6 Major Advantages of Respite Care for Seniors

Posted on January 9, 2020April 8, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

Respite care is more than temporary relief for family caregivers. It also provides a way for seniors to age in the comfort of their homes. Having someone come in to assist with daily tasks and activities can boost your senior loved one’s wellbeing. Continue reading to learn more about in-home respite care and the benefits it provides to seniors.

1. Socialization

Interacting with other people is crucial to a senior’s mental health and cognitive skills. Having a respite caregiver to socialize with each day or a few hours per week could help your loved one stave off memory loss and encourage him or her to take on more purposeful tasks. Older adults don’t have to be injured or living with chronic conditions to utilize respite care. Your parent can take advantage of the service strictly for companionship.

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.

2. Assistance with Daily Tasks

Professional and personal commitments could limit the number of hours you and your siblings are able to dedicate to your loved one’s care, which makes at-home respite care a good option. A respite caregiver can step in to assist with your loved one’s everyday activities, such as grooming, bathing, cooking, and cleaning. Receiving help from a qualified caregiver can boost your parent’s overall quality of life.

Families who need help caring for a senior loved one can turn to Senior Stride Home Care, a leading provider of Oshkosh at-home care. Services available in our customizable care plans include meal prep, mental and social stimulation, assistance with personal hygiene tasks, and much more.

3. Boost in Confidence

An at-home respite caregiver can promote a positive body image, simplify daily activities, and make changes throughout the home that can boost your loved one’s confidence. Increasing seniors’ happiness and helping them overcome their fears can stave off behavioral problems and make daily life more enjoyable. Speak with your loved one’s at-home respite caregiver to learn about tips that can make your parent feel confident and more accomplished.

4. Specialized Care

Many seniors are living with age-related conditions that impact their quality of life, such as arthritis, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s disease. An at-home respite caregiver who is trained in these specific areas could help your parent slow the progression of certain conditions and enhance his or her physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing.

5. Dietary Support

The foods older adults eat can affect brain function as well as heart and bone health. However, many seniors fail to eat nutritious meals and snacks due to reduced mobility, cognitive impairment, or lack of energy. An at-home respite caregiver could provide your parent with dietary support, whether your loved one is recovering from an injury or experiencing issues that prevent him or her from preparing healthy meals and snacks. Dietary support can enhance immune function, stave off dementia, and decrease the risk of cardiovascular problems.

6. Fall Prevention

Seniors are often at high risk for falling due to poor balance and reduced motor function. Using at-home respite care could lead to fewer slips and falls. The caregiver can ensure the hallways, stairs, and various pathways are clear of clutter, allowing your loved one to move around with ease. Check with a respite care agency to ensure their caregivers can help with lifting, especially if your parent needs assistance moving from room to room.

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 senior care. You can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep your loved one safe and comfortable while aging in place. Call Senior Stride Home Care today at 920-717-1767 to learn about our high-quality in-home respite care services.

6 Exercises Older Adults Should Avoid Doing

Posted on December 19, 2019April 8, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

Aging adults sometimes reach a point where they need to stop doing certain exercises due to the risk of injuries. Your loved one may also need help choosing safe exercises if he or she has been sedentary for any length of time. Most seniors should avoid the following six exercises to protect their health.

1. High-Impact Aerobics

Aerobic classes often look fun, and many are advertised as including elements of dance that make seniors want to join in. However, all of that jumping combined with fast movements could cause seniors to injure their joints. Seniors should choose low impact aerobics classes that allow them to stay safe and still move to the music.

Performing safe exercises is one of the most important everyday tasks in the golden years. Aging adults who require assistance with the tasks of daily living can benefit from reliable home care Oshkosh, WI, 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.

2. Deep Squats

Squats are great for strengthening leg muscles, but seniors should avoid any type of exercise that requires them to do deep knee bends. Deep squats place strain on knee joints, which is a common location for arthritis. It’s also difficult to maintain the correct form for squats with back or leg problems. Chair sits are a better alternative to deep squats.

3. Sit Ups

Your loved one might have once taken pride in doing 100 sit ups each day. However, the time to stop those sit ups and crunches is now. Seniors can still work on building their core by doing safer forms of exercise such as modified abdominal twists in a standing position. Planks with the knees on the floor and assistance from another adult are also ways to fit in core strengthening exercises without straining the spine.

Exercising is just one of the many ways older adults can remain healthy and continue to live at home independently. Many seniors prefer aging in place over moving to an assisted living facility. If your senior loved one needs assistance to remain safe and comfortable while living at home, reach out to Senior Stride Home Care, a leading elder care agency. Our dedicated in-home caregivers can assist with meal prep, bathing and grooming, exercise, medication reminders, and many other important tasks.

4. Sprints or Heavy Running

Running is another form of exercise older adults might have enjoyed throughout life. However, those running shoes can be put to better use on a walking path. Running can strain the cardiovascular system, which is particularly dangerous if your loved one tries to sprint or go past his or her body’s limit. Walking or a light jog is a much safer way to burn calories.

5. Stair Climbs

Climbing stairs gets more difficult as seniors develop health conditions such as arthritis. Ask your loved one to stop doing stair climbs, and provide a safer alternative. For instance, your loved one might prefer to do stair step aerobics that involve a low platform he or she can easily get up and down on. Your loved one can also do simple leg lifts at home with balance assistance so he or she is less likely to fall.

6. Standing Toe Touches

Toe touches are another go-to exercise for flexibility. However, this exercise requires bending over, which could lead to dizziness that contributes to falls. Your loved one may also find that trying to do a toe touch strains his or her spine. Toe touches done from a sitting position are a better choice, and your loved one can adjust how far to bend down according to his or her back strength.

If you’re unable to help your loved one exercise safely due to other responsibilities, consider hiring a professional in-home caregiver. In Oshkosh, respite care is a great help to many families. Caring for a senior loved one can be overwhelming at times, which puts family caregivers at risk for burnout. However, an in-home caregiver can take over your loved one’s care, allowing you the time you need to focus on your own health, maintain a full-time job, or care for other members of your family. Call Senior Stride Home Care today at 920-717-1767 to find out how one of our trusted respite caregivers can help you and your loved one maintain a high quality of life.

Effective Methods for Treating Dementia

Posted on December 5, 2019April 8, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

Depending on the stage of dementia your senior loved one is in, he or she may require minimal care or around-the-clock monitoring. Even though caring for a loved one with dementia poses challenges, it can also be very rewarding. Here are some ideal ways to treat dementia in seniors so they can better manage their physical and psychosocial challenges.

Memantine Therapy

Memantine is a prescription medication prescribed for Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia. It’s thought to enhance memory, language and reasoning skills, and attention span. It works by regulating glutamate, a chemical found in the brain that affects learning skills and memory. Memantine may also prevent hallucinations, aggression, delusions, and agitation in people with dementia. It may also make caring for your loved one less challenging because it can prevent episodes of disorientation and make it easier to perform the activities of daily living. Your loved one’s physician will talk to you about side effects associated with memantine, such as headaches, dizziness, and high blood pressure.

Calming Strategies

Seniors with dementia may experience aggression. Agitation, aggression, and combativeness can be triggered by illness, fear, new situations, and environmental changes. Employ calming strategies to help your loved one feel secure and comfortable. These strategies may include playing soft music, using aromatherapy, holding your loved one’s hand, talking in soothing tones, and offering reassurance.

Dementia can be challenging for seniors to manage, but they can maintain a higher quality of life with the help of professional dementia care. Oshkosh seniors can benefit greatly from the Cognitive Therapeutics Method (CTM), an activities-based program designed to promote cognitive health and delay the onset of dementia. CTM is included at no additional charge with any of the in-home care plans provided by Senior Stride Home Care.

Activities that Increase Feel-Good Hormones

Endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine are brain chemicals that have a positive impact on behavior and mood. They can diminish the perception of pain, boost mood, enhance sleep quality, aid digestion, and enhance memory and cognitive function. Encourage your loved one to spend time outdoors during sunny days to boost the levels of these brain chemicals. Exercise is another way to boost levels of endorphins and serotonin. Increased activity can also prevent depression and aggressive behavior in those with dementia. Before starting a new activity routine, check with the physician to make sure your loved one is healthy enough to engage in more exercise.

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 manage if their families opt for professional homecare. You can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep your loved one safe and comfortable while aging in place.

Animal-Assisted Therapy

Animal-assisted therapy, or AAT, can treat dementia in seniors who have psychological or behavioral symptoms. AAT is thought to boost both physical and mental health in people with dementia because it promotes relaxation, enhances recall, reduces feelings of loneliness, and stimulates brain function. It’s also thought that AAT may prevent sundown syndrome, which can cause restlessness, aggression, disorientation, and agitation when it gets dark outside. Animal-assisted therapy is usually offered by healthcare providers such as occupational therapists and registered nurses, and it can be performed in a group setting or with only one person. To find out more about the benefits of animal-assisted therapy, talk to your loved one’s physician, who can also direct you to a qualified therapist.

Caring for a senior loved one can be challenging for families who don’t have expertise or professional training in home care, but this challenge doesn’t have to be faced alone. Family caregivers can turn to Oshkosh Home Care Assistance for the help they need. We provide high-quality live-in and respite care as well as comprehensive Alzheimer’s, dementia, stroke, and Parkinson’s care. Reach out to one of our Care Managers today at 920-717-1767 to learn more about our high-quality home care services.

What Forms of Memory Are Affected by Alzheimer’s?

Posted on November 21, 2019April 8, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

Seniors with Alzheimer’s frequently forget familiar people, places, and things, especially as the disease progresses. The neurological condition causes significant damage to brain cells, increasing the risk of memory loss. Continue reading to learn about Alzheimer’s disease and the types of memory it affects.

Short-Term Memory

When short-term memory is impacted, seniors may have difficulty remembering things that happened in the previous couple of hours or days. For example, your aging loved one could forget what he or she ate for breakfast this morning. Some people associate these types of memory lapses with normal aging, but you should take your loved one to the doctor if you notice a pattern of mishaps related to short-term memory. Early diagnosis and treatment can slow the progression of the condition and boost your loved one’s cognitive abilities.

If your loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, help is just a phone call away. There are many reasons seniors might need assistance at home. Some may require regular mental stimulation due to an Alzheimer’s diagnosis, while others might only need part-time assistance with exercise and basic household tasks. Senior Stride Home Care is a leading Oshkosh in-home care provider. Families rely on our expertly trained caregivers to help their senior loved ones maintain a high quality of life.

Episodic Memory

Damage to the part of the brain responsible for episodic memory makes it difficult to connect specific memories to special times from the past. For example, your loved one may forget what he or she wore to his or her senior prom, even if he or she had discussed the occasion a few days before. Detailed memories of significant life events may begin to fade over time, which can be difficult for both you and your loved one. Continue to show your loved one family photos and home videos to boost his or her mood, regardless of whether any memories are triggered.

Aging adults who need help managing mental and physical health issues can benefit from the assistance of highly trained professional caregivers. 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 at-home care families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.

Semantic Memory

Understanding the meanings of various words and phrases is a part of semantic memory. For example, you can say the word “family,” and your loved one can declare what it means. However, when Alzheimer’s prevents the brain from functioning normally, the semantic memory decreases, reducing language and communication abilities. In these instances, you need to remain calm and give your loved one a brief explanation of certain words and phrases. You can also use photos and flash cards to provide clarity and insight.

Procedural Memory

Procedural memory allows your loved one to perform everyday actions, such as riding a bike, cooking a family recipe, or reading a book. As Alzheimer’s disease progresses, procedural memory begins to decrease. The ability to do familiar things is affected, regardless of how simple the tasks are. Encourage your loved one to continue enjoying his or her hobbies, and find ways to make the activities less challenging. You may need to explain the instructions multiple times, but the objective is to engage your parent and find ways to keep him or her happy. The steps should be short, clear, and concise. Allow your loved one to complete each task at his or her own pace instead of rushing him or her and increasing the risk of combative behavior.

Seniors with Alzheimer’s have much to gain when their families opt for professional Alzheimer’s care. Oshkosh families can rely on compassionate and dedicated caregivers to help their elderly loved ones manage the various challenges of Alzheimer’s disease so they can enjoy a higher quality of life. Call Senior Stride Home Care at 920-717-1767 to learn more about our flexible and customizable senior care plans.

5 Types of Education that Can Lower Rehospitalization Rates

Posted on November 7, 2019April 8, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

Hospital administrators make every effort to reduce hospital readmissions. While policies and procedures are in place to lower the rates of readmissions, they cannot prevent everyone from being readmitted. Here are some ways discharge education can lower your senior loved one’s risk of hospital readmission.

1. Mechanical Diet Education

If your loved one was initially hospitalized for a stroke or Parkinson’s disease, he or she may have chewing or swallowing problems related to neurological damage. The nurse educator will discuss the importance of a mechanical soft diet, such as one consisting of pureed foods, so your loved one doesn’t choke. The hospital dietician may also stop by your loved one’s room before discharge to talk about which foods should be consumed and at what consistencies.

A professional caregiver can be a wonderful source of information and support for a senior who is recovering after being hospitalized. When searching for reliable elderly home care agencies, families want to know their senior loved one will be well taken care of. At Senior Stride Home Care, our expertly trained caregivers are available around the clock to assist with tasks around the house, provide transportation to medical appointments and social events, and much more.

2. Cast Care Education

When aging adults are discharged with casts, they may be at risk for accidents, falls, infections, and slow healing. Casts on arms and legs can impair balance, and if your loved one isn’t taught the essentials of proper body mechanics and balance, he or she may fall. Similarly, if your loved one gets the cast wet while bathing or doesn’t recognize the signs of circulation problems or infection, he or she may be back in the hospital soon after discharge.

3. Drug Interaction Education

Taking certain prescription drugs with dietary supplements can cause dangerous interactions that may result in hospital readmission. The discharge nurse will talk to your loved one about the dangers of taking prescription anticoagulants with dietary supplements such as garlic and fish oil. Taking anticoagulant medications with these and certain other supplements may result in life-threatening abnormal bleeding. Many aging adults aren’t aware of drug and dietary supplement interactions and frequently take them together.

4. Family Caregiver Education

If your loved one is unable to care for him or herself because of cognitive problems, mobility deficits, decreased vision, or serious illness, you’ll need to attend the discharge planning session. Caregiver education prior to hospital discharge is essential. You may need to change your loved one’s surgical dressings or assist with insulin injections, and if these are done improperly, he or she may develop serious complications requiring readmission to the hospital.

Some seniors only require help with a few daily tasks so they can maintain their independence. However, those living with serious illnesses may need more extensive assistance. Luckily, there is professional live-in care Oshkosh, WI, seniors can rely on. Home can be a safer and more comfortable place for your loved one to live with the help of an expertly trained and dedicated live-in caregiver.

5. Blood Sugar Education

Hyperglycemic and hypoglycemic reactions are common causes for hospital readmissions. Discharge education regarding unstable blood sugar levels and diabetes can help your loved one become familiar with the signs of both high and low blood sugar levels so he or she can take quick action. The discharge planner will teach your loved one how to treat abnormal blood sugar levels at home. Your loved one will also be advised to call the physician at the first sign of a blood sugar reaction.

Oshkosh home care service 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. Senior Stride Home Care can be your trusted partner when your loved one needs help with the challenges of aging. Call us today at 920-717-1767 to learn about our high-quality in-home care services.

6 Tips for Persuading a Loved One with Alzheimer’s to Eat

Posted on October 24, 2019April 8, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

As people age, their food preferences may change and their appetites may diminish. Many aging adults with Alzheimer’s lose interest in eating, but the failure to eat regularly can put seniors at risk for severe weight loss and nutritional deficiencies. Here are some interventions that may motivate a senior loved one with Alzheimer’s to eat.

1. Remove Distractions

Seniors with Alzheimer’s can get easily distracted. When this happens, they may be unable to focus on eating. Turn off the television and temporarily relocate pets to another room until mealtime is over. Once distractions are removed, your loved one may be more interested in eating.

2. Present Attractive Meals

Since seniors with Alzheimer’s may need more encouragement to eat, you’ll need to make meals as attractive as possible for your loved one. When the food looks good, your loved one is more likely to eat it. Colorful fruits and vegetables—such as bell peppers, carrots, apples, tomatoes, pineapple, and kiwifruit—are both visually stimulating and full of nutrients. Different food textures and shapes can also enhance the attractiveness of dishes, prompting more interest in eating.

A trained Alzheimer’s caregiver can provide expertise and additional support to encourage your loved one to eat. Not every senior has the same care needs, which means they don’t all need the same type of at-home care. Oshkosh families can rely on Senior Stride Home Care to provide individualized care plans to meet your elderly loved one’s unique care needs. Our holistic Balanced Care Method was designed to help seniors focus on healthy lifestyle habits such as eating nutritious foods, exercising regularly, and maintaining strong social ties, and our Cognitive Therapeutics Method offers mentally stimulating activities that can stave off cognitive decline and delay the onset of dementia.

3. Make Pleasant-Smelling Meals

Aromatic seasonings, spices, and other ingredients can stimulate the appetite and spark an interest in eating. Foods such as freshly baked biscuits, muffins, roasted turkey, chicken soup, and meatloaf may spark pleasant thoughts and memories while stimulating the appetite. Chocolate chip cookies, brownies, and apple pie are other foods that may appeal to seniors with Alzheimer’s.

4. Ask for Help

Inviting your loved one to participate in meal preparation is another way to get him or her interested in eating. Elderly people, even those with Alzheimer’s disease or other types of dementia, take pride in their accomplishments. When your loved one feels good about a dish he or she has helped you prepare, he or she may be more likely to eat. Make sure you supervise your loved one when he or she is handling sharp utensils or working near the stove.

Helping an aging loved one get proper nutrition when he or she doesn’t want to eat can be exhausting. If you’re the primary family caregiver for an elderly loved one and need additional assistance providing high-quality senior home care, Senior Stride Home Care can help. We are a leading home care agency committed to changing the way seniors age.

5. Invite Companions to Share Meals

Inviting close friends or family members over to dine may also encourage a senior with Alzheimer’s to eat. Many people with Alzheimer’s enjoy social situations and like to be included in group activities. The social stimulation and time spent with familiar people can enhance your loved one’s mood, and when his or her mood is brighter, your parent’s interest in eating may be stronger.

6. Address Grasping Issues

If your loved one has lost the ability to grasp standard eating utensils, he or she may be uninterested in eating. While you could feed your loved one, promoting as much independence as possible is always preferable. Offer utensils with thicker handles that are bulkier and easier to grasp. Once your loved one is able to hold a utensil without dropping it, he or she may be more likely to eat.

Professional caregivers with specialized experience in Alzheimer’s care can be a wonderful source of support for older adults with the disease. Without the right assistance, Alzheimer’s can be challenging for seniors and their families to manage. If you’re looking for professional Alzheimer’s care, Oshkosh Senior Stride Home Care provides high-quality care aging adults and their families can count on. All of our hourly and live-in caregivers are trained to help seniors with Alzheimer’s live happier and healthier lives, and we also provide specialized dementia, stroke, and Parkinson’s care. To create a customized home care plan for your loved one, call Senior Stride Home Care at 920-717-1767 today.

Beneficial Memory-Boosting Activities for Aging Adults with Dementia

Posted on October 10, 2019April 8, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

It’s important to encourage any older adult in your life to be active and engaged, and this is even more essential if you’re caring for a senior loved one with a dementia-related condition. Certain activities are more beneficial than others because they stimulate the parts of the brain that play a role in storing and recalling memories. Below you’ll find some activities that are especially helpful for individuals with dementia.

Exercise

Exercise increases blood flow everywhere in the body, including the parts of the brain that handle memory-related capabilities, and it fosters the development of new brain cells. Luckily, there are many forms of exercise older adults with dementia can safely do to enjoy these benefits. Some of the possibilities include:

• Low-impact cardio workouts
• Swimming, water aerobics, and other stimulating water-based forms of exercise
• Walking, which can be done at a pace that’s comfortable for your loved one
• Stationary bike or elliptical machine use

Yoga

According to the website Live Science, a study involving 25 older adults with cognitive impairment showed practicing yoga produced positive results. When the three-month study was over, yoga participants showed more of an increase in the type of memory that involves recalling locations (visual-spatial memory) than the subjects who hadn’t done yoga.

Since yoga involves slow, controlled movements, it’s not overly strenuous. However, it does increase circulation and mental clarity because of the deep breathing that’s part of many yoga routines.

Gardening

Gardening offers a productive and enjoyable way to create a peaceful environment for a loved one with dementia. A garden area can be set up in an easily accessible part of the backyard or even on a patio or deck. The act of regularly tending to a garden can give a person with dementia a sense of purpose. Also, the calm setting could minimize anxiety, which sometimes makes memory problems worse.

Puzzles

Whether it’s a crossword puzzle, a jigsaw puzzle, or a logic-based puzzle like sudoku, solving puzzles provides many ways to stimulate the mind of an older adult with dementia. Another option is to create personalized photo puzzles to help your loved one associate meaningful memories with each piece.

A professional caregiver can be a wonderful puzzle-solving companion for your loved one. Aging adults who require assistance with the tasks of daily living can benefit from reliable in-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 and manage serious illnesses and encourage them to make healthier decisions as they age.

Music and Art

Stimulating the part of the brain that handles motor movements can trigger positive reactions in the areas that handle reasoning, memory, and comprehension. A fun, engaging way seniors with dementia can achieve this type of dual brain stimulation is by playing musical instruments or engaging in group singing that involves clapping and other rhythmic motions. Artistic endeavors such as painting, sculpting, and drawing can provide similar types of cognitive stimulation.

Cooking

Familiar kitchen aromas often bring back pleasant memories, which is why cooking can be such an enjoyable and beneficial activity for a loved one with dementia. It’s also a great way to encourage socialization. You can further enhance the memory-boosting power of cooking by using foods noted for their ability to enhance brain functions. Some of these include:

• Salmon, herring, tuna, and other fish with high levels of omega-3 fatty acids
• Leafy green veggies like broccoli and spinach
• Turmeric, ginger, and similar antioxidant-rich spices
• Dark chocolate, which is loaded with flavonoids that protect the brain

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. Senior Stride Home Care can be your trusted partner when your loved one needs help with the challenges of aging. Call us today at 920-717-1767 to learn about our high-quality in-home dementia care services.

5 Best Coordination-Boosting Exercises for Seniors with Parkinson’s

Posted on September 19, 2019April 8, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

Maintaining balance can be difficult for aging adults with Parkinson’s. The condition affects a part of the brain (the basal ganglia) that plays an important role in balance and coordination. For this reason, it’s important for seniors with this disease to continue to exercise as much as possible to maintain mobility and coordination. Below are five of the top exercises that can be beneficial for seniors with Parkinson’s.

1. Aerobic Activities

Changes occurring due to the progression of Parkinson’s disease can be countered by exercises that require various parts of the body to work together, which is why aerobic activities can be so beneficial. Gait, flexibility, and balance can be increased with exercises of this nature, which include:

• Traditional or stationary cycling
• Walking at a comfortable pace
• Dancing and other favorite activities requiring coordinated movements

Even a senior in the advanced stages of Parkinson’s can get the benefits of regular exercise, especially with the help of a trained professional caregiver. Oshkosh senior care 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.

2. Water-Based Exercises

For times when it’s too difficult for your aging loved one to do coordination exercises on land, water-based exercises can provide similar benefits. The natural buoyancy of water eases pressure on bones and joints while still allowing seniors to get healthy workouts. Options for water-based exercise that could be beneficial for aging adults with Parkinson’s include:

• Swimming
• Water aerobics
• Water walking
• Aqua choreography (“water dancing”)

3. Toe and Chair Stands

An effective balance exercise for older adults with Parkinson’s is a chair stand, which is done by starting from a seated position in a chair without arms. Shoulders are kept back and straight and arms are extended outward while slowly standing up. No hands are used while going from a sitting to a standing position. However, you can stay next to your loved one in case he or she needs some extra support.

If chair stands are too difficult for your loved one because of Parkinson’s limitations, try toe stands instead. This coordination exercise is done by:

• Standing behind a chair
• Using the chair only for support
• Slowing raising up on the toes
• Holding the position for a few seconds before lowering the heels to the floor

If you usually help your loved one exercise but need a break now and then, consider having a professional caregiver take over for you. Oshkosh respite care professionals can assist seniors with a wide array of daily tasks, offering family caregivers the chance to focus on other personal responsibilities or take a break to prevent burnout. Whether it’s for a few hours a day or a few days a week, respite care is the perfect solution for family caregivers who are feeling overwhelmed.

4. Leg Raises

In addition to strengthening the muscles in the lower back, hips, and buttocks, leg raises help with balance, coordination, and posture problems, which are common in older adults with Parkinson’s. Leg raises target muscles in the lower back partially responsible for balance and coordination while also correcting forward head and shoulder issues. There are many variations of leg raises, but a good way to get started is by standing next to a chair and taking the following steps:

• Raising one leg and moving it forward
• Lifting one leg to the side while slightly bending the supporting leg
• Raising one leg and moving it backward without bending the supporting leg

Legs are alternated after doing about 10 repetitions, which can be done by turning around or moving the chair to the other side.

5. Yoga and Tai Chi

Both yoga and tai chi are controlled-movement exercises that can help older adults with Parkinson’s maintain balance and coordination in a way that’s safe and gentle. The techniques involved with both of these disciplines help with a wide range of coordination-related issues, including stability, range of motion, leg strength, posture, and reflexes.

Seniors with Parkinson’s who need help exercising safely can benefit from the help of a trained professional caregiver. At-home care agencies can be a great boon to seniors. With the help of the caregivers at Senior Stride Home Care, your aging loved one can lead a happier and healthier life. We offer a revolutionary program called the Balanced Care Method, which encourages seniors to eat nutritious foods, exercise and socialize regularly, and focus on other lifestyle factors that increase life expectancy. Contact one of our experienced Care Managers today at 920-717-1767 to learn more about our reliable in-home care services.

Strategies for Faster Stroke Recovery

Posted on September 5, 2019April 8, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

Recovering from a stroke isn’t a fast process, but there are quite a few steps senior stroke survivors can take to get back on their feet as quickly as possible. With comprehensive treatment plans, many stroke survivors are able to restore their cognitive health and motor functions within months. As an added bonus, seniors who carefully follow their recovery plans can also reduce their risk of having recurring strokes.

Keep an Eye Out for the Early Warning Signs

The early warning signs of a stroke often go unnoticed for hours, and missing those signs could have a huge impact on recovery. As a family caregiver, you should spend some time familiarizing yourself with all the signs and symptoms of a stroke, including loss of balance, slurred speech, weakness on one side of the body, a severe headache, and confusion. If you notice those signs and get your senior loved one to the hospital right away, a doctor might be able to administer medication or carry out a procedure that prevents long-term damage.

Focus on Repetition

After a stroke, many areas of the brain have been damaged, and that damage almost always impacts motor skills. To rebuild those skills, your loved one must practice repetitive movements. When an action is repeated over and over, it activates a biological process known as neuroplasticity. That unique function allows the brain to rewire itself, and it’s one of the most effective ways to rebuild synapses. Engaging in various activities multiple times a day can eventually make those tasks much easier.

A professional caregiver can help your loved one follow a safe, effective activity and exercise plan during recovery. Families looking for top-rated Oshkosh elder care providers can reach out to Senior Stride Home Care. From respite care to specialized Alzheimer’s, dementia, stroke, and Parkinson’s care, there are many ways we can make life easier for seniors and their loved ones.

Download Speech Therapy Apps

Working with an experienced speech therapist can be very beneficial, but seniors might want to carry out some exercises at home as well. There are now several high-quality speech therapy apps on the market, and many of these programs were designed for stroke survivors. These apps might have the user read complex passages or make shapes with the mouth to strengthen the muscles in the face and neck. Speech therapy can also make it much easier to chew and swallow, which reduces the risk of pneumonia.

Certain age-related conditions can make it more challenging for seniors to age in place safely and comfortably, but Oshkosh live-in care experts are available around the clock to help seniors manage their health. Whether your loved one is living with dementia or is recovering from a stroke, you can trust the professional live-in caregivers from Senior Stride Home Care to enhance his or her quality of life.

Stick to Superfoods

There isn’t a single diet that’s going to work for every stroke survivor, but there are a few dietary changes most recovering seniors can benefit from. Stroke survivors need to focus on nutrient-dense foods that are easy to eat and digest. In the weeks following a stroke, some of the best foods to eat include sugar-free yogurt, scrambled eggs, protein shakes, and smoothies made from fresh fruits and vegetables. Homemade soups can be very healthy as well, and you might want to make a large pot at the start of the week so your loved one can grab a bowl whenever he or she is hungry.

Elderly home care agencies can be a great boon to seniors. With the help of the caregivers at Senior Stride Home Care, your aging loved one can lead a happier and healthier life. We offer a revolutionary program called the Balanced Care Method, which encourages seniors to eat nutritious foods, exercise and socialize regularly, and focus on other lifestyle factors that increase life expectancy. Reach out to one of our Care Managers today at 920-717-1767 to schedule a free in-home consultation.

Rehospitalization Risk Factors & Aging Adults

Posted on August 22, 2019April 8, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

Statistics suggest that up to one third of elderly people reenter the hospital after an initial stay. Many are readmitted within 30 days of discharge. There are many risk factors that contribute to the problem. However, family members have the ability to greatly reduce the chance of readmission by learning the underlying reasons and intervening on their senior loved ones’ behalf. Here are some of the most common risk factors for readmission to the hospital.

Early Discharge

Up to 20 percent of seniors are discharged from the hospital too early. Make sure the physician provides a thorough evaluation before allowing your loved one to leave the facility. Pay particular attention to your loved one’s vital signs. An elevated temperature often indicates an infection. Blood pressure and pulse readings that are too high make your loved one susceptible to a heart attack or stroke. An increased respiratory rate may also indicate an infection. Any abnormal vital sign increases the likelihood your loved one will soon return to the hospital for further treatment.

A professional caregiver can closely monitor your loved one for post-hospitalization complications. When searching for reliable senior home care agencies, families want to know their senior loved one will be well taken care of. At Senior Stride Home Care, our expertly trained caregivers are available around the clock to assist with tasks around the house, provide transportation to medical appointments and social events, and much more.

Lack of Education Comprehension

Seniors must understand their medical conditions along with the medication, treatments, and other recommendations necessary for their recovery. Oftentimes, older adults don’t absorb all the information provided by members of their healthcare teams. As such, it’s important for you to be present and kept aware at all times. This way, you can provide reminders if needed and guide your loved one to better health.

Medication Mishaps

Discharge instructions often include prescriptions for new medications. Seniors must have the prescriptions filled and take the medications as recommended. However, pharmacists must ensure your loved one’s medications don’t interact. You must also be aware of potential side effects to watch for in your loved one.

Failure to Receive Follow-Up Care

Seniors are often reluctant to make and attend follow-up appointments. However, visiting the physician is the only way to ensure recovery is progressing as planned. You may need to make appointments for your loved one yourself. Attending doctor visits together also ensures two pairs of ears receive vital information and instructions.

A professional caregiver can be a wonderful source of support for a senior who’s recovering after being hospitalized. Oshkosh senior 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.

Ignored Symptoms

Older adults who have undergone surgery may develop infections at their surgical sites. If not properly treated, the infections can become systemic and have the potential to be life-threatening. Seniors might also overlook medication side effects under the mistaken belief they’ll naturally subside. Perhaps your parent is in pain but doesn’t want to admit the problem. However, if you continually monitor your parent during recovery, you’re more likely to detect possible complications that may then be brought to the attention of a physician.

Malnutrition

Once seniors return home from the hospital, they’re weakened and fatigued, so they’re less likely to have the strength to prepare healthy meals. Unless they get proper nutrition, seniors won’t adequately recover and be able to maintain optimal health.

Many aging adults need assistance when they return home after being hospitalized. Some seniors only require help with a few daily tasks so they can maintain their independence. However, those living with serious illnesses may need more extensive assistance. Luckily, there is professional live-in care Oshkosh, WI, seniors can rely on. Home can be a safer and more comfortable place for your loved one to live with the help of an expertly trained and dedicated live-in caregiver. If your loved one needs professional in-home care, Senior Stride Home Care is here to help. To hire a compassionate, dedicated caregiver, call us at 920-717-1767 today.