In Isaac Asimov’s opinion, “The easiest way to solve a problem is to deny it exists.” It’s a common sentiment for a number of family caregivers when their loved one is diagnosed with a chronic health condition, such as dementia. And even though this can generate some measure of comfort in thinking that life can go on as it always has if only we refuse to accept this new reality,…
How to Help an Older Loved One Living With Chronic Pain
Think about how it would be like to wake up each day, greeted by the relentless reminder of unyielding pain. From the moment you get out of bed to every step you take throughout the day, you experience discomfort. Even falling asleep is a challenge as the pain lingers. This is the stark reality for millions of people who are living with chronic pain. In the U.S. alone, as many…
Noticing Signs of Senior Hearing Problems? These Tips Can Help!
“Can you repeat that for me?” “I’m sorry. One more time, dear?” “Excuse me – what did you say?” If you hear these phrases a lot while talking to an older adult with hearing problems, you’re not alone. The National Institute on Aging reports a strong link between aging and hearing loss, with as many as half of all individuals age 75 and older encountering senior hearing problems. Senior hearing…
Staying Active to Manage Parkinson’s Symptoms
It’s beneficial for any older adult to stay active as they age, but especially for those with Parkinson’s, exercise could have a great impact on managing Parkinson’s symptoms. Several studies are uncovering direct links between physical exercise and Parkinson’s symptom management. In the largest clinical study to date, patients who exercised no less than 2½ hours per week gained a greater total wellbeing compared to those who refrained from physical…
Top Tips for Staying Healthy With Kidney Disease
Itching. Hiccupping. Changes in sleep and appetite. These are just some of the seemingly innocuous warning flags that may perhaps indicate kidney disease. And with as many as 20 million people in the United States alone managing the disease, plus many more who are not yet diagnosed, it’s essential that individuals experiencing these symptoms bring them to the attention of the physician.
Easing the Side Effects of Cancer Treatments
If someone you love is battling cancer, they may be experiencing several troubling side effects from the treatment they are receiving, and you will want to do what you can to help ease these symptoms. While just being there with them to provide comfort and companionship is in itself extremely helpful, there are additional steps you can take.
How to Help a Loved One Who’s Received a Cancer Diagnosis
Receiving a diagnosis of cancer is life-altering, and having a network of support is crucial. When someone you love is undergoing treatment for cancer, you may feel unsure how to best support the person without overstepping boundaries or causing them to feel uncomfortable for any reason. What can you do to best help someone you love through a cancer diagnosis? Our experts in home care and memory care in Mt….
A Caregiver’s Role in Managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, pertains to two lung diseases: emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Basically, patients’ breathing is severely affected by an obstruction to airflow. Frequent symptoms include an excessively wet cough, wheezing, shortness of breath, and tightness in the chest.
Manage COPD Symptoms With These Breathing Exercises
COPD can transform daily life into a struggle. The good news is that there are breathing exercises that may help people better manage COPD symptoms and enhance quality of life. These exercises help strengthen the abdominal muscles and diaphragm, so individuals with COPD can take in more oxygen and expend less effort into breathing.
What to Avoid Saying to Someone with a Chronic Health Condition
Has anyone ever said to you, “Wow, you look really tired! Are you having trouble sleeping?” While you may have been feeling pretty lively up until then, suddenly you actually DO feel a bit worn out. What we say when we speak to other people and the way it’s interpreted can be powerful. This is good to keep in mind if you’re caring for a senior loved one, or talking…