Coping with loneliness is difficult for anyone. Consider how it might be for your mother or father who has lost their partner in life, a sibling, friend, or family member who has been a longtime part of their lives. Losing a loved one is challenging, and grief is sometimes difficult to identify and acknowledge. No two people experience grief in…
Many studies suggest that many people believe service dogs are only for the seeing and hearing impaired, but research and practical experience has proven that those with dementia or Alzheimer’s also experience benefits from having pet therapy. With 5.3 million Americans suffering from limited cognition, four-legged creatures are being trained to bring the world back into their lives though pet…
Neither you nor your parent should limit your housing options as you age. It is to both of your advantage to know what your choices are. Senior housing is not a one size fits all solution and despite the fact that many today want to age in place, your loved one’s house may need some modifications to make it safe. …
It’s possible that your parent is overwhelmed with managing the medications they are taking. Not only are they taking drugs that they cannot pronounce the names of, but they also may not understand when to take them or why they are needed. Some pills need to be taken with a full glass of water, others with milk, and some on…
After retirement, the retiree’s social networks from work may begin to fade. The work world that a retiree held in common with coworkers is no longer as central to the retiree’s life. Because of this, it can become more difficult to build and maintain relationships after retirement. The natural networks for developing relationships – school, work and activities related to…
\While your loved one’s memory may not be intact, yours is. It’s recommended to approach your loved one with Alzheimer’s with patience. Although you recognize your parent and are happy to see them, they may not recognize you. Cautiously approach them as you acknowledge them by name. Expect that they will be confused or resist your approach and may feel…
A conversation most adult children don’t look forward to having with their aging parent is about the parent’s future lifestyle options. This is especially true when it involves possible changes in lifestyle and the potential need for long term care – either institutional or home care. As health issues arise, or simply with the effects of the normal process of…
As parents age, many adult children find themselves having to balance their own career with providing sufficient home care to their parents. Set priorities, make choices, and establish clear communication, both in the workplace and at home. Working while providing care for an aging parent is not easy. Challenges of Family Caregivers More women have entered the workforce and established…
It is a sad fact that many seniors are going hungry. Hunger and malnutrition are significant problems among elderly populations, and seniors who live on their own are at particular risk for suffering from hunger and inadequate nutrition. Preventing Senior Hunger and Malnutrition To prevent senior hunger and malnutrition, there are several things that senior caregivers should consider regarding the…
If the home care assistance you chose to care for your parent don’t create a safe and healthy environment for your mom or dad, you selected the wrong provider. Caregivers are trained to maintain the dignity and self-respect of your mom or dad. Age, health, or economic status has no bearing on how your loved one should be treated; they…
