Back to Site
Home

Home Instead Senior Care
Houston – Southwest

Call us today at 832 379-4700
HomeInstead.com > zzFranSite - 252 - Houston, Southwest > Senior Care Resources > Senior Care Tips

Senior Care Tips

Text Size:
Smaller Text
Larger Text
Email page

10 Success Tips that can Change Senior's Lives

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

Success is whatever you make of it, in older adulthood it can mean being active in your Houston community, or taking control over your health. Regardless of what success means to you, there are 10 shared traits of all successful people - so to meet your goals in older adulthood, these are factors that you can learn.

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

Tips for Keeping Cool in the Summer Heat

August 14, 2009 | Posted by: Carebuzz | Posted in: Health and Nutrition for Houston Seniors, Safety Concerns for Houston Seniors | Tagged: , ,  

During the summer months living in Houston my grandchildren keep my schedule full, and while I love spending time with them, many of the family's chosen activities are outside, and at my age I need to be really careful that the heat doesn't ruin my day. There's nothing better than watching my grandchildren play at the park or swim at the beach, but I wouldn't feel the same way if I found myself waiting at the doctor to receive treatment for heat stroke, dehydration or other related problems. My doctor provided me with the following recommendations for coping with the heat in Houston since he knows I spend a lot of time outside; so far, I've had a flawless summer with no related health problems. With that and the time I get to spend with my grandchildren, it's priceless, so everyone else in the same situation should take note and follow my lead!

1. Keep hydrated with cool beverages and avoid caffeine and alcohol. If you are a senior who has been told by a [location] doctor to limit water consumption, check first how much you should drink when it's the heat of the summer
2. Remain indoors during the high heat of the day. Get out in the early morning or evening when the sun is not as hot
3. Seek cover when outside in the heat either by bringing an umbrella to your outdoor location or finding a big shady tree to sit under
4. Remember your sunscreen and protective clothing. A hat will help protect you from heat stroke, and loose, light clothing which has long sleeves and pants will protect from UV rays.
5. Avoid strenuous activities outside. During the summer months, exercise indoors in air conditioning to ensure there are no detrimental effects to your health as an older adult
6. Pack juicy snacks when outside to keep cool. Fruits, light summer salad, juices, popsicles and even ice cream can all help seniors to keep their body temperatures down during the summer
7. Stay cool by taking tepid showers or baths when needed
8. Get lots of rest, especially when coming in from the heat

Souces:

1. CDC

Image Source: pro.corbis.com

Tips on Reducing Stress

August 10, 2009 | Posted by: Carebuzz | Posted in: Health and Nutrition for Houston Seniors, Senior Activities in Houston | Tagged: , ,

Physical activity and exercise are geared towards improving health and reducing stress, but for many Houston seniors who already have many anxieties in their lives, exercise can actually cause it. Seniors might worry about injuring themselves, or venturing too far out of their comfort zone of the normal routine that they're comfortable with, and for these seniors, physical activity can become a source of stress that can also have negative repercussions upon health - and that's just not the point now is it?

So how can seniors choose a physical fitness routine that is stress-free; eliminating anxieties from their lives even temporarily, rather than causing it? Seniors should try implementing the following techniques and incorporating the following activities in order to make the most out of their experience and bring the optimal benefits to their health!

• Always choose activities that are enjoyable, otherwise seniors will grow to resent being physically active
• Avoid activities that are competitive to avoid creating natural tension. Seniors don't need to do activities solo, but they should make sure that they avoid competitive sports and other physical activities that make them feel like they want to win
• Aerobic and anaerobic exercises can both help reduce stress. Senios should incorporate 30 to 60 minutes of aerobic exercise into their routines 3-5 days per week, and also try resistance training
• Don't begin any activity without clearance from a doctor or assistance from a fitness professional. Seniors who worry that by completing physical activities incorrectly they will injure themselves, or are concerned about the affects upon their health can make sure these stressors are avoided

Sources:

1. Suite 101
2. Mayo Clinic

Image Source: pro.corbis.com

Building Muscle Mass After 80

August 7, 2009 | Posted by: Carebuzz | Posted in: Senior Activities in Houston | Tagged: , ,

Muscle mass and bone density is naturally lost as seniors age, and these changes are often especially prevalent in elderly Houston women. In the medical practice where I work, we have forever been encouraging seniors to incorporate resistance training into their exercise routine under the premise that they could increase their strength, manage their bone density and gain muscle mass. According to a new study, however, one of these benefits is not present in senior women over the age of 80. Can you guess which one it is?

The answer is muscle mass. After putting senior women over the age of 80 through a resistance training program, MRIs were taken in order to see the overall effects upon muscle mass, and surprisingly there was no change. That doesn't mean we're about to stop encouraging resistance training, however, since there is still evidence that bone density can be improved, and there's no doubting that overall strength will be benefited, and can help seniors to improve their activities of daily living and allow them to better care for themselves independently in older adulthood.

Sources:

1. Health Discovery Canada

Compensating for Vision Issues When Driving

July 31, 2009 | Posted by: Carebuzz | Posted in: Common Problems and Problem Solving, Safety Concerns for Houston Seniors | Tagged: , ,  

Q. Although my dad maintains his license and has had it renewed in Houston, he has mentioned that his visibility is declining as he gets older and he is worried it will impact his ability to drive. He is concerned about his changes in peripheral vision and how that will compromise his safety behind the wheel. Is there anything he can do to improve his vision while driving so he doesn't hurt himself or someone else?

A. As long as your dad has a driver's license issued in Houston that is valid, he should be considered safe to drive. However, if he has concerns that his vision might be compromising his visibility behind the wheel, there are a few techniques that he can try.

• Get eye exams at least every 2 years - with detection many common eye issues can be slowed or treated before the affect vision too seriously
• Drive during the day - seniors who have issues with night driving or glare should limit their driving to daytime
• Turn your head frequently - this can help expand more limited peripheral vision when driving
• Keep car clean - the windshield, wipers and mirrors should all be kept clean so they don't further obstruct vision
• Install a larger rearview mirror - for seniors with more limited visibility, a larger mirror will increase where and how they can see
• Adjust mirrors properly - adjusting mirrors properly will improve range of vision

Sources:

1. AAASeniors

Image Source: pro.corbis.com

 

Health Fairs in Houston

July 28, 2009 | Posted by: Carebuzz | Posted in: Health and Nutrition fokr Houston Seniors, Senior Activities in Houston | Tagged: ,

Taking care of your health is very important. Especially in these economic times one of the best investments you can make is in yourself. Take a moment to look through this list of health fairs being offered in the Harris County, TX area. The fairs are sponsored by the Harris County Hospital District and services offered include cholesterol, vision and blood pressure screenings as well as child development and preventive health education information.

With over 15 Health Fairs being offered in the next 30 days there should be at least one that you can attend. Be good to yourself and your family. Visit the Health Fair. Visit Health Fair in Harris County dates and times.

Source: Examiner.com

 

Effects of Poor Blood Circulation

July 27, 2009 | Posted by: Carebuzz | Posted in: Health and Nutrition for Houston Seniors | Tagged: , ,  

As we get older, we often notice that our blood circulation changes; with age, we might find that we have swelling around our feet or ankles, or bruise much more easily than we used to. But, for Houston seniors, the effects of poor blood circulation can be far more severe, and there can be grave consequences.

The Effects of Poor Blood Circulation:

• Effects upon the brain - poor blood circulation can impact the brain causing fatigue, dizziness, memory loss, and frequent and unexplained headaches
• Effects upon the heart - poor blood circulation can have an impact on the heart, causing inability to perform simple aerobic activities like climbing stairs without breathlessness; high blood pressure and cholesterol, and chest pain can be other symptoms
• Effects upon the liver - symptoms of poor blood circulation in the liver can include lack of appetite or unexplained weight loss, and changes in skin tone
• Effects upon the kidneys - poor circulation to the kidneys are typically the result when there is swelling of the hands, feet and ankles. Other symptoms can include fatigue, altered heart rate and rise in blood pressure
• Effects upon the limbs - with poor circulation, cramps in the limbs, numbness and varicose veins can appear as symptoms

Preventing or Improving Poor Circulation

There are some simple techniques that Houston seniors can use in order to help prevent and improve poor blood circulation, which include the following:

• Take cayenne pepper powder or capsules to improve circulation and increase metabolism
• Take ginkgo balboa capsules which have a direct impact on blood circulation
• Exercise to circulate oxygen through the blood stream and improve blood circulation
• Lower intake of saturated fats in a diet and increase intake of vitamin-rich nutrients such as fruits and vegetables

Sources:

1. Ezine Articles
2. Suote101

 

How to Exercise Safely with Multiple Sclerosis

July 24, 2009 | Posted by: Carebuzz | Posted in: Health and Nutrition for Houston Seniors, Senior Activities in Houston | Tagged: , ,  

Studies have shown that Houston seniors with MS can improve their quality of life by exercising. While this can be a challenge for many seniors who struggle with their balance and overall mobility as a result of Multiple Sclerosis, the benefits are extensive, and when safety is always in mind it is possible to have an enjoyable experience with physical activity, and overall boost spirits and ward off other issues like depression.

Here are a few tips for Houston seniors with MS to use when exercising:

• Warm up before the exercise with stretching and gradually increasing the intensity and cool down after
• Increase the intensity and duration of the activity slowly. Seniors who plan on exercising for 30 minutes at a time should start with 10 minute intervals and working themselves up to a longer workout time
• Make sure the workout environment is free of hazards like slippery floors, things to trip over or rugs that will slide
• Since many seniors with MS struggle with balance, they should work out near a grab bar or other safety equipment that can provide support
• Anything that doesn't feel right shouldn't be continued, whether it's pain or feeling sick is a sign that it's time to stop and rest
• Choose activities that are enjoyable and that don't put too much stress on the body
• Avoid exercising outside or during the hottest periods of the day (10am until 2pm)
• Drink plenty of fluids
• Get out of the heat if any new symptoms develop

Sources:

1. Science Daily
2. MS Society
3. WebMD

Image Source: pro.corbis.com

 

Problems Diagnosing Varicose

July 20, 2009 | Posted by: Carebuzz | Posted in: Health and Nutrition for Houston Seniors | Tagged: , ,

My mother in law has had problems in her legs from quite a number of years, primarily due to the extra weight that she carries, which has put a strain on her legs which are the bulk of her support. In her 50s, she received two knee replacements, and while that helped her regain some semblance of mobility, in recent years that's began to decline again. She's had a number of issues, including what the doctor believes is tendonitis in the thighs, and has had leg infections when scrapes and other injuries have refused to heal. After multiple diagnoses and ineffective treatment methods for many of the problems with her legs, she still has not found a solution and is practically immobile, which is tragic since she is only in her early 60s.

Recently, she was sent to a masseuse in order to help treat what is believed to be tendonitis in her legs. However, after taking one look at her, the masseuse said that she doesn't want to do too much, because it appears as though she has a varicose vein and pressure could further aggravate it. She has been examined multiple times by her doctor, but this has never been brought to her attention before; however, after looking into it further, she believes that this might explain many of the problems she's been having; including the inability to heal, itchy legs, swelling in the legs (which the doctor said was due to a medication), and the severe leg cramps. After examining her again when she approached her doctor about the issues she was having and the belief that it might be a varicose vein, he determined that in fact not all of her problems are attributed to the presence of a varicose vein, but that many of her symptoms are correct. She's currently undergoing a few different treatment methods in an attempt to alleviate her problems.

Sources:

1. Wrong Diagnosis

Image Source: pro.corbis.com

 

Natural Ways to Reduce Blood Pressure in Seniors

July 17, 2009 | Posted by: Carebuzz | Posted in: Health and Nutrition for Houston Seniors | Tagged: , ,

Hypertension is known as the "silent killer" amongst American seniors, because for many Houston older adults, the potentially fatal illness can go undetected. As a result, when a diagnosis of primary hypertension is made by a doctor, it's crucial that seniors make adjustment to their lifestyles in order to reduce their blood pressure and make sure that it doesn't harm their health. While medication can help reduce blood pressure, there are more favorable natural methods that seniors can use in order to make their health a priority.

• Aerobic Exercise - this is an easy way to reduce blood pressure. Whether it's beginning a routine fitness regimen or making simple changes, like taking the stairs instead of the elevator, or parking father from the entrance to a store to walk a little bit further
• Lose weight - blood pressure and obesity naturally go hand-in-hand, so in order to lower blood pressure, start losing weight!
• Diet plan - seniors with high blood pressure should not only reduce the calories in their diet in order to help with weight loss; but they should also change their diet so that it's low in saturated fats and rich in fruits and vegetables chalk full of nutrients
• Reduce sodium intake - sodium intake should be no more than 2,400 mg per day, so seniors should cut sodium down in their diets by avoiding especially salty foods. Sodium can exasperate high blood pressure or make symptoms worse
• Quit smoking - those who smoke can make high blood pressure much worse and potentially deadly. Inhaling smoke damages blood vessel walls and hardens the arteries

Before implementing any of the following tips in their life, seniors should talk to a doctor about safe methods to reduce blood pressure, incorporating the above, based on their health and fitness level.

Sources:

1. Suite101

 

Seniors Ballroom Dancing like the Stars

July 10, 2009 | Posted by: Carebuzz | Posted in: Health and Nutrition for Houston Seniors | Tagged: , ,

Q. I am a care giver for an elderly gentleman in Houston; for years, we have taped episodes of Dancing with the Stars and watched it during the day during our time together. Since this is one of the few interests that we share, I've been thinking about introducing my senior to ballroom dancing through lessons at a local community center in Houston; however, I'm wondering if it is a safe activity for a 82 year old man with a history of arthritis?

A. Dancing with the Stars has made many seniors and their caregivers across the United States consider ballroom dancing as a fun activity that is great for entertainment as well as exercise. Studies have shown that ballroom dancing can reduce instances of Alzheimer's and dementia, increase flexibility, stimulate the mind and improve overall cardiovascular health. While you are right to be cautious about pursuing any physical activity, it can be a very safe activity for seniors of any age when learned under the supervision of an experienced ballroom dancing instructor who has a background working with seniors. When engaging in any physical activity with a senior, you should always be aware of any signs that they are struggling physically as a result of the activity. Shortness of breath or extreme perspiration my may be signs of overexertion, and if he mentions unusual pain in any of his joints or muscles it may be time to ease off the dancing. Otherwise, start dancing like your favorite stars, and he'll be well on his way to better health!

Sources:

1. Suite 101
2. Global Action on Aging

Image Source: pro.corbis.com

 

Seniors Benefiting From Computers

July 6, 2009 | Posted by: Carebuzz | Posted in: Senior Activities in Houston | Tagged: , ,

All seniors are different, but in my experience, teaching a senior about computer use isn't always easy. When my grandfather had a computer brought into his home, we felt that it was necessary to teach him only the bare minimum; showing him skills he would need in order to get himself online, send email, and access his favorite websites. We created shortcuts, and had the web browser automatically save his login details so everything would happen simply and automatically. We also wrote down step-by-step instructions for every action so he'd have something to fall back on in case his memory failed him when performing a specific task on the computer. We knew when he got the computer that this would not be easy on him, or on the rest of the family; but we were also certain that the benefits he would receive would outweigh the negatives.

Within weeks of the computer being brought into my grandfather's home, the phone calls started. With his limited knowledge of technology, anything out of the box that happened would leave him totally lost. If a different message box popped up while he was checking his email; everything would have to be put on hold. If the internet disconnected, he would worry that he had somehow broken the computer. Despite the complications, we knew how important that having the computer and internet access was to him; he was finally connecting with family members he could no longer speak with because of his limited hearing, and he had regained a sense of self through finding activities he enjoyed, that he could do at home, since he had to give up some of the physical things that his life had formerly revolved around, and that made it all worth it.

A Personal account by Beth Hodgson, writer for Carebuzz

Help to Care for Yourself at Home

June 29, 2009 | Posted by: Carebuzz | Posted in: Choosing the Best Care Option in Houston, Houston CAREGiver's Corner | Tagged: , ,

Families in Houston all struggle with the decision of when it's the right time to get help for an aging relative. No one wants to admit that someone they love is getting older, because that brings them face to face with the concept of mortality and the idea that the important person in their life might not be part of it for much longer. However, by suggesting home care when the time seems right, families can give their loved ones the benefit of safety and health in their own homes. There is no definite equation for when it's the right time for home care, but some ideal situations can be used as signs that it might be time to start talking about it.

Situations when Home Care is Ideal

• Seniors who struggle with Activities of Daily Living - seniors who struggle with dressing, bathing, preparing meals, taking their medications, or keeping up with chores around the home are ideal candidates for in-home senior care

• Seniors with declining mobility - seniors who are having changes with their balance and mobility may be at a greater risk of falling or having an accident in the home when trying to perform ADLs . By hiring a caregiver, safety issues can be addressed and prevented through additional help

• Seniors who have had to give up driving - seniors who no longer drive for whatever reason, would greatly benefit from the help of a caregiver who can take them to run errands or to appointments

• Seniors who don't have family nearby - seniors who have the above problems but do not have family nearby to help them can benefit from in home care when there's no one else out there to help them

• Seniors who have come out of the hospital or rehab - after seniors have been released from the hospital or rehab program and are in recovery, it's better for seniors to have the help of a caregiver so they don???t put too much of a burden on their bodies by trying to care for themselves or their homes

• Seniors who suffer from Alzheimer's or dementia - safety may be an issue for seniors who struggle with their memories

Sources:

1. Elder Issues

Image Source: pro.corbis.com

Risks of Family Caregiving

June 26, 2009 | Posted by: Carebuzz | Posted in: Choosing the Best Care Option in Houston, Houston CAREGiver's Corner, Safety Concerns for Houston Seniors | Tagged: , ,

Since family caregiving is so common today, with more seniors and their families opting for home care instead of traditional nursing home care, people often fail to see the risks that can come with it due to improper training in senior care techniques. Although agencies like Home Instead Senior Care in Houston don't provide medical care, they are better trained than most family caregivers. Professionals are well versed in caregiving techniques, home safety, and specific care for Alzheimer's, and they are trained to identify potential signs of illness.

When family caregivers are selected over professional senior caregivers, there are a number of risks that can be presented to the health and safety of a senior. Their homes may be ill-equipped for their level of physical mobility, and safety hazards in the home may be left unidentified, leaving more room for in-home accidents. When helping seniors with mobility around the home, family caregivers may not be aware of proper techniques for lifting or moving seniors, which could potentially put the senior at risk of injury. Very few home caregivers think they need to know CPR, believing that help is only a phone call away; while this might be true, training in basic first aid is essential, and this is a reassurance that can be provided by Home Instead Senior Care's professional non-medical caregivers.

Sources:

1. Seniors Daily
2. Home Instead Senior Care

Image Source: pro.corbis.com

Caregiver Help for Dad and his Pet

June 22, 2009 | Posted by: Carebuzz | Posted in: Common Problems and Problem Solving, Houston CAREGiver's Corner, Safety Concerns for Houston Seniors | Tagged: , ,

Q. My dad has a dog that has been part of his life for 10 years; since my mom passed away it's probably one of his best friends. The only problem is that my dad's mobility is declining, and I worry about his ability to take the dog outside for walks without having an accident or fall. He lives in an apartment, so he has no choice but to take the dog outside himself. I fear that this responsibility is becoming too much for him and that one day it might compromise his safety. Is there another option to having him get rid of his dog?

A. Fortunately for Houston seniors, there are other options available that don't require them to part with their favorite furry friends. Home Instead Senior Care can help your dad out with caring for his home and his direct care responsibilities as well as provide assistance in providing for his dog. A home caregiver can come by his home daily in order to help your dad prepare meals, clean up his house, take the dog out for a walk, and even run pet-related errands to ensure that both animal and human who live in the home are well cared for. Pets can make a significant contribution to the lives of seniors, however, they shouldn???t pose a risk to health and safety; they should simply enhance senior's lives.

Sources:

1. Suite 101

Image Source: eldercareabcblog.com

 

Bringing Dad Home from the Hospital

June 19, 2009 | Posted by: Carebuzz | Posted in: Choosing the Best Care Option in Houston, Health and Nutrition for Houston Seniors, Houston CAREGiver's Corner | Tagged: , ,

I pride myself on being an organized and disciplined person, but when my dad had a fall in his home and spent some time at a Houston hospital, then a rehabilitation facility, that all fell apart. I had thought that in a crisis situation, I would be able to take control and take care of all of his needs to ensure that he was comfortable and safe when he came home from the hospital, but when the day came for his release, I was nowhere near ready. The thought hadn't even entered my mind that there were things I'd need to do, until the day before his release when a doctor asked me if arrangements had been made to help my dad out at home, and suddenly I realized I hadn't done a thing. In panic mode, not wanting my dad to return to a disorganized house that would compromise his safety and his recovery, I asked the doctor if there was anyone to help. He recommended me to a Houston senior home care agency that would be able to make all the arrangements for my dad.

The morning my dad was set to return from the hospital, a caregiver had come into his home, restocked his fridge and pantry, and tidied up all of the dirty dishes and other messes that had been left behind. When I walked in with my dad, I was so impressed at how quickly the arrangements had been made, so all dad and I needed to focus on was his recovery!

Safe Living at Home with Alzheimer's

June 17, 2009 | Posted by: Carebuzz | Posted in: Choosing the Best Care Option in Houston, Houston CAREGiver's Corner | Tagged: , ,  

While there has been a long-standing misconception that the best place to provide care for a Houston senior suffering from Alzheimer's is in a nursing home or assisted living facility, the reality is that not only would these seniors prefer to stay in their own homes, they receive greater benefits by living in a familiar environment. Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's can be overwhelming, and require you to make sacrifices in your work and family life in order to keep up with the senior's growing needs. However, there are other options available to help keep seniors with Alzheimer's living with some level of independence in their own home environments.

Home Instead Senior Care offers home care services which can help seniors deal with the areas of daily living that they struggle with, or with tasks where safety may be an issue due to the Alzheimer's or dementia. Caregivers can help seniors with dressing, cooking, cleaning and more to preserve their safety and ensure their needs are being met. For those seniors who are suffering from more advanced Alzheimer's and dementia, Home Instead Senior Care even have caregivers that are trained to deal with the specific needs presented by someone with Alzheimer's, so families can rest assured that their elderly loved ones are receiving the highest level of care available.

Sources:

1. Web MD