The Healthiest Summer Foods for Seniors

Senior health starts with a great diet, and summer is the perfect time to incorporate more fresh fruits and vegetables. Durham farmers’ markets are filled with the season’s best foods that can give your elderly loved one the nutrients they need to feel great. Before planning your next meal, check out our summer’s best picks to help you and your family make the most of the season.

Watermelon. This fruit is great for hydration, especially on hot summer days. Your older family member or friend should pay close attention to staying hydrated this season, and watermelon is an easy and tasty way to do just that. Plus, it is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as potassium. Even more, it is a great source of lycopene, a powerful cancer-fighting antioxidant. Watermelon also offers up L-citrulline, an amino acid that can help regulate blood pressure and arterial function.

Shrimp. As a barbecue favorite, shrimp contains lots of protein, it is low in fat, and it is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which help to protect the heart.  

Mangoes. Not only are they rich in vitamins, particularly vitamins C and A, but mangoes are also a fantastic source of fiber. Fiber is especially important in constipation relief, as well as reducing the risk of heart disease and diabetes. 

Cucumbers. Add cucumbers to salads and use them in place of chips when eating summery dips. They are low in calories, but high in beta-carotene, which is an antioxidant that can help keep your loved one’s mind sharp as they age. Even more, cucumbers offer an array of anti-inflammatory benefits.

Tomatoes. From pizza sauce to salsa, tomatoes are a versatile fruit that offers a variety of powerful health benefits. They contain lycopene, which has been shown to guard the heart, lower cholesterol levels, and even reduce your loved one’s chances of sunburn during the summer’s brightest days.

Berries. Like many other fruits, berries are a potent source of antioxidants. Blueberries and strawberries, for example, have been shown to stave off mental decline by up to 2.5 years. Even more, berries are known to reduce plaque in the arteries, which may otherwise lead to heart attacks or strokes. 

Bell peppers. Red, yellow, and green bell peppers offer up a lot of vitamin C in every serving. They also have compounds that contain sulfur, which has been known to guard against cancer. 

Corn. Summer is prime corn eating season, which is great news. It can be classified as a fruit, grain, or vegetable, and delivers two powerful antioxidants: zeaxanthin and lutein. Both compounds can lower your loved one’s risk of macular degeneration, meaning they can help keep vision at its best. 

Iced tea. Not only is iced tea refreshing on a hot, humid day, but it could also lower your loved one’s risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and diabetes. It can even promote healthier gums and teeth, as well as stronger bones. Tea is rich in antioxidants known as flavonoids, which provide these protective properties. No matter the type of tea your loved one chooses, a freshly brewed cup is most potent.

You can help support your elderly family and friends by providing senior care right at the kitchen table. This summer, check out your local produce section or farmers’ market to find these incredible foods and create delicious meals that are not only tasty, but can also help keep your loved one as healthy as they can be.

Benefits and Challenges to Postponing Retirement

Depending on your older loved one’s personal situation, there are many different benefits and challenges associated with delaying retirement. Here are some points to consider, and why retiring later might be beneficial or a big problem for your elderly friend or relative.

Advantages of Retiring Later

Spending a few more years at work may not seem like the most attractive prospect for your loved one. But, for some, it could greatly improve the quality of their life after they do retire. Postponing retirement will allow their investments to grow even more and will reduce the amount of time spent that they are withdrawing from their investments. 

In addition, each year of full-time work adds an additional year of earnings to his or her security record. That could lead to improved benefits when they do leave their job. Furthermore, those who do so can receive delayed retirement credits. These increase with every year your loved one works after their retirement age. 

Beyond financial advantages, there are some well-being benefits associated with continued employment. If your loved one is still vibrant, energetic, and full of life, maybe they will need something to work for and to hold their interest. Maintaining employment and postponing retirement could help stave off boredom that many able-bodied retirees experience after ending their employment too early. 

These employees can continue to be stimulated each day and engage in social interaction. Retirement makes it easy to become more withdrawn, as people could simply stay at home rather than interact with others. But by continuing to work, your loved one will be immersed in social situations, keeping them fresh and on their toes. 

Challenges of Retiring Later

Delaying retirement can come with lots of financial and social benefits. Unfortunately, for some people, these benefits don’t outweigh the chance to spend more time how they want. The freedom that comes with retirement is unique and special, but it does mean withdrawing from investments and savings. 

Furthermore, working past the age of 65 is not always easy. Your loved one may not be passionate about his or her job. He or she may also be in a physically demanding job. Their body may not be able to handle the continued stress, and the idea of staying in this position might be frustrating. In addition, for some people, working past this age might not be safe at all. Senior health is an important fact to consider. 

Even more, older people may find it difficult to pay bills and maintain good credit if they choose to retire at the traditional age. They might have to continue working because they cannot afford to retire. There is a nationwide problem with seniors surviving in poverty—and sadly, that’s something we face right here in Durham. There is sometimes an overwhelming financial demand to continue working past the traditional age of retirement, which is not always good for the elderly. 

Choosing whether or not to retire is a highly personal decision. Support your older family member or loved one in their decision making process, and help advise them wherever you can. Consider their physical and mental capabilities, as well as their financial stability. Each of these will work together to determine the right choice for your friend or relative. 

Activities for Elderly Dads on Father’s Day

Spending time together is one of the best gifts you can give your older dad on Father’s Day. But if you both are up to it, you can do so much more than have a serene visit around the kitchen table. There are lots of ways to get out and do fun, safe, enjoyable activities together. Depending on your dad’s personal needs or mobility level, consider these fun ways to spend time in each other’s company on his special day. 

Go to a game. Summer is in full swing, and that means baseball games are scheduled all season long. Consider taking him to a game to watch the fun, catch up, and cheer for your favorite team. However, take into account the walk to the stadium from the parking lot and back. Also think about how far up seats are in the stadium. By considering senior care and the level of physical activity involved, you can better determine the best tickets to purchase. 

Plan a picnic. This activity will get your dad up and moving, which not only helps boost his spirits, but it is also great for senior health. If you visit a Durham park that has a grill, you two can cook the meal together and get him involved. When choosing your spot, again, consider the walk to and from the car. Also take into consideration how far away or close by the nearest bathroom is.

Stroll through the old neighborhood. Take your dad on a trip down memory lane. If you used to spend time together in a neighborhood nearby, go for a leisurely walk and take in the scenery. Look at what has changed and point out what has stayed the same through the years. Reminisce together and stimulate the mind and body while walking around the area. 

Play a team sport. Your dad might still be able to play many games that get him moving in a safe way. A slow pitch softball game, a free-throw contest on a basketball court, or a game of horseshoes can all be fun, competitive, and safe games for you two to play together. Try to find something that will get your dad moving without straining his body too much. Also, take lots of water breaks. No matter how much time you spend playing or just resting between rounds, you will get to spend some fantastic quality time together.

Play a board game. Grab a card game, puzzle, or board game and head somewhere nice. Maybe sitting out on the porch or picking a spot in the park is the ideal spot for you two to spend time together on Father’s Day. This activity will stimulate the mind and urge you both to be strategic, engaged, and involved.

Volunteer. Volunteering together is a great way for you to both join in on an activity and work for the greater good. Take this chance to help out at a soup kitchen, youth outreach program, or a community garden. Choose activities that your father will enjoy as much as you, and keep his strengths in mind. If he’s a great communicator, maybe he will want to spend time joking around with and inspiring kids. If he has a green thumb, helping out at a local garden will put his skills to use. Plus, bonding over something as wonderful as volunteering is a creative, special way for you two to make memories together on his special day. 

Helping Your Older Loved One Recover From Knee Replacement Surgery

When an elderly loved one undergoes a knee replacement surgery, you might not be sure of how to help them and make their recovery easier. Luckily, there are many things you can do to assist in their healing and make them feel as comfortable as possible. 

The first few days after their surgery will likely be difficult. Your loved one will probably be worn out and even in pain. This, as well as their limited mobility, could make it easy for them to feel frustrated or nervous, as they are unable to get around as well as usual. While they may be upset about losing independence during recovery, this is exactly the time your help is most important. A post-operative senior may need your assistance in getting around, grooming, or cleaning. It is important to be patient and to help your loved one in their hour of need. 

Assist with Medications and Healing

If you are helping with home care, make sure that your loved one takes all of their prescribed medications as directed. If possible, be in attendance when a nurse or doctor explains what mediations are required after the operation. If there are multiple medications, especially if they need to be taken at different times, consider making a calendar to keep everything organized.

After a surgery, senior health also depends on keeping the operation site clean, too. You might need to monitor the wound and take note if there is any inflammation or swelling. If any occurs, reach out to the patient’s medical care provider right away. You might also need to change wound dressings and put together a kit of supplies, such as bandages. 

Help Out Around the House

After a knee replacement surgery, your older family member or friend won’t be able to take care of their home as well as they usually can. If possible, lend a hand and help out with grocery shopping, cooking meals, washing and putting away laundry, and other household chores as needed. 

While providing senior care in the post-recovery stages, it is also important that you make sure your loved one is taking medications correctly, eating the proper foods, and getting enough rest. These components all work together to help support the healing process and ease the burden on your older family member or friend. 

Attend Medical Appointments

If you are taking a lead role in caring for an elderly patient after a knee replacement, you should try to stay in contact with medical providers, too. You can help your loved one by monitoring appointments with both the doctor and the physical therapist. If a knee replacement patient misses any of their appointments, they may experience a setback, or worse, a complication, in their recovery. In addition, it may also help if you manage transportation to and from these appointments. Driving may be difficult or entirely impossible after surgery. 

Perhaps most importantly, a big role you can assume in helping your older loved one recover is providing them with motivation and support. It can be easy to feel down after a surgery that reduces a person’s independence, even if only temporarily. Parents or older loved ones might need some extra inspiration to continue their rehabilitation, exercises, or other routines to facilitate their healing. You can take this opportunity to act as their “cheerleader” and offer them the support and inspiration they need to heal properly and feel as great as they deserve.

Foods That Promote Brain Health

While a person’s body may age, there’s no reason that their mind needs to decline too. In fact, there are many foods that are readily available in Durham grocery stores that can help keep a person’s mind sharp and functioning well, despite their chronological age. These “super foods,” which are great for senior health, include:

Blueberries

Blueberries have been shown to protect the brain from oxidative stress, which can reduce the impact of age-related issues like Alzheimer’s or dementia. Blueberries have also been found to boost a person’s learning capacity and motor skills, thus making them mentally younger. Incorporate blueberries into smoothies, baked goods, or cereal for a delicious treat that your senior’s brain will love.

Salmon

Salmon is packed with omega-3 essential fatty acids, which are a key component of proper brain function. Omega-3s also contain anti-inflammatory properties, which keep the body healthy. Doctors recommend a four-once serving roughly two to three times per week in order to enjoy the full benefits of this tasty fish.

Avocados

Avocados are another key component of proper senior nutrition, in that they are nearly as effective as blueberries when it comes to brain health. Avocados are packed with monounsaturated fat, which contributes to healthy blood flow and lowers blood pressure. They are high in calories though, so a little goes a long way when it comes to incorporating avocado into a daily diet.

Nuts and seeds

Nuts and seeds provide plenty of vitamin E, which can help prevent cognitive decline as a person ages. Your elderly loved one should incorporate walnuts, hazelnuts, Brazil nuts, peanuts, cashews, almonds, sunflower seeds, flax seeds, or sesame seeds into their diet for a brain boost. They can also try using unhydrogenated nut butters, like almond butter or peanut butter.

Whole grains are another essential part of good senior nutrition, as they’ve been shown to reduce a person’s risk of contracting heart disease. Eat a few slices of bread per day, or try taking two tablespoons of wheat germ daily. 

Fortunately the foods that promote good health are readily available in your local grocery store, making it easier than ever for your elderly parent to eat a diet that will nourish them and keep their mind and body feeling healthy. There are many different ways to incorporate these items into meals, so try experimenting and find combinations your senior loves to eat. 

What to Know About Sundowner’s Syndrome

While the sunset typically signals a time of relaxation for many people, for those with Alzheimer’s, quite the opposite is true. Dementia care professionals explain that it’s common for a senior with Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia to become agitated, angry, or confused in the evening. Their memory may get worse, and they may become increasingly disoriented. This unique phenomenon can be devastating for the loved ones of these elderly individuals. 

The triggers of Sundowner’s Syndrome

There are many different triggers that can cause Sundowner’s Syndrome to kick into full effect. Common triggers include:

• Winter: The shorter days of winter can cause a senior to experience Seasonal Affective Disorder, or depression that sets in when a person doesn’t get enough natural sunlight. 

• Internal imbalances: Some scientists believe that this condition is a result of hormone issues or other disruptions to a senior’s biological clock that leave them struggling to get into natural rhythms between sleeping and waking.

• Low light: As the sun begins to set and darkness falls, elderly individuals with poor vision may have an even harder time seeing. This can cause them to feel agitated and fearful, explain Alzheimer’s care professionals. 

• Fatigue: Many elderly people get highly fatigued at the end of the day, often worsening their symptoms.

• End-of-day activities at a care facility: As the day comes to a close and shifts change at nursing homes or assisted living facilities, seniors may pick up on this energy and become disoriented and stressed. 

To overcome these struggles and keep seniors feeling safe and calm, the leading senior health professionals in Durham advise controlling noise. Keep televisions and radios to a minimum, and make sure that noise-generating activities are done as far from the elderly individual as possible. This helps to promote an atmosphere of peace and relaxation. 

Additionally, create a calming evening routine for your elderly loved one. This routine prevents surprises and can keep agitation levels to a minimum, as they know what to expect. Also discourage napping, as this can make it harder for your senior to fall asleep at night and can disturb the body’s natural rhythms. 

Could You Spot a Stroke? Warning Signs to Watch Out For

May is National Stroke Awareness Month, but many of those who care for seniors or older parents are not sure what a stroke really looks like. As a basic rule, if you think someone is having a stroke, it is crucial that you spot it FAST.

Face. Is it drooping?

Arm. Is there weakness?

Speech. Is speech difficult?

Time. If the answer is “yes” to any of the above, do not waste time. Respond quickly and call 911 immediately. 

One stroke will happen approximately every 40 seconds, and almost 800,000 Americans will have one. Because they are so prevalent, it is absolutely crucial for senior health that you and other loved ones know the warning signs. If these signs do occur, the brain is not likely getting the blood it needs. Damage could be temporary, but it could also be permanent. The most important thing in minimizing damage is to act quickly. The sooner a person receives medical treatment, the less chance they will have of experiencing permanent disability. 

Stroke is the fourth leading cause of death in America. It is also the number one cause of long-term severe disability. That is why it is so important to seek medical care as soon as possible. The American Stroke Association conducted research that showed that patients who take clot-breaking drugs within three hours of their first symptom had a lower risk of long-term disability. This is especially true for those who suffered from an ischemic stroke, which is the most common variation and accounts for nearly 90 percent of cases. 

Warning Signs of a Stroke

Symptoms of a stroke may not be visible right away. In fact, they could slowly develop over time. If a loved one is having a stroke, these warning signs could occur either immediately or gradually:

-Weakness or numbness in the face, leg, or arm. This is more likely to happen all on the same side.

-Difficulty understanding other people or general confusion.

-Inability to speak clearly.

-Trouble seeing with one or both eyes.

-Difficulty staying balanced, walking, or maintaining coordination.

-Dizziness.

-Severe headache that may come out of nowhere. 

What to Do if Symptoms Occur

A stroke is a critical medical emergency. It is absolutely imperative that you act fast and take the situation seriously. If any of the above symptoms have occurred, take these steps right away:

-Never ignore symptoms. Even just one symptom could be a powerful warning sign that something is wrong.

-Call 911 immediately. Do not wait, as every minute counts. If one or more symptoms are present for more than a few minutes, your loved one should receive medical care as soon as possible. An ambulance can ensure they arrive at a hospital right away.

-Note the time and remember when the first symptoms appeared. This is very important information that you will want to share with the doctor who is providing care. 

How to Prepare for a Stroke

Not many people think a stroke will affect them or their family. But if someone you love does have a stroke, having taken the following steps in advance could make a big difference:

-Learn which medical facility or hospital is nearest to their home or work. A doctor or human resources director may be able to help you locate the closest facility. By knowing where to go at the first sign of stroke, you can act faster and get help for your loved one more quickly.

-Ask a Durham nurse or doctor which medical facilities have 24-hour emergency stroke care. These facilities will be the best equipped to deliver care for anyone who has had a stroke. 

Knowing what the symptoms look like, what to do if they occur, and preparing in advance can make all the difference for your loved one. If a stroke happens, remember to act FAST, and give them the absolute best chance of a happy, healthy outcome.

Helping Your Senior Pick the Perfect Walking Aid

A walking aid is a powerful tool for your senior, as it allows them to maintain their balance, while still enjoying full mobility. There are a number of different reliable walking aids on the market today, so the choice truly depends on what works best for your elderly loved one. Some of the most popular options include the following listed below.

A single point cane

Senior health professionals explain that this cane is perfect for those who need a little extra support in order to fight off discomfort. It’s great for taking some of the burden off of the legs, but is not an appropriate choice when your elderly loved one can’t put any weight at all on their lower extremities.

A quad cane

This option is the ideal selection for someone who needs more stability than a single point cane can offer, but isn’t ready for a walker yet.

A walker

According to those who work in elder care, Chapel Hill families should invest in a walker for an elderly loved one who has poor balance or lacks upper body strength. The devices have advanced greatly in the past few years, and now come with many convenient options and features to make use of. A walker is generally regarded as the best and most supportive walking aid, though it is more cumbersome than a cane.

Knee walker

Those who care for elderly individuals note that many seniors who can’t put weight on their legs opt to rely on a knee walker. It allows them to get around faster than they would on crutches, but without the bulk of a traditional walker. 

Crutches

Crutches work for someone who can’t put any weight on the lower extremities; however, they are best used by an elderly individual with good balance and upper body strength. In most cases, crutches are not a long-term option. They can be useful if your senior is recovering from a temporary injury.

The right walking aid for your elderly parent truly depends on their comfort level, balance abilities, and upper body strength. Each of these various options allows a senior to get around in a more safe and comfortable way. They can be easily transported and help to take some of the burden off of legs and feet. 

Vital Tests For Your Healthy Senior

Even if your senior is enjoying good health, it’s important to make sure that they stay on top of their physical well-being. They need to get regular screenings in order to identify any potential problems before they’re allowed to progress. Senior health experts encourage elderly individuals over the age of 60 to get the following exams regularly:

Colon cancer screening tests

A colonoscopy is a necessary test to identify the presence of colon cancer and other problems in this area. It should be done every 10 years, beginning at the age of 50; however, some may need it more frequently if they have an elevated risk of the disease. 

Blood pressure

Millions of Americans are dealing with high blood pressure and have no idea. This sets them up for a series of health concerns, including heart, brain, and kidney problems. Your elderly loved one should have their blood pressure checked by a doctor at least once a year.

A breast exam and mammogram for women

Because breast cancer risks increase with age, it’s important for older women to get regular mammograms and have a breast exam done by a doctor. Some doctors advise getting a mammogram every one to two years starting at age 40 or 50, though opinions on this matter vary, so it’s important that your senior talks with her healthcare professional. 

Monitoring weight

Senior care experts explain that as a person ages, they often gain weight. This is due to a slowed metabolism and other biological factors. While some amount of weight gain is normal, make sure that this is kept in check. If your elderly loved one gets particularly overweight, it can up their risk for a number of serious health concerns.

A rectal exam

While this is one of the exams seniors dread the most, it’s also one of the most necessary. The rectal exam and a fecal occult blood test (FOBT) can raise awareness about masses or bleeding that a person may not be able to detect with the naked eye. It can alert a medical professional to serious but treatable problems in the colon, and can also send up a signal about prostate cancer in men. Though these tests and others may cause a few moments of discomfort, they play a crucial part in prolonging your elderly parent’s health and well-being. 

How to Know When It’s Time to Intervene in Aging Parents’ Lives

It’s important to respect your senior’s desire for privacy and independence, but sometimes it simply becomes necessary to step in and help out. Adult children often feel conflicted about how much space they should grant their elderly parent, and struggle to know when it’s appropriate to intervene. While there’s no cut and dry answer, use these guidelines to help decide when your assistance is necessary:

Are they going to hurt themselves or others?

You don’t need to step in when it comes to picking out curtains for their home or choosing what they eat for dinner, but if the situation becomes more dire and they could harm themselves or others, it’s time to get involved. If, for instance, your senior is still driving and it’s clear that their vision is very poor, it’s time to say something. If your elderly loved one is unable to take their medication properly, it’s necessary to intervene and talk about elder care services. Pick your battles, but know that if the issue could seriously impact senior health, it’s time to get involved.

How to step in

Once you’ve recognized that it’s time to intervene, broaching the subject can feel like a challenge. You want to assist, but don’t want your senior to get indignant or upset. There are a number of different ways to offer your opinion without causing offense, for instance:

• Bring up a friend’s example: If you believe your elderly loved one could benefit from elder care services, talk about a friend or neighbor who has enjoyed this kind of help in the past. When they realize that they’re not alone and that senior care is normal, they may become less resistant to the idea.
• Listen: If your elderly parent feels as if you’ve quickly discredited their opinions, they may get defensive and angry. During a conversation, it’s important to listen closely to what they have to say, and to take these points seriously. From there, you can address each point and explain your point of view. Quickly telling them why they’re wrong will cause the discussion to go poorly.

When having a serious conversation with your senior, understand that they value their independence and decision-making abilities. Respect this need and desire, and be careful to enter into a discussion between two adults instead of a lecture. 

How to Help Your Senior Overcome Insomnia

Unfortunately, insomnia is a common complaint among seniors, even for those who are otherwise healthy. Your loved one may run out of energy earlier, wake up throughout the night, or fail to feel rested after a long night’s sleep. Over time, insomnia can contribute to other health issues, both physical and mental. Sufficient rest is essential for good senior health, so it’s important to face any sleep-related problems quickly before they’re allowed to progress and persist. 

Home care professionals explain that facing bouts of insomnia occasionally is normal, but if a senior regularly struggles to fall asleep or stay asleep they may actually be dealing with a sleep disorder that requires medical treatment. Signs of a sleep disorder include:

• Relying on sleeping pills or alcohol to go to sleep
• Irritability throughout the day
• Failure to feel refreshed after sleeping a sufficient amount
• Trouble getting back to sleep after waking up
• Trouble falling asleep, despite feeling tired

In the case of insomnia, senior care professionals explain that there are often a number of different underlying yet treatable causes. Such causes include:

• Stress
• Depression
• Chronic anxiety
• Medication
• A recent traumatic experience
• Health problems
• A poor pre-bed routine
• Chronic pain
• Lack of exercise

According to those who work in at-home care, Chapel Hill families can help their senior to sleep better by encouraging the following habits:

• Cutting down on caffeine usage. Many people are highly sensitive to caffeine, and find that even a cup of coffee consumed in the afternoon keeps them up at night.
• Discontinuing the use of electronic devices before bed. The light from tablets, computers, and TV screens can keep the brain awake, making sleep hard to come by.
• Establishing the proper sleep environment. The bedroom should be cool, quiet, and dark in order to make it easier to fall asleep.

If problems with sleep still persist even after these changes, it’s time to consult with a medical professional. Quality sleep is important for your senior’s physical and mental well-being, so any issues with insomnia need to be addressed quickly.

Tasty, Healthy Meals Your Senior Will Love

As seniors age, their sense of smell and taste can become dull, which often makes food unappealing. However, good nutrition is a major part of senior health, so it’s important to ensure that your elderly loved one is eating well-balanced and complete meals each day. Those who work in elder care services suggest trying out the following recipes. They’ll taste great and provide your elderly parent with the nutrition they need to feel healthy and strong.

Warm oatmeal and berries

Oatmeal is easy to eat, yet still full of nutrients. To kick it up a notch, add fresh or frozen berries, a small amount of butter, a serving of old-fashioned oats, and water into the Crockpot. Cover and cook on low for several hours (or overnight, if this is easier). When the meal is finished, it’ll have the consistency of bread putting. If you don’t have a Crockpot, simply add berries to warm oatmeal. The meal is soothing and filling, and not so rich that it’s hard to digest.

A hard-boiled egg

For a quick meal that’s full of protein, make some hard-boiled eggs. Serve them alongside fruit or toast. Even if your elderly loved one doesn’t feel particularly hungry, this meal will give them the nutrition they need to get through the day. It’s easy to eat and perfect for any time of year.

Yogurt parfait

For a sweet breakfast that’s also healthy, combine yogurt, nuts, and fruit. It’ll leave your senior feeling hydrated, and also provides a dose of healthy fat and vitamin C. Mix in any kind of fruit your loved one enjoys, including blueberries, pineapple, raspberries, and strawberries. 

Baked salmon

For a lunch or dinner that your elderly parent will love, homecare professionals suggest creating a flavorful salmon dish. Top the fish with tomatoes, herbs, olive oil, and lemon juice. Wrap it up in aluminum foil and bake it at 300 degrees. If the fish is already thawed, it should go in for about 15 minutes. Ideally, it’ll be flaky but still moist. Salmon is full of omega-3s and protein, making it the perfect meal choice. 

Shrimp and pasta

For a meal that’s flavorful yet still nutritious, heat up butter and olive oil in a saucepan, adding in herbs, garlic, and shrimp. Cook until the shrimp are done and then place over pasta. 

What You Need to Know About Glaucoma and Your Senior

You may have heard the term “glaucoma” thrown around at your optometrist’s office, but if you’re caring for an elderly loved one it’s important to know the details about this devastating disease. Glaucoma is technically a cluster of diseases that wreak havoc on the eye’s optic nerve. In many cases, glaucoma leads to vision loss or even total blindness. 

Unfortunately, glaucoma appears to be hereditary, and is particularly prevalent among elderly individuals. The condition is still relatively mysterious, though there are several factors that are known to contribute to risk of the disease. Such factors include: 

• Family history
• Nearsightedness
• Previous eye injury
• Low blood pressure
• Diabetes

Many people are surprised to find out that there are actually a few different varieties of glaucoma. In order to protect senior health, home care professionals recommend gaining a basic understanding about these varieties. They include:

Isopen-angle glaucoma

This is the most common type of glaucoma, and it results in a slow yet often painless loss of peripheral vision. Because most people don’t pay close attention to their peripheral vision, it is often hard to spot this kind until it’s too late. 

Withopen-angle glaucoma

This variation of the disease slowly narrows a person’s field of vision. Over time, an elderly individual may feel as if they are looking through a tunnel or a paper towel tube. 

Low-tension or normal tension glaucoma

These strains are harder to detect because intraocular pressure levels typically are not alarming. Instead, the disease impacts blood flow to the optic nerve. 

Fromangle-closure glaucoma

This happens when intraocular pressure is too high and the iris blocks drainage to certain parts of the eye. This can quickly result in vision loss, and is often quite painful. 

There are also other types of glaucoma, but these strains of the disease are very rare. If you’re caring for an elderly loved one, it’s important to understand glaucoma. Ensure that your loved one gets a regular eye exam in order to help detect the disease early on and to stop vision loss from happening. 

The Hidden Benefits of Aging

While there are certainly some unappealing components of the aging process, getting older actually presents some unexpected perks. Those who are disheartened about the idea of getting older should keep these benefits in mind in order to embrace this new phase of life:

Less is more when it comes to food

Seniors often have a diminished appetite compared to what they may have experienced in their younger years. While it is important to make sure that this does not lead to poor nutrition, it can also help to keep weight in check. When just a few bites of a delicious dessert satisfy you, it’s easy to avoid overeating. 

Life is more relaxing

For parents who are working and raising children, life moves at a million miles per minute. However, seniors have already raised their children, and many have retired. This means that they’re able to slow down a bit and truly enjoy life. Instead of rushing from the gym to work to the kids’ recital to dinner and to bed, your elderly loved one can take some time to savor quiet, peaceful moments. They can relax with a cup of coffee on the porch, read a good book, or just take a nap. This slower-paced lifestyle is beneficial for senior health.

You’re surrounded by family

Senior care professionals explain that family becomes highly important as a person ages. A person in their 20s and 30s often spends their time seeking out the right partner and trying to advance at work. An elderly individual has typically already married and had children, and may even have grandchildren. Instead of trying to find the right people to surround themselves with, they have them and can enjoy their company. 

Problem solving is easier

While many people think a person’s mental peak is in their 20s, new studies show that people may actually be better at logical reasoning and problem solving as they get older.1 Years of experience allow an older brain to seek out patterns and make connections, thus making it easier to come up with quick solutions to dilemmas. Instead of having to take time to research and analyze, a person can draw upon past experience in order to respond accordingly.

1 http://health.yahoo.net/articles/womens-health/hidden-benefits-aging-brain

An Essential Wellness Checklist for Elderly Loved Ones

As your parent ages, you want to be able to track their health and their needs while making sure that they have all necessary medications. However, if there are multiple caregivers involved, this process can get confusing. For this reason, home care professionals recommend devising a wellness checklist to protect senior health. This compiles all necessary information about this senior’s health, and also helps to monitor note-worthy changes. The checklist should include things like:

• Contact information for any doctors or caregivers
• An assessment of that elderly individual’s current level of wellness, including any medical conditions they are currently facing
• A list of prescriptions
• Any changes in mental health, such as poor hygiene, depression, or memory issues
• Changes in physical health, including weight gain or loss, injuries, abilities, and fatigue levels
• Changes in relationships with other people like family members, caregivers, and friends
• An assessment of the senior’s environment
• Hobbies that the senior currently enjoys

Elder care services professionals explain that when you see your elderly family member every day, you may not notice subtle changes that happen over time. When this information is recorded and well documented, it makes it easy to become aware of these progressions and to then address any issues that may have developed over time. This checklist is particularly important if you share caregiving duties with other family members or an elder care professional, as it helps to prevent any confusion or miscommunication.

As the elderly individual continues to age, it is important to make note of some important questions. Though these conversations are not easy to have, discussing the following questions ensures that everyone is on the same page about how the senior wants to spend their last years:

• Do you have a living will?
• How long would you like to stay in your home?
• Do you have specific wishes about your last days or your funeral?
• Are there any other loose ends that need to be addressed?

Caring for an elderly loved one can be a draining process, and checklists such as these help to prevent any important details from slipping through the cracks. 

Focusing on Common Senior Health Concerns

As your senior ages, their body will continuously go through changes and will become more vulnerable. In order to keep your elderly family member feeling well and healthy, it’s important to understand some of the most common health issues that impact older people. Some common health concerns for seniors include:

Appetite issues

Many seniors find that they simply aren’t as hungry as they used to be, particularly if they live alone. They may no longer get joy out of mealtime like they used to when they were cooking for a spouse and children. They may also have difficulty getting to the grocery store to buy fresh ingredients for meals. Good senior health is very much dependent on proper nutrition, so verify that your elderly family member is getting the essentials they need to stay well. If they struggle to get to the store and cook meals, consider hiring a home care professional to come in and assist several days per week.

Issues with balance

As your loved one ages, they may have a harder time controlling their body. Climbing stairs, moving from the bathroom to the bedroom, and getting up from a chair can become significantly more difficult. Consider installing grab bars in your senior’s bedroom, and placing benches throughout the house so that they can sit and take a rest should the need arise.

Alzheimer’s disease

Different from normal aging, Alzheimer’s disease has a devastating impact on the senior and the rest of the family. For elderly individuals struggling with Alzheimer’s, dementia, and other memory-related conditions, proper dementia care is essential; this may be in an assisted living facility or at home. 

Depression

Those who are focused on the care of elderly family members should also understand that seniors could face a host of mental problems in addition to physical ailments. Depression is common in people over the age of 65, and requires proper treatment. If you suspect that your elderly loved one is dealing with depression, seek help from a medical professional. 

Understanding the issues that may impact your senior allows you to provide more effective care for this family member, thus preserving both their physical and mental wellbeing. If you’re in need of guidance about how to care for your elderly loved one most effectively, seek help from a medical professional. 

Preparing to Welcome Your Senior Home From the Hospital

When your senior is getting ready to come home after a hospital stay, you’ll want to prepare yourself and the house for their arrival. Home care professionals explain that preparation is essential in order to keep your elderly loved one happy as they continue to recover. Take these steps to ensure that this is the case:

Plan ahead

Even if the discharge is still a little while away, it’s still important to make plans about how you’ll proceed when your loved one is released. This is especially true if you’ll need to make special accommodations in your home in order to better assist the elderly individual. You’ll want to have bathroom grab bars and other fixtures installed well before your senior arrives.  You may also need to rearrange the space if a hospital bed, wheelchair, and other similar items become necessary. 

Don’t forget to get rid of unnecessary area rugs in order to reduce your loved one’s chance of slipping in their fragile state. Make sure cords that lie on the ground are secure and not located in high traffic areas. These small details will make that elderly individual’s return a much more pleasant experience for everyone.

Learn about your new responsibilities

When your senior is home, they’re no longer in the care of highly trained doctors and nurses. This means that you and other family members will need to shoulder much of the caretaking burden. For the sake of senior health, you will need to get educated about this process. 

According to professionals who work in home care, Chapel Hill families should spend some time talking with their elderly family member’s doctors and nurses about the caregiving process. This means finding out about administering different medications, changing bandages, and other essential parts of preserving their senior’s wellbeing.

Get assistance if necessary

Caring for an elderly loved one can certainly become a full-time job. For many people, this fact is overwhelming. Never feel ashamed to ask for help in providing your senior with what they need. You may consider having an elder care professional come in several days per week in order to help with bathing, changing, and the distribution of medication. This gives family members a break from the caregiving process, allowing them to feel refreshed and recharged once again.

Exercise Ideas That Your Senior Will Love to Do

Though your senior’s body will change as they age, regular physical activity should remain a major part of their life. Some people falsely believe that there is no point in working out as they get older. In reality, quite the opposite is true. Regular workouts keep a person mentally alert and feeling positive. Additionally, regular workouts may help to ward off illness or injury. If you’re looking to help your elderly loved one get up and get active, consider these tips:

Try light cardio

A cardio workout can be customized based on your elderly family member’s ability level. Popular options for cardio workouts include:

• Dancing
• Tennis
• Walking around the neighborhood
• Swimming
• Biking
• Hiking
• Stair climbing

Whether your senior chooses to head out for a bike ride or to walk around the mall at their own pace, getting in some cardio each day is a necessary part of staying healthy. Cardio workouts boost endurance and help to cut down on fatigue. 

Incorporate strength training

Strength training workouts are not just for bodybuilders looking to pile on muscle. In fact, strength training can be the perfect workout for an elderly individual. These types of workouts improve balance and prevent the loss of bone mass, which matters to seniors.

Your elderly loved one can strength train using free weights, machines, their own body weight, or elastic bands. Depending on what they feel comfortable with, they can head to a local gym, purchase equipment to use at home, or even use items they have lying around the house (such as cans of soup) to get a workout in. There is no need to spend a lot of money or get fancy training in order to enjoy a workout focused on strength. 

Put a focus on flexibility

Your senior should also focus on their flexibility as they exercise. This helps the body to stay limber, and makes it easier to tie shoes, shampoo hair, and play with grandkids. Yoga is a great way to boost flexibility. Poses are easily modifiable based on skill and ability level, and the experience is a relaxing one.

Regardless of how fit or active your senior is, it’s important that they get in some sort of physical activity each day. Ideally, this exercise will include a mix of strength, cardio, and flexibility workouts. 

Protecting Your Senior with the Flu Shot

Though the holiday season is an exciting and joyous time of year, it also signifies the start of flu season. For seniors especially, this time of year can become dangerous, as elderly individuals are more likely to contract the flu. While the flu will sideline anyone, it is even more risky for seniors, as their immune systems are often already weakened. The flu can exasperate current health problems too, making vaccination important.

Get the flu facts

Experts state that roughly 90 percent of flu-related deaths and 60 percent of flu-related hospitalizations in the U.S. occur in people over the age of 65.1 For this reason, it is important to encourage your elderly loved one to get vaccinated so that they are less susceptible to this condition.

Protecting your senior

Ensuring good senior health comes down to attention to detail. Understand that your elderly loved one may have a weakened immune system, and encourage all people who come into contact with that senior to get a shot too. It’s not enough just to get your senior vaccinated, as they may quickly contract the illness from someone else. All family members, eldercare professionals, and friends who regularly come to visit should receive their vaccination too.

Practice good health habits

Even once the elderly individual and those who care for that person are vaccinated, it’s important to keep the focus on hygiene. This means covering a sneeze or cough with your sleeve, washing hands frequently, and avoiding people who are sick and might spread the illness. Remember that germs quickly spread to doorknobs, hand railings, and other places where we place our hands frequently, so proper hand washing is a must after spending a day out in public.

Encourage your senior to wash their hands thoroughly after they use the bathroom and before they prepare a meal. When it comes to care for the elderly, this is an important step. If your senior needs assistance with hand washing, make sure someone is there to help so this step does not get skipped.

Get vaccinated in time

There are myths floating around that the flu shot actually gives the recipient the flu, but these theories are unfounded. The vaccine is safe, and is covered by Medicare. However keep in mind that it takes about two weeks for the flu shot to start working, so make plans to get your senior vaccinated before flu season starts. The flu makes chronic health problems in elderly people worse, so this form of protection is a necessity.
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1. http://seniorcarecorner.com/seniors-flu-season-family-caregivers

The Facts You Need to Know About Prostate Cancer

As your elderly loved one gets older, elder care professionals assert that it’s important that you both understand some basic facts about prostate cancer. Prostate cancer rates rise as a man ages, making it important to learn about some of the warning signs and treatment options for a senior. Though a cancer diagnosis is always scary, proper treatment and understanding of the condition can help a family feel better equipped to handle the situation.

Some of the key signs of prostate cancer

Senior health care professionals note that this disease is a slow growing one, but it can eventually spread into other areas of the body if it is left undetected. Unfortunately, the condition typically only displays when it has been allowed to progress. Therefore, senior care professionals recommend learning some of the signs of prostate cancer. They include:

• The frequent urge to urinate
• Trouble stopping or starting when urinating
• The inability to urinate
• Pain during urination
• Blood in the urine

Keep in mind that not all of these symptoms automatically imply that a man has prostate cancer. However, in the event that your senior does begin displaying some of these symptoms, it is important to check in with a doctor.

Prostate cancer is still a relatively unknown condition. While significant medical advancements have been made in recent years, researchers are still fairly unsure about what causes this condition to develop in the first place. However, they have narrowed down several risk factors that may lead to this condition. These include:

• Family history
• Age (80 percent of cases occur after a person turns 60)
• Race (African Americans and Caucasians are most at risk)
• Obesity
• A high-fat diet
• A sedentary lifestyle

A prostate cancer diagnosis is certainly scary for a family; however, there are many effective treatment options when a person finds out that they have prostate cancer. While it may seem as though chemotherapy is the best option, in reality surgery, radiation, and hormone therapy are actually some of the most powerful options when it comes to overcoming prostate cancer. If your elderly loved one receives a prostate cancer diagnosis, his medical team will work closely in order to determine the best course of action based on that individual’s current condition.