Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B., Author at Senior Stride

Enhancing Home Care with Art & Music Therapy

Posted on September 5, 2024September 5, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

Caring for a senior loved one at home can be both rewarding and challenging. One way to enhance your loved one’s wellbeing is through music and art therapy. These creative therapies offer numerous benefits, from boosting mood to enhancing cognitive functions.

Enhancing Emotional Wellbeing

Expressing Feelings through Art

Art therapy allows individuals to express emotions they might have difficulty putting into words. Painting, drawing, or sculpting can serve as an outlet for feelings of frustration, sadness, or joy. For those receiving home care, this creative process can be incredibly therapeutic.

Lifting Spirits with Music

Music has a profound impact on our emotions. Listening to favorite songs or playing instruments can lift spirits and reduce feelings of anxiety or depression. Music therapy sessions often involve creating personalized playlists that resonate with the individual’s memories and emotions.

Building Emotional Connections

Both music and art therapy can foster deeper emotional connections between caregivers and those in their care. Sharing a song or a piece of artwork can become a meaningful way to bond and communicate on a deeper level.

Cognitive Benefits

Stimulating the Brain

Engaging in artistic activities stimulates different parts of the brain. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Creating art can help seniors maintain cognitive functions and provide mental stimulation.

Aging in place can present a few challenges for seniors living with dementia. However, they can still live independently at home with the help of professional dementia care. Oshkosh families can rely on Senior Stride Home Care to provide their elderly loved ones with mental and social stimulation, timely medication reminders, assistance with meal prep, and much more. Our caregivers are available around the clock to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life.

Memory Enhancement through Music

Music therapy is known to enhance memory recall. Familiar tunes can trigger memories and emotions from the past, providing a sense of continuity and connection to one’s history. This can be especially comforting for those experiencing memory loss.

Encouraging Problem-Solving Skills

Art therapy encourages problem-solving and critical thinking. Deciding on colors, shapes, and techniques requires cognitive engagement, which can help seniors maintain cognitive functions.

Physical Benefits

Fine Motor Skills Enhancement

Art therapy involves activities that enhance fine motor skills. Painting, sculpting, or even simple tasks like coloring can boost hand-eye coordination and dexterity. This is particularly beneficial for individuals recovering from strokes or those with Parkinson’s disease.

Physical Relaxation with Music

Listening to soothing music can promote physical relaxation. Slow tempos and calming melodies can lower the heart rate, reduce blood pressure, and alleviate muscle tension. Incorporating music into daily routines can make a significant difference in physical wellbeing.

Encouraging Movement

Music therapy often includes rhythm-based activities that encourage movement. Dancing or even simple rhythmic exercises can boost physical fitness and coordination. This is particularly helpful for maintaining mobility in elderly individuals or those with physical limitations.

In-home care experts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently.

Social Interaction & Community

Group Art Therapy Sessions

Participating in group art therapy sessions can provide a sense of community and reduce feelings of isolation. Sharing the creative process with others fosters social interaction and creates a supportive environment where individuals can share their experiences.

Music as a Social Connector

Music therapy can also be a social activity. Group singing, drumming circles, and music appreciation sessions bring people together and encourage socialization. These interactions are crucial for emotional and mental health, especially for those who may feel isolated in home care settings.

Building Support Networks

Incorporating music and art therapy into home care can build support networks. Caregivers, family members, and friends can all participate, creating a collaborative and supportive atmosphere that benefits everyone involved.

Enhancing Quality of Life

Creating Joyful Experiences

Music and art therapy introduce joyful and fulfilling experiences into daily routines. These creative outlets provide a break from other aspects of home care, offering moments of joy and creativity that enhance overall quality of life.

Personal Fulfillment through Creativity

Engaging in creative activities provides a sense of accomplishment and personal fulfillment. Completing an artwork or mastering a musical piece can boost self-esteem and provide a sense of purpose, which is particularly important for individuals receiving home care.

Tailoring Therapy to Individual Needs

One of the greatest benefits of music and art therapies is their flexibility. Therapists can tailor sessions to meet the specific needs and preferences of the individual, ensuring each session is both enjoyable and therapeutic.

By incorporating music and art therapy into home care, caregivers can significantly enhance the emotional, cognitive, physical, and social wellbeing of their loved ones. These creative therapies offer a holistic approach to care that enriches the lives of those receiving care and their caregivers alike.

If you have a senior loved one who needs help maintaining a high quality of life while aging in place, reach out to Senior Stride Home Care, a leading provider of elderly home care Oshkosh families can trust. Our caregivers help seniors focus on healthy lifestyle habits such as eating nutritious foods, exercising regularly, and maintaining strong social ties, and we offer mentally stimulating activities that can boost cognitive health and delay the onset of dementia. Contact one of our experienced Care Managers today to learn more about our reliable in-home care services.

6 Great Foods for Stroke Survivors Who Also Have Diabetes

Posted on August 22, 2024September 5, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

When diabetic seniors have strokes, they must be very careful about what they eat during their recovery. Eating unhealthy foods could slow their recovery and potentially cause some problems with their blood sugar levels. While there isn’t a single diet that’s going to work for everyone, there are a few nutrient-dense foods most stroke survivors will benefit from. Here’s a quick glimpse at six healthy options that are perfect for stroke survivors who also have diabetes.

1. Steamed Fish

There are quite a few reasons stroke survivors might want to have at least a few servings of steamed fish every week. When fish is steamed, it’s very easy to chew, and it’s also packed with healthy amino acids. Many different types of fish also contain omega-3 fatty acids, unique compounds that are vital to brain health. Those who don’t enjoy the taste of fish should try to take an omega-3 supplement that has been infused with lavender or another herb.

Recovering from a stroke, managing the symptoms of Alzheimer’s, and a variety of other health-related situations can make it difficult for a senior to continue living at home without someone there to help. Oshkosh, WI, live-in care professionals are trained to help seniors who need 24/7 assistance. With the help of a live-in caregiver, your elderly loved one can maintain a higher quality of life while aging in place.

2. Berries

Eating full meals can be very difficult for stroke survivors, and your loved one might need to have multiple smaller snacks throughout the day. A handful of fresh berries is a nutrient-dense snack packed with dozens of vitamins and minerals. That being said, diabetic seniors must keep track of how much sugar they consume. As a general rule, those who have diabetes shouldn’t have more than one or two servings of high-sugar fruit per day.

3. Tomatoes

Fresh tomatoes are filled with an antioxidant known as lycopene, and that unique carotenoid can protect the brain from damage. Tomatoes are also a great source of vitamin C, vitamin K, potassium, and folate. If your loved one has a difficult time chewing fresh tomatoes, try blending them and making a healthy soup out of them.

Dietary issues can make caring for an aging adult after a stroke increasingly challenging. If your senior loved one needs help managing an illness or assistance with daily tasks, make sure you choose a top-rated provider of senior home care. Oshkosh Senior Stride Home Care is here to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life in the golden years.

4. Beans

The brain’s primary source of fuel is glucose, and beans are one of the best sources of that substance. Studies have revealed that glucose can also stabilize blood sugar levels, which makes it the perfect option for diabetic seniors. Beans can be added to practically any meal imaginable, and you can easily cook them at the start of the week so your loved one has a healthy dish in the refrigerator at all times.

5. Avocados

When it comes to brain health, very few foods are as beneficial as avocados. The brain uses the avocado’s oleic acid as a source of energy, and that compound can rebuild damaged synapses. As an added bonus, avocados are also very easy to eat, so they’re an ideal food for stroke survivors who have a difficult time chewing and swallowing.

6. Nuts

Another healthy snack your loved one might enjoy is a handful of almonds or cashews. Most nuts contain quite a bit of fiber, which boosts the cardiovascular system and digestion. Many types of nuts are also filled with healthy fats that reduce inflammation in the brain. If your loved one enjoys snacking on nuts, make sure he or she steers clear of any products with added sugar.

Seniors can face a variety of age-related challenges. Though some families choose to take on the caregiving duties, there may come a time when they need a trusted homecare services provider. Families sometimes need respite from their duties so they can focus on their other responsibilities, and some seniors need around-the-clock assistance that their families are not able to provide. Senior Stride Home Care is here to help. Call us today to learn more about our flexible and customizable senior care plans.

6 Strategies for Providing Parkinson’s Care to a Loved One

Posted on August 8, 2024September 5, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

Providing care for seniors with Parkinson’s can bring about mixed emotions, including fear, grief, and denial. However, family caregivers need to remain positive and look for strategies to boost their aging loved ones’ physical and mental health. Below are tips that can make caring for a loved one with Parkinson’s less complicated.

1. Get Help

Ask your siblings, close friends, and other family members to help with your parent’s care. If they’re unable to commit, you can use in-home respite care services based on your loved one’s needs and your availability. Taking time off to engage in social activities, work on goals, or rest can boost your quality of life and strengthen your caregiving abilities.

Family caregivers need to care for their own wellbeing. If you’re caring for an aging loved one and are feeling overwhelmed, consider hiring a professional caregiver to provide respite care. Oshkosh families who want to prevent burnout can turn to Senior Stride Home Care. One of our professional caregivers can assist your loved one at home while you take a nap, go to work, run errands, or go on vacation.

2. Create a Healthy Meal Plan

Although there’s no specific diet associated with Parkinson’s disease, there are foods that can strengthen seniors’ wellbeing and prevent cognitive decline. For example, the anti-inflammatory properties of leafy greens, whole grains, and fatty fish can promote brain health in older adults with Parkinson’s. Healthy eating can keep the bones strong, prevent weight loss, and optimize the effectiveness of medications.

3. Make Home Improvements

Educating yourself about Parkinson’s disease and its symptoms can help you develop strategies to slow its progression. Learning more about the condition can help you understand what changes need to be made to the home and the benefits of these alterations. For example, adding adequate lighting, removing clutter, and purchasing adjustable chairs could make it easier for your loved one to move around despite decreasing motor skills.

4. Promote Regular Exercise

Seniors living with Parkinson’s generally require assistance with daily tasks, especially as the disease progresses. A proper care plan should include physical activities that increase balance, reduce freezing, and prevent falls. Taking regular walks, doing stretching exercises, and joining a Parkinson’s-friendly exercise group could help your loved one maintain balance, reduce muscle pain, and strengthen motor skills.

Many seniors in the early stages of Parkinson’s are able to live on their own, but they may need a bit of help with the everyday tasks of life, such as exercising and preparing nutritious meals. Aging adults who require assistance with the tasks of daily living can benefit from reliable homecare. Families trust Senior Stride Home Care to provide the high-quality care their elderly loved ones need and deserve. Our caregivers are trained to help seniors prevent and manage serious illnesses and encourage them to make healthier decisions as they age.

5. Make Transportation Accessible

In the early stages of Parkinson’s, seniors can continue driving as long as their symptoms are controlled. As the disease progresses, older adults must give up driving and rely on family caregivers and transportation services to get around. Make sure your loved one has transportation to attend doctor appointments, run errands, and participate in social activities. If you’re unable to provide transportation for your loved one yourself, contact a home care agency that offers transportation services for the elderly.

6. Consider Therapy

A good Parkinson’s care plan includes effective communication strategies and promotes openness. Your loved one should feel comfortable talking with you about anything. If your loved one prefers to speak with someone outside the home, you can sign him or her up for therapy. The objectives of open conversations and therapy sessions are to enhance your loved one’s mood and provide a positive outlet for venting.

Caring for a loved one with Parkinson’s can be extremely challenging, and a compassionate professional caregiver can be a wonderful source of support. If your elderly loved one is living with a serious medical condition and needs help managing the tasks of daily living, reach out to Senior Stride Home Care, an Oshkosh in-home care agency you can trust. Our caregivers are available 24/7, there are no hidden fees in our contracts, and we offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on all of our in-home care services. Give us a call today to learn about our flexible in-home care plans.

How Elderly People Can Maintain a Positive Mental Attitude

Posted on July 18, 2024September 5, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

Many seniors find they have fewer responsibilities as they age, and receiving home care may make some believe they have less independence. Without daily responsibilities, it can be easy to feel lost or unmotivated, but your senior loved one can still maintain a positive attitude with help from these tips.

Remain Physically Active

Exercise can have a significant impact on the mind. When participating in physical activity, endorphins are released by the brain, which can provide an overall sense of wellbeing. Even if your loved one has limited mobility and stamina, there are still simple things he or she can do right at home. Short walks can also be an easy and pleasant form of regular exercise.

If you’re concerned about your loved one’s emotional wellbeing, consider hiring a professional in-home caregiver. Home care service professionals can be a wonderful boon to seniors. Whether they require around-the-clock supervision or just need assistance with exercise and household tasks a few days a week, seniors can enjoy a higher quality of life with the help of trusted in-home caregivers.

Pursue a Hobby or Passion

Many adults don’t have the time or resources to indulge in a hobby or personal passion. Thanks to retirement, seniors have the chance to follow their dreams. Whether it’s writing the next great novel or maintaining a yard that’s the envy of the neighborhood, your loved one can create something that brings him or her a sense of pride and accomplishment.

Spend Time with Friends & Family

Another great way for your loved one to find joy in life is spending some quality time with the people he or she loves. Sharing laughs and memories can offer an enormous boost to your loved one’s morale. If your loved one can’t do this in person, calling or communicating via video chat, text, or email can also help. The connection will still be there.

For families living in Oshkosh, respite care can be a wonderful solution when their aging loved ones need companionship and socialization a few hours a week or just need minor assistance with daily household tasks. At Senior Stride Home Care, we thrive on helping seniors maintain their independence while living in the comfort of home.

Spruce Up Surroundings

Once seniors become comfortable in their surroundings, it can be difficult to make room for change. However, buying something new for the home may be good for your loved one’s soul. It can be as simple as a fresh coat of paint or a new rug. Being in a pleasant environment may change your loved one’s perspective.

Hiring a professional caregiver can be a great way to boost your loved one’s emotional wellbeing and overall quality of life. If you have a senior loved one who needs help maintaining a high quality of life while aging in place, reach out to Senior Stride Home Care, a leading provider of homecare Oshkosh families can trust. Our caregivers help seniors focus on healthy lifestyle habits such as eating nutritious foods, exercising regularly, and maintaining strong social ties, and we offer mentally stimulating activities that can boost cognitive health and delay the onset of dementia. For reliable in-home care services, contact us today.

Top 5 Reasons Seniors Experience Insomnia

Posted on July 4, 2024September 5, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

Getting a good night’s sleep is essential to a senior’s wellbeing, but there are many factors that can lead to insomnia. Here are the top five reasons your elderly loved one might be losing too much sleep.

1. Pain

Older adults may have chronic conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, or cancer that cause pain, which can easily affect the quality of sleep. Whether your loved one has difficulty falling asleep initially or staying asleep after the pain begins, pain-related insomnia can get worse over time. Finding the best treatment for the pain may reduce the risk of further sleep interruption.

2. Medication

Elderly individuals sometimes take medications that interfere with their sleep patterns. This type of insomnia can be difficult to correct because your loved one requires the medication, yet he or she still needs to try and get proper rest. It’s important for your loved one to report any sleep-related side effects to his or her physician to see if there are alternatives available.

3. Anxiety

Many older adults lie awake worrying about personal problems, such as the loss of a spouse, a move to an assisted living facility, or their own health. Life changes or stressful events can impact the ability to fall asleep, but the emotional support of family can alleviate anxiety.

Stress in seniors can result from growing challenges with everyday activities. Aging adults who require assistance with the tasks of daily living can benefit from reliable home care. Families trust Senior Stride Home Care to provide the high-quality care their elderly loved ones need and deserve. Our caregivers are trained to help seniors prevent serious illnesses and encourage them to make healthier decisions as they age.

4. Frequent Urination

Changes in bladder habits can naturally occur with age, but dietary choices and certain medications can also impact the need to urinate frequently. Since waking up at night to use the bathroom can be disruptive to sleep patterns, treating the problem at its source may help your loved one sleep better.

Every senior has different needs when aging in place. Some simply need occasional assistance with household chores, while others may be managing serious illnesses and require more extensive live-in care. Oshkosh seniors can count on Senior Stride Home Care to provide the in-home care they need and deserve.

5. Poor Sleep Habits

Sometimes nightly habits can contribute to sleeping problems. Your loved one may need to adjust his or her bedtime activities. Watching television before going to bed may be relaxing for some seniors, while others may prefer to read or exercise. Having a calm environment with the proper temperature and bedding can also be an important part of maintaining healthy sleeping habits.

Lack of sleep can lead to a number of health issues in aging adults. Seniors can face a variety of challenges as they age, many of which can be mitigated with the help of professional in-home caregivers who provide high-quality home care service. Oshkosh families trust Senior Stride Home Care to help their elderly loved ones age in place safely and comfortably. Reach out to one of our Care Managers today to schedule a free in-home consultation.

How to Lose Weight After Age 65

Posted on June 20, 2024September 5, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

Trying to lose weight as an older adult can be a frustrating and tiring process. Even though weight loss is possible at any age, seniors have quite a few hurdles they need to overcome. Here’s a quick look at some tips and tricks older adults can use if they’re ready to shed some weight.

Create Weekly Meal Plans

Creating a meal plan at the start of the week makes seniors much less likely to grab unhealthy snacks and fast food, and they’ll also have a better idea of what they’re putting into their bodies every day. When planning out meals, your senior loved one needs to make sure to include plenty of healthy fats and protein. These macronutrients provide energy and leave seniors feeling fuller for longer. Try to keep an eye on how many calories your loved one is eating every day as well.

Focus on Superfoods

Sticking to nutrient-dense foods is one of the most effective ways to lose weight. Also referred to as superfoods, nutrient-dense foods provide a wide variety of vitamins and minerals. Some of the superfoods you might want to add to your loved one’s diet include nuts, avocados, fatty fish, berries, and leafy green vegetables. When purchasing superfoods, make sure they don’t have any processed ingredients or additives. Some foods labeled as superfoods might contain sweeteners and dyes.

If you’re the primary caregiver for your loved one, it may be challenging to find the time to shop carefully for the healthiest choices, so consider having another caregiver take over for a few hours occasionally. Some seniors need occasional assistance at home, and oftentimes the family members who take care of them need time away to run errands, take a nap, go to work, or take a vacation. Oshkosh respite care experts from Senior Stride Home Care are available on an as-needed basis, giving your family peace of mind that your loved one will remain safe and comfortable while you relax or focus on other important responsibilities.

Skip the Empty Calories

The majority of calories seniors consume on a daily basis should come from lean sources of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. Empty calories are found in processed foods such as soda, candy, and baked goods. While those foods are perfectly fine as the occasional treat, your loved one shouldn’t be eating them every day. Having a soda or candy bar a few times a week could negate all of the other healthy lifestyle choices your loved one has made. You also need to be wary of adding sweeteners to your loved one’s foods and beverages.

Families whose loved ones need assistance with choosing healthy foods should consider hiring trained caregivers to help with grocery shopping and preparing meals. When considering at-home care, families should make sure their senior loved ones have the resources they need to maintain their independence and remain healthy. Trusted in-home care professionals can assist seniors with daily tasks like cooking, bathing, and exercise, and they can also encourage them to focus on healthier lifestyle habits.

Boost Muscle Mass

In the past, many doctors believed older adults couldn’t regain muscle mass after they had lost it. Increasing strength isn’t easy after the age of 65, but it’s possible. It’s also important to realize strength training is one of the best ways to lose weight, and the muscles will burn calories even when not exercising. In addition to lifting weights at the gym, your loved one might also want to use exercise bands at home. Even low-impact training such as Pilates and yoga can boost muscle mass. Steady-state exercises such as running and riding a bicycle burn calories as well, but they tend to be more time-consuming.

If your loved one needs help losing weight, a professional caregiver can be a great asset. Not every senior has the same care needs, which means they don’t all need the same type of home care. Oshkosh families can rely on Senior Stride Home Care to provide individualized care plans to meet their elderly loved ones’ unique care needs. Our caregivers help seniors focus on healthy lifestyle habits such as eating nutritious foods, exercising regularly, and maintaining strong social ties, and we offer mentally stimulating activities that can boost cognitive health and delay the onset of dementia. To create a customized care plan for your loved one, call us today.

How to Help Seniors with Dementia Prevent Falls

Posted on June 6, 2024September 5, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

Falls account for more than half of all reported senior injuries. However, fall-related injuries are often preventable. Statistics indicate that up to 30 percent of seniors fall every year. As dementia starts to impact various cognitive functions, older adults become more susceptible to falls. However, there are many ways family members can reduce fall risk and keep their elderly loved ones safe.

Ensure Adequate Lighting

The living spaces occupied by seniors with dementia must have plenty of illumination. Indoor and outdoor walkways should be well lit. Nightlights in bedrooms, bathrooms, and other areas in the home allow for better navigation at night. Consider installing light switches that glow in the dark. Glow-in-the-dark tape strips should also be applied to the front of steps.

Paint the Home with Contrasting Colors

The colors and hues older adults with dementia perceive differ compared to unaffected seniors. Thus, floors, walls, and furnishings must be significantly different in color. Floors should be solid in color and not have confusing patterns. However, contrasting colors can be used on stairs to indicate each step. Avoid black surfaces, which are often interpreted as holes.

Clear the Pathways

All walking surfaces must be kept clean, dry, and level. Door stops shouldn’t be more than one inch in height. Area or scatter rugs must be removed or firmly secured to the floor. Indoor and outdoor pathways should be free of clutter, and outdoor walkways must be free of ice and snow during winter. Remove or replace damaged carpets or flooring, and make sure electrical cords are secured out of the way. Keep furnishings to a minimum, and remove any lightweight items that are easily toppled.

Make the Bathroom Safe

Ensure the bathtub and shower floors have nonslip surfaces. Provide a bath bench or chair to make it easier to enter and exit the shower or tub. Install safety grab bars in the bathing area and on each side of the toilet, and set the hot water heater to below 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Consider installing a lifeline pull-type cord for emergencies.

There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to address if their families opt for professional elder care. You can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep your loved one safe and comfortable while aging in place.

Invest in Appropriate Footwear

Make sure your loved one’s shoes fit properly and have Velcro closures. Replace the shoes if the soles display excessive wear. Discourage your parent from walking around the home in slippers, socks, or other footwear that doesn’t provide sufficient traction.

Increase Accessibility to Daily Items

Make sure items stored in the kitchen are at a reachable height, and keep frequently used items in the same location. Label each cupboard with the names of the items it contains. Make sure the stairways and hallways have sturdy railings. If your parent is living in a two-story or split-level home, consider moving his or her bedroom to the ground floor close to a bathroom. Keep favorite items and lamps close to his or her bedside.

Dementia can make it difficult for older adults to manage everyday activities. If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, medication reminders, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Senior Stride Home Care, a leading provider of at-home care Oshkosh families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s. To learn about our high-quality in-home care options, give us a call today.

Transportation Solutions for Aging Adults with Limited Mobility

Posted on May 23, 2024September 5, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

Mobility challenges and other age-related conditions often make it difficult to drive, so it’s important to find ways to help elderly people secure transportation. If your senior loved one doesn’t have a regular source of transportation, the following options for safe transportation may help.

Driving Safety

While some seniors are unable to leave their homes independently, others can still drive. However, as a result of slower reflexes, cognitive decline, and diminished vision, it can be difficult for some seniors to drive safely. To ensure your loved one is safe while driving, discourage him or her from driving in bad weather, at night, or if he or she is experiencing dizziness, nausea, or other symptoms of illness.

For your loved one’s long-term needs—including safe, reliable transportation—consider hiring a professional caregiver. If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Senior Stride Home Care, a leading provider of elder care Oshkosh, WI, families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.

Public Transportation Discounts

Many cities offer senior discounts on bus fares as well as other forms of public transportation. This can be helpful for seniors who are able to wait at bus stops and don’t mind longer travel times for getting around town. Public transportation allows your loved one to be active and avoid feeling isolated or confined to the home, which contributes to a greater sense of freedom. If your loved one’s mobility challenges make public transit too difficult, look into whether the city offers door-to-door pickup service and wheelchair-ready vans for qualified disabled seniors.

Another great alternative is to hire a professional caregiver. For some families, caring for a senior loved one can be overwhelming at times. Luckily, they can rely on professional respite care. Oshkosh, WI, Senior Stride Home Care is a trusted name in respite and hourly care. Our caregivers are available around the clock to assist seniors with bathing, transportation, medication reminders, exercise, and much more, allowing families the time they need to focus on other important responsibilities or just take a break.

Volunteers

Some churches and other nonprofits offer rides free of charge or at a discount for seniors. Your local senior center or social services agency might have a list of organizations offering these senior shuttle services. Certain organizations may offer curb service, while others also offer extra assistance and help seniors to and from the vehicles.

Rideshare Services

Ridesharing companies provide transportation for fees that are typically lower than taxi fares. They offer pickup service at the door, and rides can usually be scheduled in advance. If your loved one doesn’t live near public transportation routes, is reluctant to ride buses or trains, and needs door or curb pickup, ridesharing is a safe, reliable option.

A trusted professional caregiver can provide your loved one with safe transportation and much more. Senior care experts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently. Trust your loved one’s care to the professionals at Senior Stride Home Care. To create a customized home care plan for your loved one, call us today.

Reasons Seniors Should Embrace Smartphones

Posted on May 9, 2024September 5, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

As seniors didn’t grow up surrounded by cell phones and computers, many are resistant to adopting the latest technology. Despite this hesitancy, having smartphones may benefit seniors for a variety of reasons. Here are several reasons senior care experts encourage elderly people to use smartphones.

Preserves Memories

Contemporary smartphones contain cameras that are more powerful than some digital cameras. Having a smartphone can give your parent or grandparent an opportunity to take pictures of friends and family and keep treasured moments at their fingertips.

Offers Reading Assistance

There are plenty of apps available on different mobile platforms for seniors with vision challenges. EyeReader is $1.99 in the Apple app store and can transform your loved one’s iPhone into a giant magnifying glass. This type of app is a perfect tool for seniors who need to be able to read small print on menus or prescription bottles. And if your loved one wants to read books that are only available in small print, these apps ensure he or she can continue to read his or her favorites.

Seniors can face a variety of age-related challenges. Though some families choose to take on the caregiving duties, there may come a time when they need a trusted elderly home care provider. Families sometimes need respite from their duties so they can focus on their other responsibilities, and some seniors need around-the-clock assistance that their families are not able to provide. Senior Stride Home Care is here to help.

Promotes Cognitive Health

Certain tasks or activities, like word puzzles, strengthen cognitive health. Unlike a crossword puzzle in the newspaper, a smartphone allows your loved one to play mentally engaging games whenever and wherever he or she wishes. Plus, the increasing levels in certain games, such as AlphaBetty Saga and Words with Friends, will challenge your loved one and encourage a competitive spirit.

Tracks Health

Instead of using a pen and paper, you and your loved one can track certain bodily functions by phone. If your loved one has hypertension, you can monitor his or her daily blood pressure using an app like Blood Pressure Companion (available on Apple devices), or Blood Pressure Watch (available on Android devices). While a professional caregiver can provide medication reminders, certain apps, including Pill Monitor, Dosecast, and MedCoach, send notifications when it’s time for seniors to take their daily medication.

Living with serious health conditions can make it challenging for seniors to age in place. However, they can maintain a higher quality of life with the help of professional live-in care. Oshkosh seniors can benefit from assistance with meal prep, bathing, transportation to the doctor’s office, medication reminders, and much more.

Provides Safety Monitoring

The Spantec Fall Detector app is available on Android devices and monitors the phone’s owner for falls, just like a medical alert bracelet. This app works by constantly monitoring the user’s movement in order to tell the difference between “normal” movement and movement that could indicate a fall or injury. If a fall or inactivity is detected, a text is immediately sent to you or another family member’s phone. Likewise, there are several apps that can turn your loved one’s smartphone into a GPS tracking device you can monitor throughout the day.

Using a smartphone is one of the many ways older adults can enjoy a high quality of life. Professional caregivers can also help seniors make healthy lifestyle choices that boost their health and wellbeing. One of the most challenging tasks of helping an elderly relative age in place safely and comfortably is researching agencies that provide senior care. Oshkosh families can turn to Senior Stride Home Care for reliable, high-quality in-home care for aging adults. We offer 24-hour care for seniors who require extensive assistance, and we also offer respite care for family caregivers who need a break from their caregiving duties. For reliable in-home care services, contact us today.

How to Keep Track of Your Parent’s Medical Information

Posted on April 18, 2024September 5, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

There are many good reasons for a family member to keep track of an elderly parent’s medical information. Updated documents enable the caregiver, the senior, and other family members to monitor medications and treatments. The information is also helpful if the senior sees more than one physician. Caregivers can use the following methods to organize vital information.

Compile a List of Medications

It’s a good idea to create a database of your loved one’s medications. Include the dosage, the date prescribed, why the drug was prescribed, and how often the medication needs to be refilled. Add possible adverse reactions or side effects as well. The information should also display the name of the prescribing physician and the pharmacy. The database can be created on a personal computer, and a printed copy should be taken to each medical appointment. Portable laptops and tablets are other options worth considering.

Preparing a list of medications can be a difficult task, especially if you have other important duties to tend to. If you’re the primary caregiver for a senior family member and are looking for professional senior home care, Senior Stride Home Care should be your top choice. Our dedicated and compassionate caregivers are committed to helping older adults address their health issues and enjoy a higher quality of life in the golden years.

Start a Notebook

Write progress notes during medical appointments along with any visible changes in health or medication side effects. A section in the notebook can be used to record routine vital signs. You can also create separate sections to make notes for each physician or therapist seen. The notebook can be used to write down questions or concerns. Leave plenty of space to write down answers given by health care providers.

Create a Medical Information Folder

Create a folder to store a list of your loved one’s current medications, treatments, and lab reports. The information provides a clear medical history and crucial details family members can use to monitor medical conditions and treatments. By regularly reviewing and updating the information in the folder, you can help your loved one’s physicians get a better picture of the effectiveness of treatment or the need for a change in therapy.

Attending regular doctor’s appointments is just one of the many ways aging adults can boost their wellbeing. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional elderly home care. Oshkosh, WI, Senior Stride Home Care is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.

Maintain Copies of All Legal Documents

You must also keep copies of insurance policies, powers of attorney, advance directives, and other pertinent information in the event of a doctor’s appointment, hospitalization, or medical emergency.

Use Online Websites

Many websites enable family members to keep track of their loved ones’ medical information and offer a convenient way to keep all the information in one location. These sites offer calendars for keeping track of appointments and pages for entering vital signs, vaccinations, and medications. Users can also enter emergency contacts, physician details, and pharmacy information. Many sites enable users to enter laboratory test results and imaging studies along with medications and treatments. When necessary, the information can also be sent to a health care provider.

Caring for older adults with serious health issues can take a toll on a caregiver’s health. Family caregivers need to care for their own wellbeing. If you’re caring for an aging loved one and are feeling overwhelmed, consider hiring a professional caregiver to provide respite care. Oshkosh families who want to prevent burnout can turn to Senior Stride Home. One of our professional caregivers can assist your loved one at home while you take a nap, go to work, run errands, or go on vacation. Call us today to learn about our high-quality in-home care services.