Medications Commonly Prescribed for Stroke Survivors

Posted on March 24, 2022April 8, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

According to the National Stroke Association, 25 percent of Americans who have strokes will have recurrent strokes. In addition, the risk of a second stroke rises 40 percent within five years after an initial stroke. That’s why it’s so important for aging stroke survivors to make lifestyle changes, such as eating a nutritious diet, exercising as much as possible, quitting smoking, and taking prescribed medications.

If your senior loved one has had a stroke, the doctor will prescribe a variety of medications when your loved one is released from the hospital. As a caregiver, it’s important that you become familiar with these medications and their purpose in the stroke recovery process. Read on to learn more about common categories of post-stroke medications.

Blood Pressure Stabilization

High blood pressure is the single biggest risk factor for stroke, especially for people who have already had strokes. Your loved one will probably be prescribed medication to lower blood pressure. There are a variety of classes of this type of medicine. Some decrease blood volume, while others dilate the blood vessels or slow the heart rate.

If your loved one needs assistance while recovering from a stroke, consider enlisting the help of a trained home caregiver. Many seniors prefer aging in place over moving to assisted living facilities. 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 in-home care agency. Our dedicated in-home caregivers can assist with meal prep, bathing and grooming, exercise, medication reminders, and many other important tasks.

Blood Clot Prevention

After a stroke, it’s important to prevent clots from forming. Two common types of medication, anticoagulant medicines and antiplatelet drugs, are typically prescribed for this purpose. Anticoagulants, such as warfarin, prevent blood clots from forming and keep existing clots from getting bigger. These are often prescribed for people who have atrial fibrillation. Antiplatelet medications prevent platelets in the blood from sticking together. Most people can take aspirin for this purpose, though other medications are sometimes prescribed.

If your senior loved one needs professional in-home care, 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.

Cholesterol Management

Statins are types of drugs that lower cholesterol, another risk factor for stroke. Because statins can have side effects, it’s important to combine these drugs with other cholesterol-lowering measures, such as proper nutrition and exercise.

If your loved one needs assistance or encouragement to eat a healthy diet and engage in regular exercise, a caregiver can offer tailored care and support while also watching out for symptoms indicating the risk of a second stroke.

Recovering from a stroke, managing the symptoms of Alzheimer’s, and a variety of other health-related situations can make it difficult for a senior to continue living at home without someone there to help. Oshkosh, WI, live-in care professionals are trained to help seniors who need 24/7 assistance. With the help of a live-in caregiver, your elderly loved one can maintain a higher quality of life while aging in place. To learn more about our highly trained caregivers, call us at 920-717-1767.

How Aging Adults Can Stave Off Insomnia

Posted on March 10, 2022April 8, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

Insomnia is a common problem among the aging population. An occasional fitful night doesn’t generally cause problems, but chronic sleeplessness can lead to fatigue, increased irritability, anxiety, and difficulty focusing. While a number of prescription sleep aids are available, there are also more natural ways to treat sleeplessness. Below are a few changes you can make for your senior loved one to help him or her address or prevent this condition.

Have a “Wind Down” Period

Insomnia can be worse if someone is stressed or keyed up before going to bed. To prevent this, talk with your loved one about having a “wind down” time of at least an hour before turning out the lights. A quiet activity like reading or listening to music can help your loved one start to relax and prepare for sleep. Try to start this “wind down” around the same time each day so your parent will get into the habit of relaxing before bedtime.

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

Restrict Fluids during the Evening

If your loved one wakes up several times during the night to urinate, falling back to sleep again might be difficult. Nighttime trips to the bathroom when someone is tired or disoriented can also lead to a fall. Restricting fluid intake, especially after dinner, can help your loved one wake up less often because of a full bladder. You might also try restricting drinks with caffeine or alcohol that can cause wakefulness and increase urination.

Chronic insomnia can dull the senses, making everyday activities difficult to perform. Seniors can face a variety of challenges as they age, many of which can be mitigated with the help of professional in-home caregivers who provide high-quality homecare services. Oshkosh families trust Senior Stride Home Care to help their elderly loved ones age in place safely and comfortably.

Consider Natural Supplements

Melatonin, a hormone the body naturally produces, is a common and effective sleep aid. When taken orally, melatonin promotes relaxation and a natural sleep cycle. Popular herbs to promote restfulness include valerian root, kava kava, lavender, and hops. These can be taken alone, but some supplements will contain a combination of herbs to induce healthful sleep. As always, consult with a physician before your parent starts taking any new supplements to make sure they won’t interact with his or her current medications.

Sometimes seniors have a difficult time falling asleep because of stress, which can result from growing challenges with everyday activities. 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 hire a professionally trained caregiver for your loved one, call us at 920-717-1767 today.

Is Dairy Good or Bad for Aging Adults?

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

Dairy products are an excellent source of calcium, which keeps bones healthy and strong as seniors age. However, lactose intolerance is increasingly common, and many seniors find they’re more sensitive to dairy the older they get. Learn more about the health benefits and detriments of dairy.

The Nutrients Found in Milk

Milk contains many nutrients important for senior health, such as calcium, vitamin D, riboflavin, potassium, phosphorus, and vitamin B12. Calcium and vitamin D are essential for senior women, who lose bone density after menopause. Studies suggest regular milk consumption can lower the risk of osteoporosis and fractures in the elderly.

In addition to consuming nutrients, seniors with osteoporosis can reduce the risks of falls and fractures by receiving help from a professional caregiver. If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Senior Stride Home Care, a leading provider of senior care families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.

The Benefits of Dairy Fat

Milk contains fatty acids that promote overall health. When researchers studied the effects of a fatty acid known as trans-palmitoleic acid, they found people who had more of the acid in their bloodstream had a lower risk of type 2 diabetes, less joint inflammation, increased sensitivity to insulin, and less belly fat. The most beneficial forms of dairy fat are found in full-fat dairy products, which suggests seniors should skip the low-fat options and drink full-fat milk in moderation.

The Dangers of Unpasteurized Dairy

Seniors should avoid unpasteurized milk and cheese, which are often touted as healthy, as they contain beneficial fats and minerals. However, these dairy products don’t undergo the pasteurization process, which means they can be breeding grounds for dangerous bacteria. While younger adults with healthy immune systems may not be affected by the bacteria in unpasteurized milk, seniors should be more careful. They should avoid unpasteurized milk and cheeses like blue cheese, chevre, and brie.

The Relationship between Dairy & Cancer

Dairy promotes the release of hormones like insulin and IGF-1. While these hormones can be beneficial, as they help seniors stay strong and increase their muscle mass, they may also have detrimental effects. Though research results are varied and somewhat inconclusive, some studies suggest elevated levels of these hormones can increase the risk of prostate cancer.

Focusing on a nutritious diet is just one of the many ways seniors can stave off cancer and other serious illnesses. 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.

Facts about Lactose Intolerance

Lactose intolerance isn’t a true food allergy. People who are allergic to dairy are allergic to the protein casein, and consuming this protein causes a negative immune response. People with lactose intolerance, on the other hand, experience uncomfortable symptoms when they consume more lactose than their bodies can tolerate. These symptoms include abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea. Seniors with lactose intolerance rarely need to cut out dairy entirely. They simply need to determine how much they can tolerate. Some seniors may be able to drink four ounces of milk a day, while others may be able to drink eight. By finding and setting their limits, they can have the beneficial nutrients without the gastrointestinal effects.

Caring for a senior and finding the right dairy products for him or her can be a challenging task. If your senior loved one needs help managing an illness or assistance with daily tasks, make sure you choose a top-rated provider of homecare. Oshkosh 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. For more information about our flexible, customizable home care plans, call one of our compassionate Care Managers today at 920-717-1767

Tips for Preparing Older Parents for Live-In Caregivers

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

Adjusting to having live-in caregivers can be challenging for seniors and their families. Although the transition often seems complex, rest assured there are many compassionate and competent caregivers in the industry. There are also various ways to ease into the realities of the new living setup.

Involve Your Loved One in the Decision-Making Process

Hiring a live-in caregiver is a process that involves several steps, from an in-home consultation to meeting with potential caregivers. Make your loved one as much a part of the screening and interviewing process as possible. Listen to your parent’s feedback, and also ask about his or her ideas regarding privacy and comfort levels in the new situation.

If you’re the primary caregiver for a senior family member and are looking for professional elder care, Senior Stride Home Care should be your top choice. Our dedicated and compassionate caregivers are committed to helping older adults address their health issues and enjoy a higher quality of life in the golden years.

Urge Your Parent to Build a Personal Relationship with the Caregiver

Encourage your loved one to share meals with the live-in caregiver and take the opportunity to learn about the caregiver’s life outside of work. Sharing a meal routine can be comforting and lead to a feeling of companionship, more so than eating at separate times and keeping a more sterile employee/employer dynamic.

Encourage Your Loved One to Maintain Social Connections

A live-in caregiver should be available to transport your loved one not only to medical appointments but also to social gatherings. Make it a point to ask the caregiver to help your loved one maintain relationships with friends and family members by scheduling regular visits. The live-in caregiver can also help your loved one connect through Skype or FaceTime.

If your elderly loved one needs Oshkosh live-in care, turn to Senior Stride Home Care. We offer a program called the Balanced Care Method, which encourages seniors to focus on eating nutritious foods, exercising on a regular basis, maintaining strong social ties, and other lifestyle factors known to increase longevity.

Be Realistic

Your loved one will likely be reluctant to accept live-in help. Remind your parent that this type of care involves around-the-clock attentiveness and access to help. Emphasize this new schedule is meant to make daily living easier, not stifle or take away from your loved one’s independence.

When considering home care service. Oshkosh families should make sure their senior loved ones have the resources they need to maintain their independence and remain healthy. Trusted in-home care professionals can assist seniors with daily tasks like cooking, bathing, and exercise, and they can also encourage them to focus on healthier lifestyle habits. To create a customized home care plan for your loved one, call Senior Stride Home Care at 920-717-1767 today.

How to Overcome Your Aging Parent’s Resistance to Dietary Changes

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

After hearing what the doctor had to say during your aging loved one’s most recent appointment, you know the time has come for Mom or Dad to start eating better foods. However, your loved one has made it clear that he or she isn’t as concerned as you are, and you need some help getting your parent on the right track. There may be some resistance when asking your loved one to change his or her diet, but here are a few simple ways that can make the process easier.

Allow for Moderation

In many cases, doctors say certain foods have to be significantly reduced. This isn’t the same as banning them entirely. For example, your parent might need to start eating lean meats for most dinners, but he or she can still enjoy burgers and hot dogs at the annual Fourth of July picnic. Education can also be very powerful, so you may want to teach your parent about moderation by chatting with the doctor.

Focusing on a nutritious diet can boost quality of life in the golden years. If you have a senior loved one who needs help maintaining a high quality of life while aging in place, reach out to Senior Stride Home Care, a leading provider of home care Oshkosh families can rely on. All of our caregivers are bonded, licensed, and insured, there are no hidden fees, and we never ask our clients to sign long-term contracts.

Make Cooking Fun

When seniors prepare meals with new healthier ingredients, they might start to forget about how much joy cooking used to bring them. Bring the grandchildren over one day to cook with your parent, or spend an afternoon researching new recipes online together. By distracting your parent from the fact that he or she is using new ingredients, you’re allowing your loved one to focus on spending time with the little ones or envisioning his or her culinary masterpiece.

Eating well is just one of the many ways older adults can maintain their health as they age. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional homecare. 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.

Cook for Your Loved One

While you may need to hire help for certain days of the week, you can cook for your loved one when time allows. Invite your parent over for dinner, or bring the family over to prepare a meal. If the food is prepared and ready, your loved one may be more likely to eat it than if he or she had to prepare it.

Not all families are able to find the time to help their aging parents with tasks such as cooking. 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. If you’d like to schedule a free in-home consultation with one of our friendly Care Managers, call 920-717-1767 today.

6 Ways to Be Happy as a Family Caregiver

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

Family caregivers may seem like saints, but they’re often filled with anxiety and frustration. Although each day may not be as perfect as they want, there are things family caregivers can do to increase their happiness. Try to incorporate these ideas into your caregiving plans so you benefit from feeling happier as you carry out your duties.

1. Talk about Your Senior Loved One’s Preferences

Caregivers sometimes dread having to make major decisions. If your loved one becomes incapacitated, you may worry if what you’re doing is even what your parent wants. Talking to your loved one now helps you avoid feeling guilty or unsure of the choices you make on his or her behalf. You’ll feel a sense of relief when you know your commitment to helping your loved one age in place is aligned with his or her goals.

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 senior 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.

2. Choose to Focus on the Positive

It’s easy to get fixated on negative events that happen during the day. For instance, you might feel upset because your loved one refused to eat a meal you prepared, or you might be frustrated about his or her sundowning behavior. Try to let the rough moments go, and choose to focus on the positive things that happen. You can even keep a gratitude journal that documents special moments, such as when your loved one makes progress with brain training activities.

3. Consider the Source of Criticism

You’ll occasionally come across people who think they know more than you do about your loved one’s care. For instance, you might have a sibling who tries to tell you how to do your job. While you should listen to doctors and family members who may notice you seem overburdened, you should avoid letting someone make you feel like a poor caregiver. When you get advice, think about the source. If it’s a professional or someone who is genuinely concerned for your wellbeing, consider the advice. Otherwise, let it go if the person seems to be operating from a negative point of view.

4. Be Willing to Let Other People Help

As with any role, you have strengths you can use to give your loved one the best care possible. You may also have things you’re not so good at that you can delegate. Many family caregivers choose to hand over tasks they don’t enjoy to professional caregivers, which could prevent resentment that clouds your happiness.

If providing care for your loved one has become challenging, consider hiring a professional caregiver. Families looking for top-rated Oshkosh 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.

5. Find Ways to Bond with Your Loved One

One of the reasons you took on the role of caregiver was to spend time with your loved one. Try to avoid getting so caught up in checking things off your to-do list that you forget to have fun with your loved one. Plan something special to do each day that helps you remember the wonderful reasons you want to make his or her life easier.

6. Continue to Practice Self-Care

Regular breaks help you restore your patience and joy as a caregiver. Arrange for respite care so you can occasionally have some time off. During these times, you can take care of your physical and mental health so you avoid becoming too run down to feel happy.

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. For compassionate, reliable in-home care, trust the experienced professionals from Senior Stride Home Care. 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.

Potential Dangers of Not Treating Dementia

Posted on December 23, 2021April 8, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

The changes that occur in the brain due to dementia cannot be reversed. For years, nothing much could be done about dementia, but seniors are now able to benefit from treatments that have the potential to help them enjoy a better quality of life. Some types of dementia respond well to medications that can slow damage to brain cells. Other types require families to focus on providing more natural courses of treatment that include exercise, special diets, and cognitive activities. Leaving dementia untreated can have dire consequences for seniors, including these potential issues.

Losing Abilities

Treatment for dementia is mostly aimed at slowing the progression of a person’s cognitive decline. Dementia is best known for affecting memory, but the changes your senior loved one experiences can also impact other abilities. Seniors who don’t receive treatment may lose their ability to communicate, chew their food, and regulate their behavior. Getting your loved one help now could preserve the abilities he or she has left.

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 families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.

Experiencing Preventable Injuries

As your loved one’s abilities decrease, he or she is also more likely to make poor judgment calls that could cause him or her to get hurt. Your loved one may decide to tackle a household task that’s more than he or she can handle, which could lead to a nasty cut or fall. Seniors with rapidly progressing dementia might eat spoiled food or drink chemical cleaners they mistake for beverages. Keeping someone near your loved one can prevent him or her from getting hurt.

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.

Becoming a Target for Crime

Seniors should be safe in their homes, but this isn’t always the case. Abusers can identify seniors with untreated dementia due to their clear vulnerability. A friend of the family may scam a senior into giving him or her money. A frustrated caregiver could neglect or abuse a senior with dementia. Strengthening your loved one’s ability to think clearly can help him or her identify scammers and know when to tell you or a professional caregiver when something seems wrong.

Failing to Maintain Close Relationships

Seniors with untreated dementia are more likely to experience social isolation that threatens their mental health. Without someone to talk to, seniors often experience changes in their ability to communicate. Some older adults may also lose their motivation to take care of their personal hygiene. Planning social activities can slow the progression of memory loss while preserving your loved one’s ability to connect with other people.

Hurting Someone Else

Your loved one might be the last person you’d ever expect to hurt anyone. Yet someone with dementia who isn’t being treated may make rash decisions that affect others. For instance, your loved one may get behind the wheel of a car and cause a collision or accidentally start a house fire when other people are in the home. Provide your loved one with strategies that minimize this risk. For instance, some seniors may need caregivers to take them to dementia care appointments so they can take care of their cognitive health and avoid hurting anyone else.

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 at-home care. Oshkosh families can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep their loved ones safe and comfortable while aging in place. Trust your loved one’s care to the professionals at Senior Stride Home Care. Reach out to one of our compassionate Care Managers today at 920-717-1767.

6 Causes of Impaired Mobility in Older Adults

Posted on December 9, 2021April 8, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

The inability to move around freely impacts the ability to live independently. Although some loss of mobility is normal with age, your senior loved one can still prevent many of the most common causes for needing assistance getting around. Watch out for these six causes of impaired mobility in older adults that can be addressed before they’re severe enough to limit your loved one’s enjoyment in life.

1. Arthritis

This health condition is marked by stiff and painful joints that make it difficult to get around comfortably. Arthritis can affect any joint in the body, but it tends to impact the ones seniors use the most throughout life. For instance, seniors frequently experience the symptoms of arthritis in their knees, ankles, and hands. There are several types of arthritis, and they all have potential treatments your loved one can explore to find relief from the symptoms.

2. Osteoporosis

Bone loss is another health issue that accompanies getting older. Seniors who lose too much bone are at risk for issues such as hip fractures that can render them dependent on others. Your loved one can do things to prevent osteoporosis. Bone density scans can let your loved one know his or her current level of risk. Your parent can also take health supplements and engage in weight-bearing exercise that maintains bone mass.

3. Parkinson’s Disease

This degenerative neurological disease slowly robs older adults of their mobility. You can’t stop Parkinson’s once it starts, but there are options that may prevent issues such as muscle rigidity from affecting your loved one’s life. Your loved one should follow his or her treatment plan and take medicine as prescribed. He or she also needs to take steps to prevent symptoms from leading to injuries that further reduce mobility.

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 senior care Oshkosh, WI, families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.

4. Stroke

Strokes can sometimes damage parts of the brain that affect how seniors walk and move different parts of their bodies. After a stroke, your loved one may need assistance with going to therapy appointments that help him or her regain the ability to walk and grasp objects. Some seniors may also need to wear orthotic devices or use walkers to further increase their mobility.

5. Back Injuries

Old injuries tend to come back to haunt people in their senior years. Back pain is a common issue that changes how people move. Seniors may adjust their posture to accommodate for back pain, which could cause them to do things such as shuffle while walking. Your loved one may benefit from having help with tasks that further strain his or her back, such as cleaning or carrying heavy groceries.

6. Degenerative Disc Disease

Over time, the cartilage between the discs of the spine begins to break down, which can cause pain and limited movement in the arms, neck, and back. Degenerative disc disease tends to worsen over time, but talking about assistance now can help you meet your loved one’s needs as his or her mobility changes over the years.

Mobility limitations can make it challenging for aging adults to continue living at home without assistance. For many seniors in Oshkosh, WI, live-in care is an essential component of aging in place safely and comfortably. However, it’s important for them to have caregivers they can trust and rely on. At Senior Stride Home Care, we extensively screen all of our live-in and 24-hour caregivers and only hire those who have experience in the senior home care industry. Our strict requirements ensure seniors can remain in the comfort of home with a reduced risk of injury or serious illness. Call one of our trusted Care Managers today at 920-717-1767 to schedule a free in-home consultation.

Blueberries: A Healthy Way to Stave Off Alzheimer’s?

Posted on November 18, 2021April 8, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

Various studies have determined dietary changes can affect a senior’s memory and the risk of serious conditions like Alzheimer’s, and scientists have recently discovered blueberries have the potential to preserve cognitive health. Below is some information on the impact blueberries may have in the fight against this disease.

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.

Health Benefits of Blueberries

Blueberries contain high levels of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that prevent the degeneration and death of vital neurons and brain cells and also protect central nervous system health. These nutrients include:

Anthocyanin
Selenium
Phosphorus
Vitamins A, B, C, and E
Zinc
Copper
Manganese

Fresh organic blueberries provide the most nutritional benefits, and pure organic blueberry powder or extract can be excellent substitutes if fresh berries aren’t available. When preparing dishes with blueberries, try to avoid cooking or baking the berries, because it diminishes their nutritional value.

Studies on Blueberries & How They Affect Brain Health

In a report by the American Chemical Society, researchers from the University of Cincinnati Academic Health Center outlined their findings from studies on the effects blueberries have on cognitive health and mental functioning. The first study included 47 participants over age 68 with symptoms of mild cognitive impairment. Those who received freeze-dried blueberry powder for 16 weeks showed stronger memory skills and an increased ability to access words and concepts. MRIs also showed increased brain activity.

A second study followed 94 people who subjectively believed they had weak memory skills but had no measurable cognitive issues. The results weren’t as dramatic as the first study, but the participants receiving the blueberry powder did demonstrate a slight boost in cognition. Overall, the studies indicate blueberries may be useful in treating symptoms of cognitive impairment but may not be as beneficial in treating minor memory issues in people who have no actual cognitive deficits.

The same research team plans to conduct future studies with slightly younger subjects aged 50 to 65. They want to include people with risk factors for developing Alzheimer’s, including obesity, high cholesterol, and hypertension. The goal is to determine if blueberries can prevent the development of Alzheimer’s symptoms.

If your elderly loved one is living with Alzheimer’s and needs help managing the symptoms, turn to Senior Stride Home Care, a leading provider of Alzheimer’s care. Oshkosh seniors can rely on our revolutionary Cognitive Therapeutics Method (CTM), an activities-based program that promotes cognitive health and delays the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. CTM also encourages seniors to engage with others in an enjoyable way and helps them build new routines to look forward to. Reach out to one of our Care Managers today at 920-717-1767 to schedule a free in-home consultation.

Understanding Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Posted on November 4, 2021April 8, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

Age-related macular degeneration (ARMD) is the breakdown of the macula, which is the region of the eye with the greatest visual acuity. This breakdown causes central vision to blur, making reading, driving, and sewing difficult. Because ARMD is a common disease in the elderly, there are several things you should know to help your aging loved one prevent or delay the onset of the disease.

ARMD Can Develop Slowly or Rapidly

In some seniors, the disease develops so slowly that symptoms aren’t noticed for a long time. In others, the disease can progress rapidly, causing loss of vision in one or both eyes.

Seniors with severe vision impairment may need assistance to be able to continue living at home. 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.

Early Detection Is Critical

Because early symptoms sometimes go unnoticed, it’s important for your loved one to have regular eye examinations. Schedule an appointment for your parent as soon as possible if he or she is experiencing any of the following issues with his or her vision:

Blurriness
Dark areas
Blank spots
Distorted images

Though there’s no cure for early ARMD, lifestyle changes can be made that may prevent the disease from advancing. Additionally, your loved one’s doctor may recommend more frequent eye exams to check on the progression of the disease.

As ARMD progresses, your loved one’s doctor may recommend supplements to slow the progression. The disease can also be treated with injections, photodynamic therapy, and laser surgery.

If your loved one is living with vision problems and needs assistance with daily tasks, help is available. Seniors can face a variety of challenges as they age, many of which can be mitigated with the help of professional in-home caregivers who provide high-quality senior home care. Trust Senior Stride Home Care to help your elderly loved one age in place safely and comfortably.

Lifestyle Changes Can Prevent or Delay AMD

Genetics have been found to play a role in developing ARMD. People over the age of 50 are also at higher risk if they:

Smoke
Get little or no exercise
Eat an unhealthy diet

A recent study conducted by the National Eye Institute found those with family histories of the disease were less likely to develop it when they made healthy lifestyle changes.

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 elderly home care. Oshkosh families can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep their loved ones safe and comfortable while aging in place. We will work with you to create a customized home care plan that’s suited for your loved one’s unique needs. Call the Senior Stride Home Care team at 920-717-1767 today.