Tag Archives: memory care
Helping A Senior Loved One Suffering From Mental Health Decline
Anyone can have mental health issues at any stage of life, but older persons are typically more prone to depression and other mental diseases. According to the World Health Organization, 15% of persons 60 and older have a mental illness. However, mental diseases are not always a natural part of aging. If you notice or learn from a loved one that their poor mental health significantly interferes with their daily activities, they may require help. It is especially helpful for family members and friends to assist older persons in finding mental health therapies that will enhance their quality of life. Senior care experts in our assisted living facility share ways in which you can help an elderly loved one suffering from mental health decline. Signs Of Declining Mental Health A decline in mental health may be brought on by a variety of factors, including physical sickness, loneliness, and challenging lifestyle choices. No matter the circumstance, friends and family should be able to spot the typical indicators of a mental health crisis, which include: Noticeable, long-lasting mood swings Rage, hostility, or unrest A lack of joy even when engaging in activities that a loved one usually enjoys Having trouble sleeping or sleeping excessively Changes in appetite Digestion problems, persistent pain, or recurrent headaches Dependence on drugs or alcohol Suicidal thoughts Taking part in risky activities The list of potential warning signs is endless, but the most crucial thing is to find and deal with any noticeable changes in a loved one’s […]
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Memory Screenings For Seniors: Are They Worth It?
Alzheimer’s disease is a debilitating condition that affects millions of seniors around the world. It can lead to a decline in cognitive function and memory, making it difficult for people to carry out even the simplest of tasks. In recent years, memory screenings for seniors have become increasingly popular as a tool for detecting Alzheimer’s disease in its early stages. But how effective are these screenings in identifying Alzheimer’s, and are they worth the time and effort for seniors living in assisted living communities? Read along to know. What Are Memory Screenings For Seniors? Memory screenings for seniors are short assessments designed to test an individual’s cognitive function and memory. They typically involve a series of simple questions and activities, such as recalling the names of family members or objects, completing puzzles, and counting backward from 100. The results of these screenings can provide valuable information about an individual’s cognitive function and whether they may be at risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. Why Are Memory Screenings Important For Seniors In Assisted Living Communities? Seniors living in assisted living communities are often at an increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. As people age, their risk of developing the condition increases, and many seniors in assisted living communities may be more vulnerable due to pre-existing health conditions or other factors. Memory screenings can provide valuable information about an individual’s cognitive function and help detect early signs of Alzheimer’s, which is important for both seniors and their families. How Effective Are Memory Screenings […]
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Healthy Eating Tips To Overcome Challenges Of Dementia
If your senior loved one is suffering from dementia disorders, you should be concerned about the nutritional intake of the person. This is because getting proper nutrition is very much important to maintaining proper health. Also, a deficiency of nutrients can lead to fatigue and other symptoms that can impact the overall health and well being of your senior loved one. But, people suffering from dementia disorders can face challenges with eating, such as difficulty swallowing, which can make it harder for caregivers to ensure proper intake of nutrients. Dehydration is one of the biggest issues faced by people suffering from dementia disorders. In the opinion of dementia care experts, people suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia disorders might not be able to recognize that they are thirsty, or may simply forget to drink water. This can result in dehydration which can lead to headaches, confusion and other issues like urinary tract infection, constipation, etc, which can worsen the symptoms of dementia disorders. Therefore, it is important to ensure that your senior loved one can easily access water whenever needed. It is also a good idea to keep a pitcher of water neat to their chair or bed. Another common concern for seniors suffering from dementia disorders is the loss of weight. Alzheimer’s care experts opine that the following dementia-related challenges and symptoms can contribute to the loss of weight. Difficulty understanding that they are hungry Lack of appetite Fatigue Difficulty in preparing meals Reduced […]
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Activities For Seniors With Dementia That Kids Can Also Enjoy
The love and bonding between a grandparent and a grandchild cannot be substituted with anything. But, dementia disorders can harm the relationship between grandparents and their grandchildren. To avoid this, you can find kids and dementia-friendly activities to ensure that your senior parent and your children have great relationships. Moreover, activities for elderly adults with dementia can also help seniors enjoy a happy and more fulfilling life. It can also be helpful to let kids understand more about dementia and its care so that they will feel less intimidated by the changes in their senior loved one. When your child has a good understanding of dementia disorders, here are some great activities to try. Spend Time In Nature Dementia care experts suggest that spending time in nature can help ease anxiety in people suffering from dementia disorders. Energetic kids also love to spend time outside. So you can help your senior parent and kids enjoy time together outdoors. Some of the activities to try include: Gardening and planting seeds together Birdwatching and drawing pictures or taking photos Chasing butterflies Hiking in a national park or spending time picnicking Build Something Together Kids love building block towers and find happiness in knocking them over. While visiting your senior loved one, you can take some blocks with you and watch your loved one build towers with your kids. Older children may also love the chance to do crafts and arts with a grandparent. Of course, you will need […]
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An Alzheimer’s Care Guide For Family Caregivers
Alzheimer’s is one of the most common forms of dementia and affects more than six million Americans. Even though it is very prevalent, there are many misconceptions about the meaning of an Alzheimer’s diagnosis. This stigma can make people living with Alzheimer’s feel lonely and misunderstood. Also, it can contribute to a faster progression of the condition, and lower quality of life. If a senior loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, or if you doubt that a loved one might be developing symptoms, it is important for both of you to understand that people with the condition can live satisfying lives for many years after the diagnosis. Living with Alzheimer’s is worthwhile, especially with the help and support from friends and family, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. Early Intervention As per many experts in memory care, it is important to consult a healthcare provider if your senior loved one starts to experience memory loss or disorientation. These must be warning signs of the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. Getting a diagnosis and starting treatment in the early stages can let people with Alzheimer’s enjoy life for years after the diagnosis. Early diagnosis can offer patients access to modern treatment that can slow down the progression of the disease and manage the symptoms of the conditions effectively. Apart from early diagnosis and intervention, it is significant to maintain an active lifestyle and seek chances to build interpersonal relationships as these can have a positive impact on the wellbeing of the patient. […]
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Simple Activities That Can Help Seniors With Dementia
As per the reports of the Alzheimer’s Association, more than 5.7 million US citizens are living with dementia every year. This number does not include seniors suffering from other types of dementia and the numbers are expected to increase over time. Even though Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia disorders are incurable, their progress can be slowed with medications. Caregivers can also help improve the quality of life of seniors with dementia by offering activities encouraging cognitive stimulation and connection. If you find yourself struggling to connect with your senior loved one suffering from dementia, understand that you are not alone. Many family members find it very difficult to share conversations and routines with their senior loved ones after the onset of dementia. However, with proper planning and flexibility, It is not difficult to make a meaningful connection with your senior loved one. Some simple activities to help you get started as you plan to visit your senior loved one living in memory care and other assisted living facilities are shared below. Reminiscing Encouraging reminiscing is a very helpful way to connect with your senior loved one living with dementia. As people suffering from dementia tend to keep long-term memories intact for longer than short-term memories, you need to focus on asking questions about their early adulthood and childhood. Also, make sure to ask questions without specified limits, as it can help encourage conversation. After starting the conversation, give time for your senior loved one to respond. The […]
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