Why Is Socializing So Important for Aging Adults?

Posted on August 18, 2022April 8, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

More than any other age group, seniors tend to feel lonely and isolated. Many live alone, and their friends, spouses, and other contemporaries may have moved or passed away. They’ve most likely retired from their jobs, and their children are grown and out of the home.

Loneliness can lead to some serious health concerns. If your senior loved one seems isolated, you may want to consider finding more ways for him or her to socialize. Here are a few of the key reasons seniors should socialize regularly.

Prevents Depression

It’s estimated that more than 7 million seniors in the U.S. experience depression, which can lead to poor physical health. Loneliness is often a contributing factor. Studies have shown participating in regular social activities can have the same mood-boosting effects on the body as exercise.

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

Reduces the Risk of Dementia

Another common mental health concern for seniors is dementia. While there’s no definite way to prevent dementia, socialization may keep it at bay. Socializing helps seniors keep their brains engaged as they interact with other people.

Boosts Physical Health

Seniors who socialize regularly are often in better physical health for several reasons. Having a good time with friends and loved ones usually means plenty of smiling and laughing, which can lower blood pressure and keep the effects of stress at bay.

Interacting with others can also boost the immune system. Seniors who socialize often tend to eat healthier than those who stay at home alone. Socializing can also boost physical health if your loved one participates in group activities like golf, tennis, or walking.

In many cases, maintaining an active social network can be enough to ward off several diseases. 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.

Enhances Self-Esteem

One effect of being socially isolated, especially for older people, is losing the sense of importance, which can lead to an overall lack of self-esteem. However, seniors who spend time with friends and family members can regain their confidence and once again feel as if they’re valuable members of society

Ways to Encourage Your Senior Loved One to Socialize

If your loved one lives in isolation, there are some things you can do to help him or her spend more time in social situations, including:

Encouraging friends and family to visit more often
Including your loved one in family activities like vacations and trips to restaurants
Helping him or her find a hobby
Encouraging him or her to volunteer
Helping him or her find a part-time job
Teaching him or her how to use social media
Encouraging him or her to begin dating again if he or she is divorced or widowed
Finding a local senior or community center that offers activities for older adults

For many families in Oshkosh, homecare services 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. To learn about our premier elderly care plans, get in touch with our staff at 920-717-1767 today.

How to Get Seniors with Alzheimer’s Disease to Eat

Posted on August 4, 2022April 8, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

Eating can be a big challenge for seniors who have Alzheimer’s, and those who don’t get enough nutrients throughout the day could experience a wide variety of health issues. Ongoing malnutrition can result in lethargy, irritability, tooth loss, organ failure, and many other serious medical issues. If your aging loved one isn’t eating enough, it’s time to come up with a long-term plan to help him or her get the necessary vitamins and minerals.

Rethink the Dishes

Many caregivers don’t realize the sizes and shapes of bowls and plates can impact an individual’s appetite. In one study conducted by researchers from the University of Boston, seniors who ate from red plates consumed 25 percent more food than those who ate from white plates. Every senior with Alzheimer’s is slightly different, and you might want to try a few different colors and styles to see which type of tableware your loved one prefers.

Create a Relaxing Environment

Seniors with Alzheimer’s are easily distracted, and your loved one might not be eating simply because there’s too much going on around him or her. The room where your loved one eats should be relatively quiet and as clutter free as possible. You should also make sure there aren’t any decorations or trinkets on the table.

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. You can rely on Senior Stride Home Care to provide an individualized care plan 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.

Experiment with Different Colors & Textures

In your caregiving journal, keep a list of all of your loved one’s favorite foods, dishes, textures, and ingredients. You’ll also need to write down any foods your parent refuses to eat. With those two lists, it’ll be much easier to come up with meals your loved one enjoys eating.

Lead by Example

As Alzheimer’s progresses, the act of eating can become more difficult. Your loved one will most likely look to you for guidance if he or she finds a certain type of food confusing or can’t figure out a piece of silverware. Eating across the table from your loved one could make mealtimes less confusing and stressful.

Helping an aging adult 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 homecare, Oshkosh Senior Stride Home Care can help. We are a leading home care agency committed to changing the way seniors age.

Avoid Lengthy Conversations while Eating

Making the occasional comment shouldn’t be a problem, but you should avoid long or complicated conversations during mealtimes. That type of dialogue could confuse your loved one and distract him or her from eating. You should also avoid using the phone and any other electronics that might distract your loved one.

Offer More Snacks throughout the Day

If larger meals are challenging to get through, offer your loved one multiple snacks throughout the day. Having a fruit smoothie or a handful of nuts every hour can keep your loved one full and provide plenty of calories. Many companies also make high-calorie shakes and bars specifically for older adults who aren’t eating enough.

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 handle. 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. Call us today at 920-717-1767 to discuss how we can give you the peace of mind that comes from knowing your loved one is being cared for with professionalism and compassion.

5 Changes Aging Adults Should Make Following Health Episodes

Posted on July 21, 2022April 8, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

After a health episode, it’s important for seniors to review their habits. With a few lifestyle adjustments, seniors can hasten the healing process and prevent further health episodes from happening. Here are some changes seniors can make after health scares to boost their overall health.

1. Look at Health from a New Perspective

Whether a senior has a fall or experiences another type of health episode, it’s a good time to examine his or her lifestyle habits. Many people feel living a healthy life is boring. They don’t enjoy exercise or healthy foods, and they don’t want to give up bad habits.

Seniors should try to find some joy in healthier habits, and caregivers can help them by finding recipes, exercise classes, and other healthy hobbies that suit their tastes. By turning a healthy lifestyle into something fun and exciting, seniors may be more open to lifestyle alterations they would otherwise disregard.

Seniors who need help making healthy lifestyle choices can benefit from professional in-home care. Homecare 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. Make Accommodations to Increase Safety in the Home

When injured due to a slip or fall, seniors should use their recovery time to modify their homes. There are many types of assistive technology, and seniors of all mobility levels can benefit from them. Seniors who want to prevent falls should consider getting grab bars and rails installed in stairways, bathrooms, and hallways. Transfer benches and walk-in tubs help seniors bathe without incident. Stairlifts can also be a great help to seniors who have a difficult time walking.

3. Eat Healthier

After experiencing major health episodes, it’s essential to consume a well-balanced diet. Doctors might suggest dietary plans to follow, which may contain lean protein and nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables.

Seniors who are used to eating unhealthy meals may find it difficult to comply with their doctors’ orders, but professional caregivers can help them incorporate healthy ingredients into their diets. Instead of cookies, your loved one can eat a healthy bowl of oatmeal sweetened with cinnamon. Instead of fried chicken and french fries, your parent can dine on salmon and sweet potatoes. By coming up with creative solutions to dietary changes, professional caregivers can help seniors transition to healthier lifestyles.

From assisting with healthy meal preparation to offering respite to family members, there are several ways professional caregivers can help seniors and their families. If your aging loved one needs occasional help with bathing, grooming, cooking, or other basic household tasks, or if you need time to attend to important personal matters, reach out to Senior Stride Home Care, a leading provider of live-in and respite care. Oshkosh seniors can maintain their independence while living at home with the help of our reliable respite caregivers.

4. Exercise

If your loved one has sustained an injury, gentle exercise can help him or her heal. Seniors can try sit-down activities such as chair yoga or chair aerobics to keep them active and help them maintain strong, healthy bones and muscles. Regular exercise is also important for seniors recovering from cardiovascular events. Your loved one can try gentle, heart-healthy activities like taking a walk around the park or riding a stationary bike.

5. Get Proactive about Medical Care

After injuries or health episodes, it’s often up to caregivers to make sure their loved ones get the best possible medical treatment. During the healing process, caregivers should make sure their loved ones receive the appropriate attention from their doctors, take the right medications, and attend all scheduled medical appointments.

Seniors who have experienced serious health episodes may need professional in-home care. 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 home care service. Oshkosh families can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep their loved ones safe and comfortable while aging in place. Trust Senior Stride Home Care to provide high-quality compassionate professional care for your loved one. If your loved one needs help with the challenges of aging, call one of our compassionate Care Managers today at 920-717-1767.

How Lewy Body Dementia Leads to Depression

Posted on July 7, 2022April 8, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

Being diagnosed with Lewy body dementia can lead to a series of health issues, including depression. However, as a family caregiver, you need to remain supportive and develop methods to boost your senior loved one’s mood. It’s best to know the symptoms associated with Lewy body dementia and how they impact mental, physical, and emotional health. Here are some of the ways this disease can increase the risk of depression and what you can do to prevent it.

Limits Socialization

Lewy body dementia can lead to isolation because it can cause a variety of issues, including the inability to interpret visual information, changes in behaviors and physical appearance, and memory loss. As a result, your loved one is less likely to socialize, which could increase the risk of depression. Although keeping your loved one socially active may be difficult to do, it’s not impossible. For instance, if your loved one enjoyed fishing prior to developing this disease, he or she can still go fishing but will need assistance operating the boat and fishing equipment. Customizing activities and outings to suit your loved one’s needs allows him or her to remain social, which could reduce the risk of depression.

A home caregiver can be a wonderful solution when your aging loved one needs companionship and socialization. Families looking for top-rated in-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.

Causes Hallucinations

Seeing, hearing, smelling, and believing things that aren’t real are symptoms of hallucinations, which cause people to feel sad, hopeless, and depressed. It’s important to provide your loved one with constant care and do everything possible to control his or her hallucinations. Make sure your loved one is taking his or her medications and attending therapy sessions as instructed by a physician.

Promotes Inactivity

Staying physically active is a good way for seniors to fight off stress and anxiety. However, seniors with Lewy body dementia may have mobility issues, including lack of balance, rigid muscles, and hunched posture. Staying active reduces the risk of depression. To help your loved one remain active, encourage doing activities that aren’t strenuous on the body. Suggest simple, fun activities and exercises your loved one can do with little or no help. Engaging in physical activity can help your loved one maintain independence.

If your senior loved one needs professional in-home care in Oshkosh, Home Care Assistance is here to help. We are a trusted provider of respite and 24-hour care, and we also offer specialized Alzheimer’s, dementia, Parkinson’s, and stroke care for seniors.

Disturbs Sleeping Patterns

Seniors with Lewy body dementia may experience rapid eye movement, which could cause them to act out their dreams, sometimes in a violent manner. The condition disturbs sleeping patterns and prevents the brain from clearing out toxins that impact mood and behavior. If your loved one already has anxiety and depression, lack of sleep caused by illnesses could make them worse. Your loved one can sleep better at night by avoiding exercise before bedtime and going to bed as soon as he or she is tired. Make sure the bedroom is dark and the temperature is set at a comfortable level. Your loved one should also have a nightly routine that includes a warm shower or bath at least an hour before bedtime.

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. Contact one of our experienced Care Managers today at 920-717-1767 to learn more about our reliable in-home care services.

Alternative Therapies for Older Stroke Survivors

Posted on June 23, 2022April 8, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

Strokes can affect seniors in a variety of ways. Some might experience short-term memory loss, while others might face challenges with paralysis or a change in motor skills. Since every senior’s symptoms are different, your elderly loved one’s doctor might recommend either traditional therapy or something more unconventional. Here are some of the alternative therapy options for recovering stroke survivors.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a common part of stroke therapy in China and Japan, though it’s still somewhat uncommon in the United States. This therapy stimulates nerves and muscles and increases blood flow, which can relieve pain and treat symptoms of paralysis and difficulty speaking and swallowing.

Massage

Massage increases blood flow to the muscles and can boost mobility following a stroke. It can also lower blood pressure and heart rate, which can reduce the likelihood of future strokes. Massages also provide significant emotional benefits by reducing stress, anxiety, and even feelings of depression, all of which are common following a stroke.

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.

Tai Chi

This ancient martial art focuses on balance, which is often affected by a stroke. It also requires both sides of the brain to work together to produce smooth, coordinated movements. Tai chi is a low-impact activity, which means it won’t put undue stress on the joints.

Yoga

Yoga reduces stress, which can combat the emotional effects of a stroke. It also increases balance and dexterity in the affected muscle groups and is an excellent all-around low-impact form of exercise for seniors.

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

Music Therapy

Music therapy has been shown to help stroke survivors recover their gait, relearn speech, and combat symptoms of depression and anxiety. By learning the rhythms and patterns of his or her favorite music, your loved one can regain control over muscles that control skills like walking and speech. Relaxing or meditating to music slows breathing and lowers blood pressure, which can stimulate the body’s natural healing abilities.

Herbal Medicine

Certain herbs and supplements can increase blood flow and stimulate brain function. Herbal medicines like ginkgo biloba, mailuoning, and xuesaitong are often used in Chinese medicine as stroke treatments. It’s important for your loved one to check with a physician before taking any herbal medicines or supplements, since they can have adverse effects or interfere with prescription medications.

Caring for a senior loved one who is recovering from a stroke can be difficult for family caregivers. Families looking for top-rated Oshkosh in-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. To create a comprehensive in-home care plan for your loved one, call us at 920-717-1767 today.

Understanding the Role of Dopamine in Parkinson’s

Posted on June 9, 2022April 8, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

According to the Parkinson’s Foundation, approximately one million Americans have Parkinson’s disease, and more than 60,000 people are diagnosed with the condition every year. A decrease in the levels of a chemical known as dopamine is one of the leading causes of Parkinson’s. Here are some facts about this important chemical.

Basic Facts about Dopamine

Dopamine is a chemical produced by the brain that serves as a neurotransmitter, sending signals from various parts of the brain to the rest of the body. Neurons in the areas of the brain known as the substantia nigra and basal ganglia are responsible for the production of dopamine. When these neurons die or are damaged, the amount of dopamine is reduced.

The Correlation between Parkinson’s & Dopamine

As levels of dopamine drop, your loved one may begin to have difficulty regulating movement. Most people begin to notice Parkinson’s-related motor symptoms when approximately 60 to 80 percent of the dopamine-producing neurons are affected. Typical motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease include tremors and muscle rigidity.

Early diagnosis is critical because Parkinson’s disease can be particularly challenging in its final stages, and family caregivers can easily get overwhelmed. 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.

How Dopamine Affects Parkinson’s Treatment

Most medicines used to treat Parkinson’s disease either stimulate the production of dopamine or trick the brain into thinking it’s producing dopamine by acting on dopamine receptors. Levodopa, which is often used as the first treatment for Parkinson’s, produces dopamine when metabolized by the body. However, levodopa can lose its effectiveness rather quickly. Dopamine agonist drugs, such as rotigotine, pergolide, cabergoline, and bromocriptine, are also used to stimulate dopamine receptors in the brain.

Seniors in the later stages of Parkinson’s can live at home, but most need assistance from a family member or other caregiver to do so safely. Seniors living with serious health conditions often need extensive assistance in and outside the home. Senior Stride Home Care is a trusted provider of Oshkosh live-in care. Our caregivers are expertly trained to assist seniors with bathing, grooming, light housekeeping, and various other daily tasks, and we also offer specialized Alzheimer’s, dementia, stroke, and Parkinson’s care.

Dopamine & Dietary Considerations

Experts suggest a diet rich in antioxidants may protect the dopamine-producing neurons of the brain. Tiny molecules known as free radicals can damage cells and tissue. These molecules have a special affinity for attacking dopamine-producing cells. Antioxidants act as scavengers that seek out and destroy free radicals, which can help your loved one lose fewer dopamine-producing cells over time. Some examples of antioxidant-rich foods include:

Green leafy vegetables
Carrots
Tomatoes
Kidney beans
Garlic
Blueberries
Strawberries
Tea, coffee, and red wine

Omega-3 fatty acids, such as those found in oily fish, are also essential nutrients for virtually all tissues in the body. You should encourage your loved one to eat fatty fish, such as salmon, tuna, and mackerel, at least twice a week.

If your loved one has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, he or she can benefit from having a professional caregiver help with everyday tasks. Families looking for top-rated Oshkosh at-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. To hire a professionally trained caregiver for your loved one, call us at 920-717-1767 today.

Strategies for Saving Money in the Golden Years

Posted on May 19, 2022April 8, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

If you have an aging relative, you know how important it is for your loved one to effectively manage his or her money on a day-to-day basis. Seniors often live on fixed incomes, meaning they don’t have access to additional funds should they need to pay for something out of the ordinary. Here are some easy and practical money management tips that are particularly well suited to older adults.

Shop for New Services

It’s a mistake for seniors to assume they’re always getting the best deals with their current services. From supplemental Medicare policies to the cable bill, encourage your loved one to periodically shop for new services and see if he or she could benefit from a lower rate or a new promotion. With specific regard to Medicare, healthcare reform has changed things dramatically in the past few years, and there are more benefits and savings available for seniors.

Some seniors may find it difficult to pay their bills and plan their finances while managing daily activities. Aging adults who require assistance with the tasks of daily living can benefit from reliable elderly home care. Families trust Senior Stride Home Care to provide the high-quality care their elderly loved ones need and deserve. Our caregivers are trained to help seniors prevent serious illnesses and encourage them to make healthier decisions as they age.

Grocery Shop Once a Week

Seniors should try to limit grocery shopping to once a week at most. This way, they can make lists of the essential items they have and only purchase those they need. Making multiple trips increases the chances of buying extra items that aren’t necessary. Seniors may also want to think about buddying up for grocery trips. Along with helping out a friend or neighbor, it offers a way to save on gas money.

If your loved one needs transportation for grocery shopping and other errands, consider hiring a professional caregiver. When searching for reliable Oshkosh senior care 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.

Set Up Automatic Saving

Seniors have to contend with the risk that in the near future, they may need to spend a significant amount of money on healthcare, which could range from the need for certain medical treatments to in-home care. One good way to ensure there will be money to pay for this possibility is to set up automatic bank transfers that move a small percentage of each month’s check into a savings account. Seniors are then advised to budget as if that money was never available for spending in the first place. As time passes, the money in the savings account will grow into a valuable emergency fund.

Track Expenditures

It’s one thing to make a budget and another thing to follow it. It’s important for seniors to track where every dollar is spent and compare that to what they predicted they would spend in the budget. This will help your seniors see where they spend too much or where forecasts about what they’ll spend are inaccurate, providing better financial knowledge.

Consider hiring a professional caregiver if you need a break from your caregiving duties to tend to your loved one’s financial matters. 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. Call Senior Stride Home Care at 920-717-1767 to learn more about our flexible and customizable senior care plans.

Liver Disease Signs & Symptoms

Posted on May 5, 2022April 8, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

There are several known liver diseases that often have similar effects on the body. Some of the most common conditions that affect the liver include hepatitis and cirrhosis. Nevertheless, only a comprehensive liver function test can precisely reveal any problems with this vital organ. Here are a few common symptoms caregivers need to look for.

Jaundice

One of the most common symptoms of liver disease is jaundice, which refers to the change in pigmentation of the skin. People with moderate to severe forms of jaundice may turn noticeably yellow, especially on the face and upper body. Additionally, the feces and urine of aging adults with jaundice may have abnormal colors.

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 home care. You can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep your loved one safe and comfortable while aging in place.

Changes in the Eyes

The white part of the eye will often look yellow when a senior has liver disease. Small bumps on the eyelids are often signs of a buildup of fat in the body, which is another common sign of liver disease. Some people with liver disease may also find their eyes become dry. Liver disease is often accompanied by problems with night vision.

Weight Gain & Loss

Seniors who are diagnosed with fatty liver disease will likely gain weight. This condition causes an excessive accumulation of fat in the body. Therefore, it may be difficult to maintain a steady weight even with routine exercise and a healthy diet. By contrast, other types of liver disease can lead to abrupt weight loss due to an imbalance in the digestion of various nutrients besides just fat.

Insulin Resistance

One of the main functions of the liver is to regulate the amount of glucose and other complex substances in the bloodstream. People who have compromised livers might develop insulin resistance, which can in turn disrupt the absorption and use of glucose. In fact, there’s a significant correlation between liver disease and type 2 diabetes. Seniors with insulin resistance may feel fatigued and develop spontaneous cravings for sugary foods or drinks.

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.

Swelling

Edema is a medical term that describes another common symptom of liver disease. This word refers to the buildup of bodily fluids underneath the skin. More specifically, individuals who have liver disease may develop extreme swelling in their feet and legs. However, edema in the limbs may also be caused by kidney failure and other severe conditions.

Skin Changes

Changes in the skin can be caused by a number of diseases. Liver problems can often cause seniors to develop a purple rash on the lower legs that doesn’t respond to topical treatments. If you’re worried about liver disease in your loved one, check his or her nail color, as changes often appear there first. Bile buildup in the body can also cause itchy skin. Doctors aren’t sure why, but many people with liver disease find their hands and feet itch at night.

If you suspect your parent has liver disease, make sure he or she sees the doctor right away. 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. To hire a compassionate, dedicated caregiver, call us at 920-717-1767 today.

The Different Stages of Alzheimer’s Disease

Posted on April 21, 2022April 8, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

Originally, practitioners believed Alzheimer’s had three phases. However, a more comprehensive analysis was offered by Dr. Barry Reisberg from New York University. He determined the disease process has as many as seven different phases. Here are the seven stages of Alzheimer’s you should know about.

First Stage

During the first stage, some biological abnormalities start to develop in the brain. However, individuals may not exhibit any visible symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease during this stage.

Second Stage

Older adults might experience slight memory loss, which often includes not remembering where items were placed. During this phase, lapses in memory aren’t serious and are often equated with normal aging. Family members may not notice any visible symptoms, and seniors are still able to perform well on cognitive tests.

Third Stage

The damage taking place in the brain leads to noticeable cognitive issues. Older adults often display short-term memory loss and have difficulty with vocabulary. They may also seem disorganized and lose personal items more frequently. The degree of cognitive impairment is also exhibited on tests.

If your parent is showing signs of Alzheimer’s disease, it’s a good idea to consider professional in-home care. 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.

Fourth Stage

By the fourth stage of Alzheimer’s, seniors can no longer solve simple math equations, and short-term memory loss is more apparent. For example, many seniors cannot recall what happened early in the day or what they ate during mealtimes. Personal finances become too confusing, and events in their personal histories may become jumbled.

Fifth Stage

During the fifth stage, Alzheimer’s disease progresses to the point where seniors may require assistance with normal daily activities. Aging adults need help to ensure they’re properly dressed, and they must be reminded to eat. By this stage, seniors may still remember personal hygiene habits, recognize loved ones, and be able to recall details about their past.

If your elderly loved one is living with a serious medical condition and needs help managing the tasks of daily living, reach out to Senior Stride Home Care, an Oshkosh elderly home care agency you can trust. Our caregivers are available 24/7, there are no hidden fees in our contracts, and we offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on all of our in-home care services.

Sixth Stage

As older adults enter the sixth phase of Alzheimer’s disease, they may need constant supervision by a caregiver. Seniors typically recognize only the faces of their immediate family members. At this point, they may not be able to recall information, and they require assistance with daily activities, including personal hygiene. Unless directed to the bathroom on a regular basis, seniors in this stage often experience incontinence. Personality changes often occur, along with episodes of agitation, anger, and paranoia. These behaviors often appear in the evening and are referred to as sundowning.

Seventh Stage

During the final phase of the disease, seniors may no longer be able to communicate coherently. Some older adults aren’t aware of where they are, and they no longer recognize loved ones. Movement and mobility are often affected to the point of needing a wheelchair. Older adults may face difficulty swallowing, which necessitates dietary alterations.

Every senior living with Alzheimer’s deserves high-quality Alzheimer’s care. Oshkosh families can rely on the caregivers at Senior Stride Home Care to keep their loved ones safe while managing the symptoms of the disease. Using our Cognitive Therapeutics Method, our caregivers help seniors regain a sense of pride and accomplishment while promoting cognitive health. To learn more about our highly trained caregivers, call us at 920-717-1767.

Top 6 Items to Include in Care Packages for the Elderly

Posted on April 7, 2022April 8, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

As much as you enjoy spending time with your senior loved one, you cannot always be with him or her. Your loved one may need to spend some time in a hospital or rehabilitation facility, or you may have to leave town for a while to tend to other important matters. One of the best ways to make your loved one feel special is to prepare a care package for him or her. Here are a few items you can add to the care package.

1. Books

Aging adults tend to feel bored more often than their younger counterparts. By adding books, cards, or crossword puzzles to the care package, you can help your loved one stave off boredom and keep his or her mind sharp. Make sure to look for books and crossword puzzles in large print if your loved one has impaired vision.

2. Snacks

If your loved one cannot go out to buy groceries, consider including snacks in his or her care package. Cookies, candy, fruits, nuts, and other similar items make perfect options for snacks. Avoid items that will spoil easily or need to be refrigerated, and consider whether or not your loved one has special dietary needs, such as sugar-free snacks for diabetics.

If your elderly loved one needs help maintaining a high quality of life while aging in place, reach out to Senior Stride Home Care, a trusted provider of home care service. Our caregivers provide transportation to and from medical appointments and social events, nutritious meal preparation, assistance with daily exercise, and help with everyday tasks like bathing, grooming, and light housekeeping.

3. Photos

When you take photos of yourself or your kids, you probably post them on social media. However, your loved one may not have a Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram account. If the two of you live far apart, your loved one probably misses seeing you and watching your children grow up. Make sure to include family photos in your care package so your loved one can see them. If your loved one has Alzheimer’s disease, you can also include his or her childhood photos in the care package. Going through old photographs can help your loved one recall memories.

4. Nightwear

Your loved one might appreciate robes, slippers, pajamas, or cozy nightgowns to sleep in. Consider adding nightwear to the care package to ensure your loved one is warm and comfortable. Avoid buying garments that might feel too tight or itchy.

5. Personal Hygiene Items

These items are also excellent additions to a care package, and they may range from necessities like soap and shampoo to fun items such as perfumed lotion and cosmetics. Find out what your loved one’s favorite brands are, or consider treating your parent to a premium brand he or she wouldn’t usually buy.

If your aging loved one needs occasional help with bathing, grooming, cooking, or other basic household tasks, or if you need time to attend to important personal matters, reach out to Senior Stride Home Care, a leading provider of live-in and respite care. Oshkosh seniors can maintain their independence while living at home with the help of our reliable respite caregivers.

6. Music Options

Listening to music can bring a smile to your loved one’s face and boost his or her emotional health. Consider purchasing an inexpensive iPod and adding your loved one’s favorite songs to it. You can also buy a basic tablet for $100 or less and add music apps such as Spotify or Pandora.

Receiving a care package can boost a senior’s mood, but it’s also important for older adults to have regular interaction with other people. If your loved one needs more opportunities for socialization in his or her life, a professional caregiver is the perfect solution. Not every senior has the same care needs, which means they don’t all need the same type of senior 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. Call one of our Care Managers at 920-717-1767 to learn about our customized in-home care plans.