Ask nearly all older people if they want to remain in their homes, even if they are struggling with aging-related issues, and the reply is overwhelmingly a resounding “yes!” Having to move away from home, a place that has so many memories, can be distressing, even if seniors can identify that it’s getting more challenging to manage the tasks of everyday life. But, wishing to continue to be at home…
Urinary incontinence in seniors can be an embarrassing subject for those who experience it. The preconception behind the problem frequently contributes to individuals having either a lack of facts or believing in some common myths about incontinence. Following are some incontinence myths and the facts to be aware of instead:
Urinary Incontinence, or reduced bladder control, is a disturbing and delicate issue, particularly for seniors. It can trigger a number of problems, from skin sores to social reclusiveness for individuals who are uncomfortable with leaving home in case of an “accident.” But while bladder leakage causes approximately 25 million people in America to suffer with difficulties, the affliction seldom receives the attention and conversation it needs. With the lack of…
When taking care of elderly parents, understand that discussing health issues is hard for many older individuals. They might believe their health issues are their business and no one else’s, or they might possibly be fearful that if they admit to experiencing problems, they could compromise their ability to remain independent. This is oftentimes the situation regarding vision loss.
Among all of our senses, our vision is probably the one for which we’re most grateful. So much of our life’s experiences are a result of the things we notice in the world around us. Our sight also safeguards us from a variety of risks. Reduced or low vision can make it more problematic to avoid the dangers and barriers we come across, both within and outside of the home.
Have you ever started your day and thought, “It’s likely to be one of those days!” Perhaps your alarm didn’t go off, the hot water heater decided to quit working, and the dog chewed up one of your favorite shoes overnight. Now envision if every day were “one of those days!” For an individual coping with a chronic illness (and that’s much of the senior population), daily struggles and challenges…
Regarding chronic diseases, seniors are usually the experts, hands down, with as many as three out of four older persons impacted by a number of conditions that are ongoing, require extensive medical attention, and put limitations on activities. With the continuous barrage of bloodwork and other exams, physicians’ appointments and procedures and medications, chronic disease care management often takes both a physical and emotional toll, and that can quickly become…
The holidays can be filled with a whirlwind of busyness for the seniors we love, with family get-togethers, holiday parties, faith-based events and services, and deciding on the best gifts for the ones they love. Yet after the ornaments are packed away and families have resumed the daily busyness of life, many seniors encounter a typical but little-discussed concern: post-holiday loneliness.
This season of holiday celebrations is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy time with loved ones and close friends, but let’s face it: it’s often also a time for overindulgence in less-than-healthy meals. With a multitude of rich, fatty, and sugary delicacies to choose from at every turn, it’s difficult to abide by a healthy diet, which can result in serious health concerns for individuals with diabetes.
We all face a number of critical crossroads in life, when decisions we make will result in far-reaching effects. The career we choose. Who (or whether) to marry. Whether or not to have children. And as we age, another life-changing decision needs to be made: should we move into an assisted living environment so that we have the level of care needed during our years of aging? Or is aging…