Surgery can be a daunting experience for anyone, but for older adults, it can be incredibly difficult. Understanding what’s required to have a successful surgery and recovery can be overwhelming for older adults who may be experiencing physical limitations or cognitive impairment. However, there are five steps caregivers can take to help their aging loved ones prepare for surgery.…
For many seniors, driving is a big part of maintaining their independence, and many are reluctant to give up their car keys. If your aging loved one still gets behind the wheel, there are several steps he or she can take to mitigate the physical and cognitive effects of aging and enhance his or her ability to drive safely. Get…
Receiving help from family and friends can make some seniors feel inadequate and needy. As a family caregiver, you must find a way to encourage your elderly loved one to accept assistance without affecting his or her confidence. Below are some tips that could make older adults more willing to accept help from caregivers. Go Over the Benefits Knowing how…
Summer picnics are a wonderful way to bond as a family. However, aging adults are at risk for certain illnesses and injuries when they’re outdoors. Use these tips to make summer picnics safer for your senior loved one. Prevent Foodborne Illnesses Weakened immune systems make seniors susceptible to gastrointestinal illnesses caused by food. Make sure to store the food at…
It’s common for family caregivers to work full-time, care for their aging parents, and handle other family duties. Without a good plan in place, the challenges can cause burnout and various health problems. Below are some tips caregivers can use to balance caring for a senior loved one with other essential family roles. 1. Be Present When you’re caring for…
Family caregivers often have to-do lists that feel like they’re a mile long. You could likely talk for hours about all the things you have to do, but it’s good to remember there are some things you should also avoid doing. These six things are all easy mistakes to make as a caregiver, and avoiding them can help you continue…
Once you find yourself in the family caregiver role, it's easy to forget about your own needs. Juggling all of your responsibilities and caring for your senior loved one become things you do without thinking about how they impact your health and relationships. As a family caregiver, you need plenty of support, and the following are some reasons why. Your…
A healthy and happy older adult is one who is receiving well-balanced care that addresses both physical and mental health needs. However, it's often the mental and emotional needs of seniors that are unintentionally overlooked, since they aren't always as obvious or easy to identify. Below, you'll find some key facts about mental health and aging to keep in mind…
Personal care is one area of caregiving that can be physically and emotionally exhausting for caregivers. Most seniors eventually need some help getting dressed or bathing, and respecting your senior loved one’s dignity is a high priority. These strategies can help you overcome the challenges that come with such a sensitive area of senior care. 1. Set Your Parent Up…
Napping in itself isn't unusual for seniors, especially if there are issues with sleep habits or medication, a lack of sufficient stimulation, or other health factors that cause them to be tired during the day. However, a study published in Alzheimer's & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer's Association suggests excessive napping could, in some instances, be an early warning…