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Looking at the Holidays With Dementia Through a Different Lens
The holiday lights are up, the invitations are sent, but for someone living with dementia, the festive season might stir more than just warm memories. Unfamiliar faces, changing routines, and sensory overload can lead to confusion, agitation, or fatigue. Seeing the holidays through the lens of dementia means shifting the focus: less about doing everything,
Holiday Activities for Older Adults That Make the Season Brighter
The lights are twinkling, the calendar is packed, and the house is buzzing with plans. But if you have an older loved one who moves a little slower, tires more easily, or is managing health challenges, the holiday whirlwind can feel more overwhelming than joyful. The solution: simple, meaningful holiday activities for older adults that
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Why Can’t Mom Sleep? Understanding Restless Nights in Older Adults
The clock glows 2:17 a.m. The house is still, but in the next room, Mom is wide awake…again. For many older adults, nights are anything but restful. Sleep problems become more common with age, but that doesn’t mean they’re “just part of getting older.” Often, there’s a reason for those restless nights in older adults,
6 Caregiver Qualities We Look for When Hiring
She’s sitting by the window in her favorite chair, the morning sun warming her hands. A caregiver walks in: not rushed, not distracted, but fully present. They greet her by name, ask how she slept, bring her tea just the way she likes it. Later, they’ll fold laundry together while chatting about her grandkids. Maybe
Helping Older Adults Use Technology to Stay Connected
Helping older adults use technology starts with one simple goal: connection. A familiar voice on a video call. A gentle reminder to take medication. A photo that pops up on a digital frame and sparks a smile. Technology doesn’t have to be flashy or complicated to make life better. It just needs to work in
The Dangerous Consequences of Loneliness in Older Adults
You know that gut-punch feeling when you realize someone you care about hasn’t had a real conversation with another person in days…or maybe even weeks? It’s easy to overlook, especially when everything seems fine on the surface. But loneliness in older adults is a silent health crisis, one that can be as dangerous as smoking
Too Many Meds? What Seniors Need to Know About Deprescribing
Dad’s taking an assortment of pills, twice a day…then a few more after dinner and at bedtime. And of course there are those to be taken “as needed.” Before long, medication schedules can start feeling like a second full-time job. If it seems like prescriptions have quietly multiplied over the years, you’re not imagining it.
How to Ease Tremors in Parkinson’s and Make Daily Life Easier
Tremors in Parkinson’s have a way of creeping into the simplest parts of daily life. What used to be routine—brushing teeth, pouring coffee, getting dressed—can suddenly feel like a series of uphill battles. If you’re supporting someone with Parkinson’s, you’ve probably seen how these tremors can chip away at confidence and independence. Thankfully, there are
The Balancing Act of Safety and Independence When Caring for Aging Parents
Caring for aging parents is a role many of us step into gradually, often without realizing the full scope of responsibilities until we’re in the thick of it. One day, they’re the ones reminding us to eat our vegetables and look both ways before crossing the street. The next, we’re gently nudging them to use
How to Handle Aggression and Agitation in a Loved One With Alzheimer’s
It’s one of the most heartbreaking aspects of dementia. The person who once greeted you with warmth and kindness now reacts with frustration or even anger. It’s confusing. It’s painful. And if you’re honest, when faced with aggression and agitation in a loved one with Alzheimer’s, it can feel like a personal attack. But it’s
Myths and Facts About Heart Health for Older Adults
Did you know heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, yet it’s surrounded by myths that could cost lives? If you’re caring for an older loved one, you’ve probably heard some of them. “It’s just a part of aging,” or “They’ll know if something’s wrong.” But here’s the truth: believing
How to Help Older Loved Ones Overcome Post-Holiday Blues
The holiday season brings joy, laughter, and cherished moments with loved ones. But when the celebrations end and family members head back home, many older adults are left with a sense of emptiness. It’s common for this time to be marked by feelings of sadness, often referred to as the “post-holiday blues.” If you notice
Kick Off the New Year With a New Career in Caregiving
As the new year approaches, it’s natural to reflect on where we’ve been and where we want to go. For many, this time of transition sparks the desire for a career change—one that aligns with personal goals while offering the opportunity to make a lasting impact on the lives of others. If you’re considering a
Creating a Safe and Comfortable Environment for Aging in Place
The desire to stay in the comfort of home as we age is something most older adults share. Home represents more than just a place; it’s where cherished memories were made and where a sense of independence thrives. However, with age comes the need for changes that ensure safety without sacrificing comfort. Whether you’re helping
The Importance of Candid Conversations in End-of-Life Care
Navigating the journey of a loved one nearing the end of life is undoubtedly one of the most challenging experiences we face. However, these moments also offer opportunities for profound connection, reflection, and love. Meaningful conversations can provide comfort, closure, and a deeper understanding of your loved one’s wishes. End-of-life care can play a vital
The Powerful Impact of Preventive Healthcare
It’s a goal we all share: seeing our aging parents full of life and energy, enjoying family gatherings, traveling, or simply relishing daily activities without health worries. We want them to thrive, not just survive. But how do we ensure they remain healthy and active? The secret lies in preventive healthcare to detect potential issues
Arthritis Wellness Guide: Improve Joint Health and Overcome Challenges
Imagine waking up each morning with less joint stiffness, navigating your day with more ease, and engaging in your favorite activities without the nagging aches that have become all too familiar. For many, overcoming the challenges of arthritis may seem like a daunting task, necessitating significant lifestyle overhauls or invasive procedures. However, the journey to
Balance Family With a Fulfilling Career in Caregiving
Are you looking for a job that can adapt to your family’s schedule, especially if you’re juggling the demands of raising children? A career in caregiving might be the perfect fit for you. With a flexible work environment and the profound satisfaction of making a difference in someone’s life, caregiving offers unique benefits that are
Eating Well, Living Well: Nutrition Tips for Managing Chronic Illness
We’ve all heard the saying, “You are what you eat.” When it comes to managing chronic health conditions, truer words were never spoken. Nutrition plays a critical role in maintaining overall health and managing various chronic illnesses, from diabetes to heart disease and beyond. For someone who has struggled to maintain a healthy diet, making
A Caregiver Lifestyle Guide to Help You Juggle It All
Guest Glog from Elder Freedom As the population ages, more individuals find themselves juggling the demands of work, caregiving, and personal commitments. For caregivers of seniors, this balancing act can be particularly challenging. In this article, courtesy of Senior HomeCare of Tucson, we’ll explore practical strategies to help caregivers maintain harmony in their lives while
Managing Diabetes: It’s More Than Just Finger Pricks!
Living life as a diabetic can feel like walking a tightrope. From monitoring blood sugar levels to making dietary adjustments, managing diabetes requires a delicate balance. And for older adults, the task can become even more daunting. But fear not, because there are practical steps you can take to help an older loved one navigate
New Prescription? Get Answers to These Questions First!
You’ve just left the doctor’s office with your mom. The physician has sent a new prescription to the pharmacy, slated to be ready upon your arrival. Your plan: swing by the drive-through, grab the meds, and treat Mom to lunch. But, could there be a crucial step you’re overlooking? When a new medication is prescribed
Following in Your Footsteps: How to Overcome Shadowing in Dementia
Primary caregivers supporting individuals with Alzheimer’s disease often face the challenge of finding a quiet moment for themselves—whether it’s a brief bathroom break, a quick shower, or just stepping into another room. Dealing with a phenomenon known as shadowing in dementia adds an extra layer of complexity to these moments of respite. Shadowing occurs when
5 Reasons to Consider a Career in Caregiving
In-home caregiving is not just a profession; it is a calling that holds the power to transform lives. While the primary focus is on empowering older adults to age in place and enjoy the comforts of their cherished homes, the impact extends beyond the care recipient. In addition to a flexible schedule and competitive pay,
Why Anxiety in Seniors Is Increasing – And How You Can Help
Is there an older adult in your life who’s facing challenges with getting a good night’s sleep, finding joy in activities, or connecting with friends and family? Before attributing these issues solely to the natural process of aging, let’s consider another common factor that might be at play: anxiety. Anxiety in seniors may not look
Passing Up Pie? Oh My! Learn What to Do About Appetite Loss in Seniors
Every year around this time, Dad eagerly anticipates the homemade turkey soup you make only during the holiday season. This year, however, he seems disinterested as you place a steaming bowl in front of him. What could have caused such a drastic change in his appetite, and should you be concerned? Uncovering the Reason Behind
Make the Holiday Season Brighter for Seniors With These Tips
As they say, it’s the most wonderful time of the year! But is it really? For older adults, it may actually be the most melancholy time of the year, as they wrestle with nostalgia over holidays past, chronic health conditions, the loss of loved ones, loneliness and isolation, and more. For family caregivers, it can
Address Caregiver Stress Before the Holiday Season!
Lowering your stress level is hugely beneficial for your health. However, for family caregivers, stress is a part of the job. While caregiving on any given day can be stressful, it’s often exacerbated during the holidays. The hustle and bustle of the season, mixed with work, family life, and caregiving can make even the jolliest
Seniors Staying Active: Why It’s Crucial and Ideas to Implement Today
We’re certainly used to hot weather in Arizona, but this summer has been especially brutal. As a result, many older adults put a pause on exercise and other physical activity for safety’s sake. Now that the intense summer heat is behind us, it’s the perfect time to start or get back to a routine of
Back to School: It’s Not Just for Kids!
We all know the benefits of learning for children and young adults. But what about older adults? The fact is, there are numerous benefits to going back to school and being a lifelong learner. Not only can senior loved ones learn new skills and hobbies, but getting back into a classroom environment can: Provide new
The Incredible Benefits of Caregiving
Dissatisfaction in the workplace is at an all-time high. In Gallup’s 2022 State of the Global Workplace report, a staggering 60 percent of workers reported being emotionally detached at work. 19 percent said they felt miserable in their jobs. 50 percent of U.S. workers reported feeling stressed at work on a daily basis. With these
Senior Activities to Enjoy Together This Spring
There’s something so rejuvenating about being outdoors in the fresh air and beauty of nature. Before the temperature rises too high, it’s a good idea to help the older adults you love spend some time outside. It doesn’t have to involve anything elaborate; there are plenty of senior activities to enjoy together this spring that