Get active for health and happiness It’s not just you – inactivity naturally increases with age. In fact, by age 75, approximately one in three men and one in two women engage in absolutely no physical activity. This can be equally as frustrating for a senior as it is for their caregiver, especially if you’re a long-distance caregiver.   Even those who were active in their earlier lives fall out of the habit – but there are ways to be an active senior. It ultimately begins with a personal decision to make the effort. It can also take some creativity by a caregiver to engage their loved one in fun and unique ways to get exercise despite any physical limitations.   Take small steps that [...]

The tell-tale signs of endocarditis   At approximately 29,000 cases each year (according to The International Heart Institute of Montana), endocarditis, generally speaking, is a discriminant disease, primarily affecting those presenting with certain conditions. While the general risk might be low, the risks factors are a little more common – and the aging population may be more susceptible to the condition.   Endocarditis, as the name suggests, is the inflammation of the inner lining of the heart, known as the endocardium. The malady is typically caused by a bacterial infection, but it can also be related to fungi and other microbiological invaders.   The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute cites four conditions that contribute to an increased risk of endocarditis.   Congenital heart defects [...]

The pluses of domestic help for heroes   We believe everyone is worthy of care, especially our senior citizens. And few would argue with the idea that our veterans are particularly deserving. After all, they gave their time, skills and courage to ensure we enjoy a better quality of life.   Here in Florida, we have one of the highest military veteran populations in America, and a veteran by his or her very nature is used to giving, not taking. It can be especially hard for them to be in a situation where they are reliant on others. However, therein lies the key to helping senior veterans open up to the benefits of home care. Home care is about the kind of teamwork driven by [...]

Especially important for seniors, these tips are good for everyone   Here’s a startling statistic: Every year in America, about 18,000 people die from injuries suffered in their home. And around a third of those are related to falls. While anyone can take a nasty fall, older people are the ones who are most likely to get seriously injured. This is why the right precautions are vital. To avoid being another statistic, here are seven measures to take: Get rid of tripping hazards   Unless a home is very new, there are almost certainly things people could trip over. These might include the edge of a loose carpet, a protruding floorboard, or maybe even a nail that could snag a dress or pant leg. Remove [...]

How proper planning can protect seniors and their families   It isn't surprising that the majority of us aren't prepared with planning our wills and executing our estates. Preparation means thinking about the worst, and these matters go unattended for 60% of Americans. The secure distribution of property and possessions is of prime importance for seniors, especially given that they can be particularly vulnerable to financial abuse (which we look at here in our blog). Whether you're a senior or you are caring for an older person, here's some helpful information about making a plan. Preparing a will   It will be necessary that an executor (or executors) be appointed. As the name suggests, it is their responsibility to see that the wishes of the [...]

Long-distance caregiving help to make life easier for the whole family   If you live more than an hour away from an aging loved one who needs care, you have become a long-distance caregiver. Long-distance caregiving poses many unique challenges, and it’s important to know you are not alone. An estimated 13% of Americans provide long-distance care for a loved one, according to the National Alliance for Caregiving. Of that 13%, more than a quarter are serving as the primary person providing this care. It’s a tough responsibility to have, but one you don’t have to manage alone. Here are a few tips to make your role as a long-distance caregiver more manageable.   1. Hold a “family meeting”   As soon as it comes [...]

Making the right choice for your loved one   One of the most emotionally challenging decisions a caregiver of an aging parent can make is choosing the right long term care option. As hard as it is to give up some of the control of caring for your loved one, it’s typically the best option for both of you. Once you have decided to make a change, there are several different options to weigh when comparing the home healthcare and dedicated care facilities. Let’s break down the similarities and differences. Home healthcare   The home healthcare option provides seniors with the help they need while remaining in their own home. The level of assistance can range from help with basic daily living tasks and activities [...]