulates the creation of new brain cells, and boosts blood flow to the brain. Walking, swimming, yoga, and Tai Chi are a few gentle yet effective fitness options that seniors can incorporate into their everyday routines. Elder care can help them increase their physical activity by encouraging them to get up and move throughout the day or even participating in the activity with them.

Keep Testing the Mind

To remain in good health, the brain needs regular exercise, just like the body. Seniors can try their hand at games like chess, Sudoku, crosswords, and learning a new language, or take up some brain teasers. Developing a new skill or pastime keeps their mind active and promotes the creation of new neural connections. Again, having elder care by their side helps, as it gives seniors built-in socialization opportunities and the chance to test their minds.

Focus on Socialization

Speaking of socialization, engaging in social interactions is beneficial to the brain. Frequent social contact helps prevent depressive and lonely moods, which can impair cognitive performance. Fostering social ties is essential for maintaining brain health, whether it takes the form of volunteering, joining a club, or just spending time with friends and family.

Eat Foods That Promote Brain Health

Keeping the brain healthy requires a balanced diet. Seniors should concentrate on eating a diet high in vitamins, minerals, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants. This consists of an abundance of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and healthy fats. Additionally, drinking sufficient water throughout the day is important for maintaining good brain function.

Get Enough Sleep

Good sleep is necessary for memory consolidation and cognitive performance. To encourage restful sleep, seniors should set a regular sleep routine and strive for 7-9 hours of sleep each night. Establishing a soothing bedtime routine, abstaining from technology and caffeine before bed, and making sure the sleeping environment is comfortable can all improve the quality of sleep.

Manage Stress

It’s important to develop appropriate techniques to control stress levels because prolonged stress can have a negative impact on brain function. Seniors can decompress and lower their stress levels by practicing techniques like yoga, deep breathing exercises, meditation, and spending time in nature. Elder care can also remind them to take time out for self-care activities that support emotional stability and relaxation.

Even though there will be some aspect of cognitive decline as seniors’ age increases, that does not mean they can’t incorporate tips and tricks to get the most out of their brain health. With elder care by their side and their loved ones support, seniors can continue to enjoy a high quality of life long into their older years.

Sources:
https://www.everydayhealth.com/senior-health/staying-sharp.aspx
https://www.harvardpilgrim.org/hapiguide/senior-brain-boosters-tips-for-maintaining-brain-health/
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/brain-health/cognitive-health-and-older-adults

If you or an aging loved one is considering elder care in Orinda, CA, please contact the caring staff at Golden Heart Senior Care of Walnut Creek. (925) 203-3039.

Effective Care and Treatment Strategies for Arthritis

Posted on by ltcep2023

Millions of people worldwide suffer from arthritis, a common ailment among the elderly. It can cause discomfort, stiffness, and decreased movement, which can have a major negative influence on their quality of life. However, seniors can effectively manage their arthritis and continue to lead active lives with the correct care and treatment approaches. Here are a few things to know about living comfortably with arthritis, and how home care can help your senior accomplish this.

Understanding Arthritis

Inflammation of the joints is referred to as arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis are the two most prevalent forms of arthritis among seniors. Osteoarthritis, which results from the gradual deterioration of the cartilage that cushions the ends of bones, causes pain and stiffness. In contrast, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system unintentionally targets the joints, leading to inflammation and destruction.

Strategies for Care and Treatment

Home care can assist seniors in many ways as they struggle with arthritis. The way they assist depends on each senior’s needs. Some of the strategies they may use include the following:

Management of Medication: Ibuprofen and naproxen are examples of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs) that can help lessen arthritis pain and inflammation. At the same time, acetaminophen is an analgesic that reduces pain without increasing inflammation. For rheumatoid arthritis, disease-modifying antirheumatic medications (DMARDs) are used to reduce the disease’s progression and maintain joint function. It’s essential for seniors who want to properly manage their arthritis symptoms to collaborate closely with their healthcare providers and choose appropriate medications and dosages.

Exercise and Physical Therapy: Joint strength, range of motion, and flexibility can all be enhanced with physical therapy. Additionally, walking, cycling, and swimming are examples of low-impact exercises that are easy on the joints and can support the maintenance of general fitness. Home care can encourage seniors to get moving, as well as move right along beside them when needed. Even simple stretching can increase joint mobility.

Assistive Technology and Adaptations: Canes, walkers, and braces are examples of assistive technology that can offer stability and support, lessening the burden on arthritic joints. Loved ones may also consider installing grab bars, handrails, and raised toilet seats, among other home environment modifications that can improve accessibility and safety for seniors with arthritis. For added support, home care can evaluate seniors’ living environments and suggest changes to facilitate and ease daily tasks.

Pain Reduction Methods: Beyond medication management, there are other ways to help seniors ease the pain of arthritis. For instance, warm baths or heating pads are examples of heat treatments that can help ease joint discomfort and relax muscles. Also, ice packs or cold compresses as part of cold treatment help numb sore joints and lessen inflammation. Home care may even introduce relaxation techniques, including deep breathing, meditation, and guided imagery.

Seniors with arthritis may face difficulties, but they can still enjoy active, satisfying lives if they receive comprehensive care and treatment. Home care can help them effectively manage their arthritis symptoms and preserve their independence by implementing pain management techniques, assistive equipment, physical therapy, medication management, and more into their daily routines. Additionally, seniors with arthritis must collaborate closely with their medical professionals to create individualized treatment programs that take into account their particular requirements and preferences.

Sources:
https://www.cdc.gov/arthritis/basics/management.htm
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/arthritis/in-depth/arthritis/art-20046440
https://canohealth.com/news/blog/5-tips-for-treating-osteoarthritis-in-the-elderly/

If you or an aging loved one is considering home care in Alamo, CA, please contact the caring staff at Golden Heart Senior Care of Walnut Creek. (925) 203-3039.

What Helps Seniors to Stay Well Emotionally?

Posted on by ltcep2023

Emotional well-being is a bigger part of overall health and wellness than many people realize. Seniors in particular need to focus on emotional wellness in order to help improve their quality of life. Taking a variety of approaches, including increasing socialization with companion care at home, makes a huge difference for aging adults.

Boost Creativity

Encouraging seniors to find ways to express their creativity seriously improves emotional well-being. Activities like painting, writing, making music, or even gardening can all provide avenues for self-expression, creativity, and joy. Engaging in creative pursuits is also incredibly important for mental stimulation and cognitive function. Seniors feel a huge sense of accomplishment when they engage in creative pursuits, too, making this even more important to engage in regularly.

Consider an Exercise Routine

Regular physical activity boosts overall physical health, but it also boosts emotional health. Seniors should always talk to their medical providers before starting a new exercise program, just to make sure that they’re able to start a new exercise program. Exercising releases endorphins and other brain chemicals that enhance mood and improve emotional wellness. Activities like walking, yoga, swimming, or chair exercises are all good options.

Make Social Connections Easy

When it’s easy to be socially active, seniors get lots of benefits. Finding ways to make it easy for family members and friends to stay in touch with seniors is important. It’s also helpful to consider options like elder care providers who can offer hands-on help along with companionship. The easier it is to socialize, the less likely it will be that seniors have to deal with isolation and feelings of loneliness. Companion care at home can be there with seniors to engage in all sorts of activities or simply to be a friendly conversational partner.

Support Relaxation

Incorporating relaxation techniques into everyday routines can help seniors to improve their emotional wellness. Activities like deep breathing exercises, meditation, and gentle stretching help to relieve stress and promote relaxation. They can also help to boost moods and make it easier to sleep well. Mindfulness activities help seniors to focus on what’s happening right now in the present moment, which can be a huge help for seniors who are battling anxiety and depression.

Offer a Strong Support System

Having a strong support system is essential for seniors. When they feel less alone, they’re more likely to express their concerns, emotions, and needs. This helps family caregivers to offer even more of the support that seniors need in order to live their best lives. Home care services can also be there to offer not only companionship but also support with daily activities and needs.

Maintaining emotional well-being for seniors involves taking a holistic approach to daily activities as much as possible. Using as many different strategies as possible to improve emotional wellness helps aging adults to get their needs met and get invaluable support. Companion care at home helps seniors to navigate the various challenges of aging without having to worry that they’re being a burden to anyone.

If you or an aging loved one is considering companion care at home in Moraga, CA, please contact the caring staff at Golden Heart Senior Care of Walnut Creek. (925) 203-3039.

How to Help Seniors Manage Diabetes by Managing Stress Levels

Posted on by ltcep2023

Life with diabetes is complicated, but even more so for seniors. There are dietary restrictions, medications, and exercise recommendations galore. This can bring up a lot of stress for aging adults, and stress has a serious impact on blood sugar levels. Having help with diabetes management helps to reduce stress and can have a positive impact on overall health. 24-hour home care offers assistance that seniors can truly use.

Take the Pressure Out of the Numbers

One of the biggest causes of stress for diabetic seniors is worrying about their blood sugar numbers, especially when they’re high for reasons that are unclear. Blood sugar is impacted by so many different factors. Sometimes monitoring glucose numbers can become obsessive for diabetic seniors, which leads to anxiety and frustration. Blood sugar numbers are just a tool used to help manage diabetes, and home care providers can help seniors to keep that in perspective.

Perfection Isn’t vhe Goal

Another big cause of stress for diabetic seniors is trying to manage diabetes perfectly. Perfection shouldn’t be the goal. It’s much more important to consistently make progress toward better diabetes management. This happens when seniors work with their medical providers and keep making incremental choices that support better health.

Remove Obstacles that Make Care Difficult

Obstacles make anything more difficult and for seniors with diabetes some of the obstacles to better health can include trouble remembering to take medication, difficulty managing dietary changes, and having the daily support they need. 24-hour home care providers can be there for seniors to offer them the support they need to have the best possible quality of life with diabetes. Caregivers can also help seniors get to medical appointments and have access to the supplies they need.

Prioritize Positivity

Cultivating a positive attitude is an important part of helping seniors to stay healthier and stress-free, even with diabetes. Seniors can start to look at diabetes management as self-care rather than a difficult burden to bear. Having the support that they need can help them to make those mindset shifts, embracing positivity along the way. There may still be days that are more challenging, but a positive mindset can still help.

Find Lots of Support and Assistance

Having access to as much support and help as possible is crucial for seniors with diabetes. Support groups can be an important piece of the puzzle, for instance. When seniors know that they have the hands-on and emotional support that they need, a lot of the stress of managing diabetes can fade into the background. This can also help family caregivers to experience a lot less stress.

There are lots of different facets to managing diabetes, especially for seniors. Stress makes everything worse, so finding ways to mitigate that stress for aging adults can help them to finally get a better handle on their health issues, including blood sugar levels that are too high. 24-hour home care enables seniors to have support that they need around the clock, ensuring that they don’t have to worry about needing help and not having it.

If you or an aging loved one is considering 24-hour home care in Clayton, CA, please contact the caring staff at Golden Heart Senior Care of Walnut Creek. (925) 203-3039.

Symptoms Of Shingles Seniors Should Watch Out For

Posted on by ltcep2023

Seniors have a high risk of developing shingles, a painful skin rash that can cause serious medical problems. Seniors are often advised to get a vaccination that may help protect them from shingles. Shingles is caused by the same virus that causes chicken pox in children. And like children seniors can develop serious skin infections and other problems related to shingles.

Seniors who get shingles may be in pain and struggling to get rid of the virus for a long time. In-home care can help seniors who are affected by shingles by helping with things like meals and housecleaning. And in-home care can help seniors make sure they don’t develop skin infections or conditions related to shingles. Seniors should know these symptoms of shingles and get to their doctor immediately if they notice any of these symptoms:

Pain and Tingling Sensations

Shingles typically begins with localized pain, tingling, or burning sensations in a specific area of the body. These sensations often appear on one side of the body and can be intense. Seniors may notice these symptoms even before the rash appears. If seniors do notice pain and tingling in their face, hands, or another part of the body they should make a doctor’s appointment right away.

Rash

Within a few days of experiencing pain and tingling, a rash develops in the affected area. This rash consists of small, fluid-filled blisters that are often grouped together. The rash can be itchy and can occur anywhere on the body but typically follows a dermatomal pattern, meaning it appears along the path of a specific nerve. Any time a senior develops a rash they should see a doctor. It’s very easy for rashes to lead to skin infections if seniors scratch at the rash or if the blisters pop exposing the skin to germs.

Redness and Swelling

The rash is accompanied by redness and swelling in the affected area. The skin may become inflamed and warm to the touch. Home remedies like an oatmeal paste may help alleviate any redness or soreness.

Blisters

The fluid-filled blisters that make up the shingles rash can be painful and sensitive. Over the course of several days, these blisters may rupture, ooze, and form crusts as they begin to heal. Never pop blisters. Seek medical treatment immediately to make sure they don’t become infected.

Itching

The rash and blisters associated with shingles can be intensely itchy, leading to discomfort for seniors. Home remedies and anti-itch creams can help seniors avoid the temptation to scratch their skin.

Fever and Chills

Some seniors may develop a low-grade fever and experience chills when they have shingles. These systemic symptoms are often accompanied by fatigue.

Headache

Seniors with shingles may experience headaches, which can be attributed to the overall discomfort and stress associated with the infection.

Sensitivity to Touch

The affected area may become sensitive to touch, and clothing or even a gentle breeze can exacerbate discomfort.

Muscle Pain

Muscle pain, especially in the area surrounding the rash, can be another symptom of shingles in older adults.

Nausea and Upset Stomach

Some seniors may experience gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, upset stomach, or diarrhea.

Sources:
https://www.healthline.com/health/senior-health/shingles-elderly
https://www.medicarefaq.com/blog/complications-of-shingles-in-the-elderly/
https://www.elcaminohealth.org/stay-healthy/blog/shingles-older-adults

If you or an aging loved one is considering in-home care in Walnut Creek, CA, please contact the caring staff at Golden Heart Senior Care of Walnut Creek. (925) 203-3039.

Foot Care for Diabetics

Posted on by Craig Bass

If your loved one has developed Type 2 Diabetes as she’s aged, she needs to keep on top of her condition to prevent any other health issues from developing. Diabetes occurs when a person’s blood sugar levels get too high. This occurs because the body has stopped being able to create enough insulin to keep those levels at a safe level. Without enough insulin, glucose can’t get into your loved one’s cells as quickly as it should. It then builds up in the blood and causes high blood sugar levels.

Over time, these high blood sugar levels may damage the vessels and nerves in the feet. The nerve damage, also known as diabetic neuropathy, can cause some foot problems as well as mask some foot problems.

If your loved one has diabetes, home care assistance can support her daily efforts to manage the disease. These efforts can include a specific diet, incorporating exercise into her daily life, or assessing them regularly for signs of damage.

Here are some ways to help keep your loved one’s feet healthy:

  1. Check them daily for any type of injury. Because diabetic neuropathy can cause feet to become numb and not always feel the pain associated with a cut or scrape, it’s easy for those areas to become infected without your loved one knowing. A home care assistance provider can help look for any new sores or ingrown toenails that might need medical attention.
  2. Wash them daily. Don’t soak them, but give a good washing each day with warm (not hot) water and soap. Then make sure to dry them well and apply lotion if dry skin is a problem. Never apply lotion between the toes. Use talcum powder between toes if needed.
  3. Trim the nails, but not too short. Your loved one might need help trimming her own nails. That’s where your home care assistance provider can help or you might have her visit a podiatrist. Nails should be cut straight across and left long enough to prevent ingrown toenails from developing.
  4. Since the feet often can no longer feel heat or cold very well, it’s important to prepare them correctly for the elements and not rely on signals from them about being too hot or too cold. If your loved one is walking on a hot, sunny day, make sure she’s not barefoot, even at the beach. Invest in some beach shoes that’ll protect her feet from the hot sand or cement around a pool. When it’s cold outside, wool socks and well-fitting warm shoes are the key to keeping her feet comfortable.
  5. Put her feet up. When it’s time to rest, putting your loved one’s feet up on an ottoman or the couch can help with blood flow. Encourage her to wiggle her toes and make sure socks are not too tight.

With proper care, your loved one’s feet will stay in good shape.

Reference
https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/library/features/healthy-feet.html

If you or an aging loved one is considering home care assistance in Lafayette, CA, please contact the caring staff at Golden Heart Senior Care of Walnut Creek. (925) 203-3039.

Seven Steps to a Healthier Bladder

Posted on by Craig Bass

Most people don’t like to talk about the bladder or what it does, especially when it isn’t working properly. The bladder is a balloon-like organ that stores urine until it is evacuated from the body. Like many organs of the body, it can change as a person ages. The bladder may become less flexible, not allowing it to expand as much to hold urine. That may cause your loved one to have to use the bathroom more often. The walls and the pelvic floor may weaken, making it more difficult to fully empty the bladder, which can cause urine to leak out later at unexpected times.

Even if your loved one isn’t experiencing any bladder issues, he can help prevent them by applying these seven steps for better bladder health.

  • Exercise regularly and maintain a healthy weight. Both of these can help him maintain a healthy bladder and reduce the risk of leaking urine. Have your loved one plan out his daily exercise routine (30 minutes a day is optimum) and then have an accountability partner such as his elder care provider to keep him focused on meeting those daily goals.
  • Make diet adjustments. Some foods and drinks can make bladder problems worse. Soda, artificial sweeteners, citrus fruits, and spicy foods can make a bladder problem worse. If any of those items are a regular part of your loved one’s diet, ask his elder care provider to help him find better substitutes the next time they go grocery shopping.
  • Drink more water. If your loved one enjoyed his soda and is looking for a replacement, have him increase his water consumption. He should drink enough that he needs to urinate every few hours to keep his bladder in tip-top shape.
  • Drink less alcohol and caffeine. Both of these products can cause bladder issues. Caffeinated drinks can irritate the bladder and stimulate it to need to urinate too often.
  • When urinating, take time and relax. Running into the bathroom and then running out may not give your loved one’s body the time it needs to fully empty the bladder. Your loved one should give himself enough time to fully empty his bladder when urinating.
  • Urinate often. While sometimes a person can become very busy or focused on an activity, your loved one should strive to take breaks at least to urinate every few hours. Holding urine in the bladder can weaken the bladder muscles and possibly create a bladder infection. Have your elder care provider ask your loved one each time he visits when was the last time he used the bathroom. If it was more than 4 hours ago, he should try to use it again.
  • Wear cotton and loose-fitting clothes. Both of these will allow the area to stay dry and not trap moisture, which can lead to infections.

Don’t let bladder issues keep your loved one from enjoying life. Help him find some new healthy bladder practices and if the problem persists, see a doctor to help him find a solution so he can continue to get out and do the things he loves.

If you or an aging loved one is considering elder care in Walnut Creek, CA, please contact the caring staff at Golden Heart Senior Care of Walnut Creek. (925) 203-3039.