5 Fun Ways for Aging Adults to Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day

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

Although St. Patrick’s Day is considered a traditional Irish holiday, many people around the world indulge in a variety of festivities designed to commemorate the day. Young and old celebrate the day in different ways. There are many ways seniors can enjoy St. PAtrick’s Day with friends and family.

1. Share St. Patrick’s Story

Older adults often share their life experience, knowledge, and skills with younger generations. Holidays are no exception. Traditions are often passed down from one generation to the next. Seniors might consider telling the story of St. Patrick to their grandchildren. It’s likely that few are aware of who he was and how the celebratory holiday came into existence or how the color green, shamrocks, and leprechauns became part of the heritage.

2. Do a Modified Pub Crawl

Young people often indulge in pub crawls on St. Patrick’s Day. However, older adults, friends, and family members might think about celebrating the day by having a house crawl instead. Participating individuals make Irish-themed dishes, from appetizers to desserts. All then venture to one another’s homes and feast on the homemade delights. The event provides older adults with the chance to go out and spend time with people, which broadens their social networks. Socializing is essential for an older adult’s emotional, mental, and physical health.

Although some elderly people have mobility challenges that limit their ability to venture out on their own, they can still get out of the house and socialize with the help of a professional caregiver. Oshkosh at-home 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.

3. Watch a St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Communities large and small with residents of Irish descent often present a St. Patrick’s Day parade. The processions include elaborately decorated floats, Irish-themed music, and costumed participants. Mascots dressed as leprechauns and other characters from Celtic lore delight spectators by throwing candy and gifts into the crowd. The event provides cognitive stimulation and the chance to spend a memorable time with loved ones.

For seniors with health limitations that make joining crowds a challenge, watching the parade on television or online can be fun. Aging in place can present a few unique challenges for older adults. Some only require part-time assistance with exercise or meal preparation, while others are living with serious illnesses and benefit more significantly from receiving live-in care. Oshkosh, WI, Senior Stride Home Care are leaders in the elderly in-home care industry for good reason. We tailor our care plans based on each senior’s individual needs, our caregivers continue to receive updated training in senior care as new developments arise, and we offer comprehensive care for seniors with Alzheimer’s, dementia, and Parkinson’s.

4. Enjoy Some Irish-Themed Entertainment

Some communities host concerts presented by Gaelic musicians and vocalists that older adults might enjoy. Local pubs might offer live entertainment. Make some green-tinted popcorn, green-tinted sodas, and shamrock cupcakes and stay home to enjoy a selection of films. Spend the evening with your senior parent watching a video recording of Riverdance or any number of Irish-themed movies, such as Darby O’Gill and the Little People, The Quiet Man, The Secret of Kells, and In the Name of the Father. The time spent together provides the chance to make memories, and it might also influence your loved one to share memories of his or her own.

5. Play St. Patrick’s Day Games

Play bingo or Pictionary using St. Patrick’s Day–themed cards. Use green daubers for the bingo cards and green markers to create the Pictionary images. Playing games provides seniors with the chance to spend a pleasant time with loved ones while receiving cognitive stimulation.

Engaging in fun activities all year long helps seniors boost their physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing, but some may need a bit of assistance to remain active. Living alone at home in the golden years can present a few unique challenges. Trust Oshkosh home care services professionals to help your senior loved one maintain a higher quality of life while he or she manages an illness and performs the daily tasks of living. To create a customized home care plan for your loved one, call Senior Stride Home Care at 920-717-1767 today.

Maintaining Cholesterol Levels in Older Adults

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

Seniors may be susceptible to high cholesterol as a result of a slower metabolic rate, chronic illnesses, and certain medications. Because high cholesterol can raise the risk for strokes and heart attacks, it’s important to maintain healthy cholesterol levels in the senior years. Here are some things you can do to help your aging loved one maintain healthy cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Limit Tobacco and Alcohol Intake

Encouraging your loved one to quit smoking and limit the intake of alcoholic beverages can help him or her maintain healthy cholesterol levels. Cigarette smoking and consuming alcohol can lower levels of high-density lipoproteins. These substances are thought to protect against cardiovascular disease, so it’s crucial their levels don’t decrease. Also, drinking alcohol can raise other blood lipids known as triglycerides, which may heighten the risk for strokes and heart attacks. If your loved one is unable to quit smoking or drinking alcohol independently, make an appointment with a physician who can recommend effective treatment options for smoking cessation and alcohol avoidance.

Your loved one may require constant professional supervision at home to break unhealthy addictions and focus on healthier lifestyle choices. The type of home care Oshkosh, Wisconsin, seniors need can vary. Some need assistance a few hours a day, while others require more extensive around-the-clock assistance. At Senior Stride Home Care, we tailor our care plans based on each senior’s individual care needs, and the plans can be adjusted at any time.

Consume Garlic

Garlic has potent antilipemic properties that play an important role in lowering cholesterol levels. Garlic contains allicin, which raises “good cholesterol” levels while lowering bad cholesterol. Although increasing the intake of garlic may have positive effects on serum cholesterol, talk to the doctor to make sure it’s safe for your loved one to consume. Because of its ability to decrease platelet aggregation, garlic may not be recommended for people who take aspirin or prescription blood thinners daily.

Eat Citrus Fruits

Citrus fruits are rich in vitamin C and potassium. Both nutrients have heart-healthy properties such as the ability to lower blood pressure, regulate the heart rate, and maintain healthy cholesterol levels. If your loved one is unable to eat enough citrus fruits to meet the recommended daily allowances for vitamin C and potassium, talk to his or her healthcare provider about taking an over-the-counter supplement.

Older adults, particularly those with multiple health conditions, may have nutritional deficiencies that affect their quality of life. Maintaining a high quality of life can be challenging for some seniors, but professional caregivers can help them obtain this goal. Families can trust Oshkosh elderly home care experts to help their elderly loved ones focus on lifestyle choices that increase the chances of living a longer and healthier life.

Walk Often

Walking and other forms of exercise can lower cholesterol levels while keeping high blood pressure at bay. Mild exercise may also relieve feelings of anxiety and stress, which are risk factors in the development of high cholesterol. Walking also keeps excess weight off, which lowers the risk of developing elevated serum cholesterol. While walking is usually recommended for most people, check with a physician to make sure your loved one is able to start a new exercise plan. Walking lowers cholesterol levels, keeps the cardiovascular system healthy, and promotes restorative sleep so seniors feel more energized and hopeful about the future.

Healthy lifestyle changes can help older adults maintain ideal cholesterol levels. If you’re the primary family caregiver for a senior loved one living in Oshkosh, live-in care is available if your loved one’s health has become too difficult to manage without professional expertise. At Senior Stride Home Care, we take measures to help seniors prevent illness and injury by assisting with exercise and mobility, preparing nutritious meals, helping with bathing and other personal hygiene tasks, and much more. Please call us at 920-717-1767 today to learn more about how our premier care plans can benefit your loved one.

5 Ways Seniors Can Stave Off the Effects of Aging

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

Just because people get older doesn’t mean they’ll succumb to the health effects of aging. Simple lifestyle habits can keep seniors active and healthy, even those who have preexisting medical conditions. Here are five ways your senior loved one can stave off the effects of aging.

1. Stay Active

Engaging in mild forms of exercise such as walking and low-impact aerobics can promote cardiovascular health by increasing circulation, lowering cholesterol levels, enhancing pulmonary function, and keeping anxiety and depression at bay. While daily exercise is important to the wellbeing of seniors, talk to a physician before encouraging your loved one to engage in a new exercise program.

Older adults sometimes need assistance to perform exercises and other everyday tasks safely. Oshkosh 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.

2. Avoid Smoking

Smoking may raise the risk for premature aging. The toxins in a cigarette can lead to capillary damage, which may be a risk factor in cardiovascular disease and stroke. If your loved one smokes and is unable to quit independently, make an appointment with his or her physician. The doctor can suggest effective smoking cessation treatment options that may include nicotine replacement products, prescription medications, hospital-based support groups, and cognitive therapy.

3. Eat Healthy

As people age, they become more susceptible to nutritional deficiencies, which speeds up the aging process. Eating a nutritionally-dense diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids may boost cardiovascular function, maintain healthy cholesterol levels, and protect the skin from age-related conditions. If your loved one is unable to consume the recommended daily requirements for essential vitamins and minerals, ask the doctor if an over-the-counter supplement would be appropriate.

Some seniors can’t plan or cook meals alone, and their families may not always be available to assist them. In these instances, it’s important to designate a trusted companion to provide the necessary care. 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.

4. Get a Pet

Spending time with pets, especially dogs and cats, may stave off the effects of aging. Physical contact with an animal may lower blood pressure, regulate the heart rate, and boost immune function. In addition, many seniors face social isolation, depression, and anxiety. It is thought that pet companionship greatly reduces these conditions, allowing seniors to look forward to the future with more happiness, enthusiasm, and hope.

5. Limit Alcohol Intake

An occasional alcoholic beverage may provide some health benefits for aging adults. However, drinking in excess can lead to significant problems. For example, chronic alcohol intake may lead to liver disease, high blood pressure, kidney disorders, and certain malignancies. In addition, many seniors take anticoagulant medications to reduce the risk for heart attack and stroke. When combined with alcohol, taking these medications may lead to dangerous bleeding. If your loved one drinks alcohol on a regular basis, encourage him or her to cut down. Doing so may stave off some of the effects of aging. However, if your loved one is unable to quit drinking independently, make an appointment with his or her healthcare provider to discuss treatment options.

If your loved one needs motivation to adopt healthy lifestyle changes, consider seeking the assistance of a professional in-home caregiver. Families shouldn’t have to worry about finding reliable in-home care. Oshkosh Senior Stride Home Care is a leading provider of elderly home care. We offer a proprietary program called the Balanced Care Method, which uses holistic methods to promote senior health, our caregivers and Care Managers are available 24/7, and all of our in-home care services are backed with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Give us a call at 920-717-1767 to learn more about our premier senior care programs.

6 Ways to Get Your Loved One to Choose a Healthy Lifestyle

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

Adopting a healthy lifestyle is one of the best ways for seniors to prevent illnesses and injuries that could shorten their lives. Giving up smoking, eating more vegetables, and exercising more are all things your aging loved one can do now to make up for former bad habits. You can use these tips to help your loved one get motivated for making better lifestyle choices.

1. Plan Small Changes

Starting a major health change can be overwhelming for seniors. For instance, your loved one may not be able to imagine giving up smoking after twenty years or skipping his or her nightly dessert. Make it easier for your loved one to see him or herself actively changing by suggesting a smaller step, such as skipping the after-lunch smoke or trying a fruit dish one night a week instead of dessert.

Not all seniors are comfortable with the idea of making small changes. Their self-confidence might be affected if they’re unable to walk or move around without assistance. Living with a serious health condition 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.

2. Start Tracking Your Loved One’s Goals

Many people have difficulty seeing how far they’ve come, which poses a challenge when they encounter a setback. Encourage your parent to mark down each one of his or her successes on a calendar. Seeing that he or she managed to exercise most of the days in a week may help your loved one stay on track, even if he or she makes a mistake.

3. Provide a Tangible Incentive

Incentives activate the reward center in the brain that makes a person want to continue to establish a habit. These incentives can be anything from a new pair of walking shoes to a special trip to a favorite place. If your loved one responds to rewards, keep them simple. Alternatively, your loved one could work up to a major reward over time, such as a vacation.

Taking part in social events is an excellent way to encourage seniors to make healthy lifestyle changes. You can accompany your loved one to fun carnivals and even technical workshops that help him or her polish a variety of skills. If your commitments don’t allow you to take part in activities with your loved one, a professional caregiver is in the best position to do the job. Oshkosh elder 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.

4. Have the Physician Give a Warning

Your loved one may brush off your concerns but listen to his or her doctor. If possible, talk to your loved one’s doctor before the appointment about issues you’d like addressed. The physician may also have ideas for helping your loved one adopt healthy lifestyle practices.

5. Offer to Make Lifestyle Changes Together

A team mentality may help when motivation gets low because your loved one might feel accountable for making sure you both stay on track with your goals. For instance, your loved one will be ready to get dressed and go for a walk if you start lacing up your shoes first. This strategy is also a great way to overcome anxiety your loved one might feel about joining a gym or workout class.

6. Make It Fun

A healthy lifestyle doesn’t have to be boring. Try taking your loved one to a new place to walk, or sign him or her up for a senior dance class to add a touch of cardio to the day. You can also experiment with new healthy recipes together in the kitchen and learn strategies for healthy living from your loved one’s professional caregiver. Turning healthy living into a fun and natural part of your day helps you both make better choices together.

Aging adults who require assistance with the tasks of daily living can benefit from reliable in-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. If you have any questions about our premier in-home care, call us at 920-717-1767.

Causes of Vision Loss in Seniors

Posted on January 1, 2019April 8, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

Vision loss remains a major medical issue for seniors. Statistics indicate approximately one-third of older adults develop some form of a serious visual disease by the time they reach 65 years of age. There are several conditions that contribute to visual impairment. However, the disorders may be preventable.

Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration remains a leading cause of visual impairment in adults over the age of 65. Along with the natural aging process, risk factors include genetics and unhealthy lifestyle habits. The disorder is typically diagnosed as being either nonexudative or exudative. Nonexudative is the more common form of the disease, which is further categorized as drusen, or geographic atrophy.

The drusen form of nonexudative macular degeneration occurs when yellowish-white extracellular deposits develop on the macula. Geographic atrophy involves the development of oval or round atrophied areas on the retina, retinal epithelium, and the underlying choroid. In time, the patches may increase in size or join to create larger affected areas.

The exudative form of macular degeneration involves the growth of fragile blood vessels on the choroid. The blood vessels often rupture, which causes blood flow in the macula. All of the forms cause blurred vision or other forms of visual distortion.

Prevention involves eating foods rich in vitamin A and antioxidants. In general, seniors who follow healthy diets are less likely to develop macular degeneration. Older adults must also stop smoking and get more exercise.

Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional in-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.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma may be diagnosed as being open-angle or closed angle glaucoma. The problem lies in the inability for fluid within the eye to drain normally. As such, the fluid accumulates and puts pressure on the optic nerve, which causes irreversible damage.

The risk factors that may lead to glaucoma development include genetics, the aging process, diabetes, and hypertension. Seniors with diabetes or hypertension must adhere to the medication regimen prescribed by their healthcare provider to prevent vascular damage. Living a healthy lifestyle often prevents or reverses diabetes and hypertension.

Consider hiring a caregiver to help your loved one overcome hypertension and lead a healthy life. Oshkosh elder 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.

Cataracts

Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness in older adults in the United States. The likelihood of developing cataracts increases dramatically over the age of 75. The development of the opacities occurs slowly over time. However, for some, the disorder progresses more quickly. Seniors affected by the disorder experience blurred vision or intense glaring. Risk factors for cataracts include the normal aging process, diabetes, eye injuries, genetics, hypertension, obesity, sun exposure, and steroid use. Older adults can reduce the likelihood of developing cataracts by eliminating the risk factors they have control over.

Diabetic Retinopathy

\Diabetic retinopathy involves hemorrhaging of the blood vessels within or near the retina, which distorts vision. Vision loss occurs secondary to the edema and excess fluid in the eye, which puts pressure on the retina. Blood glucose levels must stay within normal limits to reduce the chance of developing the disorder. Leading a healthy lifestyle may also prevent diabetes.

Vision impairment is just one of the many issues that prevents older adults from living independently. Living with a serious health condition 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. To hire a friendly caregiver for your loved one, call Senior Stride Home Care today at 920-717-1767.

How Can Family Caregivers Care for a Senior with Dementia?

Posted on December 20, 2018April 8, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

Dementia can cause severe changes in a senior’s personality and behavior. In the later stages of this disease, seniors can become aggressive, irritable, and paranoid. In the earlier stages, memory issues and other cognitive changes can also be a challenge for family caregivers. Keep the following in mind when caring for a loved one who has dementia.

Use Short and Simple Explanations

Seniors who have dementia can get confused about where they are or who someone is. When your loved one experiences this kind of confusion, avoid giving long explanations. He or she might have difficulty following lengthy explanations and become frustrated, so it’s better to use simple explanations instead. If your loved one is confused about someone’s identity, show photos of that person to jog his or her memory.

The confusion that accompanies dementia often leaves seniors unable to manage the tasks of daily life, putting their health and safety at risk. 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.

Offer Help Staying Organized

Elderly people with dementia may have difficulty remembering to pay bills, take medication, and do other tasks, which can have a serious impact on their physical wellbeing, finances, and other aspects of their lives. Offer to help your loved one stay organized. Keep in mind that he or she might get upset if you try to take over these tasks completely. Instead, offer to help in small ways, such as reminding your loved one that a bill is due or that it’s time to take a certain medication.

Find the Cause of Anger or Frustration

Seniors with dementia sometimes lash out physically or verbally at others when they’re feeling angry or frustrated. These behaviors often come from an underlying fear. Finding the cause of this fear can help you address it. For example, if your loved one is in an unfamiliar place, he or she may quickly feel stressed and overwhelmed. Stay patient with your loved one, and either offer comfort and reassurance or allow space and time to adjust, depending on what he or she prefers.

Anger, frustration, and other negative emotions are common in elderly people with dementia. 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.

Stick to a Schedule

In some cases, following a daily routine can help seniors with dementia feel more comfortable and less stressed. When you’re caring for a senior loved one who has this disease, try sticking to a regular schedule day after day. For example, preparing meals around the same times each day creates a daily routine your loved one can depend on. If you have to set up doctor’s appointments, try to schedule each of them around the same time, such as in the morning or afternoon.

Remove Hazards

Seniors with dementia are at higher risk of hurting themselves or wandering off. While caring for your loved one, keep sharp objects, lighters, and other potentially harmful items out of reach. You should also make sure he or she doesn’t have easy access to car or house keys, and keep doors locked at all times.

Caring for a parent with dementia isn’t an easy task for anyone. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the responsibilities of caring for your loved one, help is just a phone call away. 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 Oshkosh senior 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. Reach out to one of our dedicated Care Managers today at 920-717-1767 to learn about the high quality of our in-home care services.

6 Healthy Meals You Can Make in Advance for Seniors

Posted on December 6, 2018April 8, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

Meal preparation is one area where many seniors face difficulty, and you need to know your aging loved one has a steady stream of healthy meals he or she can choose from when you’re short on time. These six meals can all be prepped ahead of time so all your loved one has to do is mix or heat them up.

1. Grilled Chicken Salad

Seniors with arthritis or hand weakness often skip adding vegetables to their meals because of their inability to chop them up. However, most veggies stay fresh for up to a week after they’re chopped, which means you can do this part of the cooking ahead of time so all your loved one has to do is mix up the salad. Grilled chicken adds a healthy dose of protein to your loved one’s lunch or dinner salad, but you can also boil eggs to add if he or she prefers.

2. Veggie Egg Muffins

Egg muffins are perfectly portioned breakfasts your loved one can simply heat up in the microwave. To make them, whisk eggs until they’re blended and fill a muffin cup halfway, then add your loved one’s favorite veggies and bake them in the oven. You can experiment with different combinations, such as bell peppers and onions, so your loved one never gets bored. Veggie egg muffins last for five days in the refrigerator, or they can be frozen so your loved one has no excuse to skip this most important meal of the day.

Sometimes aging adults experience cognitive decline that causes them to simply forget to eat, take their medication, or perform other important daily tasks on their own, which could put their safety at risk. 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 Oshkosh home care agency. Our dedicated in-home caregivers can assist with meal prep, bathing and grooming, exercise, medication reminders, and many other important tasks.

3. Healthy Lasagna

Seniors sometimes skip dishes such as lasagna because the recipes tend to make so much food. However, lasagna can be made in smaller portions by layering the ingredients in a loaf pan or muffin tins. Once you’ve assembled the lasagna, the portions can be frozen for up to a month. You can also use thinly sliced vegetables such as eggplant or zucchini in place of the noodles and switch to ground turkey rather than sausage or beef to increase the healthiness of your loved one’s favorite recipe.

4. Stews and Soups

These dishes have softer textures that are perfect for seniors who also face difficulty with chewing. From chicken noodle to beef stew, you can chop the ingredients ahead of time so your loved one can simply throw them into the pot. Alternatively, you can completely cook the stews or soups and freeze them in individual portions.

Some seniors need a higher level of assistance to ensure they get enough nutrition, exercise, and mental stimulation and that their daily needs are met. If your senior loved one needs hourly or live-in care, Oshkosh Senior Stride Home Care can help. Our caregivers can assist with exercise and mobility, prepare nutritious meals, provide timely medication reminders, and help with a wide array of other important daily tasks.

5. Stuffed Bell Peppers

Every senior needs a hearty meal that’s easy to just heat up when hunger sets in. Try switching out the rice in your loved one’s favorite stuffed bell pepper recipe with another whole grain such as quinoa to increase the nutritional value, then freeze or refrigerate the peppers for your loved one to enjoy throughout the week.

6. Overnight Oats

Oatmeal is a wonderful way to get some fiber into your loved one’s diet, yet he or she may not have the time or energy to make a bowl of oats. Give your loved one a diverse set of breakfasts by cutting up fruits that can be added to the overnight oats, then show him or her how to put oats, milk, and other flavorful ingredients into a jar to sit overnight. When your loved one wakes up in the morning, a delicious breakfast will be ready, just waiting to be enjoyed.

Eating well is a vital component of staying healthy, but seniors often find making their own meals challenging. With these six easy-to-fix alternatives, your loved one will have tasty choices that provide the nutrients he or she needs. If your loved one needs assistance with planning and preparing meals or accomplishing other simple tasks of daily life, help is just a phone call away. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional 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. To learn about our high-quality in-home care services, give us a call at 920-717-1767 today.

5 Tips for Reducing the Risk of Lung Cancer in Seniors

Posted on November 15, 2018April 8, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

The best way to lower lung cancer risk is also the most obvious: stop smoking. However, this isn’t the only way to reduce your senior loved one’s risk of developing lung cancer. There are several safety and lifestyle changes he or she can make to boost respiratory health. Here are five effective ways to lower lung cancer risk in the elderly.

1. Discourage Smoking

To reduce lung cancer risk, your loved one needs to reduce his or her exposure to tobacco. Statistically, only 10 to 15 percent of the people diagnosed with lung cancer have never smoked. Most people with lung cancer are either former smokers or current smokers. If your loved one has given up smoking, that’s a great first step. As soon as smokers quit, their lungs slowly but surely begin to repair the damage done by tobacco. If your loved one is still smoking, there’s still time to quit. Smoking cessation can be especially difficult on seniors, so it’s always a good idea to speak with your parent’s doctor before embarking on a smoking cessation plan.

2. Encourage a Healthy Diet

While staying away from tobacco is one of the best ways to reduce lung cancer risk, following a diet rich in fruits and vegetables and low in fat can also help. Seniors who smoke should be wary of redressing their nutritional deficits with supplements. Studies show that smokers who take vitamin A supplements are more likely to get lung cancer.

If your loved one does develop lung cancer, he or she may need help to continue living at home. Performing daily tasks while simultaneously managing the symptoms of a serious illness can be challenging for seniors. The Oshkosh live-in care experts at Senior Stride Home Care are available 24/7 to make sure your loved one has the care he or she needs to remain safe and comfortable while aging in place.

3. Reduce Exposure to Known Pollutants

Most of the known environmental causes of lung cancer are airborne. While people usually know when they’re being exposed to cigarette smoke, other pollutants are more insidious, including radon, a radioactive gas that can damage lung cells. Seniors who spent most of their adult lives employed in the construction or chemical industries may have been exposed to toxins such as asbestos, tar, chromium, soot, or nickel. Even everyday air pollution such as the fumes from diesel engines can contribute to the development of lung cancer. To protect your loved one from environmental toxins, make sure he or she isn’t being exposed to dangerous substances at work or at home. You can find simple DIY air quality tests at local stores, or you can hire a specialist to perform more extensive tests.

4. Provide Purified Water

If your loved one uses a private water source such as a well, make sure the water has been tested recently. Public water sources are treated to remove harmful toxins, but private water sources may contain unhealthy elements. For example, drinking water that contains an unusually high level of arsenic increases the risk of developing lung cancer.

Being a caregiver often involves overseeing maintenance of the senior’s home, and the accumulated responsibilities can be exhausting. There are a variety of reasons family caregivers should consider respite care. Oshkosh, WI, families often have additional responsibilities that make it more challenging to provide the care their senior loved ones need and deserve. A professional respite caregiver can take over your important caregiving duties, allowing you more time to focus on yourself.

5. Encourage Exercise

Cardiovascular exercise strengthens the lungs, making it a healthy habit for seniors who want to prevent lung cancer. Former smokers may want to ease into an exercise regimen. Trying too much too soon may overstress the lungs. Once your loved one has found a cardiovascular exercise he or she enjoys, whether it’s power walking or water aerobics, he or she should try to do it three or four times a week.

A diagnosis of lung cancer is difficult for the entire family. 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 home care Oshkosh, WI, 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 services, give us a call at 920-717-1767 today.

How to Celebrate National Family Caregivers Month with a Caregiver Friend

Posted on November 1, 2018April 8, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

The AARP reports that nearly 40 million people in the United States provide ongoing care for an older loved one. To commemorate individuals who lovingly provide care to older family members, November has been designated National Family Caregivers Month. There are many ways families can celebrate the month with a family member or friend who has assumed the role of caregiver.

Offer Assistance

Consider giving the family caregiver a break by stepping in and assuming his or her responsibilities for a few hours, a whole day, or an entire week. Free time enables caregivers to catch up on other responsibilities. They might also take the time to rejuvenate, relax, and indulge in stress-relieving activities.

Caregivers may benefit from having one or more individuals help out by performing grocery shopping duties, running errands, or providing transportation on a regular basis. Consider helping the caregiver organize tasks, or offer to assist with record-keeping needs. Receiving help from a network of loved ones can lower stress.

Having a professional caregiver come into the home and take on the role is another option. 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.

Have a Party

Consider hosting a party for the special caregiver in your family’s life. All who attend can express their gratitude for everything the person does to care for his or her senior loved one. Plan the event around the caregiver’s normal duties, or have someone step in to take his or her place. Other ideas might include presenting a commemorative gift as a sign of appreciation. Depending on the number of caregivers one or more families want to celebrate, consider hosting a dinner and a night out on the town.

Show Your Appreciation with a Card

Families touched by a family caregiver may want to consider combining forces to show their appreciation by showering the caregiver with encouraging cards and mementos. The small tokens may lift the caregiver’s spirits and reinforce the knowledge that the tasks he or she performs don’t go unnoticed and are highly regarded.

Create a Caregiving Calendar

Gather photographs of the caregiver’s friends and family members or special moments and create a special 12-month calendar. Calendars enable caregivers to keep track of appointments and other obligations. The faces of loved ones also remind them that their efforts are appreciated and they remain loved and in people’s thoughts.

Provide Financial Support

Consider hosting a fundraiser. Have friends and family pitch in to help the caregiver cover the out-of-pocket expenses he or she often incurs in addition to providing care. Allow the caregiver to decide how the proceeds might be most helpful.

Your caregiver friend may be even more financially stressed because he or she is helping a loved one who has an illness. Living with a serious health condition 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.

Seek Support from the Community

Friends and family members of caregivers should encourage local businesses to join them in an effort to commemorate the month. Businesses might offer a free meal or movie. They might also provide discounts for their services or products. Some local venues could pool their resources to host a special commemorative event.

One final thing you can do is offer to help your friend find professionals who can care for his or her loved one. When searching for reliable Oshkosh senior 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. To talk to one of our Care Managers, call 920-717-1767 today.

Best Meals for Older Adults with Celiac Disease

Posted on October 18, 2018April 8, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

Approximately one percent of people in the United States have celiac disease, and many of them are over 65. Celiac basically means the body is sensitive to gluten. Consumption of gluten damages the small intestine over time and leads to issues with digestion. If your elderly loved one has celiac disease, here are some great ideas for his or her next meal.

Spinach Omelet

One of the best ways to plan meals for seniors with celiac disease is to stick to the following food groups as much as possible: dairy, meat, nuts, legumes, fruits, and vegetables. This way, there’s no second-guessing whether a certain ingredient has gluten in it or not. For breakfast, a spinach omelet is an easy choice, as it contains some important nutrients needed to boost the health of those who eat a gluten-free diet. Spinach is especially healthy, as many people with celiac disease are encouraged to eat more iron and folic acid. Feel free to add cheese, onions, and other veggies to this delicious dish.

Family caregivers who don’t have time to prepare breakfast for their loved one can seek help with meal prep from professional caregivers. In Oshkosh, 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.

Chicken and Rice

Not everyone is ready to stop eating grains when they discover they have celiac disease, and that’s okay. Some grains such as rice are gluten-free. Chicken and rice is a nice comfort food almost any senior can eat, even if he or she has oral issues that make it difficult to chew specific foods. Chicken is also rich in vitamin B6, which is important for fighting off infections.

Preparing gluten-free meals is just one of the many things your loved one may need help with. If you’re the primary family caregiver for a senior loved one living in Oshkosh, live-in care is available if your loved one’s health has become too difficult to manage without professional expertise. At Senior Stride Home Care, we take measures to help seniors prevent illness and injury by assisting with exercise and mobility, preparing nutritious meals, helping with bathing and other personal hygiene tasks, and much more.

Fresh Salad

For something a little lighter, put together a fresh colorful salad for your loved one. Make sure to skip the croutons. You can add spinach to increase the iron and folic acid content. Adding cheese can provide your loved one with some much-needed calcium for strong bones. Otherwise, stick to the food groups mentioned above by adding fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts, seeds, and eggs, chicken, beef, or another favorite protein.

Steak and Baked Potato

If your loved one isn’t into salads, steak and baked potato is an excellent gluten-free option. Steak is an excellent source of vitamin B12, which can help seniors with celiac disease fight fatigue. Potatoes, particularly sweet potatoes, are also high in fiber, which is important for regulated digestion in people with celiac disease.

Grilled Salmon and Vegetables

A grilled or baked salmon steak is a great alternative to beef, and it’s filled with vitamin D. Many people with celiac disease don’t get enough of this essential vitamin in their food. Come up with a healthy side dish made of vegetables. For example, steamed broccoli is a great source of folic acid. Add some cheese to make it more flavorful and to give your loved one’s calcium levels a boost.

Preparing nutritious gluten-free meals for your loved one on a regular basis, without any help, can be a tremendous responsibility. Families who find it difficult to care for their aging loved ones without assistance can benefit greatly from professional respite care. Oshkosh, WI, family caregivers who need a break from their caregiving duties can turn to Senior Stride Home Care. Using our proprietary Balanced Care Method, our respite caregivers can encourage your loved one to eat well, exercise regularly, get plenty of mental and social stimulation, and focus on other lifestyle factors that promote longevity. Call 920-717-1767 today to schedule a free in-home consultation session.