Why Caregivers Should Take Up Journaling

Posted on August 18, 2016April 7, 2025 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

Oshkosh, WI, senior care agencies know that taking care of an aging relative is hard work. Your day is full of helping your loved one with numerous tasks from bathing and dressing to preparing meals and housekeeping. You may not feel you have time to sit down and journal, but doing so will benefit you in many ways.

Reduces Stress

There’s no doubt that you love your aging parent, but you will inevitably feel angry, frustrated, and anxious from time to time while caring for him or her. These feelings are normal and understandable. Journaling gives you a healthy outlet to express all of your thoughts and feelings to reduce stress.

Helps Solve Problems

Journaling often leads to new insights and perspectives on issues. It also forces you to organize your thoughts, which can help when you’re facing a hurdle. Additionally, journaling helps you clarify your thoughts and feelings regarding the challenge at hand.

Helps You Be More Mindful

When you write in a journal, you are only focusing on the task in front of you. Journaling can help you become more mindful in your daily life, allowing you to focus on each moment you spend with your loved one instead of focusing on the past or the future.

Offers Respite

It’s important to take some time for yourself each day. If you don’t, your mental and physical health will decline. Writing in a journal for 10 or 15 minutes each day is a great way to have some “you time” where you can rest and recharge.

Preserves Memories

Keeping a daily journal creates a written record of events. Later on, you’ll be able to go back and read about the good times you shared with your loved one while you took care of him or her.

Reduces Conflict

Inevitably, you will have disagreements with siblings, doctors, or your loved one regarding his or her care. Writing in a journal allows you to express your thoughts and feelings about frustrating situations without causing conflict. Having this outlet may help you have fewer arguments with your loved one or other family members.

Caregiving is both rewarding and overwhelming. Daily journaling is a great way to take care of yourself so that you can continue to care for your loved one. You can also turn to Senior Stride Home Care of Oshkosh for a helping hand. We provide reliable respite care in Oshkosh that helps your loved one in the comfort of home while you take some time for yourself. Learn more by calling 920-710-CARE (2273) to customize a care plan for your loved one today.

7 Foods That Aren’t Really Bad for You

Posted on August 11, 2016April 7, 2025 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

Fad diets have unfortunately caused people to think that certain foods are extremely unhealthy. However, these misconceptions have been disproved through medical research. Oshkosh live-in caregivers may have heard that these seven foods are unhealthy, but they can actually be very beneficial in a senior’s diet.

1. Lettuce

This leafy green is often called a nutritionally void vegetable, but this is not true. A serving of lettuce contains half the daily-recommended amount of vitamin A.

2. White Rice

Brown rice seems like the healthier option, but it turns out that the phytic acid in the rice hull can leach iron from a person’s diet. Most modern white rice is actually fortified with all the nutrients that are removed in the processing steps.

3. Egg Yolks

While egg yolks may be high in cholesterol, they actually contain a beneficial form of cholesterol that lowers overall blood cholesterol levels.

4. Potatoes

Low-carb diets make potatoes seem as unhealthy as a few spoonfuls of sugar. However, a potato actually only contains about 160 calories, and if you eat it with the skin, the fiber prevents blood sugar spikes.

5. Coffee

Caffeinated beverages like coffee have a bad reputation for being loaded with calories and caffeine. As long as you drink your coffee black and have less than four cups a day, you will not ingest too many calories or exceed the recommended amount of caffeine.

6. Red Meat

A serving of steak does not always have to be fattening and loaded with cholesterol. Modern grass-fed cuts of beef tend to minimize the fat while providing essential iron and other necessary nutrients.

7. Avocados

Many people avoid avocados just because they are higher in calories than other fruits or vegetables. This food has over 20 vitamins and minerals and the healthy fat in avocados help to keep you feeling full longer. Therefore, it can be very healthy in moderate amounts.

Oshkosh senior home care agencies like Senior Stride Home Care can help your loved one maintain a nutritious diet and get the nutrients he or she needs to live a long and active life. In addition to preparing nutritious meals for your loved one, we promote physical exercise and cognitive stimulation to boost physical and mental wellbeing. Set up a free consultation today by calling 920-710-CARE (2273) to speak with a friendly Care Manager.

Preventing Senior Blood Clots

Posted on August 4, 2016April 7, 2025 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

Along with obstructing arterial and venous blood vessels, blood clots commonly break free, travel through the bloodstream and cause heart attacks, pulmonary embolisms or strokes. Seniors and their Oshkosh home caregivers can reduce the likelihood of developing vascular problems by minimizing other risk factors.

Take Prescribed Medication

Atrial fibrillation, diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol are examples of medical conditions often diagnosed in older adults. If seniors do not seek medical treatment, the ailments can cause plaque and blood clots to form. Seniors must take medications as directed and make follow-up appointments as recommended in order to maintain optimal health and prevent further complications.

Stop Smoking

Smoking constricts blood vessels, which impedes circulation and causes clot formation from pooling blood. Quitting is often more difficult for older loved ones as they may have been smoking for decades. Ultimately, giving up the habit must be their decision. However, there are many options available to ease the cravings and stress.

Keep Hydrated

Breathing, sweating and eliminating bodily waste cause fluid loss that must be replaced. The increased temperatures during certain times of the year cause greater fluid deficits, which in turn causes blood to slow and clot in the bloodstream. Oshkosh, WI, elderly care providers recommend that adults consume at least two liters of fluid everyday to stay hydrated and prevent blood from clotting.

Avoid Prolonged Sitting

Seniors should stand and walk around every one or two hours. Sitting for extensive lengths of time slows blood circulation in the legs to the point that a clot may form. Having someone simply move around and stretch the lower extremities keeps blood from clotting, especially among seniors confined to a wheelchair.

Stay Active

Getting a sufficient amount of exercise helps keep the cardiovascular system working properly and prevents blood clot formation. Going for a 30-minute walk at least three times a week is a vast improvement for anyone who has been predominately sedentary. Over time, seniors may then increase the level and intensity of activity.

By encouraging your loved one to engage in the above activities, he or she can reduce the risk of blood clots and related medical issues. You can further reduce your loved one’s risk of blood clots by hiring Senior Stride Home Care of Oshkosh. We provide specialized Alzheimer’s, dementia, and stroke home care in Oshkosh that encourages seniors to eat healthy foods, exercise regularly, and adopt other healthy habits that promote longevity and wellbeing. Set up a free in-home consultation today by calling 920-717-1767 to speak with a trusted Care Manager.

6 Benefits of Omega-3 Fatty Acids for Seniors

Posted on July 28, 2016April 7, 2025 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

Omega-3 fatty acids are nutritious unsaturated fats that are naturally found in fish such as herring, salmon and tuna. Among plants, flax is perhaps the best source for omega-3 fatty acids, though avocados and broccoli also have small traces of this important nutrient. Following are six reasons Oshkosh elder care providers should encourage seniors to consume more omega-3s.

1. Regulates Triglycerides

Omega-3 fatty acids can regulate the levels of triglycerides in the bloodstream. To reduce the risk of clogged arteries, seniors with imbalances of both HDL and LDL cholesterol are encouraged to eat this nutrient on a regular basis and cut down on saturated fat and reduce the risk of stroke and the need for post-stroke care in Oshkosh.

2. Boosts Cardiovascular Function

Just like other unsaturated fats, omega-3s significantly cut the risk of cardiovascular diseases. In Asia and the Mediterranean regions, people who eat a lot of seafood have very low incidences of heart attacks and strokes. Fish oil can also stimulate proper blood circulation throughout the entire body.

3. Reduces Inflammation

The anti-inflammatory properties of omega-3 fatty acids have been confirmed by worldwide scientific communities. These fatty acids reduce inflammation that naturally comes with aging such as migraines or sore muscles. Doctors often recommend that omega-3 supplements or natural sources be taken along with prescription anti-inflammatory drugs.

4. Strengthens Joints and Bones

Omega-3s that are derived from fish oil can be effective in managing the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. That is because this nutrient improves the overall strength and stiffness of bones and joints. Seniors who consume omega-3s from fresh seafood are likely to see major improvements in their flexibility and dexterity of the limbs.

5. Promotes Mental Health

Although nothing can prevent or cure dementia, cognitive disorders can be delayed with a regular intake of omega-3s. Fatty acids in general are known for their important roles in regulating normal brain function, particularly in terms of memory and motor function. Omega-3s can also reduce the risk of depression by balancing chemical receptors in the nervous system.

6. Encourages Respiratory Function

Omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial for seniors who live with respiratory problems such as asthma or COPD. This nutrient can loosen up the airways that normally constrict due to these conditions. Omega-3s also make it easier for seniors to breathe after engaging in moderate exercise or physical therapy.

Make sure your loved one consumes the right amount of omega-3s with help from Senior Stride Home Care of Oshkosh. Our comprehensive stroke, Alzheimer’s, and dementia home care in Oshkosh gives seniors the assistance they need with daily activities such as meal preparation and exercise in order to promote physical and mental wellbeing. Let us customize a care plan for your loved one today when you call 920-717-1767 to set up a free in-home consultation.

5 Peachy Recipes that Benefit Senior Health

Posted on July 21, 2016April 7, 2025 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

If you’re looking for a healthy but delicious snack for your senior loved one’s meals this summer, you might consider peaches. These fruits are not only delicious but contain numerous health benefits. They’re only 35-50 calories a fruit and contain no fat making them a healthy choice. Peaches are also rich in phenols, which are chemicals that act as antioxidants that help reduce obesity-related diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Peaches are also packed with vitamins A and C, which can help regenerate skin tissue and keep skin healthy. Oshkosh senior care providers might consider using some of the following recipes to round out senior diets.

1. Simple Peach Pairings

Don’t be afraid to slice up some peaches and have your senior loved one try them with cream, yogurt, or even cottage cheese. This option works best if you can find fresh peaches from a local farmer’s market as these are often the tastiest to eat as plain fruit. Consider adding a little bit of raw, local honey or a sweetener like Splenda if the peaches are a bit tart.

2. Peach Smoothie

If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy way to serve peaches, a smoothie might be the way to go. Combine one cup of freshly sliced peaches, peach or plain flavored Greek yogurt and protein powder, one cup of milk, and 10-12 crescent ice cubes. Once all the ingredients are together, blend them thoroughly. Be sure to put the ice toward the bottom of the blender and the softer ingredients toward the top. Blend the mixture and serve right away.

3. Rosemary Mustard Pork with Peaches

Season the pork with salt and pepper and grill it on a skillet for about ten minutes on each side. Combine three wedged peaches, ½-cup dry white wine, 1/3-cup light brown sugar, and half a cup of water in a saucepan. Next, add strips of lemon zest to the pan and squeeze in lemon juice. Cover this mixture and cook it over medium-high heat for five to seven minutes. Transfer the peaches to a bowl, but leave the juice in the pan. Add two teaspoons of whole-grain mustard, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of pepper to the juices in the pan. Transfer 1/3 cup of liquid to a small bowl and stir in ¼ teaspoon of chopped rosemary. Take the rosemary liquid and brush it onto the pork, which you should continue grilling until it reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit. While waiting for the meat to finish grilling, simmer the remaining liquid in the saucepan until it gets syrupy. When this happens, return the peaches into the syrup. Slice the pork and cover each slice with a generous helping of the peaches.

4. Grilled Peach Salad with Balsamic Bacon Vinaigrette

Prepare a grill with nonstick spray and cook five slices of bacon in a skillet. Once it’s crisp, remove it and put it on a plate with paper towels. Saute one finely chopped shallot in the bacon grease for added flavor. Stir in one teaspoon of Dijon mustard, ¼-cup balsamic vinegar and one-teaspoon sugar. Add salt and pepper to taste. Next, quarter three large peaches. Brush each side with olive oil and season it with pepper and salt, then grill it for about one to two minutes on each side. Add spinach, sliced red onions, and any other desired greens to a large serving bowl. Add the peaches, the vinaigrette and the chopped bacon and toss it all together.

5. Peach Pancakes

If your senior loved one is a pancake fan, try this take on a sweet classic. In a non-stick bowl, pour two cups of Bisquick mix, two tablespoons of sugar, two teaspoons of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1½ cups of buttermilk and one egg. Whisk the mixture until it is blended well before gently folding in 1½ cup of finely chopped fresh peaches. Heat a skillet to 375 degrees and grease with nonstick spray or vegetable oil. Use a ¼-measuring cup to dole out small pancakes. You will know they are ready to flip when the top of each pancake is covered with many bubbles. Cook until each side is lightly browned. For added fun, serve the pancakes with whipped cream, extra sliced peaches, and a little pinch of cinnamon.

Help your senior loved one maintain a well-balanced diet with these and other beneficial fruits. If your loved one is having trouble preparing meals alone, turn to Senior Stride Home Care of Oshkosh. We provide comprehensive live-in, hourly, and Oshkosh respite care to give seniors the tools they need to adopt healthy lifestyle habits including physical exercise and nutritious diet. Call 920-717-1767 today to set up a care plan with an experienced Care Manager today.

How a Revolutionary Watch Will Help Doctors Treat Parkinson’s

Posted on July 14, 2016April 7, 2025 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

Parkinson’s disease is a degenerative brain condition that affects many elderly people worldwide, making it hard for them to communicate or carry out daily tasks without help from Oshkosh, WI, live-in caregivers. This condition is characterized by tremors, difficulty moving, and dementia. These symptoms often prevent seniors with Parkinson’s from being able to communicate with their doctors and receive adequate treatment. Thankfully, researchers have found a way to overcome this problem. The Personal KinetiGraph is a data logger that looks like a small wristwatch and will help doctors provide optimal treatment for seniors with Parkinson’s.

What Does the Device Do?

The Personal KinetiGraph is a small device that can be easily strapped to a patient’s wrist with or without help from a trusted Oshkosh, WI, senior care provider. Every two minutes, it takes a reading that tracks the movements of the wearer. This device can log all of the tremors, shaking, muscle contractions, and twitching that people with Parkinson’s experience on a daily basis. It also has a button that wearers can press to track when they take their PD medications. It can store up to ten days of data at a time and provides a comprehensive look at everything a Parkinson’s patient experiences.

How Can This Treat Parkinson’s?

Often times, doctors have trouble creating a good treatment plan because they do not have adequate information about their patients. This is because seniors with Parkinson’s may have trouble remembering or talking about their symptoms. The researchers who created the Personal KinetiGraph hope that it will help doctors evaluate the effectiveness of medications taken by their patients. It will allow the doctors to notice trends and patterns associated with movements in order to create the right treatment for each individual case of Parkinson’s. Clinical trials have shown that the device is very effective at improving doctor-patient treatments. For example, one doctor found that a patient’s medication was not working even though the patient thought it was, which enabled the doctor to prescribe a better medication.

Give your loved one the chance to manage PD symptoms at home with help from a reliable home care agency like Senior Stride Home Care of Oshkosh. We provide flexible services such as Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and post-stroke home care in Oshkosh, WI, which enables seniors to safely manage symptoms in the comfort of home. In addition to safety monitoring, our expertly trained caregivers offer medication reminders, transportation to and from appointments, and mobility training. When we help with these and other aspects of home care, it boosts your loved one’s self-esteem and wellbeing. Call us at 920-710-CARE (2273) today to learn more about our comprehensive services and schedule a complimentary consultation over the phone.

5 At-Home Treatments for Shingles

Posted on July 7, 2016April 7, 2025 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

The Varicella zoster virus lies dormant in the body after causing chicken pox. In later years, seniors with weakened immune systems may experience another outbreak in the form of shingles. Along with taking prescription medications, at-home remedies help lessen the severity of the symptoms. Here are a few that Oshkosh caregivers can use to relieve their loved one’s discomfort.

1. OTC Lotions

In addition to drying out the blistered lesions, Caladryl lotion contains antihistamine. The common anti-allergy substance relieves some of the itching associated with the infection. Tea tree oil is another option that acts as a natural antimicrobial agent.

2. Cool Water Baths

Relaxing in the cool water of a bathtub decreases skin temperature and offers some relief from the irritating effects of shingles. After the bath, promptly dry the skin. However, remember to keep towels separate. Wash your loved one’s used towels, clothing and bed linens in hot water to prevent cross-contamination.

3. Cool Moist Compresses

If the outbreak is limited, live-in Oshkosh, WI, caregivers can apply cool, wet towels to the area. Simply wet one or more towels with cool water, wring out the excess moisture and apply directly to the affected areas on your loved one’s skin. Moisten and reapply the towels as needed. Resist the urge to use ice water as this could irritate the skin further.

4. Pain Relieving Medications

When shingles erupts, the rash generally develops along neural pathways on the torso. The constant pain signals transmitted by the affected nerves can become excruciating. Under the guidance of a physician, you can give your senior loved one OTC or prescription-strength pain relief medications to minimize the discomfort caused by the painful rash.

5. Oral Supplements

During an outbreak, some common vitamin supplements have been shown to reduce the duration of the infection. The amino acid L-lysine and vitamin C inhibit the virus from replicating. The recommended dosage for lysine supplements is 1,500 to 3,000 milligrams per day. Vitamin B-12 is another useful vitamin because it protects sensitive nerve tissue. Recommended doses of the vitamin are 1,000 to 2,000 micrograms per day. Check with a doctor to see if this option is beneficial for your loved one.

It may also help to hire a reliable Oshkosh elderly care agency like Senior Stride Home Care to look after your loved one. In addition to helping seniors recover from illnesses like shingles, we provide comprehensive live-in and hourly home care to assist seniors with every aspect of daily life including bathing, grooming, cooking, and cleaning. Speak with a friendly Care Manager today by calling 920-710-CARE (2273). Don’t forget to schedule a no-obligation consultation when you call.

How to Promote Senior Longevity

Posted on June 30, 2016April 7, 2025 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

While aging is a natural process that cannot be avoided, there are many different ways for respite caregivers in Oshkosh to keep their senior loved ones healthy for as long as possible. By considering a few factors, family members can significantly boost the lifespan of an aging adult.

Schedule Routine Doctor Visits

Seniors should have medical checkups on a regular basis. Getting routine checkups can help detect problems before they become serious or life threatening. Seniors taking cardiovascular medications require more frequent monitoring and laboratory tests to ensure that their prescription medications are providing the desired effect.

Meet Nutritional Needs

A diet consisting of mainly lean meats, fruits, vegetables and low-fat dairy products provide the necessary nutrients for seniors while minimizing the chance of gaining excess weight. Many seniors also benefit from taking calcium and vitamin supplements to boost their nutritional intake for bone, blood, and muscle health.

Encourage Mental Stimulation

Dementia caregivers in Oshkosh might encourage seniors to work on crosswords or jigsaw puzzles, play scrabble or take part in other games that require analytical thinking or strategy skills. These activities keep the brain stimulated, delay the onset of dementia and cognitive disorders, and enhance self-esteem and emotional health.

Engage in Physical Activities

A consistent exercise regimen offers cardiovascular, mental and emotional health benefits for seniors. Family members can work with seniors to stay physically active by inviting a loved one to go for a walk, take a yoga class and maintain a flower or vegetable garden. Many retirement communities also offer water aerobic classes that provide the chance to improve balance and muscle endurance without posing a risk of injury to weight bearing joints.

Take Part in Social Engagements

Belonging to a community, having a network of friends and visiting with family members are all opportunities for seniors to have an active social life. Being socially active provides seniors with the chance to stay up to date on current events and fortify bonds with loved ones while bolstering their self-esteem and sense of belonging.

You can also boost your loved one’s longevity with help from Oshkosh, WI, home care agencies like Senior Stride Home Care. Our in-home care enables seniors to live independently while getting the help they need with daily exercise, meal preparation, and transportation to and from medical appointments. Call a friendly Care Manager at 920-710-CARE (2273) today to learn how our services can help your loved one age in place with dignity.

Why Local Chapters of the Alzheimer’s Association Are Splitting from the National Organization

Posted on June 23, 2016April 7, 2025 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

In lieu of recent events taking place within the Alzheimer’s Association, six of the 54 localized affiliate chapters decided to distance themselves from the national office. According to the defected chapters, growing concerns stemmed from various factors, including the possibility of losing functional and operational authority along with financial independence.

Alzheimer’s Association Actions

The national office sought to obtain a 501c merger with all of the affiliate chapters. Although individual chapters were invited to vote on the proposal, the main office passed the merger despite an even 27 to 27-tie vote in favor of and against the merger. This action led some local chapters to believe that their voice was no longer being heard at the top.

Additionally, many local chapters willingly provide the national office with up to 40 percent of their fundraising revenues. Tensions grew when chapters received disclosure of Alzheimer’s Association expenditures. It’s been reported that by 2012, the organization’s CEO was receiving $2.8 million dollars as an annual salary. Staff payroll also increased from $18 million to $45 million. Even more troubling was the fact that monies allocated for Alzheimer’s research declined from $28 million to $13 million.

Additional Chapter Concerns

Given that the voices of individual chapters seemingly went unnoticed during the merger vote, various small chapters are growing increasingly concerned that they may also soon lose authority over funds received locally. Chapter money typically goes where local organizations feel the funds are needed most. Projects include Oshkosh, WI, Alzheimer’s caregiver support programs, outreach and training. Becoming independent from the national organization ensures that monies received will stay within the state or community and benefit the caregivers and Alzheimer’s patients therein.

Individual chapters are also unhappy over having to send clients to the national office’s 1-800 number for information or resources. These chapters prefer having the option of working directly with clients on a more personal level in order to ensure that needy families receive the best service possible.

One of the best resources you can turn to when you care for a senior with Alzheimer’s is Senior Stride Home Care in Oshkosh. We provide premier Alzheimer’s and dementia care designed to stimulate senior cognition, memory, and spatial reasoning skills in the familiarity of home. Additionally, our Alzheimer’s caregivers offer safety monitoring, medication reminders, mobility assistance, and more. Call us today at 920-717-1767 to learn more about our premier Alzheimer’s and dementia home care and schedule a free consultation.

How Muhammad Ali Inspired Us to Thrive in the Face of Adversity

Posted on June 16, 2016April 7, 2025 by Julie Davids PHR, M.O.B.

When you think of inspiring heroes in the modern world, Muhammad Ali may be the first person to come to mind. Ali spent over 30 years advocating for Parkinson’s disease and helped raise millions of dollars for foundations and organizations dedicated to finding a cure. In doing so, he became an inspiration to those with the disease and their caregivers in Oshkosh.

Growing up in Louisville, KY, he always knew that he would one day make a difference. After turning to boxing as a way to escape the poverty around him, he discovered that he had a talent for the sport. His long line of successes in the ring included an Olympic gold medal and several major trophies and awards. Though he loved his fans, Ali wanted them to view him as just a normal guy.

Though Ali announced his diagnosis in 1984, he spent a little time before that out of the limelight. Unlike other celebrities who lent their names to organizations, Ali originally thought fans might look at him differently after hearing he was sick. It wasn’t until 1984 that he was encouraged by his doctor and his wife to go public. Those around him inspired him to once again become a champion fighter we knew and to show his fans that Parkinson’s was a condition they could help cure.

The odds of developing Parkinson’s are fairly low in most people, but it increases dramatically among those who suffered any type of head injury. Ali’s doctors believed that he developed the condition as a result numerous head injuries sustained during his long boxing career. During his time as a Parkinson’s advocate, Ali dedicated his time and energy to spreading Parkinson’s awareness and helping other athletes stay safe in and out of the ring. His work led to the opening the Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center in Phoenix, AZ, which continues to provide outreach, support, and treatments for those with PD. Between his career and charity work, there is no disputing that he truly was the greatest.

In spite of having Parkinson’s, Muhammad Ali managed to live a full and happy life. He encouraged others with PD to do the same. You can give your loved one the support he or she needs to fight Parkinson’s with help from Oshkosh, WI, Senior Stride Home Care. We provide comprehensive home care for seniors with PD that encourages them to live as independently as possible while boosting overall wellbeing. To schedule a free consultation, call 920-710-CARE (2273) today and speak with a knowledgeable Care Manager.