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Senior Care Tips

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10 Tips for Successful Seniors

August 17, 2009 | Posted by: Carebuzz | Posted in: Senior Activities in San Antonio | Tagged: , ,

There is an unfortunate stigma about aging; that after a certain age seniors who have already reached their full potential and that things just go downhill from there. While we may encounter some changes and challenges as we age, those of us in this demographic know that there's no real truth to this poor misconception. Seniors can be highly successful, especially since there's no age limit on what we can accomplish; and for those who don't know how to start, here are some tips for successful seniors!

1) Think positive - visualize yourself accomplishing whatever it is that you want to achieve with success. Avoid negative thoughts and negative people
2) Set your goals - be specific about your goals, whatever they may be. Set a date and stick to it, for example, tell yourself  "next month I am going to start volunteering in the community".
3) Stick to your goals - if you set a goal, find a way to make it happen. Don't make excuses or let fear hold you back. Without follow through goals don't mean anything!
4) Embrace new wisdom - you're never too old to learn something new, and you can never think that you know everything. Take a class, whether it's at a Houston college, or to learn a new hobby from a craft store or other place that will teach you about your new interest
5) Be persistent - not all goals can be accomplished immediately, but if you keep your eye on your goals and work through any trials and tribulations, you'll get there
6) Make decisions wisely - get all the information you need an analyze decisions before you follow through
7) Invest in your future - if you have a goal, it's okay to filter your time and money into achieving it. Don't feel guilty or let anyone stand in your way!
8.Communicate - talk to others about your goals, ask them to be open and honest and give them the same in return
9) Be different - don't set goals just because someone's told you there's certain things you should achieve in older adulthood, do what's right for you!
10) Admit when you're wrong - it's okay to make mistakes, just make sure you admit it when you're wrong

Sources:

1. About.com

Image Source: pro.corbis.com


Remember to Exercise Your Mind as Well as Your Body

August 5, 2009 | Posted by: Carebuzz | Posted in: Senior Health and Nutrition | Tagged: , ,

San Antonio doctors encourage seniors to maintain a healthy body and prevent the onset of physical diseases and illness which can result in early mortality. However, it's just as important that seniors exercise their minds in order to encourage brain health, particularly if cognitive issues like Alzheimer's or dementia run in their family. It used to be a perception that there was nothing you could do to strengthen your mind, but in the past 10 years there has been evidence that demonstrates that it is in fact possible to delay the affects of positive decline by as much as 5 to 10 years through use of mentally stimulating exercises and beta carotene supplements.

So seniors, what are you waiting for, next time you step outside or into the gym to exercise your body, think about what you're going to do to exercise your mind?

Sources:

1. US News and World Report

Image Source: pro.corbis.com

 

Improving Your Senior Health in 4 Steps!

August 14, 2009 | Posted by: Carebuzz | Posted in: Senior Activities in San Antonio, Senior Health and Nutrition | Tagged: , ,

Getting older isn't always easy and it can take a toll on you both body and mind. But don't let the effects of aging take your life, especially not when you can improve your health in 4 steps!

1) Pick healthy habits that you can stick with - if you don't enjoy your lifestyle changes with regards to diet and exercise, you just won't stick with it. Choose physical activities that you like doing, so you're motivated to keep it up, and don't just choose foods that you know are healthy - stick with ones that taste good, agree with your cooking style, and that provide you with a well-rounded diet!
2) Stop thinking that it's too late to make healthy changes - it's never too late to start exercising and to receive benefits with regards to strength, flexibility, bone density and more. No matter what ails you, don't ever think that it's too late. Any steps you take to improve your health are helpful and positive!
3) Don't let fear hold you back - you might worry that exercise will cause injury and greater problems, but if you suffer from diabetes, high blood pressure or other common illnesses for San Antonio seniors, then the risks that can come from NOT exercising, are actually much greater than the risk of injury when you do
4) Make small changes to your diet - making small changes to increase the fiber in your diet, or the fruits, vegetables and other nutrients, can make a huge different. Gradually replace your less healthy food choices to those that will have a more favorable impact on your body!

Sources:
1. Family Doctor

How to Avoid Embarrassing Incontinence

August 12, 2009 | Posted by: Carebuzz | Posted in: Common Problems and Problem Solving | Tagged: , ,

Having a demanding career into older adulthood is becoming a more common occurrence, but despite your ability to handle yourself in the workplace, you might be finding that aging is adding some complications to your work life, especially if you are coping with incontinence while trying to command your career. You may feel like while your co-workers  once looked at you with respect, they're giving your sideways glances because of your changing behavior, and you might have heard whispers that you're getting too old to command your career. Unfortunately, these can be hurdles we have to overcome as we age, but by following these 10 tips for aging gracefully, you can command your career and cope with incontinence.

1) Get the right pads - menstrual pads are not designed the same as pads for incontinence, get some good quality absorbent pads that can also help to control odor. These will come in handy during a long, important meeting when you can't escape to the bathroom
2) Practice odor prevention - some incontinence products release a pleasant odor when in contact with fluid, or you can buy sprays to help control the effects of incontinence
3) Use a tampon - for women, tampons also put pressure on the urethra which can also help to control leaks that come with incontinence
4) Watch what you drink - despite the need to remain hydrated, during a long meeting, avoid drinking too much water or coffee, otherwise you'll have a full bladder and might leak when you stand
5) Consider your wardrobe - choosing darker colored suits for the office will help to mask the presence of fluid
6) Do kegels - to strengthen bladder muscles, regularly contract the muscles you'd use to stop the flow of urine
7) Train your bladder - try to slowly increase the time between bathroom visits until you can go between 3-4 hours between trips
8. Use a pessary - most common to help bladder weakness after pregnancy, a pessary can help to control incontinence
9) Use deep breathing - when you feel the urge to go, practice deep breathing for 5 minutes until the need passes.
10)  Tighten the pelvic muscles - when you're going to laugh or cough, tighten the pelvic muscles to prevent leakage

Sources:

1. Web MD
2. Wikipedia

Facts and Fiction of Resistance Training for Seniors

July 29, 2009 | Posted by: Carebuzz | Posted in: Senior Activities in San Antonio, Senior Health and Nutrition | Tagged: , ,

There are a number of reasons that San Antonio seniors are reluctant to make resistance training as part of their routines, and while some may perceive them as excuses, in reality they are due to misconceptions about strength training that are fairly common. By explaining these myths, and the realities, San Antonio seniors can gain an increased understanding of how they can benefit their health with resistance training.

Common Myths about Resistance Training:

• Resistance training is about getting buff - weight training isn't just about building muscle mass to improve physical appearance, it can also have positive effects on insulin sensitivity, help high cholesterol, and improve bone density loss
• Strength training will make women look to bulky - senior women can lift light weights or use resistance bands in order to improve muscular strength, but not all resistance training activities cause seniors to have large muscles
• There's an age limit on strength training - benefits can occur in people of all ages, and with a safe routine, there's no problem for seniors of any age

• Strength training only helps with weight or fat loss if diet is changed - all seniors should maintain a healthy diet, but the benefits can occur in those who make no modifications

Sources:

1. Suite101

Image Source: pro.corbis.com

Can Osteoporosis be Reversed?

July 20, 2009 | Posted by: Carebuzz | Posted in: Senior Health and Nutrition | Tagged: , ,

Q. My mom has been diagnosed with osteoporosis by a San Antonio doctor. He says that it's probably genetics as well as her gender that have made her pre-disposed to this common aging issue that affects approximately 10 million Americans. Many seniors seem to have a sense of finality about osteoporosis, but I've heard that it can be reversed; is this true?

A. Osteoporosis can have a sense of finality, but there are ways to improve bone density lost to the disease, and generally reduce the likelihood that a senior will have an accident or injury as a result of the disease. Nutrition can play a role, with calcium and Vitamin D; but the best way to increase bone density and bone strength is to exercise! Weight bearing exercises that cause the muscles and bones to work against gravity can help to regain bone loss that occurs with osteoporosis. Seniors can try walking, jogging, dancing, climbing stairs, or even certain sports like soccer. Resistance training like weight lifting of free weights or using exercise machines builds muscle as well as bone strength to help improve the impact of osteoporosis as well.

Your mother has already made the first step to treating her osteoporosis by seeing a doctor; now, she doesn't need to accept it as a normal part of aging, she can improve her bone health!

Sources:

1. Suite101
2. MayoClinic

Can Seniors Start Exercising at Any Age?

July 15, 2009 | Posted by: Carebuzz | Posted in: Senior Activities in San Antonio, Senior Health and Nutrition | Tagged: , ,

Let it be said, there's no such thing as being too old to exercise; but in order to make sure that San Antonio seniors remain safe, they need to pick activities that are well-suited to their current level of physical fitness when getting started, and appropriate activities as advised by a doctor. The sky is the limit when choosing exercise activities provided seniors are conscious and careful about what they're doing and how they do it. Anytime San Antonio seniors demonstrate the following signs during physical activity, it's time to take a step back and consult a medical professional.

• chest pain or tightness in the chest, neck or throat;
• considerable difficulty breathing;
• abnormal heart rhythm; nausea, dizziness, light headedness, or visual
• interruption; excessive cold sweat; or extreme or lasting weakness or fatigue (after exercise)

As long as it's okayed by a doctor, seniors can choose whatever activity they enjoy; whether it's walking, swimming, cycling, hiking, yoga, or working out on cardiovascular equipment at a gym, anything goes as long as health and safety always remain the top priority!

Sources:

1. Mature Fitness
2. Family Doctor

Can Age Limit Physical Fitness?

July 13, 2009 | Posted by: Carebuzz | Posted in: Senior Activities in San Antonio, Senior Health and Nutrition | Tagged: , ,

Physical fitness is a lifestyle choice which is completely independent of age; anyone can start a fitness program, no matter how old they are. But in order to ensure that they receive the optimal benefits to their body and mind, San Antonio seniors need to exercise safely and smartly and keep a few things in mind:

• Remember that age shouldn't limit them - in reality, a fit 70 year old can be stronger and in better health than a senior who is sedentary
• To avoid injury seniors need to choose activities that are well-suited to their physical abilities; and if they are concerned can talk to a doctor and a fitness expert who has experience working with seniors
• Overexertion can have negative health repercussions, seniors who pay close attention to the signs and symptoms generated from their bodies and know when to take it easy will likely avoid the health  risks
• Seniors should choose activities that they enjoy - this can be through trial and error - but generally, any physical activity is beneficial. By varying their routine and sticking with the exercises they enjoy, they will be more likely to keep it up

Sources:

1. Mature Fitness
2. MedicineNet

Enjoying the Benefits of Art

July 10, 2009 | Posted by: Carebuzz | Posted in: San Antonio CAREGiver's Corner, Senior Activities in San Antonio | Tagged: , ,

When art is suggested to many San Antonio seniors, their immediate response is that they have no artistic talent. That may be so, but art isn't about how good you are; it's about self-expression, communication, relaxation, creativity, and memory stimulation. So, next time someone encourages you to pick up a pencil, paintbrush, or clay; don't let your inhibitions stop you, just have a good time, get messy, and experiment your way to all of the benefits that art has to offer.

Caregivers can introduce seniors to art at home, or they can find lessons offered by San Antonio community center, senior centers, art schools or even community colleges which may have inexpensive art programs specifically for senior citizens.

Regardless of the venue, here are a few simple tips for introducing art to seniors that ensures safety and enjoyment remains the main concerns:

• Choose safe materials - this is of particular importance when introducing art to seniors with dementia, Alzhimer's or other cognitive impairments. Avoid art tools that have sharp ends, and work with non-toxic paints and materials only
• Choose activities well-suited to the seniors capabilities - sometimes caregivers and instructors can make the mistake of selecting childlike activities for seniors, especially those who have dementia, however, they should be allowed to use their own creativity, so avoid paint by number style art projects that might not be challenging enough
• Ask the senior about their interests - art takes many forms; ask seniors if there are any specific art activities from their past that they would like to learn again, or if they have developed any new interests
• Do the activity together - doing an activity together can help you to inspire each other and help you both get started on your art projects
• Don't put a timeline on projects - only the creator can decide when their art creation is finished. Classes may provide limited time to work on art projects, but they can be continued at home; but don't set these limits when starting projects at home

Sources:

1. Smart Senior
2. Seniors Making Art
3. My Optum Health

Image Source: pro.corbis.com


 

How to Reduce Sodium in Your Diet and Improve Your Blood Pressure

July 17, 2009 | Posted by: Carebuzz | Posted in: Senior Health and Nutrition | Tagged: , ,

Blood pressure is a common issue that touches one in three Americans living in San Antonio, and it's not something that should be taken lightly, because primary hypertension can kill. A diet that's too high in sodium can not only cause blood pressure to raise sky high, it can also exasperate the symptoms and put those with hypertension at risk. Sodium is hidden in many foods that San Antonio seniors may not even be aware of; so when attempting to reduce the sodium in a diet, seniors can abide by the following diet plan:

• Avoid using much salt when cooking, or when putting it on food at the table
• Avoid foods that are high in salt - when purchasing chips, crackers or other items which tend to be salty, look for products that say "low sodium on the package"
• Choose fresh or frozen foods instead of canned goods which may have high sodium levels for preservation
• Always read the nutrition information about foods before purchase
• Use other seasonings instead of salt in order to add flavor to food. Herbs, spices, lemon, juice and garlic can be tasty seasonings to use during food preparation.

Sources:

1. Suite101
2. Heart and Stoke Foundation


 

Internet Skills for Seniors in San Antonio

July 6, 2009 | Posted by: Carebuzz | Posted in: San Antonio CAREGiver's Corner, Senior Activities in San Antonio | Tagged: , ,

When my grandfather was in his 80s it became evident that he was struggling with finding things to occupy his day. Throughout his life he had been physically active, playing golf on a weekly basis and getting outside as a way to pass the time during retirement. However, as age began taking its toll on his body, he had to give up many of the activities that he enjoyed and that kept him occupied during the day. To give him something to keep him entertained in the home, our family decided to pass on an older computer that was no longer getting regular use. My grandfather was excited about the opportunity to read his favorite British newspapers that he was missing out on, try out some computer games, and use email to connect with his relatives around the world.

To make using the computer as simple and straightforward as possible, we set up bookmarks on his computer, made sure that all of his logins and passwords were already stored, and created shortcuts to the applications and games that he used often. We also wrote down complete written instructions to walk him through every step of the process. The biggest difference for him was email, since in recent years he struggled greatly with his hearing that made talking on the phone nearly impossible even with special devices. There are many benefits, but also many challenges; but fortunately the positive outweighs the negative and we've learned to be patient and try to walk him through the trials and tribulations of technology use in older adulthood.

A Personal account by Beth Hodgson, writer for Carebuzz

Home Care San Antonio provides senior care in San Antonio, Helotes, Leon Springs, Castroville, Pearsall, and Pleasanton. For more help, please call Home Instead Senior Care San Antonio at 210-614-1132.

Image Source: pro.corbis.com

Packing for a Senior-Friendly Vacation

July 3, 2009 | Posted by: Carebuzz | Posted in: San Antonio CAREGiver's Corner, Senior Activities in San Antonio | Tagged: , ,

Senior tour groups are growing in popularity amongst San Antonio seniors as they allow them to travel with their peers without worrying about holding back younger or more active people. Groups like Elderhostel allow seniors to travel in the company of their grandchildren, caregivers and other seniors and pursue their interests around the world. While vacations can be exciting, travel does require a great deal of preparation in order to go. When packing, seniors shouldn't hesitate to ask for help from their family members or home caregivers to make sure that nothing important is forgotten.

While there are a number of things that should be packed for a trip, the most important things to think about are where you're going and what you'll be doing when you get there - and pack according to those rules. Seniors going on Elderhostel travel programs like the active Birding the Hotspots of Costa Rica, which is primarily outdoors with a great deal of physical activity require seniors to have cool, comfortable clothing; footwear that is appropriate for uneven terrain, and rain gear in case of tropical storms. With most travel groups, you might have to have the appropriate clothing to dress for a nice dinner or evening out as well as gear for outdoor adventures.

Also remember, the first rule of packing is never take more than you think you'll need; because on senior-friendly trips like this, the red carpet may not be rolled out for you; you'll be responsible for your own luggage!

Sources:

1. Suite101
2. Elderhostel

Image Source: pro.corbis.com

What Do Seniors Need to Start Scrapbooking?

July 1, 2009 | Posted by: Carebuzz | Posted in: San Antonio CAREGiver's Corner, Senior Activities in San Antonio | Tagged: , ,

Q. My mother has been talking about starting a scrapbook, and her home caregiver has offered to do this activity with her during their time together. I think it's a fantastic idea, because it will allow her to be crafty and creative and relive significant memories. She'll also be able to share her scrapbooks with the rest of the family and let the grandchildren have a little bit more insight into their grandmother's life. Because I don't want the caregiver to feel responsible for purchasing the scrapbooking items, I'm going to take my mother out to get what she needs to create her scrapbooks. Sine this is a craft that I'm not familiar with, what materials should we be shopping for and where can we get them? We live in San Antonio.

A. Scrapbooking is a very popular hobby, so you should have no problem getting the supplies and materials that you will need to get your mother started in San Antonio. Any craft store and many of the big discount department stores like Walmart should have scrapbooking materials in their craft section. Here is what you will need to look for.

• High quality scissors which can be used for cutting photos and stock paper
• Adhesive like a glue stick or tape runners
• Stock paper or printed paper to use as a backing for the scrapbook pages and to frame the photos
• Additional embellishments like stickers that can help add to the theme
• A scrapbook - these come in a variety of styles and sizes that a senior can choose from

Of course, I would suggest that if possible you bring your mom with you to choose her own scrapbooking materials since she will want to personalize her designs and themes!

Sources:

1. Ezine Articles
2. Scrapbook, Scrapbook

Image Source: pro.corbis.com

Are You Satisfied With Your Caregiver?

June 29, 2009 | Posted by: Carebuzz | Posted in: Elder Home Care in San Antonio, San Antonio CAREGiver's Corner | Tagged: , ,

With many home care agencies, you never know who's going to turn up on a San Antonio senior's doorstep each day of their scheduled care. But what this means is that seniors never have the opportunity to trust, bond and form a friendship with their senior caregivers. At Home Instead Senior Care, we know that the right caregiver is one that a senior can get to know, begin to trust with their home and their care, and someone who will become an important companion. Every day a senior has home care scheduled, we send the same caregiver to provide consistency and because through our process we ensure that the caregiver sent is one that meshes with the senior's personal needs and personality.

When we send a new caregiver to a senior's home for the first time, we complete an in-depth assessment to evaluate the needs of the senior and the type of caregiver who would be best suited for the role. However, just because a senior has been sent a caregiver, doesn't mean that they're stuck with them forever. If a senior or their family is not satisfied with the caregiver, we will be happy to send a replacement that better meets the request.

Once the right caregiver has been matched with a senior, you'll never be able to separate them!

Home Care San Antonio provides senior care in San Antonio, Helotes, Leon Springs, Castroville, Pearsall, and Pleasanton. For more help, please call Home Instead Senior Care San Antonio at 210-614-1132.

Image Source: pro.corbis.com

 

Flowers and Seniors

June 24, 2009 | Posted by: Carebuzz | Posted in: San Antonio CAREGiver's Corner, Senior Activities in San Antonio | Tagged: , ,

For San Antonio seniors who are able to live independently at home, even with the help of a home caregiver, their home can be a major source of pride. With many seniors moving into assisted living facilities or nursing homes, and other older adults believing that they may follow the same fate, seniors love it when they're able to say that they live at home. Encouraging seniors to take pride in their homes is a great way to distract from the physical decline that comes with aging, and helps them better accept any help provided by a professional home caregiver.

Seniors should be encouraged to take pride in their homes by placing their own personal decorating touch in the home. Flower arranging is a great way for seniors to keep their home decor lively and fresh, while allowing them to exercise some creativity. San Antonio caregivers should consider flower arranging as a fun activity for them to participate in together. Flower arranging can be done with either fresh flowers or silk ones, and can really enhance a senior's perception of their home!

Sources:

1. Suite101
2. Associated Content

Image Source: pro.corbis.com

Senior Health and Summer Sun

June 22, 2009 | Posted by: Carebuzz | Posted in: Senior Health and Nutrition | Tagged: , ,

We all know what getting out in the fresh air and sunshine can do to our overall disposition and well-being, but the benefits of the San Antonio summer sun can play an even greater role in improving the health of elderly Americans. Recent studies have shown that Vitamin D is directly linked to bone health, and those who receive a daily dose of the mineral can reduce the likelihood of bone fractures by as much as 20% when they're age 65 and older. While seniors might be reluctant to venture outside into the summer heat in San Antonio, even 10-15 minutes of sun exposure can have extensive benefits which can affect the senior long-term.

Sun exposure does have its benefits, but seniors also need to be wise about the time they spend in the sun and the physical signals that their body sends that could indicate a negative repercussion due to sun exposure. If they're sweating excessively, nauseous, dizzy, or confused, they may be suffering from heat stroke or dehydration; these symptoms mean that it's time to get out of the sun and perhaps even seek some medical attention. Heat exhaustion can be prevented by ensuring that a senior is well covered and protected in a hat and loose clothing, kept well-hydrated, and removed from direct sunlight to prevent prolonged exposure. Of course, sunscreen is always a key element too. When seniors are smart about protecting themselves during exposure to the sun, they can also reap the benefits; their bones will thank them for it!

Sources:

1. Health and Age
2. CBC
3. CBC

Image Source: www.theepochtimes.com


 

Caring for Dad at Home

June 19, 2009 | Posted by: Carebuzz | Posted in: Choosing the Best Care Option in San Antonio, San Antonio CAREGiver's Corner | Tagged: , ,

Having had to go through the decision of bringing a senior home care provider into my father's San Antonio home when he was in the 70's, I know just how hard it can be to know when it's the right time. While I'm sure that every situation varies for each senior and their family, there were a few factors that made me determine it was the right time to help my dad by providing him with in-home care. For one, after recovering from an injury, I knew I wouldn't be able to be there for his every whim once he returned home from the hospital, and I really wanted him to focus on his recovery, and didn't want him to overdo it by trying to keep up with things around the house. Since I couldn't be there all the time, I figured that an in-home care provider for seniors would be able to fill in the gaps.

Even after his recovery, we decided it was a good idea to keep the professional caregiver, because his doctor recommended that since his injury probably impacted his reflexes, he give up his car keys. While I had no problem arranging to drive my dad around to run errands, I knew that with my immediate family and my career, that I wouldn't be able to accommodate him every time he needed me since I'd need to work around my schedule.

I would say, that anyone who sees their elderly parent or relative beginning to struggle, should consider home care to fill in the blanks.

- Stephanie, 45 San Antonio

Home Care: Alleviation a Senior's Burden at Home

June 15, 2009 | Posted by: Carebuzz | Posted in: Elder Home Care in San Antonio, San Antonio CAREGiver's Corner | Tagged: , ,

As a leading home care agency in San Antonio, one of the top questions that Home Instead Senior Care receives is if caregivers can help seniors out around the home. Many families worry about their aging senior's ability to keep up with tasks and responsibilities at home, especially when a safety risk might be a consequence; but they don't want their loved one to suffer from loss of independence by moving them out of their own home.

Fortunately for San Antonio families, Home Instead Senior Care provides a number of senior home care services, including help around the home. Our caregivers can assist seniors with light-housekeeping, laundry, meal preparation, meal planning, grocery shopping and transportation to and from errands. In addition to the help around the home that our caregivers offer, they also provide assistance with personal care like bathing, dressing, and personal grooming. Our caregivers also provide companionship for the senior and bond with each and every one of their elderly clients to ensure that they feel comfortable, safe and happy with their home care situation.