Category: Senior Health

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Identifying prediabetes in seniors is important for preventing it from progressing to type 2 diabetes. In the early stages, prediabetes can mimic other disorders and have mild symptoms that are easy to overlook. Being aware of the following symptoms of prediabetes allows family caregivers to take prompt action to protect their senior loved ones’ health. 

1. Blurry Vision

Fluctuations in blood sugar levels can affect a senior’s vision and lead to general blurriness, difficulty focusing, and other issues. When this occurs, seniors need to omit sugary foods from their diet and include proteins such as nuts, lean meat, and seeds.

2. Increased Thirst

The body gets rid of extra glucose by making more urine, which could lead to dehydration. Make sure your loved one avoids sugary drinks such as soda and alcohol, which can raise blood sugar levels and increase dehydration. Seniors should instead drink plenty of water to rehydrate their bodies.

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. Trust Senior Stride Home Care to help your elderly loved one age in place safely and comfortably.

3. Slower Healing Times

High blood sugar levels also affect a senior’s ability to heal. The risk of infection increases when minor wounds don’t heal. Seniors in the prediabetes stage sometimes mistake slower healing times as a sign of normal aging. However, it’s not normal for a minor wound such as a paper cut to turn into a festering sore weeks later.

4. Extreme Fatigue

Prediabetes may cause insulin resistance in aging adults. When this happens, the body is no longer able to turn glucose into energy, which can make seniors feel extremely tired. To stave off fatigue, your loved one may need to monitor his or her glucose levels throughout the day and make changes to his or her diet and exercise routine.

Families who find it difficult to care for their aging loved ones without assistance can benefit greatly from professional respite care. Oshkosh, WI, family caregivers who need a break from their caregiving duties can turn to Senior Stride Home Care. Using our proprietary Balanced Care Method, our respite caregivers can encourage your loved one to eat well, exercise regularly, get plenty of mental and social stimulation, and focus on other lifestyle factors that promote longevity.

5. Unexplained Weight Gain or Loss

Many seniors would love to lose a few pounds without even trying. However, getting thinner combined with these other symptoms could point to prediabetes. The body will begin to burn fat to combat the lack of energy that comes from blood glucose. Alternatively, seniors may gain weight if they experience hunger in response to low blood sugar levels. Following a well-balanced diet and exercise plan could help your loved one control his or her weight and reverse prediabetes in its early stages.

If your elderly loved one needs help maintaining a high quality of life while aging in place, reach out to Senior Stride Home Care, a trusted provider of Oshkosh homecare. Our caregivers provide transportation to and from medical appointments and social events, nutritious meal preparation, assistance with daily exercise, and help with everyday tasks like bathing, grooming, and light housekeeping. Call us at 920-717-1767 to create a customized in-home care plan.

Many bodily functions gradually decrease with age, including vision. However, there are a number of ways to boost eyesight and delay the onset of visual impairment in the senior years. 

Eat Healthy Foods

Orange and yellow vegetables, dark leafy greens, and egg yolks provide the antioxidants needed to reduce the risk of developing macular degeneration. Capers, garlic, onions, and shallots are rich sources of cysteine, lecithin, and sulfur, which protect the lenses of the eyes from cataracts and reverse night blindness. The anthocyanin found in blueberries, goji berries, grapes, and other berries has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Berries also supply the vitamins and minerals that protect vision. Cod, mackerel, salmon, and sardines provide the fatty acid known as DHA, which promotes the health of cell membranes. Oily fish are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which ensure healthy vascular function and blood circulation. 

Consider hiring a professional caregiver if your loved one needs help preparing healthy meals. In-home 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.

Perform Visual Exercises 

Performing certain eye exercises each day strengthens the muscles that control eye movement, which increases visual acuity and prevents macular degeneration. Simple exercises include rolling the eyes clockwise and then counterclockwise 10 times in the morning, at night before bedtime, or when experiencing eye fatigue. Another exercise would be to hold a pen or pencil approximately six inches from the nose, slowly move the object to arm’s length while maintaining focus, and repeat the process 10 times. Warming the eyes encourages blood flow. Seniors can rub the palms of their hands together until they feel warm, position a hand over each eye for five seconds, and repeat the process three times. 

Protect the Eyes from the Sun 

Although most people have firsthand experience with painful sunburns, few realize the eyes are also susceptible to damage from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Whenever older adults venture outside during the daytime, they should wear sunglasses designed to block both UVA and UVB rays. Otherwise, chronic sun exposure could lead to cataract formation and other eye-related issues. 

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

Ensure Sufficient Sleep

Seniors need seven to nine hours of sleep every night. Restful sleep enables the entire body to relax, perform cellular repairs, and recover. An inadequate amount of sleep can lead to health conditions such as weakened vision. Throughout the course of the day, older adults should close their eyes and rest for approximately 10 minutes for every hour spent reading, watching TV, or sitting in front of a computer. During this time, seniors might also try placing a slice of cucumber over each eye to provide cooling relief. 

Get Routine Eye Exams 

Older adults need to undergo annual eye exams to ensure their vision remains stable. Eye examinations determine if seniors need vision correction. Routine evaluations are also needed to rule out the possibility of glaucoma development. If an eye doctor finds the disorder early, appropriate treatment can prevent its progression.

Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional elder care. Oshkosh, Wisconsin, 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. To hire a professionally trained caregiver for your parent, give us a call at 920-717-1767 today.

Old age can cause many dental issues, including dry mouth, gum disease, tooth loss, and weakened teeth. Therefore, it’s important for your senior loved one to remain up to date on dental care and maintain oral hygiene. Here are a few ways seniors can keep their teeth, gums, and mouths as healthy as possible.

Brush Twice Daily

It can be difficult for seniors to practice good oral hygiene because they might forget to brush and floss on a regular basis. The difficulty could be attributed to physical problems such as Parkinson’s or arthritis, which can make it challenging to use a toothbrush and floss properly. Therefore, seniors may need help from family caregivers to keep their mouths clean. For maximum cleanliness, the American Dental Association recommends people of all ages brush twice a day for two minutes with toothpaste that contains fluoride. It’s also important to use an antibacterial mouthwash and dental floss once a day to clean any tiny crevices that were missed during brushing. It may be helpful for an aging adult to use an ergonomic toothbrush or water flosser.

Seniors with cognitive decline due to Alzheimer’s or dementia may sometimes forget to complete their oral hygiene routines. 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.

Keep Dentures Clean

Some seniors have dentures to replace missing teeth. Keeping their dentures clean can prevent bacteria from flourishing within the mouth, which can cause bad breath and illness. After each meal, dentures should be rinsed thoroughly. As with teeth, dentures need to be brushed twice a day. However, seniors should use a special denture cleaning paste instead of toothpaste, which might abrade dentures. At night, dentures should be soaked in a denture solution.

Protect Against Dry Mouth

Elderly people who take certain medications are prone to dry mouth. Due to the lack of saliva, bacteria in the mouth can multiply and lead to cavities. Talk to your loved one’s doctor or dentist about possible causes and treatments for dry mouth. Encourage your loved one to stay hydrated, use moistening mouthwashes, and avoid substances that cause dry mouth, such as alcohol.

Practicing good oral hygiene is an important daily task some seniors can’t always accomplish on their own. 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 senior home care. Oshkosh Senior Stride Home Care provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives.

Get Balanced Nutrition

A balanced diet also helps seniors keep their teeth and gums healthy. In addition to boosting overall health, a nutritious diet helps the immune system function properly, reducing the risk of oral infections. Calcium, vitamin D, and other essential nutrients are necessary to keep teeth, bones, muscles, and connective tissues healthy.

Visit the Dentist

Most seniors with good oral health should go to the dentist every six months for routine cleanings and checkups. However, seniors with gum disease or other oral issues may need to see their dentists more regularly. Even if a senior thinks his or her mouth is clean, dentist visits are very important because a dentist or oral hygienist can notice any issues and recommend treatment before the problems become serious.

Some seniors may not be able to take proper care of their teeth and gums due to chronic health conditions. There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to address if their families opt for professional homecare. You can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep your loved one safe and comfortable while aging in place. Senior Stride Home Care can be your trusted partner in caregiving for your aging loved one. Contact one of our experienced Care Managers today at 920-717-1767 to learn more about our reliable in-home care services. 

Losing balance and falling can be a scary experience. Falls can result in fractures, broken limbs, or head injuries. Falling can be risky for anyone, but especially for seniors who have osteoporosis or brittle bones that break easily. Treatment for fractures or broken bones can require lengthy hospitalization and rehabilitation. Seniors who live alone may fall and lie helpless for hours or days before help arrives. Knowing what leads to balance issues can help older adults take steps to avoid falls.

Diabetic Neuropathy

A complication of type 2 diabetes, diabetic neuropathy is a type of nerve damage that affects the feet, legs, and other parts of the body. Symptoms of the condition include pain and numbness that make it difficult to walk. When the sensation in the feet is severely impaired, it can be challenging for individuals with diabetic neuropathy to maintain their balance while walking. 

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 home care. Trust Senior Stride Home Care to help your elderly loved one age in place safely and comfortably.

Inner Ear Issues

The inner ear, specifically the vestibular system that impacts balance, can become infected when an older adult has an upper respiratory ailment or a virus. Problems in the vestibular system often lead to vertigo, a condition that causes an individual to experience dizziness or what feels like the room spinning. Vertigo makes a person feel off-balance.

Blood Pressure Issues & Stroke

High blood pressure can cause an aging adult to feel dizzy. When blood pressure drops too low, an individual may feel disoriented and lightheaded. High or low blood pressure can interfere with balance, putting an aging adult at risk for falling. Older adults who have had strokes are also at risk for balance problems. They may experience dizzy spells and weakness in their limbs that can result in unsteady gaits.

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 24-hour care. Oshkosh seniors can benefit from assistance with meal prep, bathing, transportation to the doctor’s office, medication reminders, and much more.

Medication Side Effects

Medications can affect an individual’s balance. Medicines can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and inner ear issues, all of which can interfere with balance. Taking multiple medications can cause a synergistic effect in which one drug intensifies the effect of another. Taking too much medication can also interfere with balance.

Physical Limitations

Chronic conditions that limit movement can cause individuals to lose balance. Sudden pain, stiffness, and joint problems that affect an aging adult’s range of motion can make it difficult to stand or walk without losing balance. Individuals who have had hip or knee replacements may have difficulties adjusting to the prosthetics, which can cause them to lose their balance and fall. Muscle weakness that occurs when seniors become inactive is also a balance issue that can increase their risk of falling.

Vision Impairment

Limited vision puts aging adults at risk for balance issues. Cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration can make it difficult to see clearly. Eyeglasses that are no longer effective can interfere with balance. Stairs, uneven floors, and floor covering designs can cause seniors to lose their balance when depth perception is a problem.

Balance issues, no matter what the cause, can make it difficult for seniors to safely handle the tasks of daily living. 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. Call Senior Stride Home Care at 920-717-1767 to learn more about our flexible and customizable senior care plans.