6 Things that Can Make Life Simpler for Older Adults

Posted on January 19, 2023April 8, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

Most seniors today have a desire to maintain their independence, age in place in the homes they know and love, and stay as vital and productive as possible. These are certainly healthy and beneficial goals to have later in life, but many older adults also need some help with daily and recurring tasks and other aspects of life to achieve such goals. The good news is there are some things that can make life simpler for older adults, including the suggestions offered below.

1. Home Safety Adjustments

According to the National Council on Aging, falls are the top cause of nonfatal hospital admissions for seniors. Fortunately, there are some things that can make your senior loved one’s home safer to reduce this risk. Commonly recommended home safety items for older adults include:

Corner guards for furniture
Grip bars for the bathroom
Reachers or grippers to make it easier to get things from higher shelves without the need to use a stepstool
Ramps and/or stair lift devices
Walk-in bathtubs

2. Meal Delivery Services

Seniors need a steady influx of essential nutrients to maintain optimal health while aging. However, some older adults find it difficult to cook healthy meals on a regular basis. If this is an issue for your loved one, consider a meal delivery service. Specifically, look for a company that offers senior-focused meals that are both delicious and nutritious.

A professional caregiver can be a wonderful resource if your loved one needs help preparing nutritious meals. Living alone at home in the golden years can present a few unique challenges. Trust homecare professionals to help your senior loved one maintain a higher quality of life while he or she lives with an illness and performs the daily tasks of living.

3. Medication Organizers or Reminders

On average, seniors fill nine to thirteen prescriptions per year. If your loved one normally takes multiple medications, medication organizer devices can help him or her reduce the risk of forgetting to take pills or accidentally taking too many doses. Another option is a medication reminder app that provides vocal or text reminders when it’s time to take meds.

4. Senior Transportation Services

Some older adults have mobility issues or other health concerns that make it difficult or impossible for them to drive anymore. However, many seniors are uncomfortable with constantly calling on family members or friends when they need to go somewhere, which could contribute to increased isolation and other issues. Senior transportation services allow older adults to safely get out and about on their own schedules to do things like shop for groceries, go to doctors’ appointments, or simply visit parks or other places in the area.

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.

5. Senior-Friendly Tablets, Laptops, & Keyboards

Contrary to popular belief, many older adults don’t have an aversion to technology. In fact, many seniors are more than willing to explore what’s available online and stay engaged with apps and social media. However, some older adults have a difficult time with typing or clearly seeing what’s on smaller screens. Some of the things that can help with such problems include:

Senior-friendly tablets or e-readers with larger screens
Large-screen laptops with adjustable font options
Smartphones with larger buttons spaced out a bit more to make typing easier
Large-print keyboards

6. In-Home Care

It’s not always possible for family members to provide assistance for an aging loved one and juggle their own needs and responsibilities at the same time. If this is a dilemma you face, explore options with in-home care. Home care is a cost-effective and convenient way for your loved one to receive the level of care and assistance needed while still being able to remain at home.

Living independently is important for seniors who want to maintain a high quality of life. For some, this simply means receiving help with tasks that have become more challenging to manage over time. Even when families have the best intentions, they may not have the time to provide the care their elderly loved ones need and deserve. If your loved one needs help for a few hours a day or a few days a week, reach out to Senior Stride Home Care, a trusted provider of respite care Oshkosh seniors can depend on. To create a comprehensive in-home care plan for your loved one, call us at 920-717-1767 today.

How to Make Being a Caregiver Easier for Yourself

Posted on January 5, 2023April 8, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

Family caregivers are selfless individuals who sacrifice their time and energy for those they love. Although the role is challenging at times, there are ways caregivers can simplify their days without compromising their senior loved ones’ care. Continue reading to find tips that could make caring for your parent easier.

Stay Knowledgeable

Even if you assume the role without any training or expertise, you can learn as you go. Staying knowledgeable could reduce the risk of costly errors and boost your loved one’s quality of life and safety. Speak with a doctor to learn more about your loved one’s health, including any conditions he or she has developed. Learning how to take on caregiver tasks and prevent various health risks could make caregiving less stressful and easier to manage.

Professional home caregivers can be a wonderful source of information and support for families caring for older loved ones. When searching for reliable home care service agencies, families want to know their senior loved ones 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.

Be Patient

Your parent may have difficulty communicating or take longer to accomplish daily activities due to his or her physical and cognitive health. However, you must remain patient and avoid pushing your loved one too far. When you lose patience, it could upset your loved one and increase the risk of combative behavior. Your relationship could also be negatively impacted due to a lack of patience. Remember to stay calm even in bad situations. Your loved one may react based on your feelings and actions, so by staying positive and relaxed, you may be able to prevent negative behavior.

Accept Help

Your way of caring for your parent may be useful, but it’s not the only option. To get your siblings and other family members to help out more, be receptive to change, especially if it benefits your loved one. By accepting help, you can lower the risk of stress and stave off caregiver burnout. Accepting support benefits your loved one’s wellbeing just as much as your own health. It’s okay to offer opinions, but sharing the caregiver role could be easier if you’re open to change and continue to respect your siblings and other caregivers.

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.

Set Realistic Goals

Seeing your loved one’s health decrease can be devastating, especially when you’re unable to stop his or her pain or slow down a disease’s progression. Remain realistic instead of setting unattainable goals. Speak with your loved one’s primary care physician about statistics and tips. Staying realistic could benefit your mental and emotional health and make caregiving easier.

Schedule Time for Yourself

Taking time off to do things that bring you joy isn’t selfish. As a family caregiver, you need to practice self-care. Failing to do so could harm your physical and mental health. During your time away, try to focus on your personal goals and preferences instead of worrying about caregiver-related tasks. This is the time for you to rest, regroup, and boost your mental wellbeing. When you’ve recharged, you can return to the role with a clear mind and a new perspective.

Whether you need respite from your caregiving duties or your aging loved one needs live-in care, Oshkosh, WI, Senior Stride Home Care can meet your family’s care needs. Our dedicated caregivers are available around the clock to provide transportation to doctor’s appointments, ensure seniors take their prescribed medications, and help with a variety of tasks in and outside the home. Call one of our dedicated Care Managers today at 920-717-1767 to learn about the high quality of our in-home care services.

Impulse Control Issues Associated with Parkinson’s Disease

Posted on December 22, 2022April 8, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

Although many people are aware of the physical symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, there are other symptoms that are discussed less frequently. One of the most concerning is how Parkinson’s can cause seniors to engage in impulsive behaviors, often resulting from medications taken to combat the condition. Here are a few of these impulses and tips on how to alleviate the behavioral issues.

Prescription Drug Abuse

Many seniors diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease are prescribed either levodopa or carbidopa. These two forms of medication can amplify obsessive behavior and cause seniors to become fixated on increasing their dosage. This unhealthy behavior, known as dopamine dysregulation syndrome, generally affects around 4 percent of seniors who take these medications. You can help your loved one prevent this issue by regularly meeting with his or her doctor to discuss impulses or addictive urges.

Caring for senior loved ones 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 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.

Compulsive Shopping

Many seniors have careless spending habits, but this type of behavior can be especially concerning for those who have Parkinson’s. In some cases, this issue is the result of aggressive selling tactics designed specifically to take advantage of elderly people. However, if compulsive shopping becomes especially problematic for your loved one, you might need to take charge of his or her finances.

Gambling

Pathological gambling affects around 5 percent of seniors with Parkinson’s disease. If the gambling addiction is caught early, it can often be addressed with a comprehensive therapy program. However, as the pathological gambling and Parkinson’s both progress, a doctor might recommend the use of antidepressants or antipsychotics to suppress the urges.

Caring for a loved one with Parkinson’s can be extremely challenging, and a compassionate professional caregiver can be a wonderful source of support. 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.

Sexual Addiction

Hypersexuality is one of the most common impulse control disorders associated with Parkinson’s disease, affecting around 3.5 percent of adults with the condition. This symptom leads to an increase in sexual behavior that has an adverse effect on the senior’s life. While there’s no known cure for hypersexuality, some studies have shown altering Parkinson’s medications can reduce the urges. As with other impulse disorders, an early diagnosis followed by therapy can be helpful in curbing unhealthy sexual behavior.

Many seniors in the early stages of Parkinson’s are able to live on their own, but they may need help with the everyday tasks of life, such as exercising and preparing nutritious meals. 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 in-home care Oshkosh, Wisconsin, families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s. To create a customized in-home care plan for your loved one, call us at 920-717-1767 today.

5 Ways Walnuts Can Boost a Senior’s Health

Posted on December 8, 2022April 8, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

Though walnuts have long been believed to contain many crucial nutrients, recent studies have discovered just how beneficial they are for people over 65. A small daily serving of walnuts can provide many healthy advantages for your senior loved one, including those listed below.

1. Promote Heart Health

By eating walnuts, your loved one receives vitamin E, calcium, omega-3 fatty acids, potassium, and many more healthy nutrients, all of which play an important role in the heart’s ability to function normally. Calcium, potassium, and magnesium can regulate your loved one’s blood pressure levels, and vitamin E can prevent plaque from building up in his or her arteries. All of these nutrients also work to reduce cholesterol and prevent heart attacks, strokes, and cardiovascular disease.

Managing all the aspects of a senior’s health, including diet, can be challenging. If you’re the primary family caregiver for an elderly loved one and need additional assistance providing high-quality at-home care, Senior Stride Home Care can help. We are a leading home care agency committed to changing the way seniors age.

2. Strengthen Bones

Eating walnuts can reduce the risk of developing osteoporosis. The magnesium found in walnuts can help seniors maintain bone strength, slowing down bone loss. If your loved one doesn’t consume enough calcium, he or she could lose bone mass and develop protein deficiencies. However, the calcium in walnuts, in addition to potassium, fights against osteoporosis and boosts bone health.

3. Prevent Cancer

The antioxidants found in walnuts fight cancerous cells until they die or dissolve, and they can be especially effective at protecting against breast and prostate cancer. Walnuts contain cancer-fighting properties that can slow the growth of prostate tumors by 30 to 40 percent. By eating at least 2 ounces of walnuts each day, seniors can also reduce the growth of breast tumors by almost 50 percent.

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.

4. Slow the Aging Process

The antioxidants in walnuts also combat free radicals. Walnuts are one of the few common foods that contain powerful antioxidants such as the flavonol called morin, which controls how fast a person ages. Free radicals can destroy your loved one’s tissues and organs, but antioxidants can fight these free radicals and reduce wrinkles and other damage to the skin.

5. Manage Diabetes

As a person ages, gains more weight, and becomes less active, the risk of developing diabetes increases. However, eating walnuts can help seniors with diabetes control the disease. Adding walnuts to your loved one’s diet can boost his or her endothelial function, which causes the blood vessels to dilate properly. Walnuts eaten in moderation won’t make your loved one gain weight. Instead, they can reduce the problems associated with metabolic syndrome, a condition that can cause diabetes.

Eating nutritious foods can help aging adults stave off a number of health issues. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional home care service. 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. Call one of our Care Managers at 920-717-1767 to learn about our customized in-home care plans.

Managing Debt during the Golden Years

Posted on November 17, 2022April 8, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

Debt is a reality for many people, including seniors. Trying to live on fixed incomes can be difficult, especially for seniors who may be faced with steep medical bills or the loss of their spouses. Once a senior turns to credit cards as an easy solution to a problem, the debt can quickly spiral out of control. Here are some suggestions to help your aging parent manage and get out of debt.

Find Lower Interest Rates

One of the first things to do is find out the interest rate on your loved one’s credit cards. If your loved one has a good credit score, he or she might qualify for a lower interest rate. Call the credit card companies and see what options are available. You might also be able to consolidate debt on a card that offers a low interest rate for balance transfers.

Create a Budget

It might sound like common sense, but plenty of people never actually create budgets. You can use Excel or one of the free online budgeting programs to create a budget for your loved one that will include everything from medicine to pet food. Once your parent sees where the money is going, he or she can curb unnecessary spending and allot more funds to paying off debt.

If your parent has cognitive issues that cause him or her to have difficulty handling finances, he or she may also need help with other everyday tasks. 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 care. Senior Stride Home Care is here to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life in the golden years. From the mentally stimulating activities in our Cognitive Therapeutics Method to our friendly Care Managers who are available to answer your questions 24 hours a day, we offer a wide array of high-quality at-home care services.

Get a Reverse Mortgage

A reverse mortgage converts home equity into cash, and the money never needs to be paid back. The amount the homeowner gets is determined by the home’s value and the age of the owner. If the owner is 62 or older with a mortgage that’s paid off, he or she is eligible.

Purchase Life Insurance

If your loved one has a permanent life insurance policy, he or she can get a cash surrender loan. The policyholder can take out as much as 96 percent of the cash value of the policy.

File for Bankruptcy

Bankruptcy works for credit card debt, but if the debt is from medical bills, it will quickly return. Many seniors have a difficult time, psychologically, going bankrupt. In these cases, a debt specialist can be helpful by recommending a program to tackle the debt instead.

The many tasks involved in helping your loved one handle his or her finances may seem daunting, and the extra worry can take a toll on your wellbeing. Caring for a senior loved one can be rewarding, but it can also be overwhelming for family caregivers who have other responsibilities they need to focus on. For these families, the perfect solution is respite care. Oshkosh families rely on our caregivers whenever they need time to rest, work, run errands, and even go on vacation.

Look for Signs Your Parent Is in Financial Trouble

Often, seniors don’t want to burden their children, so they hide their problems. If your parent likes to travel or eat out frequently and stops doing those things, it’s a red flag. You might also notice your loved one start cutting back on necessities such as medicine and food, and he or she may seem to have increased anxiety as well.

Hire a Caregiver

Although it may seem counterintuitive to spend money while trying to get out of debt, having an hourly or live-in caregiver can help your loved one cut spending and control debt. For example, caregivers can help seniors save money on grocery shopping by avoiding expensive impulse purchases, using coupons, and purchasing mostly on-sale items.

Caregivers also provide companionship, so if your loved one shops out of loneliness or boredom, having a caregiver will curb the bad habit. Having a caregiver in the home regularly also means signs of financial trouble, such as excessively shopping for unnecessary items or cutting back on necessities, will be spotted sooner rather than later.

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 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. For reliable in-home care services, contact us at 920-717-1767 today.

Advocating for a Senior with Alzheimer’s

Posted on November 3, 2022April 8, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

To act as an advocate for a senior loved one with Alzheimer’s, you’ll need to have a basic understanding of the condition and, ideally, your loved one’s care preferences. While there’s no need to have a legal background, some decisions you’ll have to make may require the guidance of a lawyer. The following are a few tips for how to successfully advocate for a loved one with Alzheimer’s.

Make Important Care Decisions Early

Older adults should make as many of their care decisions as soon as possible after being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s—or even before that point, if possible. As soon as your family learns about the Alzheimer’s diagnosis, it’s important to sit down with your loved one and discuss his or her wishes for the future. Consider either recording the conversation (with your loved one’s consent) or having an attorney present during the discussion.

This conversation will ensure your loved one’s wishes are known in advance so they can be honored after he or she is no longer able to advocate for him or herself. You should talk about how your parent would want various financial and medical situations to be handled, and it may be a good idea to have the attorney draft legal documents, such as a power of attorney and a living will, at this time.

One of the first things to consider is whether and when to hire a professional caregiver for your loved one. Families looking for top-rated 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.

Respect Your Loved One’s Decisions when Possible

While some decisions seniors make, such as not wanting to take their medication, may require stepping in for their own safety and wellbeing, this isn’t always the case. Determine whether or not such decisions are characteristic of your parent’s previously expressed views or out of character. For instance, if decisions your loved one is making now are in line with his or her typical way of thinking, those preferences may be perfectly sound.

Even if your parent seems illogical or unreasonable due to his or her condition, take the time to offer choices, and try to respect his or her decisions. Respecting your loved one’s wishes might not always be possible, but as long as your loved one isn’t hurting him or herself or others, having freedom of choice may lead to a greater sense of independence and dignity.

Make It a Group Effort

Advocating for a senior with Alzheimer’s doesn’t have to be a solo effort. Keep other key family members and relevant care providers (e.g., doctors, nurses, and other caregivers) involved with the process as much as possible. Your loved one should also be encouraged to provide input as long as he or she remains mentally capable.

A trained Alzheimer’s caregiver can be a wonderful source of information and support for family caregivers. 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 their elderly loved ones’ 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.

Ensure Quality of Life

As an advocate for a senior with Alzheimer’s, you’re going to be acting in his or her best interests. For this reason, it’s important to put aside personal preferences that may differ from your loved one’s known or documented wishes and seek legal expertise as necessary.

Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s can be challenging, but compassionate help is available. For reliable Alzheimer’s care, Oshkosh families can turn to Senior Stride Home Care. We are a leading provider of professional memory care designed to help seniors maintain a higher quality of life. In addition to Alzheimer’s care, we also provide comprehensive dementia, Parkinson’s, and stroke care. From revolutionary care programs to compassionate and dedicated caregivers, we can meet all of your Alzheimer’s care needs. Call us at 920-717-1767 to create a customized in-home care plan.

5 Causes of Dementia that Can Be Reversed

Posted on October 20, 2022April 8, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

Reversible dementia is the type that resolves after the underlying cause has been identified and treated. At the first sign of cognitive decline, it’s essential to see a physician so a diagnosis can be made as soon as possible. Here are five reversible causes of dementia to look for in your senior loved one.

1. Infections

Bladder, pulmonary, and gastrointestinal infections can cause behaviors similar to those associated with dementia. Infections often cause fevers, and when the body’s temperature gets too high, confusion and cognitive decline can occur. Infections can also cause dehydration, which can lead to dementia-like behavior. Once the infection is appropriately treated, your loved one’s cognitive ability should return.

2. Brain Disorders

Brain disorders such as tumors (both malignant and benign), concussions, and increased intracranial pressure can all cause reversible dementia. These disorders can impair cerebral blood flow, and when this happens, reasoning skills and memory function may decrease.

If your loved one becomes forgetful, develops headaches or vision impairment, gets dizzy, or vomits upon awakening—especially if not accompanied by nausea—seek medical attention right away. Once brain disorders are diagnosed and treated, dementia-like symptoms may resolve.

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.

3. Depression

Depression is often characterized by sadness, but it can also cause confusion, memory impairment, loss of appetite, and disinterest in grooming, dressing, and bathing. These signs are similar to those associated with dementia and need to be investigated.

Depression is a multifactorial illness, and while it can be effectively managed, it can take weeks or even months before your loved one’s symptoms resolve. Antidepressant medications may be helpful in reducing symptoms, but the physician may recommend that your loved one visit a mental health professional to augment treatment.

Caring for a loved one with dementia can be challenging, but compassionate help is available. 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 elderly home care families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.

4. Nutritional Deficiencies

Nutritional deficiencies can cause dementia-like symptoms, and a lack of vitamin B12 can be especially problematic. This nutrient is essential for optimal brain health, and when people don’t get enough of it, confusion and forgetfulness can occur.

5. Drug Side Effects

If your loved one takes certain prescription drugs, he or she may develop behavioral changes as a result of their side effects. Medications such as beta blockers, diuretics, antiarrhythmics, and corticosteroids can cause cognitive problems resembling those associated with dementia.

If you notice personality or mood changes while your loved one is taking medications, call the doctor, who may lower the dosage or discontinue the drug altogether. Once the drug is out of your loved one’s system, side effects and unusual behaviors may resolve. Never discontinue your loved one’s medications without approval from the physician, even if your loved one is exhibiting uncharacteristic behaviors.

A highly trained caregiver with experience in caring for seniors with dementia can be a fantastic resource for family members. Families looking for top-rated Oshkosh senior home 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. For more information about our flexible, customizable home care plans, call one of our compassionate Care Managers today at 920-717-1767.

Top 6 Exercises for Senior Diabetics

Posted on October 6, 2022April 8, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

More than 30 percent of adults 65 and older have diabetes, according to an estimate by the Hormone Health Network. If you have a senior loved one living with diabetes, exercise is commonly recommended to maintain optimal health and keep symptoms in check. Here are six of the top exercises that can be beneficial for senior diabetics.

1. Walking

Putting one foot in front of the other is a simple and effective way for seniors with diabetes to increase circulation, get down to or stay within a healthy weight range, and strengthen key muscle groups in the core and lower body. Diabetic seniors are encouraged to walk briskly at least 30 minutes per day, five days a week, when possible.

For optimal health, it’s essential for seniors with diabetes to adopt healthy habits, including regular exercise. Maintaining a high quality of life can be challenging for some seniors, but professional caregivers can help them attain this goal. Families can trust senior home care experts to help their elderly loved ones focus on lifestyle choices that increase the chances of living longer and healthier lives.

2. Yoga & Tai Chi

Healthline.com notes that loss of coordination is a common issue with diabetes when there’s nerve-related damage contributing to muscle weakness. Yoga and tai chi can increase balance and coordination in diabetic seniors because they use slow, controlled movements that target core and lower-body muscle groups.

A review of several studies published in the Journal of Diabetes Research found blood sugar and A1C levels were reduced by practicing tai chi. Additionally, according to Diabetes UK, certain yoga poses may enhance insulin regulation by gently stretching the pancreas, which creates insulin-producing beta cells. Yoga and tai chi can also ease stress and promote relaxation—two other things that are beneficial for seniors with diabetes.

3. Weight Training

If muscle mass is low in diabetic seniors, it can be challenging for the body to manage blood sugar levels. Weight training is an effective way to increase muscle mass and keep glucose numbers within an acceptable range. Weight training exercises recommended for seniors include:

• Overhead shoulder presses
• Forward lunges
• Arm curls

4. Stationary Bicycling

Aerobic exercise of this nature is often recommended for people with diabetes to increase heart and lung health, burn calories, and boost circulation. A study published in the American Journal of Health Promotion found casual bicycling on a stationary bike can lower blood pressure. This is beneficial for diabetic seniors, since diabetes damages arteries and increases the risk of developing high blood pressure.

If your loved one lives alone, you may not be able to monitor his or her exercise habits closely, but a professional caregiver can do this and much more. 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.

5. Swimming

Low-impact exercises like swimming can be especially beneficial for senior diabetics. Swimming is also ideal for older adults because it doesn’t put too much pressure on joints due to the buoyancy of the water. This can also be better for seniors who already have difficulty with land-based exercises. What’s more, swimming in a heated pool allows seniors with diabetes to increase circulation and tissue healing, two of the top benefits associated with heat. Other water-based forms of exercise, such as water aerobics, can produce similar benefits.

6. Dancing

Not every exercise that’s good for senior diabetics has to involve weights, a pool, or a trip to the gym. The simple act of dancing, whether it’s done while standing or when seated (for older adults with limited mobility), can provide an assortment of diabetic-friendly benefits. According to Cleveland Clinic, these include shedding excess pounds, easing stress, increasing flexibility, and lowering blood sugar.

Even seniors who face serious health challenges such as diabetes can live in safety and comfort at home with the help of trained professional caregivers. Oshkosh elderly 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. If you need professional home care for your loved one, Senior Stride Home Care is just a phone call away. Reach out to one of our Care Managers today at 920-717-1767.

5 Ways to Stave Off Pneumonia in Aging Adults

Posted on September 22, 2022April 8, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

The body’s immune system weakens with age, making seniors susceptible to a number of health conditions, such as pneumonia. This infection is caused by viruses and bacteria. Although pneumonia accounts for numerous deaths every year, it’s preventable. Here are a few ways seniors can prevent pneumonia.

1. Know the Symptoms

Diagnosing pneumonia in seniors can be difficult because many of them don’t show symptoms such as fever and chills. Here are some of the most common symptoms associated with pneumonia:

Coughing
Delirium
Weakness
Dizziness
Confusion

If you know more about pneumonia and its symptoms, you can help your senior loved one get immediate treatment to prevent the infection or slow its progression.

2. Practice Good Hygiene

Colds, influenza, and ordinary respiratory infections can potentially lead to pneumonia, but practicing good hygiene can prevent these health conditions. Encourage your loved one to carry hand sanitizer at all times to keep his or her hands clean while in public. Washing hands regularly can prevent illnesses that cause pneumonia, and good oral hygiene can prevent dental infections that could lead to pneumonia.

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

3. Get Immunized

Your loved one needs to be vaccinated against pneumococcal pneumonia. This is a one-time vaccination that can reduce the risk of developing the infection. A booster vaccine can be taken every five years, but it’s best to consult a doctor before getting the booster. Your loved one will also need vaccinations against other diseases and infections that can cause pneumonia.

Preventing illnesses such as the flu and pneumonia is important because they can lead to more significant health issues. 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.

4. Stop Smoking

Smoking is a major risk factor associated with pneumonia. If your loved one smokes, his or her lungs may have difficulty defending against pneumonia as well as various other conditions and infections. By not smoking, your loved one can prevent pneumonia even if he or she is considered at high risk for the condition.

5. Live a Healthy Lifestyle

Living a healthy lifestyle can keep your loved one’s immune system robust, which is necessary for fighting off infections and illnesses that cause pneumonia. To keep the immune system healthy, your loved one needs to eat a well-balanced diet, get plenty of exercise, and manage stress. Good health not only reduces the risk of pneumonia, but it can also help your loved one prevent a variety of age-related diseases.

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 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. To learn about our quality-assured services, give us a call at 920-717-1767 today.

Why Seniors Should Quit Diet Soda Today

Posted on September 8, 2022April 8, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

Diet soda may seem like the ultimate low-calorie beverage, but it has several serious drawbacks that can negatively impact aging adults’ health. Here are some of the top reasons to stop drinking diet soda in the senior years.

Increased Waist Size

Studies show seniors who drink diet soda on a regular basis may experience a notable increase in waist size over time. A larger waist size may not sound too alarming, but it can actually affect senior mobility and posture, and extra weight can lead to significant joint problems.

If your loved one needs help following a nutritious diet, consider hiring a professional caregiver. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional home care service. 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.

Confused Taste Buds

Artificial sweeteners in diet soda have more intense flavors than regular table sugar. Prolonged consumption actually dulls taste buds to naturally sweet foods, such as apples and bananas. This leads to an increase in sugar consumption just to satisfy the taste buds.

Higher Risk of Type 2 Diabetes

Seniors already have a higher risk of diabetes than younger people, and drinking diet soda considerably increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. One study published in Diabetes Care showed daily consumption of diet soda led to a 36 percent increase in the risk of metabolic syndrome and a 67 percent increase in the risk of type 2 diabetes.

Monitoring your loved one’s diet can be challenging, especially if you have work and family obligations to attend to as well. 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.

Greater Depression Risk

Diet soda consumption has been linked to depression. In studies of people aged 51 to 70, seniors who drank diet soda were found to have a 30 percent higher chance of being diagnosed with clinical depression over a 10-year time period. If your loved one is drinking diet soda every day, help him or her gradually consume less with emotional support, education, and assistance with finding a viable replacement for the addictive beverage.

Hiring a professional caregiver is one of the best ways to help your loved one make healthier choices and enjoy a high quality of life. If your aging loved one needs help managing everyday tasks or encouragement to adopt healthier lifestyle choices, turn to Senior Stride Home Care, a leading provider of in-home care. Oshkosh Senior Stride Home Care provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives. Schedule a free in-home consultation by giving us a call today at 920-717-1767.