5 Reasons Digestive Health Is Important for Aging Adults

Posted on October 21, 2021April 8, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

The digestive tract is an incredibly complicated part of the human body that’s responsible for turning food into important nutrition. As people age, certain parts of the digestive system begin to wear out. Here are a few reasons older adults should maintain their digestive health.

1. Prevents Nutritional Deficiencies

Consuming vitamins and minerals isn’t enough to get proper nutrition. The body also needs to be able to absorb and use these nutrients. When certain gastrointestinal issues go untreated, seniors can end up with deficiencies due to a lack of absorption ability, which can cause issues like anemia due to an iron deficiency or osteoporosis due to a calcium deficiency.

Aging adults who need help boosting their digestive health should consider professional in-home care. 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 in-home care. Trust Senior Stride Home Care to help your elderly loved one age in place safely and comfortably.

2. Reduces Cancer Risks

There are several types of cancer that are influenced by a senior’s digestive health. For example, esophageal cancer can be caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease, and colon cancer can be caused by repeated constipation. These types of cancer occur when something in a senior’s dietary or digestive habits ends up damaging the cells in the digestive tract. To keep the digestive tract healthy, seniors should eat plenty of probiotic foods, drink a lot of water, and avoid excessively large or greasy meals.

3. Keeps Medical Bills Low

Due to the unique placement of the gastrointestinal system, treatment can become quite difficult if the issue isn’t addressed during the early stages. Repeated bouts of acid reflux can damage the esophagus so badly that surgery is needed, and surgery may also be necessary for issues like stomach ulcers or intestinal abscesses. Paying proper attention to digestive health and treating conditions before they worsen can ensure seniors don’t end up having expensive surgeries.

4. Lowers Chances of Incontinence

Incontinence is still a somewhat awkward subject in the senior community. Those with digestive issues frequently worry about flatulence or having accidents when they cannot get to the restroom in time. Eating high-fiber fruits, vegetables, and grains and drinking plenty of water can prevent diarrhea and other forms of incontinence. Proper digestive health can make it much easier for seniors to be confident in social settings.

If your loved one needs help maintaining healthy habits, consider hiring a professional caregiver. 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.

5. Prevents Painful Conditions

Several issues associated with digestive disorders aren’t necessarily life-threatening, but they’re still quite uncomfortable. Hemorrhoids and constipation can make each bowel movement painful, while ulcers and acid reflux can cause pain after each meal. Fortunately, most of these issues can be prevented by regularly eating small meals and following a diet high in fiber, water, and probiotics.

Caring for an aging adult with chronic constipation or other digestive issues can be a challenging task. 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. To hire a professionally trained caregiver for your loved one, call us at 920-717-1767 today.

6 Ways Seniors Can Increase Their Arm Strength

Posted on October 7, 2021April 8, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

Many daily activities can help seniors keep their arms strong. As aging adults stop doing some of these activities, they may notice their arm strength diminishing. Here are some activities to help seniors regain and enhance their arm strength.

1. Gardening

Seniors who work in gardens often have plenty of arm strength. Hoeing, watering, and gathering vegetables can all contribute toward building strength in your aging loved one’s arms. In addition to stronger arms, another reward of daily gardening is enjoying delicious homegrown food at the end of the growing season.

2. Swimming

Some seniors enjoy spending time in the water. The repetitive movement of lap swimming is great exercise for the arms. If your loved one doesn’t enjoy swimming, encourage him or her to sign up for a water-based exercise class.

A professional caregiver can help your loved one exercise safely in the comfort of home. Oshkosh in-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.

3. Backyard Farming

Many seniors are fond of backyard farming. Some choose to raise a few chickens, while others prefer raising goats or rabbits. Regardless, caring for the animals can offer great exercise for the arms. From lifting feed and water to scooping manure, your loved one’s arms can get a real workout through backyard farming.

4. Dancing

Dance movements are a great way to tone the arms. Irrespective of your loved one’s choice of dance styles, performing rhythmic moves can offer excellent exercise for his or her arms.

If your loved one needs transportation to dance classes, medical appointments, or activities at a local senior center, a home caregiver can be a great resource. When considering homecare services, 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.

5. Golfing

Playing golf requires the use of the arms to achieve the perfect swing. Your loved one’s arms can become even stronger if he or she carries or pulls his or her bag from one hole to the next.

6. Fishing

Fishing is a hobby many seniors enjoy, even if at the end of the day their big catch manages to escape. Casting a line and carrying equipment utilize and strengthen a range of muscles in the arms.

Some seniors need assistance with a variety of daily activities, including getting regular exercise. Oshkosh respite care professionals can assist seniors with a wide array of daily tasks, offering family caregivers the chance to focus on other personal responsibilities or take a break to prevent burnout. Whether it’s for a few hours a day or a few days a week, respite care is the perfect solution for family caregivers who are feeling overwhelmed. To create a customized home care plan for your loved one, call Senior Stride Home Care at 920-717-1767 today.

How to Lower a Senior’s Hypertension Risk

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

Hypertension can occur in a person of any age, but it’s especially common in seniors. It’s estimated that more than half of people over 55 live with the condition. Hypertension puts seniors at risk for strokes, heart attacks, and other cardiovascular diseases. If your senior loved one is at risk for high blood pressure, here are a few things you can do to reduce the risk.

Come Up with Ways to Promote Weight Loss

Seniors who are overweight or obese are at a greater risk for developing hypertension than those who aren’t. If your loved one is overweight, it may be time to take steps to lose some weight. Help your loved one come up with a healthy eating plan and ways to get moving that fit in with his or her lifestyle. Exercise helps with weight loss and lowers blood pressure when people get at least 30 minutes of activity a day.

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 elderly care. Oshkosh Senior Stride Home Care provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives.

Discourage Smoking and Drinking

Smoking puts people of all ages at risk for multiple diseases, including hypertension. Stopping immediately, no matter how long your loved one has smoked, may show almost instant changes in his or her health. Those who drink excessively may also see an increase in blood pressure that can eventually lead to health complications. Talk to your loved one’s doctor about a plan to stop smoking, and encourage your loved one to cut back to one drink a day.

Lower Stress

Avoiding stress is easier said than done, especially when it comes to seniors. Older people are often worried about things such as finances, health, independence, the health of other loved ones, and their own futures. Stress can be a major cause of high blood pressure. If your loved one is under a lot of stress, do what you can to eliminate it. For example, sit down together and create a budget if finances worry him or her. If it’s health, make an appointment for a physical. Spending time with friends, attending religious or spiritual services, and doing hobbies can also help seniors rid themselves of some stress.

Reducing stress 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 homecare 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.

Reduce Salt Intake

Too much salt in food can raise blood pressure. As seniors age, they’re no longer able to process salt like they did when they were younger. For this reason, it’s important to watch your loved one’s salt intake. Pay close attention to fast foods and processed foods that typically add extra salt as a preservative. Soups and frozen foods are especially notorious for containing large quantities of sodium.

Promote Good Sleep Hygiene

Getting a good night of high-quality sleep is essential for all aspects of your loved one’s health, including his or her blood pressure. Seniors who don’t get enough sleep or have related disorders like sleep apnea are at a greater risk for developing hypertension. Other signs your loved one may not be getting enough sleep include irritability and daytime fatigue. If you suspect poor sleeping habits, get to the root of the issue. Have your loved one avoid daytime naps, follow a consistent sleep schedule, and create a healthy yet comfortable environment for bedtime. If all else fails, see a doctor about performing a sleep study to check for disorders like sleep apnea.

Every senior has different needs when aging in place. Some simply need occasional assistance with household chores, while others may be managing a serious illness and require more extensive live-in care. Oshkosh, Wisconsin, seniors can count on Senior Stride Home Care to provide the in-home care they need and deserve. Reach out to one of our dedicated Care Managers today at 920-717-1767 to learn more about our premier senior home care.

Addressing Diminished Appetite in Aging Adults

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

As people age, it’s normal for their appetite to decrease slightly. However, a considerable loss of appetite isn’t normal and can cause or exacerbate many health problems. If an aging loved one displays a lack of desire to eat, it’s important to understand the causes and work on solutions. With the help of a doctor, nutritionist, or even a trained caregiver, you can promote your loved one’s health and wellness. To ensure your loved one is receiving the necessary vitamins and nutrients from meals, take a moment to learn about some of the top causes of appetite loss in seniors and simple solutions to maximize their health.

Medications

Although many medications cause an increase in appetite, some have the opposite effect. If this has become a problem for your parent, consider speaking with his or her doctor. In many cases, switching to a different drug or altering the dosage can reduce or eliminate this side effect. When attending a checkup with your parent, make sure to either bring a list of all medications or supplements your loved one is taking or put all the containers in a bag to bring with you.

A trained caregiver can provide expertise and additional support to encourage your loved one to eat well. Not every senior has the same care needs, which means they don’t all need the same type of home care service. 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.

Nutritional Deficiencies

The body relies on a variety of nutrients to maintain appetite and proper digestive function. Among these are sodium, vitamin B12, zinc, and niacin. If your loved one hasn’t been eating regularly for some time, or if his or her ability to properly digest food is compromised, he or she may not be getting the nutrients needed to support a normal appetite. You can help by providing supplements or foods rich in these nutrients. However, it’s important to use care with supplements. Always speak with the doctor first to make sure there are no harmful interactions with any prescription medications your loved one is taking. A fiber supplement might also prove useful if your loved one is experiencing constipation, bloating, or gas, which can make eating uncomfortable.

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

Not Eating Regularly

Neglecting to eat regularly for an extended period can actually cause the appetite to decrease even more. This is because the body adjusts to the caloric deficit and no longer sends reliable hunger signals to the brain. It’s very common for seniors to fail to eat regularly, often because of dementia, physical weakness, or other health problems. If you can’t always be there to make sure your loved one is eating, hiring a trained in-home caregiver is something to consider.

From preparing meals to eating their food, older adults may require assistance with a wide variety of tasks. Whether your elderly loved one needs part-time assistance with basic household chores or you need a break from your caregiving duties, the Oshkosh respite care experts at Senior Stride Home Care are here to help. All of our respite care services are backed with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, there are no hidden fees in our contracts, and we never ask our clients to sign long-term contracts. Contact one of our experienced Care Managers today at 920-717-1767 to learn more about our reliable in-home care services.

8 Indicators Your Aging Loved One May Need Attention

Posted on August 19, 2021April 8, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

How we relate to our family members, both young and old, depends on many factors. Older family members deserve special attention because physical and mental changes are part of the natural aging process. If these changes are gradual and your older loved one is still able to perform the basic activities of daily living, his or her need for attention might be minimal. Your family will need to monitor your elderly loved one’s daily activities to determine when he or she should receive extra attention. Below are some of the warning signs your parent might need special attention, including professional in-home care.

1. Medical Conditions

This is the most obvious sign, and it often includes heart disease, cancer, or any serious condition that would require extensive doctor, clinic, or hospital visits. You might have to be involved in the decision-making process, especially if your loved one needs home care.

Every senior has different needs when aging in place. Some simply need occasional assistance with household chores, while others may be managing serious illnesses and require more extensive live-in care. Oshkosh seniors can count on Senior Stride Home Care to provide the in-home care they need and deserve.

2. Food/Nutrition

Have you noticed a change in your parent’s eating habits, food-purchasing habits, and how he or she keeps food in the home? A lack of good nutrition could be a sign your loved one needs in-home care. Your parent must have someone there to help with meal prep and monitor his or her nutrition intake to boost his or her quality of life and increase longevity.

Senior care providers can benefit aging adults in a variety of ways. From cooking nutritious meals to offering timely medication reminders, the dedicated caregivers at Senior Stride Home Care are available to help your elderly loved one 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

3. Energy

See if you sense a lack of energy compared to the immediate past. Does your loved one seem tired all the time? If so, schedule an appointment with his or her doctor for an examination.

4. Memory Issues

Cognitive issues become more prevalent with age, and symptoms often manifest in how seniors do daily tasks and the basic conversations they have. Cognitive impairment and memory loss are typical reasons for poor judgment in older adults, and without proper guidance, poor choices could lead to severe consequences. However, having someone there to assist with the decision-making could make life easier for your parent.

5. Finances

Do you feel your family member isn’t handling his or her finances correctly? Sometimes seniors are very private about this issue, but it doesn’t hurt to ask questions if you feel there’s a problem.

6. Risk of Falling

If your family member has a tendency to fall or has difficulty with basic body movements, you should pay particularly close attention. Consider using in-home care services to make sure your parent is never alone, especially when you’re at work, on vacation, or unable to step in and provide constant care.

7. Basic Behavior & Personality

Any changes in your loved one’s behavior could be an indicator of a more serious health issue. For example, skipping occasional activities and family gatherings is nothing to worry about, because your parent may simply not be up to interacting with others on a particular day. However, if social withdrawal becomes common, your loved one could be experiencing depression and chronic stress, which are top factors associated with isolation. Maintaining healthy interactions with others is vital to your loved one’s mental and emotional wellbeing, and in-home care could provide the companionship he or she needs.

8. Hygiene

Take notice of your loved one’s overall appearance and be wary of any significant sudden changes. Failing to bathe each day and take care of their hygiene can put seniors at risk for infections. If you notice your loved one hasn’t bathed, brushed his or her teeth, combed his or her hair, or washed his or her clothing, this could be a warning sign of needing more assistance, including in-home care. Having someone help with grooming and other hygiene necessities could increase your loved one’s quality of life.

One of the most challenging tasks of helping an elderly relative age in place safely and comfortably is researching agencies that provide at-home care. Oshkosh families can turn to Senior Stride Home Care for reliable, high-quality in-home care for aging adults. We offer 24-hour live-in care for seniors who require extensive assistance, and we also offer respite care for family caregivers who need a break from their caregiving duties. 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.

Tips to Help Caregivers Prevent Medication Mistakes

Posted on August 5, 2021April 8, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

Seniors often end up taking multiple medications each day to stay healthy and manage various medical conditions. However, it can be far too easy to mix up medications, take the wrong dosage, or forget to take medication at the right time. Medication mishaps are one of the leading causes of health emergencies for seniors. As a caregiver, there are a few things you can do to make sure you and your senior loved one don’t end up making mistakes with medications.

Create a Master List of All Dosages & Medication Names

Work with your loved one’s doctor to create a definitive list that includes the names, dosages, and dosage times for every medication your loved one needs to take. It may be helpful to make a few copies of this list so you can keep one at your loved one’s home and give a copy to anyone else who provides care for him or her. Anytime there’s uncertainty about when to take a medication, you can check the list to see the right option.

Keep Pills in Their Original Containers

It’s essential to avoid ending up with a big bag of mixed pills. Several common senior medications look very similar, and they can easily be mistaken for each other if they aren’t kept in properly labeled containers.

Seniors with age-related cognitive conditions such as dementia often need assistance with remembering to take their medications. Aging in place can present a few challenges for seniors living with dementia. However, they can still live independently at home with the help of professional dementia care. Oshkosh families can rely on Senior Stride Home Care to provide their elderly loved ones with mental and social stimulation, timely medication reminders, assistance with meal prep, and much more. Our caregivers are available around the clock to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life.

Use a Pill Dispenser

If you’re willing to invest in a fancy version of a pill dispenser, it may be an easy solution for your problems. Thanks to medical technology, there are plenty of dispensers that allow you to load in several medications and set a time for the machine to dispense each pill. Even simpler versions that allow you to sort out all the pills your loved one needs to take for each day of the week can be helpful in some situations.

If you aren’t always able to be with your loved one to make sure he or she takes medications correctly, consider hiring a professional caregiver. Elder care providers can benefit aging adults in a variety of ways. From cooking nutritious meals to offering timely medication reminders, the dedicated caregivers at Senior Stride Home Care are available to help your elderly loved one 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Dispose of Medications that Are No Longer Used

Having a big collection of almost-empty pill bottles is just asking for trouble. You or your loved one may end up mixing up one of these outdated medications with a new prescription, leading to issues with overdosing or harmful pill interactions. To avoid this major cause of medication mishaps, throw out pills once your loved one is done with the prescribed course of medication.

Talk to the Doctor if a Dose Is Missed

No matter how careful you are, there may come a time when a dosage accidentally gets skipped. If this occurs, give your loved one’s doctor a call and ask for a recommendation on how to proceed. It may be dangerous to wait until the next dosage for some types of medication, while others may cause problems if you try to double a dosage or they’re taken at a different time.

Seniors need to make sure they take medications as prescribed, and having a professional caregiver close by can be just what an aging adult needs to be reminded how and when to take medicine. 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 senior care agency. Our dedicated in-home caregivers can assist with meal prep, bathing and grooming, exercise, medication reminders, and many other important tasks. To create a customized in-home care plan for your loved one, call us at 920-717-1767.

Health-Protecting Benefits of Caffeine that May Surprise You

Posted on July 22, 2021April 8, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

While the potential risks of overdoing it with caffeine are well known, there are some surprising health benefits associated with the most widely used substance in the world. It’s the protective benefits of caffeine that can be especially beneficial for seniors.

Reduced Risk of Developing Type 2 Diabetes

The risk of developing diabetes increases with age. One study noted a nine percent decrease in the risk of developing type 2 diabetes among those who drank at least one cup of coffee a day, suggesting preventative effects that may extend to seniors.

A professional caregiver can be a wonderful source of support and information when it comes to helping your loved one prevent certain age-related conditions. Maintaining a high quality of life can be challenging for some seniors, but professional caregivers can help them attain this goal. Families can trust elderly home care experts to help their elderly loved ones focus on lifestyle choices that increase the chances of living longer and healthier lives.

Increased Logical Reasoning Skills

A study of soldiers lacking sufficient sleep found that 200 mg doses of caffeine enhanced marksmanship, suggesting increased logical reasoning skills. Caffeine may have a similar impact on seniors who need to remain alert during the day to maintain a normal sleep cycle.

Reduced Risk of Cognitive Decline

Various studies suggest caffeine may provide a memory boost and reduce the risk of cognitive decline, with one study noting the afternoon as the best time for seniors to drink coffee, since this is a period of reduced alertness. A study involving mice with Alzheimer’s noted indicators that memory was preserved or protected in subjects given 500 mg of caffeine.

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

Lower Risk of Developing Parkinson’s

A Swedish study on the effects of caffeine in people with Parkinson’s disease found that it interacts with a dopamine receptor responsible for controlling the flow of calcium, which plays an important role in cell functioning. Healthier cells, especially those in parts of the brain regulating memory and coordination, may reduce the risk of developing Parkinson’s. Up to 400 milligrams of caffeine per day is the safe amount typically recommended for adults, which equals about 4 full cups of coffee. Healthy caffeinated alternatives to coffee for seniors include hot or iced tea, hot chocolate, diet soft drinks, and some types of pure dark chocolate.

A trained professional caregiver can be an ideal resource when you’re trying to help your parent lead a healthier lifestyle. Not every senior has the same care needs, which means they don’t all need the same type of elder 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. For more information about our flexible, customizable home care plans, call one of our compassionate Care Managers today at 920-717-1767.

Tips for Addressing Alzheimer’s-Related Sleep Problems

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

Many seniors have difficulty falling or staying asleep, but changes in the body that result from Alzheimer’s disease can make getting a full night’s rest even more difficult. An inability to get high-quality sleep can worsen symptoms of the disease and cause irritability, extreme mood swings, and changes in behavior. If you provide care for a senior loved one who is living with Alzheimer’s and you’re concerned about the amount of sleep he or she is getting each night, read on to explore some of the simplest ways to overcome sleep issues associated with Alzheimer’s. Assisting your loved one with these activities can promote a higher quality of life for him or her.

Encourage Daily Activity

The inability to sleep at night can cause seniors to take long naps during the day, creating an unhealthy cycle of poor sleep habits. Keeping your loved one active during the day can counteract this problem. Activities don’t have to be strenuous, and they can include anything from a walk around the block to playing a game of cards in the late afternoon. This prevents long periods of inactivity when your loved one may feel inclined to doze off.

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.

Limit Beverages at Night

While it’s important for your loved one to stay hydrated, especially if he or she is taking a number of medications for Alzheimer’s and other health conditions, it’s important to limit beverages at night. This will minimize your loved one’s need to use the restroom once he or she is asleep. Caffeinated beverages such as soda should also be eliminated from the evening routine.

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

Create a Calming Environment

Dim the lights in your loved one’s room before he or she goes to bed to promote a calming atmosphere. Make sure your parent’s bedroom is at a comfortable temperature, as Alzheimer’s can often affect a senior’s sensitivity to heat or cold. It’s also important to keep the surroundings as quiet as possible once your loved one goes to bed because the slightest noises might keep him or her awake for hours.

Seek Medical Help

If the changes in your loved one’s schedule and environment don’t address his or her sleep issues, a doctor may be able to prescribe certain medications to promote sleep at night. These may include Haldol, Risperdal, Desyrel, and lorazepam. The doctor may also be able to recommend certain activities for your loved one’s specific symptoms or sleep issues.

Alzheimer’s can be challenging for seniors to manage without assistance, and it can be just as challenging for families who don’t have experience in providing Alzheimer’s care. Oshkosh Senior Stride Home Care provides Alzheimer’s care seniors and their families can depend on. Our proprietary Cognitive Therapeutics Method was designed to help seniors with Alzheimer’s and other memory-related conditions live happier and healthier lives. To learn about our premier in-home care options, give us a call at 920-717-1767 today.

6 Facts about Parkinson’s a Doctor Might Not Tell You

Posted on June 17, 2021April 8, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

If your aging loved one is one of the million or so people in the U.S. living with Parkinson’s disease, his or her doctor has probably provided the information necessary to identify and treat symptoms. Yet there are some things the doctor may not tell your loved one about this chronic progressive condition. Having a full understanding of what’s involved with Parkinson’s can help you develop a better plan to address the condition.

1. Parkinson’s Medications Can Have Severe Side Effects

The dopamine agonist drugs often prescribed to treat tremors may have severe side effects that can often be worse than the symptoms these drugs are supposed to treat. These side effects could include insomnia, obsessive-compulsive behavior, uncontrolled movements, or twitching.

Many seniors with Parkinson’s disease can live at home, but they may need assistance from a family member or other caregiver to do so safely. If you’re the primary caregiver for a senior family member and you need respite care, Oshkosh, WI, Senior Stride Home Care is here to help. Our respite caregivers are trained to assist older adults with a wide variety of everyday tasks, including meal prep, physical activity, and personal hygiene. We also provide 24-hour care and specialized care for seniors with Alzheimer’s, dementia, and Parkinson’s.

2. It Takes Time to Find an Effective Treatment Combination

In addition to carbidopa and levodopa, there are many medications that can treat symptoms associated with Parkinson’s. It’s often a trial-and-error process until the right combination is found to effectively alleviate symptoms.

3. Not All Neurologists Specialize in Parkinson’s

The doctor will likely refer your parent to a neurologist to address motor issues associated with Parkinson’s. Do a little research and look for one who specializes in movement disorders.

4. Exercise Is Important

Since Parkinson’s affects muscles, regular movement is important. As the condition progresses, exercises can be adjusted to your loved one’s abilities. For instance, water aerobics can offer the same benefits as vigorous exercise without excessive muscle strain.

Your loved one may get a great deal of benefit from having a professional caregiver help with exercise and everyday tasks. Families looking for top-rated 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.

5. Support Groups Can Help

Input from others is critical when it comes to finding the emotional support your loved one is likely to need. Search for a local Parkinson’s support group (or an online group if you can’t find one close by) with members in your loved one’s age range who can directly relate to the challenges your parent faces.

6. Physical Therapy Can Be Beneficial

Physical therapy is highly personalized, so your loved one is likely to benefit from regular sessions as the condition advances. A good therapist will also monitor symptoms and try a variety of techniques to find the right combination that works best for your loved one.

Parkinson’s disease can be particularly challenging, especially in its final stages, and family caregivers can easily get overwhelmed. 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. To hire a professionally trained caregiver for your loved one, call us at 920-717-1767 today.

Ways for Older Adults to Keep Their Joints Healthy

Posted on June 3, 2021April 8, 2024 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

Joint pain is a common complaint among seniors, and while some may have serious medical conditions like arthritis, others may simply have aches and pains that come with aging. While seniors may not be able to fix their joint health overnight, there are some things they can do that will have a long-term impact on how they feel. Read on to learn what seniors can do to boost their joint health in safe, smart ways.

Lose Weight

Being overweight can put a lot of stress on joints, particularly the knees. Individuals who are more than 20 pounds overweight are likely to feel some pain in their joints as they age because they’re carrying excess weight. A simple weight loss plan that replaces high-fat, high-calorie foods with healthier, more nutritious ones is ideal for seniors.

By making positive lifestyle choices, especially eating nutritious foods, many older adults can delay the impacts of aging on their joints. 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.

Do Aerobic Exercises

Seniors may not be able to do strenuous exercises, but in most cases, they can do things like basic aerobics and walking. Regular exercise can ease joint pain in many seniors, especially if they’ve been sedentary in the past. Exercise can also help overweight seniors slim down.

Try Strength Training

Most seniors aren’t going to be lifting heavy weights, but light free weights can build valuable muscle mass. Building a little extra muscle through strength training can bolster the ligaments around the joints so they don’t do all the work.

Weak and painful joints are only one of many age-related conditions older adults may experience. 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 care. Oshkosh families trust Senior Stride Home Care to help their elderly loved ones age in place safely and comfortably.

Maintain Good Posture

Standing up straight reduces pressure on joints by spreading body weight evenly over a person’s whole frame. Seniors who take time to correct their posture will have less joint pain in the long run.

Reduce Sugar Intake

Sugar can cause inflammation in the body, which can lead to aching joints. Processed sugars like those found in cookies and cakes should be avoided whenever possible. Refined carbohydrates like those found in white bread, pasta, and pastries should also be replaced with whole grains that cause less inflammation.

Severe joint issues can make it difficult for aging adults to handle the basic activities of daily living on their own. 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. To learn more about our premier in-home care plans, call us at 920-717-1767 today.