It is no wonder that many elderly who live alone and lack proper care and assistance with their daily activities suffer from sudden weight loss. They often have difficulty regulating their food intake, or, worse yet, may start refusing to eat altogether. Since this can have a detrimental effect on their health and immunity, it’s important to address this issue effectively.
Finding the right solution isn’t always straightforward, and deciding on the best course of action can be difficult. This is why many families seek support from experienced home care professionals in Los Angeles. At A Better Way of Home Care, all of our referred professionals are skilled in developing strategies to help your elderly loved ones and protect their health.
What causes an elderly person to stop eating?
Some loss of appetite in old age is often normal. It’s not uncommon for the elderly to experience changes in their appetite or loss of appetite. It may happen naturally, as part of the aging process.
However, there may be other reasons for their lack of appetite, which could be remedied. If you’re wondering what it means when an elderly person stops eating, here are some possible causes to explore:
Changing taste buds due to age (causing food to taste bland)
Slowing metabolism as a result of aging
Loneliness and depression
Lack of energy to shop for groceries and prepare food
Lack of physical activity
Deteriorating health
Side effects of medication (some medications cause nausea or dry mouth by reducing saliva production, making it uncomfortable to eat)
Poorly fitting dentures (which may be moving and slipping, making eating painful)
It’s always worth looking into the reason behind your loved one’s appetite loss because it may be a sign of an underlying problem.
In many cases, these issues can be easily solved. For example, your elderly relative may benefit from some very simple accommodations, like getting in-home support for meal preparation. While seniors often hesitate to adapt to changes, having a caregiver help with cooking and everyday tasks may be just the change they need.
In other cases, a medical check-up or full-time supervision can be helpful in uncovering the root cause and treating the senior’s appetite loss. It’s best to act with precaution since refusing to eat could ultimately result in nutrient or vitamin deficiency.
What health conditions can lead to the loss of appetite in seniors?
Gastrointestinal issues, which can disrupt normal eating and digestion.
Diabetes
Cancer
This is why an unexplained decrease in appetite should be investigated, especially if it’s accompanied by other issues, like weight loss.
When should loss of appetite be a concern?
Here are some instances where appetite loss should be taken seriously:
Lasting more than a few days: If the loss of appetite persists beyond several days without a clear reason like temporary stress or a mild illness.
Leading to weight loss: When it results in noticeable, unintentional weight loss, which can significantly impact health.
Accompanied by other symptoms: If it comes with additional symptoms such as fatigue, mood changes, digestive problems, or general weakness.
Existing health conditions: In seniors with pre-existing medical conditions, a decrease in appetite can complicate their health issues and hinder treatment.
Risk of nutritional deficiencies: Elderly individuals are at higher risk for nutritional deficiencies, and a prolonged loss of appetite can worsen these risks.
It’s crucial for caregivers or family members to monitor these signs closely and seek medical advice to ensure the health and well-being of elderly loved ones.
How do you stimulate your elderly loved one’s appetite?
Encouraging someone to eat when they’re not interested can be tough, but it’s crucial to keep trying and be patient with them. Fortunately, there are several strategies to treat elderly appetite loss, including natural appetite stimulants and effective methods to encourage eating.
Here are some tips:
Address underlying issues: First, identify if the loss of appetite is due to illness, medication, or other health concerns. Consulting a doctor to address these issues is crucial.
Establish a routine: Eating at the same times each day can help condition the body to feel hungry at meal times.
Adapt eating habits: If smaller, more frequent meals work better for your loved one, stick with that rather than forcing three large meals. Keep nutritious options that suit their eating style.
Enhance digestibility: Incorporating spices like fennel, ginger, rosemary, or turmeric can aid digestion and improve appetite. Also, avoiding food with strong smells may help.
Manage fluid intake: Drinking water between meals can aid digestion and prevent dehydration, which suppresses appetite. However, limiting fluid intake during meals is advisable as it can fill them up too quickly.
Vary food temperatures: Experimenting with different temperatures for meals can cater to changing preferences. At different times, warmer or cooler dishes may be more appealing to your elderly loved one.
Encourage socialization during meals: Turning mealtime into a social event can help stimulate appetite in older adults. Sharing meals with friends and family makes eating a more enjoyable activity, as laughter and conversation create a welcoming atmosphere everyone looks forward to. Additionally, this approach can give seniors a sense of empowerment and inclusion, enhancing their overall mealtime experience.
Encourage physical activity: Even moderate exercise, like regular walks or short drives to places like Will Rogers State Historic Park for some fresh air, can significantly increase appetite.
What food is good for seniors with no appetite?
For seniors experiencing a lack of appetite, it’s important to focus on nutrient-dense foods that provide essential vitamins and minerals in smaller portions. Here are some foods that are generally appealing and beneficial:
Smoothies and shakes: These can be packed with fruits, vegetables, protein powder, and yogurt or milk to provide a nutrient-rich meal that’s easy to consume.
Soups and broths: Warm and comforting, soups can be made with a variety of ingredients to ensure they are nutritious and can be easier to digest.
Oatmeal or porridge: Soft and easy to customize with toppings like fruit, nuts, and honey, oatmeal is comforting and easy on the stomach.
Scrambled eggs: High in protein and soft, scrambled eggs can be less daunting to eat and can be mixed with cheese or vegetables for added nutrients.
Cottage cheese or Greek yogurt: High in protein and calcium, these options are also soft and easy to eat. They can be paired with fruits or a drizzle of honey.
Mashed potatoes: Soft and comforting, they can be made more nutritious with the addition of a little olive oil or yogurt instead of butter and cream.
Steamed or roasted vegetables: These are easy to chew and digest; carrots, squash, and potatoes can be especially appealing.
Finger foods: Small, easy-to-handle foods like cheese cubes, cut-up fruit, or meatballs can be less overwhelming and more appealing to pick at throughout the day.
Soft fish: Fish like salmon or tuna are high in omega-3 fatty acids and are soft enough to eat comfortably.
Who provides expert home care & help with seniors’ nutrition in Los Angeles?
Worried about your loved one’s eating habits and not sure what to do when the elderly won’t eat or drink? There are gentle and effective strategies to help boost their appetite and ensure they receive the nutrition they need. If it’s becoming hard to cope on your own, getting support from a trained caregiver could be beneficial. While they might not know your elderly relative as intimately as you do, they bring valuable experience that can make a difference.
Juggling work, family, and the needs of an aging parent or relative can be overwhelming. The weight of these responsibilities can leave you feeling spread thin, constantly torn between the things that require your attention. You long to provide the best possible care for your aging loved one, but the demands of daily life can make it seem almost impossible. Luckily, there are various options for senior care all over Los Angeles that can help you make this significantly easier.
From preparing nutritious meals to providing medication reminders, an experienced professional can cater to a whole range of needs. In the meantime, you will be able to take a much-needed break and spend time with your aging loved one doing something you both genuinely enjoy doing instead of constant caretaking.
Seniors may be reluctant to accept changes in life and abandon their familiar routines. They often put up resistance to personal care and assistance, as it often means they are no longer considered to be sufficiently independent to look after themselves. This is a fairly common situation families face.
The term “resistant to care” describes situations where individuals actively avoid or hinder personal and medical assistance. This can manifest in various ways, from outright refusal to participate in necessary activities to subtly avoiding them or not complying. When your aging loved one refuses professional help with essential daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, or taking medications, it can jeopardize their well-being and overall health.
Situations like this are particularly concerning because they can lead to serious health issues. For instance, if they avoid eating properly, it can result in malnutrition, which may weaken their immune system and make them more susceptible to illnesses. Regular monitoring and assistance from professional caregivers could help you manage these risks.
Similarly, refusing to drink enough fluids can cause dehydration, which can lead to confusion, urinary tract infections, and other complications. Constipation is another common issue, especially if they’re not following a proper diet or taking prescribed medications.
This situation is challenging for many families. Watching a loved one decline while refusing the help they need can be very stressful. It often creates tension and conflict within the family, as caregivers struggle to balance respect for the senior’s autonomy with the necessity of ensuring their health and safety. It will often leave you wondering “why is my elderly parent so angry when I’m only trying to help”.
However, understanding the reasons behind them resisting care and approaching the situation with empathy and patience can make a significant difference. Once you address the underlying causes and work collaboratively with caregivers and healthcare professionals, you’ll be more likely to find a way to support your loved one and help them reap all the benefits of 24-hour care. The end goal is to effectively and gently guide them towards accepting the care they need.
How to deal with resistance to care with dementia?
Resistance to care and dementia are both difficult challenges faced by many seniors’ families. Helping your loved one through this situation requires a unique and empathetic approach. Patience and understanding are the key here. We should do our best to understand that their behavior may stem from fear, confusion, or a loss of control. Here’s what you can do:
1. Try to create a calm and reassuring environment
A soothing atmosphere can make a significant difference. Try to make their home quiet, comfortable, and free from distractions. Soft lighting, familiar objects, and a consistent routine can help minimize their agitation. When you talk to them, use a gentle tone and maintain eye contact to convey empathy and reassurance. Approach them calmly and avoid sudden movements or loud noises that might startle them.
2. Use simple language and avoid arguing
Effective communication is very important here. Use short, simple sentences and avoid complex explanations. Do your best to stay patient and give them time to process what you’re saying. Instead of arguing, try to acknowledge their feelings and validate their emotions.
For example, if they express fear about bathing, you might say, “I understand that you feel scared about taking a bath. Let’s see how we can make it more comfortable for you.” Having a reliable caregiver can also help, since they’re trained to communicate with seniors calmly and respectfully.
3. Focus on their feelings
Empathy goes a long way when helping someone who’s resistant to care. Pay attention to their emotional state and respond accordingly. If they seem anxious or upset, try to comfort them with a gentle touch or reassuring words. Let them know that their feelings are important and that you’re there to support them. Sometimes, just listening and being there as a comforting person can help them feel more secure. Trained caregivers will also be patient and sensitive to their feelings.
4. Use redirection and distraction techniques
Redirection can be a powerful tool. If your loved one starts avoiding a specific activity, gently shift their focus to something else they enjoy. For example, if they refuse to take a bath, you might engage them in a favorite activity like listening to music or watching their favorite show. Once they’re more relaxed, you can attempt the task again, but try to frame it gently when suggesting it.
5. Talk to a doctor
If the situation stays the same, consider seeking help from professionals specializing in dementia care. A specialist or a geriatric psychiatrist can provide valuable insights and a detailed plan tailored to your loved one’s needs. If they need medication, the doctor will quickly recognize it and prescribe it to them. They can also offer support and guidance to family members and help you navigate the challenges more effectively.
How do you deal with the elderly who are confrontational?
Three components are considered to be vital to successfully dealing with and helping confrontational elderly individuals with resistance to care, especially if dementia is also involved: patience, creativity, and flexibility. Professionals in the world of caregiving understand that each client is unique and that not every client is easy to work with from the start. Here’s a detailed guide to help you manage the situation effectively.
1. Communication is key
Effective communication is probably the most important part of dealing with your aging loved one when they’re confrontational. Try to help your loved one see the situation from your perspective. Explain that the point of home care isn’t to take away their independence but rather to help them maintain it while staying as safe and healthy as possible.
Be clear and concise and avoid technical jargon that might confuse or frustrate them. Ask open-ended questions to encourage dialogue, listen attentively, and show respect for their opinions. This demonstrates that you value their input and are not merely dictating what they should do. Acknowledge their fears and concerns and reassure them that their feelings are valid.
2. Let them get a say
Involving your elderly loved one in decision-making can make them less resistant to care. Don’t exclude them from decisions about their care. If at all possible, include them, even if only partially. For example, if they need to get professional help and it’s non-negotiable, at least let them choose the caregiver.
Allowing them to have a say can help them regain a sense of control and autonomy, which could make them much more receptive to what you’re offering. Discuss various options and learn all about their preferences, whether it’s the time of day they receive care, the type of assistance they need, or the specific professional who will be helping them.
3. Start slow, with patience and understanding
Introducing changes gradually can help your elderly relative adapt without feeling overwhelmed. Suggest making baby steps instead of forcing radical changes. This approach helps your elderly loved one adapt to the change at their own pace and get used to the idea of having a professional visit them regularly.
You could start minor adjustments, such as short visits from their chosen caregiver and gradually increase the duration and level of care as they become more comfortable. This method allows them to build trust and familiarity with their chosen professional which can significantly reduce their anxiety.
Why are seniors so stubborn?
Seniors and the elderly can be set in their ways. While it may be very difficult for you to deal with elderly parents who refuse help, this behavior of theirs is perfectly understandable. They have spent decades living life a certain way and they are having a hard time adjusting to even the slightest changes to their usual routine, let alone drastic changes which involve welcoming a stranger into one’s home, which is who a caregiver is to them, at least at first.
This inflexibility often stems from a desire to maintain control over their lives and a reluctance to abandon familiar routines and environments. If you’re asking yourself why your elderly parent is so angry and obstinate at times, here are some reasons that may not be as easy to identify:
1. Emotional and psychological challenges
Seniors often face many emotional and psychological challenges that can contribute to their stubbornness. For instance, grief over the loss of a partner, family member, friend, or pet can deeply affect their willingness to deal with changes. Similarly, depression and anxiety, common among the elderly, can make them more resistant to care, as they may feel overwhelmed or hopeless.
2. Anger and isolation
Anger issues and feelings of isolation and loneliness can also play significant roles. As their health declines, seniors may experience a lot of frustration and anger towards their situation. In some cases, this can lead them to push back against help. It’s also common for the elderly to feel left out of family activities or decisions, which can further increase their sense of isolation and fuel their stubbornness.
3. Fear of losing independence
Fear is another powerful factor. Many seniors fear dying or being relocated to a nursing home, which can manifest as being resistant to care. They may perceive accepting help as a step closer to losing their independence or being placed in a facility.
It’s very important to know enough about these underlying reasons when approaching the topic of care. Once you recognize why they act the way they do, it becomes easier to communicate with them effectively and do your best to empower them. Acknowledging their fears and emotions can help build trust and pave the way for more productive conversations about their needs. This can make the whole situation easier to handle and healthier for everyone involved.
How to motivate stubborn senior citizens in personal hygiene?
You may be unsure how to help your stubborn loved one who struggles with self-neglect, as many seniors do. Maintaining personal hygiene can become a challenge for some aging individuals due to various reasons, including physical limitations, cognitive decline, or depression. To encourage better hygiene habits, try the following:
1. Make it easier
Make the bathroom safe and accessible. If needed, make adjustments to their home and the bathroom. You could install grab bars, shower chairs, and raised toilet seats to reduce the risk of falls. It might also be helpful to use easy-to-handle hygiene products that your aging loved one won’t struggle with. Simplifying the process can make a significant difference in their willingness to participate in personal care.
2. Be patient and supportive
Avoid criticism or nagging, as it can often make them feel ashamed or defensive. Instead, try to offer gentle reminders and assistance. Approach the topic with sensitivity and respect, acknowledging their feelings and concerns. For instance, instead of saying, “You need to shower,” you could say, “Would you like some help getting ready for the day?”
3. Focus on the benefits
Remind them of the advantages of good hygiene, but make sure that your tone is not condescending. They’re probably aware of the benefits but don’t feel motivated to put a lot of effort into their grooming. Explain how paying attention to hygiene could help them feel more comfortable, healthy, and confident.
You could also mention that staying clean can prevent infections, skin issues, and other health problems. Positive reinforcement, such as praising them for their efforts, can also boost their motivation.
4. Make it enjoyable
Transform hygiene routines into pleasant experiences. For example, you could play their favorite music while they’re in the bath or use scented products they enjoy. You could put fresh sheets on their bed and make the bedroom feel pleasant, so they can enjoy the feeling of cleanliness once they get into bed. Creating a spa-like atmosphere can make these tasks feel less like chores and more like pampering sessions.
You’re more likely to successfully deal with elderly parents who refuse help if you’re well-rested and stable, which can be challenging if you’re the one caring for them all the time. That’s why it can be a relief to leave the work to the professionals, recharge, and still stay supportive and loving, but in a different way.
How do I find dependable home care in Los Angeles?
All the professionals in our database are background-checked, qualified, and trustworthy, so you can rest assured that your aging loved one will be in safe hands. Our network covers a wide area, so you can also count on us for reliable and safe in-home care in Beverly Hills and other areas of Los Angeles County. For more details, from the cost of care to other specifics, do not hesitate to contact us anytime.
Your cognitive health is your ability to remember, learn, and think clearly. It’s a vital part of performing everyday tasks and activities that can be affected by aging, mood disorders, and diseases such as Alzheimer’s. Fortunately, you can maintain your cognitive abilities by implementing different activities in your everyday life.
In Studio City, CA, trusted home care professionals play a vital role in assisting seniors in keeping up with their daily activities, staying connected with others, and maintaining physical and emotional health. Continue reading to find out what activities to follow to improve your cognitive abilities.
What activities improve cognition?
A significant amount of scientific research reveals that the following activities can improve your cognitive health. Making them part your daily routine can bring you numerous benefits:
Eat healthy
While a healthy diet helps reduce the risk of different chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease, it also helps keep your brain healthy.
A healthy diet comprises whole grains, fruits and vegetables, poultry, fish, lean meat, and nonfat or low-fat dairy products while it limits the intake of salt, sugar, and solid fats. However, it’s also important to control your portion sizes and take enough water.
Prevent diabetes, heart disease, and other diseases
Improve your mood and decrease depression
According to federal guidelines for physical activity, all adults should get at least 150 minutes of physical activity on a weekly basis. Walking is an excellent exercise, but if you feel like you can do more, there are different senior programs you can take part in.
Keep your mind agile
When you keep your mind intellectually engaged, it improves your thinking abilities. There are a lot of activities you can take up such as playing games, reading books or magazines, taking or teaching chess, learning a new skill or hobby, and volunteering. They can make your brain more adaptable and reduce the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s.
Stay socially engaged
Staying connected with other people keeps your mind active, helps you feel more engaged and less isolated, but also improves your overall wellbeing and lowers the risk of certain health problems.
Stress is an inevitable part of our everyday lives. However, it’s possible to manage it and boost your ability to recover from stressful situations by following activities such as:
Regular physical exercise such as walking or tai chi
Journal writing to help let go of a problem or perceive a new solution
Relaxation techniques such as breathing exercises or mindfulness
Staying positive by releasing situations beyond your control or grudges, practicing gratitude, or focusing on enjoying simple things
Where in Studio City, CA can I find dedicated home care?
At A Better Way in Home Care, we boast a team of knowledgeable and reliable caregivers who are devoted to helping your elderly loved ones. They always strive to ensure your family members are well taken care of and receive all the support they need. They’ll assist them in performing their everyday chores, prepare their meals, and accompany them to medical appointments. Whether your senior loved ones live close to the Radford Studio Center or in the vicinity, we’ll make sure they have all they need. Reach out to us today!
There are many physical and mental health benefits of staying social, particularly later in life. According to various studies, socializing with others is essential for both your wellbeing and your cognitive functions.
Luckily, dedicated home caregivers in Studio City, CA are committed to serving your family compassion supporting you in maintaining the quality of life you deserve every single day. They’ll help you keep up with your social activities and maintain both your physical and mental wellbeing. Keep reading to find out how staying social helps your cognition.
Make it a priority to include socializing activities in your everyday life. Make an effort to dedicate at least a small portion of your day to interacting with others and improving your cognitive skills.
Find a cause to volunteer
Apart from providing you with a sense of purpose, volunteering is an excellent way to meet and communicate with new people who share your interests. According to a recent study, the sense of belonging and purpose can extend life by two years. If you’re looking for ideas, you can visit the official website that offers current volunteering opportunities.
Become a part of a support group
Support groups are another way to spend time with persons who share common challenges and interests. Today, you can join these groups online or live, whatever suits you best. Whichever way you opt for, you’ll be in for new friendships and emotional support.
Grow the list of your social media friends
You don’t necessarily need to make new friends, but making the best of social media to maintain, support, or reinforce your existing relationships can have an amazing impact on your brain. A recent study has shown that there’s a direct link between the size of certain areas of the brain and the number of friends on social media.
Users with larger social networks had more gray matter in quite a few brain regions, including left temporal gyrus that’s responsible for face recognition and understanding of word meanings, amygdala, which is responsible for the processing of emotions, memory, and information, and right entorhinal cortex, responsible for declarative or autobiographical and episodic memory.
Start a hobby
Just like reaching out to a support group, getting a new hobby can connect you with a lot of people. It opens up a lot of opportunities to socialize. Moreover, it also challenges your brain. According to a recent study, learning a new skill such as quilting or photography could be even more effective at keeping your mind sharp than doing crosswords or playing a puzzle.
During the study, two hundred seniors were randomly assigned to dedicate 15 hours per week to quilting, digital photography, or another similar activity for three months. The results showed a significant improvement in memory, and when they tested them a year later, it was maintained.
Where can I find reliable home caregivers in Studio City, CA?
A Better Way in Home care is your strongest ally in supporting your elderly loved ones in their everyday life, providing them with devoted social and emotional support. We carefully check the background of every single caretaker we recommend. Whether you need us on Laurel Canyon Boulevard or anywhere else across the area, feel free to rely on our team. Give us a call today!
As our loved ones age, it’s only natural that we worry about their well-being. One of the many issues that can come with age is increased stress and anxiety. While some stress is normal, too much stress can lead to serious health problems.
That’s why it’s important to be on the lookout for signs of stress in your senior loved one and to know how to help them combat it. Whether you do this with the help of professional caregivers in Marina Del Rey or on your own, it’s important to be informed on the topic.
One of the main sources of stress for seniors is feelings of loneliness and isolation. According to UCSF’s study, more than 40% of seniors regularly experience loneliness. This can lead to business all sorts of other health problems, including depression, anxiety, high blood pressure, and sleep problems.
That’s why it’s important to make sure that your elderly loved one stays connected to their loved ones, whether that means setting up regular Skype calls or planning family visits.
2. Get them involved in their community
Another way to help reduce your elderly loved one’s stress is by getting them involved in their community. There are plenty of ways to do this, depending on their interests. If they’re interested in art, for example, you could look into joining a local art group or taking classes at a nearby museum or community center.
On the other hand, if they’re looking for something more active, there might be a senior citizen sports league in your area. Getting involved in activities outside the home can help reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness while also providing a sense of purpose.
3. Help them stay organized
As we age, it can become more difficult to keep track of things like doctor’s appointments, medications, and bills. This can lead to a lot of unnecessary stress, especially if the senior is experiencing symptoms of cognitive decline. Luckily, there are a few ways you can help your elderly loved one stay organized and on top of things.
One way is by creating a simple spreadsheet with all their important information like doctor’s appointment dates and contact information so they always have it on hand when they need it. You could also look into online bill-paying services or medication reminder apps that can help make things easier for them (and for you).
4. Promote healthy coping mechanisms
Sometimes the best way to deal with stress is by using healthy coping mechanisms like exercise or relaxation techniques. As we age, it’s important to stay active both mentally and physically through activities like brain games, reading, gardening, or walking outdoors.
Taking some time each day for some simple relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation can also work wonders in reducing stress levels. No matter how resilient your elderly loved one may be to stress, these techniques are helpful for stress reduction at any age.
5. Encourage them to eat right
What we eat plays a big role in our overall health, including our mental health, so it’s important to make sure that your elderly loved one is eating right. This means eating plenty of fruits and vegetables while limiting processed foods as much as possible.
It might also mean cutting back on caffeine or alcohol if either is causing problems with anxiety or sleep deprivation. Having balanced meals throughout the day will help keep energy levels up and stress down.
Where can I find experienced caregivers in Marina Del Rey and the surrounding area near me?
Our agency connects you with experienced in-home specialists in senior care who can help with all aspects of caring for your elderly loved one. We carefully screen and select professionals who are compassionate and skilled in providing high-quality care.
The professionals we match you with are trained to provide assistance with activities of daily living, personal care, light housekeeping, and much more. In addition, they can provide transportation to medical appointments and other errands as needed, as well as walks around Marina Beach with your elderly loved one.
If you’re interested in learning more about our in-home care services, contact us today! We would be happy to answer any of your questions and match you with a professional who can meet your or your loved one’s specific needs.
The elderly population experiences a great deal of stress. The challenges of old age such as retirement, health issues and isolation can make your senior loved one more stressed and in a chronically bad mood. Given the aging population in the United States, more and more families are finding themselves in need of home care agencies for their elderly loved ones in Marina Del Rey.
These professionals provide a valuable service by helping to relieve the stress of caregiving and providing a reliable source of support. Read on to learn more about why the elderly population tends to stress more than their younger loved ones.
Why do old people stress so much?
There are a number of reasons why older adults may experience more stress than younger adults. Let’s have a look at the 5 most common reasons:
More responsibilities
The increased responsibilities that come with age can be a major source of stress. For example, older adults may have to care for young children or grandchildren, manage a household, and deal with health issues.
In addition, older adults often have more financial obligations than younger adults, including mortgages, credit card debt, and medical expenses. All of these factors can lead to increased levels of stress.
Facing retirement
Retirement can be a stressful time for many older adults. For some, it may mark the end of a long and successful career. Others may find retirement to be a sudden and unexpected loss of income.
In addition, retirement can also bring about changes in lifestyle and social status. For example, retired individuals may no longer have the opportunity to interact with co-workers on a daily basis. As a result, they may find themselves feeling isolated and alone.
Struggling with a loved one’s death
As people age, they often face more significant losses, such as the death of a spouse, close friends, or other loved ones. The grief that follows these losses can be very difficult to cope with, even for more resilient seniors, and may lead to feelings of stress and isolation. This can be a difficult time for anyone, but it can be especially hard for older adults who may have already lost many friends and loved ones.
Chronic health issues
Declining health can also be a major source of stress for the elderly. Chronic health issues can be painful and physically debilitating, making it difficult to perform everyday tasks. Potential cognitive decline and chronic tiredness can make the situation even more difficult.
These conditions often require ongoing medical treatment, which can be expensive and time-consuming. Finally, chronic health issues can cause feelings of anxiety and helplessness, as older adults worry about their declining health and ability to care for themselves.
Loneliness and isolation
A combination of all of these reasons often results in an intense feeling of loneliness for many seniors. Their retirement from work can make their social circle shrink. This can leave them feeling isolated and cut off from the world.
Their health problems make it difficult for them to get out and about, which can also contribute to feelings of loneliness and isolation. Another possible source of stress is that some of the elderly may be on a fixed income, or they may have expensive medical bills. If there’s no one to help them with this, it can make their feelings of loneliness even worse.
Final note
While stress is a natural part of life, it’s important to find ways to manage it in order to maintain our physical and mental health. Fortunately, there are many resources available to help seniors cope with stress.
How can I find reliable home care agencies in Marina Del Rey and the surrounding area?
Caring for an elderly loved one can be a difficult and stressful task. If you are feeling overwhelmed, A Better Way In Home Care can refer a caregiver to provide the assistance you need. They can help with bathing, dressing, meal preparation and various other tasks.
Transportation to doctor’s appointments and other errands can be provided. Most of all, the caregivers can provide your elderly loved one with companionship and conversation, which can help to reduce stress levels. A walk around Burton Chace Park with one of the experienced caregivers we match your elderly loved one with, can do wonders for their mood and well-being. Let us refer quality care that will allow your loved one to age in place in the comfort of their own home. Give us a call today to learn more about how we can help.
Resilience is the ability to recover from or adjust easily to difficulties or changes. It is an important trait for people of all ages, but especially for seniors. The elderly are more vulnerable to health problems, financial difficulties, and social isolation, so it is important for them to have the resilience to deal with these challenges.
In Marina Del Rey, professional homecare is a popular way of helping seniors stay psychologically healthy, stable, and resilient. Whether you’re getting some help in caring for your senior loved one or not, you’ll benefit from learning about how to help them build resilience and why it matters.
Why is resilience important in the elderly?
Resilience is an important quality for people of all ages, but it becomes especially important in later life. As we age, we become more vulnerable to cognitive decline and chronic illnesses, experience more losses, including the death of loved ones and are in general more stressed. At the same time, we may have less support from family and friends.
All of these factors can make it difficult to maintain a positive outlook on life. However, research has shown that resilient seniors are more likely to enjoy good physical and mental health, even in the face of adversity.
They are also better able to adapt to changes and cope with stress. In short, resilience is a key ingredient for a happy and fulfilling life in older age. Therefore, it is important to encourage elders to develop this essential quality.
How do the elderly develop resilience?
Research has shown that the elderly can develop resilience through a number of different pathways.
Support network: One common pathway is through social support networks. In times of hardship, social support can provide a sense of belonging and connectedness, which can help to buffer against negative emotions.
Positive reframing: Another pathway to resilience is through positive reframing, which is the process of reinterpreting a difficult situation in a more positive light. For example, an elderly person who has lost their spouse may reframe the situation as an opportunity for growth and self-discovery once they’ve grieved their loved one.
Religious beliefs and spiritual practices: While they might not be for everyone, religious and spiritual practices can also promote resilience by providing a sense of meaning and purpose. This can be very helpful to religious seniors.
Where in Marina Del Rey and the surrounding area can I find reliable homecare?
At A Better Way in Home Care, we understand that finding the right care for you or your senior loved one can be a difficult and time-consuming process. That’s why we can refer caregivers who offer a wide range of services to meet your unique needs. Whether you’re looking for help with meals, company, support, medicine, or light housework, we can find a professional who will make sure your loved one is well taken care of.
Many caregivers also offer transportation services to get your loved one to and from appointments. The caregiver referred to your loved one can even accompany them to Marina Beach or another location of their choice so they can stretch out their back and legs. Call us today to learn more about how we can help you or your senior loved one.
As people age, it is common for their cognitive abilities to change. Some of these changes are normal, while others may be signs of concerning cognitive decline. It is important to be able to recognize the difference so that you can seek help if necessary.
This can be even easier with the help of trained home caregivers in Marina Del Rey. Read on for a full guide to signs of cognitive decline and ways to help you or your senior loved one battle it.
How much cognitive decline is normal?
The normal cognitive decline that comes with age is usually very gradual and does not affect a person’s ability to live independently. However, some older adults may experience more significant cognitive changes that can impact their daily lives. For example, they may have difficulty processing information quickly or remembering things.
Although these changes are normal, it’s important for older adults to stay proactive about their health and seek out support if they need it. Additionally, older adults typically retain their overall EQ (emotional intelligence quotient), which includes abilities such as self-awareness, empathy and social skills. This means that they’re still able to connect with others and manage their emotions effectively.
What are the 3 most common cognitive changes during the aging process?
It’s important to be aware of the signs of changes in yourself or your senior loved one in order to be able to recognize possible cognitive decline. Let’s have a look at the 3 most common signs:
1. Slower processing speed
This is a common cognitive change that occurs in the elderly. It takes longer to learn new information and complete tasks. This may be due to changes in the brain that occur with aging. The brain cells shrink and the connections between them weaken, which can make it more difficult to process information quickly.
There are some things that you or your loved one can do to help compensate for this change. For instance, you can give yourself more time to learn new information and complete tasks. You can also simplify your environment and limit distractions. You can even use memory aids, such as notebooks and calendars, to help you remember important information.
2. Poorer working memory
Elderly individuals may have trouble remembering steps in a task or keeping track of conversations. This can lead to feeling overwhelmed and stressed. While some cognitive decline is a normal part of aging, there are things that can be done to help improve working memory.
The tools to battle poor working memory are similar to those for battling slower processing speed. Some of the proven ways to do this include keeping a daily routine, organizing and labeling household items, and making to-do lists.x
3. Episodic memory problems
While some level of forgetfulness is to be expected as we age, episodic memory problems can interfere with day-to-day activities. Elderly individuals may have difficulty remembering recent conversations, appointments, or events.
They may also have trouble recalling memories from their youth. These problems can be frustrating and may cause feelings of unmanageable stress. Treatment for episodic memory problems may not be necessary if the individual is otherwise healthy and seems to be resilient. However, if the problem is causing significant distress, there are therapies that can help to improve memory function.
Where can I find reliable home caregivers in Marina Del Rey and the surrounding area?
If you are looking for experienced professionals to help your senior loved one, we can help. At A Better Way in Home Care, we specialize in finding dependable and trained experts for senior care who are the right match for your or your loved one’s needs.
Whether you need help with meals, medication reminders, appointments, walks, or brain exercises, we can connect you with seasoned and compassionate professionals who can make a positive difference in the senior’s life.
We believe that being active and spending time outdoors is important for seniors, so we often encourage our clients to take walks with their helpers at Burton W. Chace Park or other locations that they like. This can help them lower their stress leveland keep them healthy. Reach out to us today to see what we can do for you!
Even if a senior person you care about is not entirely dependent on you, they still need occasional help around the house, a ride to the grocery store or the doctor’s office, or supervision of their diet and medication regimens. But time is a scarce resource and sometimes you just need a long, well-deserved break. It can be difficult to find time for one when you have an elderly loved one to look after.
Adult day care, which incorporates social activities and caring for a person’s health and wellbeing could be the solution you need. Much like independently provided home care in Cheviot Hills or other neighborhoods in the area, adult day care is a valuable resource for overworked family caregivers who are struggling to keep up with the demands of senior care, which can turn into a full-time job in its own right.
So what services do adult day care centers offer and how does adult day care work?
What are day care centers for the elderly?
Adult day care services are normally only available during daytime hours on weekdays. This is ideal for family caregivers who would otherwise have difficulty attending their own doctor’s appointments or running errands, especially if they also have full-time jobs and young children to take care of.
When it comes to adult day care or any other form of specialized senior care, each person has unique needs. Different people require different levels of service. Many adult day care centers offer social and recreational opportunities and focus on non-medical custodial care, but some day care centers for the elderly offer a more comprehensive scope of services:
Social activities
Nutrition
Personal care
Health services
Transportation
Adult day health care centers offer health services in addition to a range of senior activities and social programs. There are also specialized dementia care facilities that provide closer supervision of care recipients.
Who attends adult day care centres?
Adult day care centers are suitable for seniors over the age of 65 who need some form of a long-term care service. Individuals who attend adult day care centers are not necessarily ill and frail. They can be perfectly fit seniors looking for companionship and an opportunity to socialize and spend quality time with peers.
In the short term, adult day care is a flexible, economical solution for overworked caregivers who need respite. However, in the long term, care recipients may require a more personalized approach within a familiar setting where they can enjoy peace, quiet and privacy.
Does Medicare cover senior day care?
Medicare alone does not cover the costs of adult day care, but some Medicare Advantage Plans may provide partial coverage.
Looking for comprehensive home care in Cheviot Hills and the LA area?
Some of us grow old without ever having to give up on our independence and freedom. Others end up in need of assistance. This is nothing to be ashamed of. The older we get, the less independent we are and the more assistance we need. This is the circle of life.
This is why it is so important to have a reliable someone to fall back on, and it does not have to be a family member. Professional caregivers provide their services in the comfort of senior homes in Cheviot Hills and other Los Angeles neighborhoods.
Finding a person you can trust to take good care of your aging loved one is no easy feat. That is where we come in. Let us help you improve your elderly loved one’s quality of life without asking them to give up on their independence or the home they have worked so hard all their lives to build. Contact A Better Way in Home Care now!
