Category: Senior Health

Adopting a healthy lifestyle is one of the best ways for seniors to prevent illnesses and injuries that could shorten their lives. Giving up smoking, eating more vegetables, and exercising more are all things your aging loved one can do now to make up for former bad habits. You can use these tips to help your loved one get motivated for making better lifestyle choices.

1. Plan Small Changes

Starting a major health change can be overwhelming for seniors. For instance, your loved one may not be able to imagine giving up smoking after twenty years or skipping his or her nightly dessert. Make it easier for your loved one to see him or herself actively changing by suggesting a smaller step, such as skipping the after-lunch smoke or trying a fruit dish one night a week instead of dessert. 

Not all seniors are comfortable with the idea of making small changes. Their self-confidence might be affected if they’re unable to walk or move around without assistance. Living with a serious health condition can make it challenging for seniors to age in place. However, they can maintain a higher quality of life with the help of professional live-in care. Oshkosh seniors can benefit from assistance with meal prep, bathing, transportation to the doctor’s office, medication reminders, and much more.

2. Start Tracking Your Loved One’s Goals

Many people have difficulty seeing how far they’ve come, which poses a challenge when they encounter a setback. Encourage your parent to mark down each one of his or her successes on a calendar. Seeing that he or she managed to exercise most of the days in a week may help your loved one stay on track, even if he or she makes a mistake.

3. Provide a Tangible Incentive

Incentives activate the reward center in the brain that makes a person want to continue to establish a habit. These incentives can be anything from a new pair of walking shoes to a special trip to a favorite place. If your loved one responds to rewards, keep them simple. Alternatively, your loved one could work up to a major reward over time, such as a vacation. 

Taking part in social events is an excellent way to encourage seniors to make healthy lifestyle changes. You can accompany your loved one to fun carnivals and even technical workshops that help him or her polish a variety of skills. If your commitments don’t allow you to take part in activities with your loved one, a professional caregiver is in the best position to do the job. Oshkosh elder 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.

4. Have the Physician Give a Warning

Your loved one may brush off your concerns but listen to his or her doctor. If possible, talk to your loved one’s doctor before the appointment about issues you’d like addressed. The physician may also have ideas for helping your loved one adopt healthy lifestyle practices.

5. Offer to Make Lifestyle Changes Together

A team mentality may help when motivation gets low because your loved one might feel accountable for making sure you both stay on track with your goals. For instance, your loved one will be ready to get dressed and go for a walk if you start lacing up your shoes first. This strategy is also a great way to overcome anxiety your loved one might feel about joining a gym or workout class.

6. Make It Fun

A healthy lifestyle doesn’t have to be boring. Try taking your loved one to a new place to walk, or sign him or her up for a senior dance class to add a touch of cardio to the day. You can also experiment with new healthy recipes together in the kitchen and learn strategies for healthy living from your loved one’s professional caregiver. Turning healthy living into a fun and natural part of your day helps you both make better choices together.

Aging adults who require assistance with the tasks of daily living can benefit from reliable in-home care. Oshkosh, WI, families trust Senior Stride Home Care to provide the high-quality care their elderly loved ones need and deserve. Our caregivers are trained to help seniors prevent and manage serious illnesses and encourage them to make healthier decisions as they age. If you have any questions about our premier in-home care, call us at 920-717-1767.

Vision loss remains a major medical issue for seniors. Statistics indicate approximately one-third of older adults develop some form of a serious visual disease by the time they reach 65 years of age. There are several conditions that contribute to visual impairment. However, the disorders may be preventable.

Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration remains a leading cause of visual impairment in adults over the age of 65. Along with the natural aging process, risk factors include genetics and unhealthy lifestyle habits. The disorder is typically diagnosed as being either nonexudative or exudative. Nonexudative is the more common form of the disease, which is further categorized as drusen, or geographic atrophy. 

The drusen form of nonexudative macular degeneration occurs when yellowish-white extracellular deposits develop on the macula. Geographic atrophy involves the development of oval or round atrophied areas on the retina, retinal epithelium, and the underlying choroid. In time, the patches may increase in size or join to create larger affected areas. 

The exudative form of macular degeneration involves the growth of fragile blood vessels on the choroid. The blood vessels often rupture, which causes blood flow in the macula. All of the forms cause blurred vision or other forms of visual distortion. 

Prevention involves eating foods rich in vitamin A and antioxidants. In general, seniors who follow healthy diets are less likely to develop macular degeneration. Older adults must also stop smoking and get more exercise.

Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional in-home care. Oshkosh, WI, 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.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma may be diagnosed as being open-angle or closed angle glaucoma. The problem lies in the inability for fluid within the eye to drain normally. As such, the fluid accumulates and puts pressure on the optic nerve, which causes irreversible damage. 

The risk factors that may lead to glaucoma development include genetics, the aging process, diabetes, and hypertension. Seniors with diabetes or hypertension must adhere to the medication regimen prescribed by their healthcare provider to prevent vascular damage. Living a healthy lifestyle often prevents or reverses diabetes and hypertension.

Consider hiring a caregiver to help your loved one overcome hypertension and lead a healthy life. Oshkosh elder 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.

Cataracts 

Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness in older adults in the United States. The likelihood of developing cataracts increases dramatically over the age of 75. The development of the opacities occurs slowly over time. However, for some, the disorder progresses more quickly. Seniors affected by the disorder experience blurred vision or intense glaring. Risk factors for cataracts include the normal aging process, diabetes, eye injuries, genetics, hypertension, obesity, sun exposure, and steroid use. Older adults can reduce the likelihood of developing cataracts by eliminating the risk factors they have control over.

Diabetic Retinopathy

\Diabetic retinopathy involves hemorrhaging of the blood vessels within or near the retina, which distorts vision. Vision loss occurs secondary to the edema and excess fluid in the eye, which puts pressure on the retina. Blood glucose levels must stay within normal limits to reduce the chance of developing the disorder. Leading a healthy lifestyle may also prevent diabetes.

Vision impairment is just one of the many issues that prevents older adults from living independently. Living with a serious health condition can make it challenging for seniors to age in place. However, they can maintain a higher quality of life with the help of professional live-in care. Oshkosh seniors can benefit from assistance with meal prep, bathing, transportation to the doctor’s office, medication reminders, and much more. To hire a friendly caregiver for your loved one, call Senior Stride Home Care today at 920-717-1767.

The best way to lower lung cancer risk is also the most obvious: stop smoking. However, this isn’t the only way to reduce your senior loved one’s risk of developing lung cancer. There are several safety and lifestyle changes he or she can make to boost respiratory health. Here are five effective ways to lower lung cancer risk in the elderly.

1. Discourage Smoking

To reduce lung cancer risk, your loved one needs to reduce his or her exposure to tobacco. Statistically, only 10 to 15 percent of the people diagnosed with lung cancer have never smoked. Most people with lung cancer are either former smokers or current smokers. If your loved one has given up smoking, that’s a great first step. As soon as smokers quit, their lungs slowly but surely begin to repair the damage done by tobacco. If your loved one is still smoking, there’s still time to quit. Smoking cessation can be especially difficult on seniors, so it’s always a good idea to speak with your parent’s doctor before embarking on a smoking cessation plan.

2. Encourage a Healthy Diet

While staying away from tobacco is one of the best ways to reduce lung cancer risk, following a diet rich in fruits and vegetables and low in fat can also help. Seniors who smoke should be wary of redressing their nutritional deficits with supplements. Studies show that smokers who take vitamin A supplements are more likely to get lung cancer. 

If your loved one does develop lung cancer, he or she may need help to continue living at home. Performing daily tasks while simultaneously managing the symptoms of a serious illness can be challenging for seniors. The Oshkosh live-in care experts at Senior Stride Home Care are available 24/7 to make sure your loved one has the care he or she needs to remain safe and comfortable while aging in place.

3. Reduce Exposure to Known Pollutants

Most of the known environmental causes of lung cancer are airborne. While people usually know when they’re being exposed to cigarette smoke, other pollutants are more insidious, including radon, a radioactive gas that can damage lung cells. Seniors who spent most of their adult lives employed in the construction or chemical industries may have been exposed to toxins such as asbestos, tar, chromium, soot, or nickel. Even everyday air pollution such as the fumes from diesel engines can contribute to the development of lung cancer. To protect your loved one from environmental toxins, make sure he or she isn’t being exposed to dangerous substances at work or at home. You can find simple DIY air quality tests at local stores, or you can hire a specialist to perform more extensive tests.

4. Provide Purified Water

If your loved one uses a private water source such as a well, make sure the water has been tested recently. Public water sources are treated to remove harmful toxins, but private water sources may contain unhealthy elements. For example, drinking water that contains an unusually high level of arsenic increases the risk of developing lung cancer. 

Being a caregiver often involves overseeing maintenance of the senior’s home, and the accumulated responsibilities can be exhausting. There are a variety of reasons family caregivers should consider respite care. Oshkosh, WI, families often have additional responsibilities that make it more challenging to provide the care their senior loved ones need and deserve. A professional respite caregiver can take over your important caregiving duties, allowing you more time to focus on yourself.

5. Encourage Exercise

Cardiovascular exercise strengthens the lungs, making it a healthy habit for seniors who want to prevent lung cancer. Former smokers may want to ease into an exercise regimen. Trying too much too soon may overstress the lungs. Once your loved one has found a cardiovascular exercise he or she enjoys, whether it’s power walking or water aerobics, he or she should try to do it three or four times a week.

A diagnosis of lung cancer is difficult for the entire family. If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Senior Stride Home Care, a leading provider of home care Oshkosh, WI, families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s. To learn about our high-quality in-home care services, give us a call at 920-717-1767 today.

Eczema is a type of skin inflammation that results in itchy, reddened skin with tiny bumps or thickened scales. The condition is common in those with weakened immune systems, and it frequently occurs among seniors. Living with eczema is uncomfortable, so it’s important to find ways to manage the symptoms and keep the eczema from flaring up again. If your senior loved one has eczema, try these solutions to treat the condition.

1. Avoid Triggers

There are many different triggers that can cause eczema to flare up. Keep an eye on your loved one to find out what may be causing the eczema. For some seniors, it may be contact with pollen, certain soaps, eggs, soy, wheat, or milk. Identify any sensitivities your loved one might have and make sure you help him or her avoid them. Stress can be a trigger as well, so try to keep your loved one as calm and relaxed as possible.

Older adults may require help avoiding known triggers and preparing appropriate meals. Living independently is important for seniors who want to maintain a high quality of life. For some, this simply means receiving help with tasks that have become more challenging to manage over time. Even when families have the best intentions, they may not have the time to provide the care their elderly loved ones need and deserve. If your loved one needs help for a few hours a day or a few days a week, reach out to Senior Stride Home Care, a trusted provider of respite care Oshkosh seniors can depend on.

2. Apply a Soothing Cream

When your loved one is having eczema attack, one of the most effective treatments is a medicated cream. You can talk to the doctor about prescribing a calcineurin inhibitor cream, which soothes the skin and halts an eczema attack before it worsens. These creams can only be used for a short time, so they’re often used to stop an eczema attack before finding other ways to treat it.

3. Take Immunosuppressive Medication

Eczema is caused by an overactive immune system, and one method of treating it is to take a medication that moderates the immune system response. Common options include azathioprine, cyclosporine, and methotrexate. Some of these medications are also used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, so they may have multiple benefits for seniors. However, seniors have a higher risk of getting sick while taking immunosuppressants, so they may not be advisable for everyone.

Not every senior has the same care needs, which means they don’t all need the same type of senior care. Oshkosh families can rely on Senior Stride Home Care to provide individualized care plans 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.

4. Try Light Therapy

Light therapy can be effective for seniors who don’t respond to medicated creams. This type of therapy is simply exposing the skin to UV rays. You can use a light box to create artificial UV rays, or you can encourage your loved one to sit in the sun for a few minutes each day. The key to using light therapy is consistency. It can take a month or two of consistent light exposure to start reducing the severity of the eczema outbreak.

5. Be Gentle to the Skin

Eczema often flares up after some sort of irritation to the skin, so you need to be very careful with your loved one’s skin even when he or she isn’t having an eczema attack. Try to avoid using excessively hot water, scented soaps, or detergents with fragrances. Always keep skin clean, dry it well after showers, and gently pat a fragrance-free moisturizer into the skin. Excessively dry skin tends to cause eczema flare-ups, so some seniors might benefit from a humidifier.

Helping your loved one manage eczema or another health condition may be a difficult task. If you are the primary caregiver for a senior family member and are looking for professional senior home care, Oshkosh Senior Stride Home Care should be your top choice. Our dedicated and compassionate caregivers are committed to helping older adults manage their health and enjoy a higher quality of life in the golden years. To schedule an in-home consultation, call us at 920-717-1767 today.

Keeping an older adult’s mouth healthy is just as important as caring for the rest of his or her body. When seniors maintain good oral hygiene, they can reduce their risk of developing health conditions such as heart disease and Alzheimer’s. Here are some of the things seniors can do to maintain better dental hygiene.

Brush Teeth Daily

To make brushing and flossing easier, seniors should invest in electric toothbrushes, floss holders, and other alternatives that can make a big difference with their oral hygiene. Special bristle patterns can also make it easier for seniors to brush their teeth, especially adults living with arthritis and other bone diseases. Your loved one needs to use fluoride to prevent decay, damaged gums, and broken teeth. Make sure your loved one brushes his or her teeth two times per day and flosses daily.

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

Eat Healthy

Nutrient-rich foods can promote healthy teeth in older adults. Calcium is one of the best minerals for seniors because it helps them build bones and provides structural support. The more calcium your loved one consumes, the stronger his or her jawbone will become. Foods like salmon, broccoli, cheese, and low-fat milk can harden the enamel and increase bone density. Vitamin C is also good for dental hygiene because it can strengthen the soft tissue in the mouth, protecting against gum disease and tooth loss.

Stop Smoking

When seniors smoke, their odds of experiencing bad breath, plaque and tartar buildup, tooth discoloration, inflammation of the salivary glands, tooth loss, and gum disease increases. Encourage your loved one to stop smoking immediately, and help him or her develop healthy habits to combat the urge to smoke, such as exercising, eating healthy snacks, taking up arts and crafts, or learning something new. In addition to poor dental health, smoking can also increase the risk of developing lung disease, blood clots, and memory loss.

Older adults living with dementia need help performing the tasks of daily living. 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.

Use Salt Water Rinse

Although your loved one may be accustomed to a traditional water rinse, adding salt may enhance his or her dental hygiene. Just add a teaspoon of salt to the water to prevent bacteria from growing in your loved one’s mouth. The salt water will also increase your loved one’s pH balance.

Attend Regular Dentist Visits

Even with the best dental care, seniors still need to have regular exams to determine if they are at risk of developing conditions such as oral cancer. A dentist can test for these issues and give your loved one advice on how to maintain good oral health in the senior years. Catching these diseases early on could also lead to successful treatments.

In Oshkosh, home care agencies can be a great boon to seniors. With the help of the caregivers at Senior Stride Home Care, your aging loved one can lead a happier and healthier life. We offer a revolutionary program called the Balanced Care Method, which encourages seniors to eat nutritious foods, exercise and socialize regularly, and focus on other lifestyle factors that increase life expectancy. To create a customized in-home care plan, call us at 920-717-1767.

Hip replacement surgery is not something to be taken lightly. The idea of a prolonged recovery and loss of independence, even if it’s only temporary, may seem daunting. If your aging loved one is facing hip replacement surgery, the following tips can make his or her recovery as easy as possible. 

Plan Ahead for Support 

Plan to have someone with your loved one around the clock for the first few days he or she is at home. Your loved one will also need assistance with cleaning, preparing meals, running errands, and performing other tasks for the first couple of weeks, so you may want to enlist family and friends to help or arrange for a home caregiver. 

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.

Don’t Expect to Recover According to a Set Schedule 

Everyone heals at their own pace. Your loved one’s overall health, commitment to physical therapy, and mental state can all affect the speed of recovery. Be supportive and encouraging, but don’t push your loved one harder or faster than his or her personal limit or what can reasonably be expected from a person of his or her age, condition, and stage of recovery. It is also important to remember that surgery takes an emotional toll as well as a physical toll. It is not unusual for a person to experience temporary changes in mood following a major trauma like surgery. These types of changes may be especially apparent if your loved one has dementia or another cognitive disorder. 

Adapt the Living Space

Start by decluttering your loved one’s home and removing rugs and other trip hazards. Try to create a comfortable spot where your loved one has a favorite chair, TV, and other items he or she may need within easy reach. Accessibility and mobility aids such as a walker, raised toilet seat, and grab bars in the bathroom can also make recovery easier and safer. 

Some seniors need occasional assistance at home, and oftentimes the family members who take care of them need time away to run errands, take a nap, go to work, or take a vacation. Oshkosh respite care experts from Senior Stride Home Care are available on an as-needed basis, giving your family peace of mind that your loved one will remain safe and comfortable while you relax or focus on other important responsibilities.

Don’t Forget the 90-Degree Rule

Until advised by a doctor, your loved one should avoid bending more than 90 degrees from the hip. Make sure your loved one does not: 

• Sit on low or soft chairs or sofas
  
• Lean forward while sitting
  
• Cross his or her legs while sitting or lying down
  
• Turn his or her feet in or out when standing
  

Remain Active

Engaging in regular physical activity will make the new hip stronger and more flexible. Your loved one’s doctor or physical therapist can recommend exercises and activities that are safe for the first few weeks following surgery. Once your loved one has recovered, low-impact activities such as walking and swimming can help him or her stay fit without putting too much stress on the hip.

If your elderly loved one is living with a serious medical condition and needs help managing the tasks of daily living, reach out to Senior Stride Home Care, an Oshkosh senior care agency you can trust. Our caregivers are available 24/7, there are no hidden fees in our contracts, and we offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on all of our in-home care services. Call one of our Care Managers at 920-717-1767 to learn about how a professional caregiver can benefit your senior loved one.

All of the body’s systems rely on the digestive system for the nutrients needed to function properly. Every cell throughout the body must receive the appropriate amounts of nutrients, water, and oxygen to survive and thrive. Issues that affect the gastrointestinal system affect other body systems as well as physical and mental health in different ways. The following article examines why elderly people need healthy digestive systems.

The gastrointestinal system contains trillions of bacteria that are necessary to break down foods, create vitamins, neutralize toxins, and regulate hormones. Disease processes that are distant from the system might occur secondary to digestive issues. Arthritis, eczema, and psoriasis are all thought to have origins from gut disturbances. Researchers from University of California, San Francisco published an article in a 2017 issue of Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, which indicated a link exists between digestive issues and the development of autoimmune disorders. 

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 elder care. Oshkosh families trust in Senior Stride Home Care to help their elderly loved ones age in place safely and comfortably.

Antibiotics, illness, a lack of sleep, poor food choices, and stress affect the digestive tract, which may damage mucus-producing cells, causing further illness. In addition to following a proper diet and getting an adequate amount of sleep, getting a sufficient amount of physical exercise also affects the digestive system. Exercise strengthens the cardiovascular system and enhances blood circulation, which is also necessary for gut function. 

Approximately 80 percent of the body’s immune system is found in the gastrointestinal system. When an issue develops in the gastric tract, the body’s natural immunity comes to the aid of the dilemma. However, in doing so, inflammation occurs, which can affect various regions and body systems. If the immune system becomes impaired, seniors are more susceptible to infectious diseases. Damage to the protective lining enables bacteria to cause ulcerations and further inflammation. 

Living with a serious health condition can make it challenging for seniors to age in place. However, they can maintain a higher quality of life with the help of professional 24-hour care. Oshkosh seniors can benefit from assistance with meal prep, bathing, transportation to the doctor’s office, medication reminders, and much more.

The gut contains more nerve cells than the central nervous system. For this reason, scientists refer to the gastrointestinal tract as the second brain. As such, the neurons throughout the digestive region are responsible for producing and releasing serotonin and other neurotransmitters. If the neurons become damaged or the messages are not transmitted properly, emotional or cognitive disorders are likely to develop. Older adults may experience depression or behavioral changes because neurotransmitters are not able to travel to the brain. 

Once food and fluids enter the gastrointestinal system, various chemical processes and microbial activity break down the substances into usable nutrients. The vitamins and minerals are then absorbed through the lining and pass into the bloodstream, which disperses them throughout the body. Toxins are neutralized and leftover substances pass out of the digestive tract. Any action that interferes with the digestion processes has the potential for causing illness elsewhere in the body.

Seniors can boost their digestive health by making healthy lifestyle choices such as exercising and eating nutritious meals. If your elderly loved one needs help maintaining healthy habits, consider hiring a professional caregiver. Families can rely on Senior Stride Home Care Oshkosh to provide dedicated and compassionate in-home caregivers who are trained in our holistic Balanced Care Method, which was designed to encourage seniors to exercise often, eat nutritious foods, maintain strong social ties, and focus on other lifestyle factors that promote longevity. Call us at 920-717-1767 to hire a professional caregiver for your aging loved one.

Heart disease is a serious health issue for women, yet most women do not believe it is a dangerous threat. Older women who have poor heart health are at a higher risk of strokes and heart attacks. Here are some steps elderly women can take to boost their heart health. 

1. Exercise 

Regular physical activity can help senior women lose weight, which could lower the risk of developing coronary heart disease. It can also help them control their arterial blood pressure, leading to better cardiac function and postponing a degenerative process that is responsible for heart cell damage. As a result, the heart functions normally and the risk of developing heart disease decreases. Some of the best exercises for senior women who want to boost their heart health include:

• Swimming
  
• Walking
  
• Cycling 

If your loved one requires help maintaining a regular exercise routine, consider hiring a professional caregiver. In Oshkosh, Wisconsin, caregiver agencies can be a great boon to seniors. With the help of the caregivers at Senior Stride Home Care, your aging loved one can lead a happier and healthier life. We offer a revolutionary program called the Balanced Care Method, which encourages seniors to eat nutritious foods, exercise and socialize regularly, and focus on other lifestyle factors that increase life expectancy.

2. Monitor Blood Pressure and Cholesterol Levels 

Cholesterol-filled plaque affects more women than men, increasing their risk of heart attacks. In women, the plaque is more likely to erode in the vessel wall instead of bursting, which leads to smaller, non-fatal heart attacks. Smoking puts women at a higher risk of developing cholesterol-filled plaque buildup. Poor eating and exercising habits can also increase the odds of blood clots. To prevent plaque buildup and blood clots, senior women need to stop smoking, eat healthy, exercise, and check their blood pressure and cholesterol levels regularly. There are medical devices they can use to ensure their blood pressure and cholesterol remain at healthy levels. If not, they need to seek medical attention immediately to protect their heart health. 

3. Cut Out Sodium

Instead of cooking with salt, senior women need to use herbs and spices when preparing their meals. The more sodium they consume, the higher their blood pressure will be. As a result, more strain is placed on the heart and arteries. Most herbs and spices are full of antioxidants that fight the free radicals that damage heart cells.

The best spices and herbs for women to use in their senior years are:

• Ginger
  
• Turmeric
  
• Garlic
  
• Cinnamon
  
• Basil
  
• Cumin 
  

4. Engage in Social Activities 

Being around other people can reduce the risk of boredom and loneliness for senior women. Instead of being sad and depressed, they can be happy and laugh more. Laughter is one of the easiest ways to keep the heart healthy. When seniors laugh, their blood flow increases and their blood pressure rises. However, feelings of sadness and anxiety can cause their blood pressure to drop to unhealthy levels. Participating in social activities allows positive endorphins to be released throughout the body, which can boost physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing.

For families living in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, respite care can be a wonderful solution when their aging loved ones need companionship and socialization a few hours a week or just need minor assistance with daily household tasks. At Senior Stride Home Care, we thrive on helping seniors maintain their independence while living in the comfort of home.

5. Track Symptoms of Heart Valve Disease

Heart valve issues are common among older women. To prevent these issues, women should know the signs and begin making healthy lifestyle choices immediately. Knowing the symptoms allows them to seek immediate medical attention. Some of the most common symptoms associated with heart valve disease are: 

• Shortness of breath
  
• Swollen ankles
  
• Loss of consciousness 
  
• Chest pain

If your loved one needs help maintaining a healthy lifestyle, consider hiring a professional caregiver. In Oshkosh, 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. To create a comprehensive in-home care plan for your elderly loved one, call one of our professional Care Managers at 920-717-1767 today.

As people age, they may be more likely to develop chronic illnesses and pain. While many medical conditions can be managed by prescription medications, they are not without side effects. It is therefore important to try and implement complementary or alternative therapies such as yoga into an older person’s therapeutic care plan. Here are four ways yoga makes seniors healthier.

1. Facilitates Effective Breathing Patterns

Chronic respiratory disease, issues with posture, and degenerative spine disorders can lead to poor lung function and difficulty breathing. Participating in a regular yoga program can enhance breathing function by increasing oxygen flow in the respiratory system. Since yoga is a low-impact exercise, it is better tolerated by people affected by chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or fluid in the lungs.

The deep breathing involved with yoga can help seniors keep several health conditions at bay. Living with a serious health condition can make it challenging for seniors to age in place. However, they can maintain a higher quality of life with the help of professional live-in care. Oshkosh seniors can benefit from assistance with meal prep, bathing, transportation to the doctor’s office, medication reminders, and much more.

2. Enhances Flexibility

Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis, and certain autoimmune disorders can lead to stiff, painful joints and muscles, which can make it difficult to complete activities of daily living. Yoga, like other low-impact exercises, promotes flexibility while lowering the risk for injury. Seniors who regularly practice yoga feel stronger and less likely to experience instability and an unsteady gait when ambulating. Those participating in yoga programs may notice they need less pain medication to manage their chronic conditions, and in some cases, they can stop taking their medications altogether.

Seniors are more likely to exercise if they have a trusted caregiver to motivate them. An Oshkosh caregiver can help your elderly loved one manage his or her health in a variety of ways. If your loved one needs encouragement to exercise more often, eat healthier foods, or socialize on a regular basis, an in-home caregiver can address these and many other health-related concerns.

3. Curtails Anxiety

Seniors can greatly benefit from the anti-anxiety effects of yoga. In certain people, yoga may be even more effective than anti-anxiety medications. Seniors are more likely to experience adverse reactions and side effects from psychotropic medications. Certain side effects can have serious health consequences such as an irregular heartbeat, diminished renal function, dizziness, and electrolyte imbalances. In addition to anxiety, many seniors experience depression. Advancing age, chronic illnesses, constant pain, and loneliness can trigger feelings of despair and sadness. Mild forms of exercise such as yoga promote the release of certain “feel-good” chemicals in the brain, known as endorphins. When endorphins are released into the bloodstream, anxious or depressed seniors enjoy feelings of calmness and wellbeing. Yoga can also dampen adrenaline surges, which raise the risk for panic and anxiety attacks and contribute to systemic inflammation. 

4. Lowers Blood Pressure 

Yoga can also help seniors maintain healthy blood pressure. Hypertension becomes more common as people get older, and it is one of the primary causes of cardiovascular disease, stroke, and chronic renal disease. Yoga reduces the effects of oxidative stress and free radicals, and it is also a potent stress-reliever. Chronic stress has been shown to be a contributing factor in the development of high blood pressure. In combination with prescribed medications, nutritional interventions, and weight loss, yoga can be an important component of your loved one’s plan to stave off hypertension.

If your loved one needs help and supervision to perform yoga but you are not available to assist him or her, consider hiring a professional caregiver. Oshkosh elderly 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. Call Senior Stride Home Care at 920-717-1767, speak with one of our professional Care Managers, and create a high-quality care plan for your elderly loved one.

The beginning of the new year is a great time for seniors to start making positive changes that can enhance their quality of life. Family caregivers can help their senior loved ones come up with New Year’s resolutions that benefit their physical, emotional, and mental health. Here are a few ideas to get family caregivers started. 

1. Stay Active Every Day

Getting some type of physical activity every day helps seniors stay in shape physically, and it can also boost their emotional health. Exercise reduces the risk of several health complications and releases endorphins that can help seniors feel happier and calmer. Caregivers can help by going for walks with their loved one or assisting with workout routines as needed.

Getting active is one of the many ways elderly people can boost their health and wellbeing. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional elderly care. Oshkosh, WI, 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.

2. Do Brain Activities

Giving the brain a workout on a regular basis can boost mental and emotional health. Doing crossword puzzles and other activities that challenge the mind enhances cognitive function. Seniors with dementia or Alzheimer’s can benefit the most from doing brain activities. 

3. Practice Better Sleep Hygiene

Being able to get restful sleep becomes more difficult as seniors age, but it’s an important part of staying healthy. Seniors can take steps to enhance sleep quality in the new year, such as getting a more comfortable mattress and staying awake during the day instead of taking a nap.

4. Look into Volunteer Opportunities

Doing volunteer work can help seniors stay socially active. This kind of work can boost emotional and mental health. Caregivers can help their loved ones find local volunteer opportunities that are suitable for their age. 

5. Choose Healthier Desserts

Limiting sugar intake in the new year can help seniors manage chronic health conditions better and maintain good health. Less sugar in the diet can also enhance their mood. Seniors can opt for healthier choices for desserts, such as fresh fruit or dark chocolate. 

6. Take Up a Hobby

Having a hobby to focus on gives seniors a way to put their creativity to use or learn something new, which can enhance their mental and emotional health. Seniors can try an older hobby they haven’t done in years or take up a new one such as photography or painting. 

7. Schedule Regular Checkups and Screenings

Going for a routine wellness visit and having all recommended screenings done can help seniors maintain their health in the new year. Caregivers can help their loved ones schedule these appointments and ensure they attend them throughout the year. 

Taking your senior loved one to medical appointments and accomplishing other caregiving duties may be challenging without assistance. Families who find it difficult to care for their aging loved ones without assistance can benefit greatly from professional respite care. Oshkosh, Wisconsin, 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.

8. Call an Old Friend

Seniors who have lost touch with friends over the years can benefit from contacting them again. Spending time with others is an important part of maintaining good mental and emotional health as seniors get older. Interacting with others prevents loneliness and lowers the risk of depression.

Achieving New Year’s resolutions can be challenging for seniors, especially if they can’t manage day-to-day activities on their own. If your senior loved one needs hourly or live-in care, Oshkosh Senior Stride Home Care can help. Our caregivers can assist with exercise and mobility, prepare nutritious meals, provide timely medication reminders, and help with a wide array of other important daily tasks. To hire a professional caregiver, call us at 920-717-1767 today.