The physiological changes occurring in the brain as a senior ages are responsible for various symptoms of cognitive impairment, including personality changes and memory loss. The damage to neurons, connections between neurons, and vascular tissues commonly disrupts short-term memory, long-term memory, and the processes that connect the two types of memory together. This often manifests as repetitive speech. Here are…
Of all age groups, seniors aged 65 and older have the highest rate of hospital readmissions. Statistics indicate up to 20 percent of older adults are readmitted to the hospital within 30 days after being discharged. There are many ways reducing the chance of reentering the hospital benefits older adults. Reduces the Risk of Nosocomial Infections Approximately 5 percent of…
Parkinson's symptoms develop when approximately 80 percent of the neurons that produce dopamine become damaged or die. Statistics indicate approximately one million adults in the United States live with the debilitating disorder. While many people have heard about Parkinson's, few may realize there are two types of the disease. Primary Parkinson's Approximately 80 to 85 percent of those diagnosed with…
Extensive scientific research has proven anxiety and obesity have a strong correlation. In some cases, anxiety can directly lead to weight gain and other health problems. Similarly, seniors who are overweight or obese might become anxious and depressed because of low self-esteem. Here are some scientific explanations for the correlation between anxiety and obesity. Cortisol When under stress, the body…
Due to their long list of responsibilities, many caregivers feel as if they aren’t getting enough sleep. Over time, chronic sleep deprivation can increase the risk of high blood pressure, obesity, lethargy, depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline. The following seven tips can help you get plenty of sleep each night so you can stay healthy, happy, and focused. 1. Create…
Getting older isn’t always easy. Seniors face new challenges in the golden years that can have an impact on their emotional wellbeing. Meeting your senior loved one’s emotional needs is easier when you pay attention to how he or she is feeling and make changes that can help him or her feel happier. Be Respectful of Changing Roles & Abilities…
Alzheimer's Disease International reports as many as 50 million people worldwide could be currently living with Alzheimer's disease (AD), the most common form of dementia. Cognitive impairments of this nature often affect older adults, and family caregivers can be impacted as well. If you’re providing care for a senior loved one with Alzheimer's or another form of dementia, here are…
Seniors can experience different medical issues as they age. While eating a healthy diet and getting regular exercise are essential to maintaining health, aging women may still develop certain health conditions. Here are a few exams senior women should make sure to get during their annual checkups. 1. Bone Density Measurement Thin or porous bones are likely to fracture from…
The likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes increases with age. Some of the risk factors for this disease can be mitigated by making healthy lifestyle choices. Here are some of the top diabetes risk factors for seniors. Weight People with a high body mass index (BMI) face a greater risk of diabetes because fatty tissue is more resistant to insulin…
Seniors with dementia don’t typically try to wander off out of an intent to cause harm. Instead, your aging loved one might suddenly leave the house while trying to complete a former routine, or he or she could get confused while trying to manage daily activities. Taking a few simple precautions around the house can ease your worries about keeping…
