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Author: ltcep2023

Should Seniors Make New Year’s Resolutions about Dietary Changes?

Posted on by ltcep2023

New Year’s resolutions are a great way for people to look at changes they want to make over the next year. Many people use that time to decide to radically change how they eat. Seniors might still be stuck in those habits, thinking it’s a good time to do so. But sometimes those changes might not be the best ones to make, especially if seniors are dealing with health challenges. Home care providers can be a huge help when it comes to any dietary changes that seniors do want to make.

Resolutions about Dietary Changes Often Fail

The big issue with making resolutions about dietary changes is that they often are so restrictive that they tend to fail fairly rapidly. When seniors make dietary changes, it’s important that they’re making changes that support their health and that they stick with them. The changes that seniors make around food and eating need to be ones that are sustainable, gradual, and achievable.

Talk to Healthcare Providers First

Before making big dietary changes, seniors need to talk to their doctors about what those changes should be. Seniors often are battling health conditions and taking medications and this information is essential to understand when it comes to meeting nutritional needs. Healthcare professionals can offer personalized advice that helps seniors to improve their health and well-being while also eating better.

Make Small Changes

Making huge changes and completely overhauling an entire diet all at once is a terrible idea for seniors. It’s much better and more sustainable to make gradual, small changes over time. Instead of moving directly from eating frozen dinners, for instance, to only eating fresh fruits and vegetables with every meal can be a huge change. It might also be more than some seniors can physically handle preparing for themselves, which is why senior care providers can be an excellent help during these changes.

Plan Out Meals and Snacks

Meal planning is incredibly helpful for anyone who wants to eat a healthier diet over time. Planning out meals and snacks in advance helps to ensure that seniors are regularly eating a balanced and nutritious diet that is also tasty and satisfying. This allows seniors to be more proactive about making the small, healthy changes to their diet that they want to make.

Practice Mindful Eating

Mindful eating involves being fully present while eating. Seniors who are eating more mindfully are more likely to listen to their bodies’ hunger cues, eat when they’re truly hungry, and notice when they’re full. Eating healthier and more nutritious foods can also help seniors to feel fuller faster because they’re getting more nutrients.

Get Help from Home Care Providers

Making any changes to eating habits and overall diet just isn’t easy for every senior out there. Physical limitations, memory issues, and mobility challenges are just a few of the reasons that seniors might need more help. Home care providers can offer lots of assistance with meal preparation, running errands like grocery shopping, and so much more.

Deciding to be more cognizant of nutrition is really important for seniors, but making big sweeping changes as a New Year’s resolution might not be the best way to make this happen. Home care providers can help aging adults to make the little incremental changes necessary to improve health.

If you or an aging loved one is considering home care in Phoenix, AZ, please call the caring staff at Golden Heart Senior Care of Scottsdale at (480) 284-7360. We are here to help!

Supporting Your Senior When They Move In with You

Posted on by ltcep2023

Hello Seniors, Families and Friends. Many times, when a senior has a situation that pushes them to share space with a loved one, it can be very demoralizing and confusing for the person who has the need. Please recognize that the person who has the need in many situations are going through either mental, physical, emotional or some other type of failure that is causing them to need assistance. Many times, the person willing to share space and help are not sure what things to say to their loved one to help them accept their new normal. According to an AgingCare.com newsletter published in January, answers that include the following should assist in helping the person with the need to accept their new normal. Your answers should include and highlight the following;

1. It should recognizes and HEARS your loved ones issues and concerns by restating them.
2. It should offer and describe some level of HOPE.
3. It should finalize by letting them know you enjoy their company and want to enjoy good times with them again along with providing the best and safest solution.

For more information, please feel free to contact us at one of the methods herein.

The Essential Benefits of a Healthy Breakfast for Seniors

Posted on by ltcep2023

Everyone knows that “breakfast is the most important meal of the day,” but it’s especially true for older people. A healthy breakfast gives them a good start to the day and offers many benefits that support their well-being as a whole. If seniors typically struggle with breakfast, the elder care team and loved ones can assist, encouraging them to start the day off right on a consistent basis. Continue reading to learn more about the benefits breakfast brings.

Better Brain Health

For seniors, starting the day with a healthy breakfast can increase their cognitive brain functioning. Whole grains, fruits, and meats make up a well-balanced meal that gives them important nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins B and D. These nutrients are thought to be good for brain health because they help with memory and focus, as well as general brain function.

Energy Boost

As people get older, their natural energy levels tend to drop. But a healthy breakfast can give them the energy they need to start the day. Complex carbohydrates, which are found in fruits and whole grains, give them energy slowly, so they don’t get the rapid energy boosts and drops that come with sugary snacks. This long-lasting energy is important for seniors to keep up a busy lifestyle and do daily tasks. An elder care team can help seniors understand how different foods affect their energy.

Nutrient Absorption

Seniors can get important nutrients that they might not be getting enough of otherwise during breakfast. For example, calcium and vitamin D are important for keeping bones healthy and avoiding osteoporosis. Both of these are common at breakfast time. Additionally, consuming dairy products, foods with added vitamins and minerals, and getting some sun in the morning can all promote better nutrient absorption.

Weight Loss

A healthy breakfast is important for adults who are trying to lose weight. If they skip breakfast, they might eat too much later or pick snacks that aren’t as good for them. A varied breakfast helps control hunger and keep them at a healthy weight by getting their metabolism going early in the morning. This is another area where the elder team can help, offering thoughts for healthy meal planning.

Blood Sugar Control

People over 65 are more likely to get diseases like diabetes. A breakfast that is well-balanced with proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates can help keep blood sugar levels in check. In turn, this lowers the chance of insulin resistance and improves metabolic health as a whole.

Heart Health

A good breakfast can have a positive effect on heart health, which is very important for seniors. Fiber-rich foods, like whole grains, fruits, and nuts, help keep the heart healthy and lower cholesterol.

In the end, a good breakfast is an important part of being healthy for seniors. Seniors who make eating a healthy breakfast a priority can improve their brain function, get more energy, and more. With the help of the elder care team and loved ones, seniors can enjoy breakfast and get their day started in the right way.

Sources:
https://www.grayingwithgrace.com/importance-of-breakfast-for-elderly/
https://tyemedical.com/blog/healthy-breakfast-ideas-for-seniors-and-why-the-first-meal-matters/
https://elderlyrightsandmentalhealth.org/2018/12/18/the-importance-of-breakfast-in-old-age/
https://www.lifetimedaily.com/health-benefits-of-breakfast/

If you or an aging loved one is considering elder care in Phoenix, AZ, please call the caring staff at Golden Heart Senior Care of Scottsdale at (480) 284-7360. We are here to help!

What Signs Indicate That Seniors Might Be Losing Their Vision?

Posted on by ltcep2023

Changes in health come with aging, including changes to things like vision. This is one of those changes that can come on so slowly that it’s difficult to notice at first. The sooner seniors get help with their failing vision, the better. Companion care at home can be a huge help with this process, especially if seniors aren’t aware that they have vision trouble yet.

Complaints about Vision Trouble

One straightforward way to recognize when seniors are having vision trouble is when they complain about vision issues. Mentioning blurry vision, trouble focusing, difficulty reading, or pain in the eyes or head can all be indications that someone is dealing with vision issues. Seniors might ignore these symptoms or even consider them to be temporary issues, but they’re an indication that an eye exam is warranted.

Moving Extremely Carefully

Something that seniors might not notice, but that other people will, is when seniors start to move overly cautiously. They may lean on the wall to feel their way through a room, for instance. This is an indication that navigating safely is becoming more difficult. Home care providers may notice this and let families know that it’s happening.

Seeming to Be Confused in Familiar Spaces

Vision loss makes it difficult for people to recognize familiar spaces. That happens even in places that seniors know very well. Confusion or disorientation in areas that seniors have normally been comfortable in is a big warning sign. Improving lighting can help some with this issue, but it’s also important to figure out what is happening with the individual’s vision.

Body Language Signs Associated with Vision Loss

When seniors are having trouble with their vision or are experiencing vision loss, there are body language indications. These signs might include squinting a lot, tilting the head, or rubbing eyes a lot more often. Sometimes these gestures are subconscious, so it might take someone else pointing them out before seniors realize that there is something going on.

Trouble Identifying Visual Cues

Daily life involves relying on visual cues for communicating and getting things done. But seniors with vision trouble may not be able to even notice visual cues. They could have more trouble identifying faces, subtle changes in the environment around them, and expressions of the people they’re talking to.

Self-isolation or Avoiding Favorite Activities or Socializing

Vision loss can change so much for seniors. They may start to lose confidence and feel less independent. This can lead directly to self-isolation and withdrawing from favorite activities and people. Companion care at home can help aging adults to have their socialization needs met and also offers help boosting their self-confidence.

When seniors are starting to lose their vision, it’s important to address the situation as soon as possible. Companion care at home can be a great start to help seniors understand the changes they’re experiencing while also offering them a friendly person to talk to. This also helps family caregivers to stay aware of how things are progressing so that more help can be added if necessary.

If you or an aging loved one is considering companion care at home in Scottsdale, AZ, please call the caring staff at Golden Heart Senior Care of Scottsdale at (480) 284-7360. We are here to help!

Another Great Review from a Wonderful Client!

Posted on by ltcep2023

Because of HIPAA, we’re not allowed to release clients names. Please see what our clients are saying about us below:

Hi Vanessa. I just wanted to let you know that my mom loved RS and they already formed a bond. Haha. We are so happy she will be caring for my mom for the next few weeks. Thanks again.

For more information on how you or your loved one can receive this type of care, please contact us on one of the methods included in the letter.

Happy Holidays and be safe!!!

What Types of Exercises Help Seniors to Reduce Their Risk of Falling?

Posted on by ltcep2023

The older seniors get, the higher their risk of falling becomes. The consequences of falling can be far more serious than many people realize. Seniors and family caregivers can take some significant steps to reduce fall risk, however, especially by implementing an exercise plan and getting a little bit of help. Home care assistance can ensure that seniors remember to exercise as often as necessary and that seniors are safe in general.

Why Is Fall Prevention Important?

Focusing on fall prevention is absolutely vital for seniors as they age. Falls can lead to not only physical issues but also psychological ones. Falls can result in broken bones, brain injuries, loss of confidence, fear, and overall reduced quality of life. Seniors who want to maintain their independence can do so most effectively by reducing fall risk as much as possible. Seniors should talk to their doctors about what exercises are okay for them to start out trying.

Balance Exercises

Balance exercises are a great place to start with fall prevention. Focusing on improving balance and coordination also helps to improve posture. Some of the exercises to try include walking, yoga, and even gentle stretching. The exercises don’t have to be complicated in order to help seniors make improvements that benefit them.

Strength Training Exercises

Seniors tend to lose muscle tone as they age. Strength training exercises help to slow down muscle loss and can even help seniors to regain muscle. Bodyweight exercises are some of the easiest strength training exercises and seniors don’t need any additional equipment to do them. Resistance band exercises and small dumbbells are also good options.

Flexibility Exercises

Flexibility is another crucial part of avoiding a fall and seniors tend to lose flexibility as they age. Stretching exercises, like Pilates and yoga, are excellent for improving flexibility. They also help with balance, which can be important for seniors who want to maximize their exercise time. Flexibility exercises help to improve range of motion as well.

Cardio Exercises

As seniors improve their stamina and ability to exercise, they might want to start including options like cardio. Cardio exercises help to boost heart health, endurance, and overall strength. These are exercises like swimming, cycling, or brisk walking. Improving overall fitness helps to reduce fall risk while improving quality of life.

Exercises Related to Falling Safely

Another type of exercise that seniors might want to consider with a lot of support is exercises designed to help them fall safely. It’s best for seniors to do these types of exercises with lots of help to ensure they don’t get hurt. Home care providers and medical professionals can be a huge help with these types of activities because their goal is to keep seniors as safe as they can.

Having support and companionship from home care assistance can also be a huge win for seniors as they learn how to reduce their fall risks. Staying as safe as possible is a big goal for seniors to have, but it’s one that is achievable, particularly if seniors are focusing on building strength, balance, and flexibility through a personalized exercise plan.

If you or an aging loved one is considering home care assistance in Chandler, AZ, please call the caring staff at Golden Heart Senior Care of Scottsdale at (480) 284-7360. We are here to help!

How to Support Your Loved One When She Quits Smoking

Posted on by ltcep2023

November 16 is the Great American Smokeout Day. Sponsored by the American Cancer Society, this day serves as a possible starting point for those who wish to kick the habit of smoking tobacco and begin a smoke-free life.

If you are providing care for a loved one who is a long-term smoker, you have seen the toll that smoking can take on her. From health issues to financial issues to cleanliness issues, smoking permeates every aspect of a person’s life, and not for the better. Most long-term smokers have tried quitting multiple times and find themselves getting frustrated over trying again, but along with that, most quitters found it took multiple attempts. This year may be the year your loved one quits successfully and completely.

As their loved one and caregiver, you can support them along this journey. You should also enlist others to be a part of their “cheer team,” such as other family members, friends, neighbors, and senior home care providers. All can rally alongside your loved one as she attempts to break free of the bonds of smoking.

But what can you specifically do? Here are five ways you can support your loved one as she begins her Great American Smokeout.

  • Ask her what she’d like as you support her. Does she want you to check in multiple times a day? Or would she prefer you don’t constantly ask about it? Follow her lead to support her.
  • Be ready to be ready. Your loved one may say she doesn’t want to check in much, but then calls you or texts you multiple times during those first few days for support. Be willing to be flexible, especially at the beginning. Talk to her senior care provider about providing additional support during that time to help over the first hump.
  • Ask about more than just smoking. When you check-in, don’t make it all about the smoking. Ask about how her body is feeling. How is she emotionally getting by? What new things did she discover today since she’s not smoking (maybe she went on a new walk with her senior home care provider or tried a new recipe to distract herself)? Try to keep it upbeat and positive.
  • Resist the urge to nag or shame. Even if she slips up, remind her about how proud you are that she’s trying and that you are there for her no matter how it goes.
  • Offer more outings. Distraction is a big part of quitting. Your loved one needs her mind on something other than smoking, so plan more outings to keep her occupied. Ask her senior care provider to also help her find ways to get out of the home and her mind off of the nicotine.

Quitting is a journey, and often a long one that may not be a very straight or smooth path. It’ll have a lot of bumps and turns, but your loved one will have more success navigating it if she has your support.

Reference
https://www.cancer.org/cancer/risk-prevention/tobacco/great-american-smokeout.html

If you or an aging loved one is considering senior home care in Mesa. AZ, please call the caring staff at Golden Heart Senior Care of Scottsdale at (480) 284-7360. We are here to help!

Five Health Benefits of Cheese

Posted on by ltcep2023

Most people agree that cheese is delicious and adds an extra touch of tastiness to many meals. It doesn’t matter if you like good old American cheese, funky blue cheese, creamy mozzarella, or salty feta, cheese is delicious. But, did you know that cheese also has some wonderful health benefits, many of which can help your aging loved one feel better and manage some common symptoms of aging? Let’s take a look at why the next time your loved one heads to the grocery store with her home care provider, she might want to consider spending a little more time in the deli section, picking out cheese.

Cheese is an excellent source of calcium

Calcium is not only needed for strong bones (many elderly individuals need to build up bone strength), but calcium also aids in vascular function, nerve transmission, and muscle movement. The bones store that calcium so the body can run itself to its best ability. The body cannot create its own calcium so if your loved one isn’t getting enough, it will take it from the bones to nourish the body, thus weakening the bones. So getting enough calcium every day is important and there’s no better way than cheese!

Calcium is also a great source of protein

Not only will your loved one get her calcium when she eats cheese, she’ll also get her protein. Protein is needed to keep up muscle strength and help your loved one stay independently active. For good protein-packed cheeses, have your home care provider help your loved one pick out and then consume low-moisture cheeses like parmesan. Perhaps there will be some delicious Italian dishes in her future.

Cheese can prevent osteoporosis

As mentioned, with cheese being packed with calcium and protein, it can be great to add to a diet if your loved one has a family history of osteoporosis. While consuming cheese after the age of about 30 cannot undo any bone loss that has already occurred it can help the body stop losing bone mass and creating health issues like brittle bones and osteoporosis.

Cheese can help your loved one add weight

If your aging loved one is underweight and the doctor has recommended she try to add on some weight, cheese is a much better source of calories than a bunch of donuts or candy bars. With its fat and protein content, plus the many vitamins and minerals it contains, cheese is a great choice for healthily gaining weight. Have her home care provider help her find ways to add it to her diet if your loved one needs to gain weight.

Cheese can keep the dentist away

Eating cheese can help reduce the risk of dental cavities for several reasons. It helps to lower the pH balance in the mouth, reducing acid levels that may eat at tooth enamel. It also helps produce saliva, which rinses the mouth out, getting particles away from the teeth and eroding them. And as mentioned about the benefit to bones, teeth are bones so they receive those benefits of calcium as well.

There are so many choices of cheese out there that your loved one will be able to find something delicious to add to her diet and improve her health.

If you or an aging loved one is considering home care in Chandler. AZ, please call the caring staff at Golden Heart Senior Care of Scottsdale at (480) 284-7360. We are here to help!

Helping Seniors at Home After Rehab

Posted on by ltcep2023

It’s unfortunate when anyone has to go to a rehab. We do the best we can to make it so that when that person arrives home, we can enhance their lives by Assisting with Daily Activities. Help a senior today. They helped to shape yesterday.

Visiting with Wonderful Clients

Posted on by ltcep2023

As you all may know, getting out to visit and talk with clients is my favorite part of this business. I love getting out to talk to seniors. I love it even more when we have a chance to enrich a seniors lives. Help a senior today. It brings great feelings.