Physical activity is one of the key components of staying healthy in the senior years. Regular exercise strengthens the heart and lungs, and it also increases coordination, balance, and mobility. Being sedentary can lead to a variety of physical and mental health issues, but seniors who want to stay active…
According to the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), a third of all fatalities among adults 65 and older are related to infectious diseases. Infections also have the potential to contribute to hospitalizations and an assortment of related health issues. For caregivers, it’s important to know what kind of infections…
Beyond adding visual interest to objects, colors affect physiology, emotions, and mental states. In fact, certain hues have a healing influence. Here are five colors to enhance your senior loved one’s home and life. 1. Purple This color can ease your loved one’s mind and nerves. Since purple fosters restfulness,…
When it’s time to relocate your senior parent, aim for a smooth transition. The experience is bound to be stressful, but with preparation and compassion, you can reduce your loved one’s discomfort. Here are seven crucial things to consider when you’re relocating your parent. 1. Understand the Distress Caused by…
The most common form of dementia—Alzheimer’s disease—was named after Dr. Alois Alzheimer. He discovered abnormal protein clumps in the brain of a woman who died after experiencing what he described as “unusual mental symptoms” in 1906. More than a century later, much more is understood about this condition, although there’s…
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that affects how the body responds to gluten. While this condition can develop at any age, it’s becoming increasingly common among the elderly. Luckily, seniors who are diagnosed with celiac disease can enjoy long and comfortable lives as long as they make some changes…
In the past few decades, the average rate of meat consumption has dropped. More people are beginning to realize it’s possible to enjoy a satisfying and healthy vegetarian diet. There are many different reasons to quit eating meat, including ethical concerns, health conditions, and personal preferences. Seniors who avoid meat…
Physical activity has been shown to prevent cardiovascular disease, certain forms of cancer, diabetes, and other serious health conditions. Older adults should participate in exercise programs or other activities that enhance overall balance, endurance, flexibility, and strength. Here are some safe and easy exercises seniors can perform. 1. Stretching…
Depression is common among the elderly population, and untreated depression can have long-lasting effects on a senior’s physical and emotional health. Seniors with untreated depression are at a greater risk for heart attacks, tend to have slower recoveries from illnesses, and are more likely to experience a decrease in cognitive…
Psoriasis is a skin condition caused by the rapid production of skin cells, and it results in a painful, itchy rash as well as the buildup of scaly skin. Psoriasis cannot be cured, but these at-home remedies can reduce its unpleasant symptoms among seniors. 1. Aloe Vera Creams containing gel…