Most families do their best to support an aging loved one, especially when changes happen slowly. But when daily challenges build over time, they often blend into the background, and can feel manageable. That’s why many families only notice certain issues after in-home care in Burbank becomes part of daily life and someone is consistently present. This is not because families don’t pay attention, it’s because some patterns become easier to see only with trained support in place. Read on to explore the kinds of issues seniors face that often go unnoticed until they get a caretaker.
What common issues with the elderly are often overlooked?
There’s a big difference between knowing what to watch for and actually seeing how someone’s day unfolds. Even with regular visits and calls, it’s easy to miss the full picture. Many families think their elderly loved one is doing fine because they’re managing – but managing isn’t thriving.
There are many differences between assisted living and in-home care, but a lot of people consider a facility first. If that’s not necessary, they assume that an elderly loved one doesn’t need help at all. But once support’s around consistently, small things start becoming visible. Here’s what often slips by unnoticed:
1. Gradual changes in movement and energy
Mobility challenges don’t usually appear all at once. Instead, they show up as slower movements, hesitation when standing, or fatigue that shortens daily activities. Families often adjust without realizing it, offering a hand here or allowing more rest there. Consistent support makes these patterns easier to notice and address before they lead to strain or frustration.
2. Daily tasks that get skipped or delayed
Tasks like grooming, preparing meals, or drinking enough fluids are easy to postpone when your energy levels drop. From the outside, everything may seem fine, especially if the person insists they are managing. Regular support helps keep these essential routines consistent, which can improve daily comfort and overall well-being without turning them into a source of stress.
3. Inconsistent routines that affect well-being
Daily structure plays a larger role than many families realize. Irregular sleep times, missed meals, or forgotten reminders can slowly affect mood and energy. These disruptions are easy to overlook because they don’t always cause immediate problems. With steady support, routines become more consistent, which leads to noticeable improvements in how the day feels.
4. Environmental risks that do not seem urgent
Not all risks look dangerous at first glance. Dim lighting, cluttered walkways, or footwear that slips can seem like just inconveniences, not real concerns. But over time, those small factors put strain on daily routines and make accidents more likely. Fortunately, an in-home caretaker can help identify and reduce these everyday risks before they escalate.
5. Social withdrawal that looks like preference
Choosing quieter days or fewer outings can seem like a natural change, something that just comes with age. Families may respect this as a personal choice before they realize it’s often a result of low energy or isolation. But with consistent companionship and conversation, it’s much easier to discover whether this withdrawal is a preference or the result of limited support.
6. Mental load from managing daily life alone
Even when a senior’s mobility is maintained and they don’t have significant health issues, managing appointments, decisions, and daily responsibilities can become overwhelming. But most of this mental load happens internally, which makes it hard to notice. Regular support lightens that burden, so individuals can stay independent without having to keep up with everything.
Who provides dependable, high-quality in-home care in Burbank?
At A Better Way In Home Care, we understand that families are attentive and involved, yet some challenges only become visible with consistent, professional support in place. We’re here to help connect you with the right carers and ensure your loved one has assistance, structure, and comfort in their daily life, paired with the flexibility that only reliable in-home support can offer as needs and routines shift.
No matter where you need us in Burbank and beyond, we help families see the full picture while keeping daily life adaptable and balanced. Reach out today to learn how thoughtful, flexible in-home support can bring clarity, comfort, and peace of mind.
When loved ones begin needing extra support, the entire family often feels the impact. Many in Hidden Hills turn to caregiving services only after some time, but waiting too long can quickly make daily life overwhelming. Without professional assistance, balancing work, personal responsibilities, and ongoing help can strain even the most organized relatives.
This is why choosing experienced professionals can be such a practical step that restores balance and peace of mind. But beyond meeting individual needs, in-home support can also strengthen the family unit as a whole. Read on to discover how expert assistance benefits everyone involved.
Why is caregiving important for individuals and families?
Choosing professional support for an aging loved one is never an easy decision, but it often brings lasting relief. Beyond the clear benefits for the individual, outside assistance helps relatives maintain close personal connections without being weighed down by constant responsibilities. Here’s how senior in-home care creates a healthier environment for the whole family:
1. Reducing stress for families
When a loved one requires ongoing attention, the responsibility often falls on close relatives. Unfortunately, having to balance schedules, manage tasks, and worry about their well-being can quickly become overwhelming. Professional assistance helps ease that pressure and allows family members to regain peace of mind while knowing their loved one is in capable hands. The relief of sharing responsibilities quickly lessens anxiety for everyone.
2. Keeping relationships positive
Constantly filling the role of a helper can shift family dynamics in a way that creates tension and distance. With outside professionals assisting, relatives can return to their natural roles as sons, daughters, or spouses. This helps keep connections warm and close, and turns visits back into enjoyable moments instead of obligations. Since consistency matters most in elderly care, families will notice how support helps everyone reconnect.
3. Helping keep a work-life balance
Many adults juggle careers, raising children, and providing help for aging relatives all at once. While some feel they can manage it, such a heavy routine often leads to limited time for personal needs or even clinical burnout. Having trained caregivers step in allows family members to regain time for their own lives. It creates breathing room so relatives can stay present in important parts of their loved one’s life without stretching themselves too thin.
4. Bringing professional guidance
Not everyone feels confident handling personal assistance or noticing health changes, but experts bring training and experience that relatives may not have. With their support, families can feel assured that important needs are met without the fear of “doing something wrong.” A professional may also have specialized knowledge in areas from medical concerns to cultural sensitivity in elderly care, so families know loved ones are both cared-for and understood.
5. Encouraging senior’s independence
Outside support doesn’t have to replace every task, it can be fully tailored to offer just the right level of help. This balance lets the individual retain control over their daily life while still receiving assistance where necessary. Having reliable support, companionship, and personalized hobbies are important for aging people, but staying independent for as long as possible is just as high a priority.
6. Improving emotional well-being
When relatives provide only occasional assistance, or when interactions are limited to tasks that absolutely require help, it can leave a gap in the need for connection and companionship. Having a trusted outside companion available creates opportunities for conversation and social interaction throughout the day. This lifts spirits, reduces guilt for family members who cannot always be present, and brings greater emotional balance into the household.
What is Hidden Hills’ choice for reliable caregiving services?
A Better Way In Home Care is here to support the entire household, not just the relative who needs day-to-day assistance. Since 1998, families have relied on our careful matching process, clear communication, and dependable scheduling. We connect you with experienced professionals who bring practical help, companionship, and structure—so you can focus on being family again.
Whether you need assistance near Hidden Hills City Hall or anywhere else in the area, you can count on us to arrange the right support with routines, daily tasks, meals, reminders, transportation, and more. Let us take care of the hard parts and protect your quality time. Call us today to be matched with trusted support.
When families begin looking for trusted help for an aging loved one, they usually hope for more than just practical assistance. Beyond daily routines, they want someone who recognizes what makes their relative unique, including their values, traditions, and way of life.
That is why many choose caregiving services in Hidden Hills with professionals who show respect towards cultural differences and have a high level of awareness. It may seem like a small thing, but it’s this approach that helps seniors feel truly understood while giving families peace of mind. Read on to see why cultural sensitivity is such an important part of quality elderly care.
Why is being culturally aware important in providing care?
Support works best when it takes the whole person into account, not just physical needs. Cultural awareness helps professionals approach each individual with respect for their background, language, and customs. This attentiveness builds trust and also reflects the idea that cultural background and identity shape the experience of aging, a concept known as gerodiversity. Below are some of the most important reasons why being mindful of cultural differences truly matters.
1. Building stronger trust
Respecting cultural values shows attentiveness and sensitivity. And when people feel understood, they are more likely to trust those who assist them. All of this makes it easier for families to welcome outside help and for the person receiving support to feel comfortable. Since elderly care helps their entire family, cultural respect strengthens not only the bond between a professional and the individual but also the overall sense of relief that relatives feel.
2. Supporting communication
Language preferences, communication styles, and even body language can differ across cultures. Skilled professionals who remain mindful of these differences help reduce misunderstandings and make interactions smoother. Consistency matters most in elderly care, and when families see that loved ones are respected and heard, cultural awareness strengthens both everyday interactions and long-held traditions.
3. Honoring traditions & routines
Many customs related to food, holidays, or daily practices are deeply meaningful. A thoughtful professional recognizes and accommodates these traditions to show respect for the individual’s identity. It also helps their families feel reassured that their loved one’s way of life is not overlooked. Even small gestures, such as preparing traditional meals or observing cultural holidays, can make daily life more comfortable and meaningful.
4. Reducing feelings of isolation
A lack of cultural understanding can sometimes leave people feeling disconnected. When professionals acknowledge and respect cultural backgrounds, they help individuals feel included and valued. This reduces loneliness and strengthens the sense of belonging. Daily rituals and personalized hobbies are important for aging people, and when they are supported in a culturally sensitive way, they become even more meaningful and engaging.
5. Enhancing quality of life
Cultural sensitivity makes assistance more personal overall and more meaningful. When an individual has a professional who recognizes their dietary preferences or supports their spiritual practices, their daily life becomes richer. Families often hesitate to seek outside support because they fear their loved one’s individuality will not be respected, and this approach provides precisely the reassurance they need.
Who provides thoughtful caregiving services in Hidden Hills?
At A Better Way In Home Care, understanding a loved one’s way of life is not an add-on—it’s central to how we match and support every family. We listen first, then align routines, food preferences, languages, and traditions with professionals who respect your values. Our approach highlights dignity, consistency, and genuine connection, so individuals feel recognized and families feel reassured.
From the Hidden Hills Community Center to every part of the city, we’ve already helped countless families build steady, comfortable routines with attentive support, engaging activities, and meaningful conversation. Share what matters most to you, and we’ll make sure it’s reflected in the plan. Contact us today to begin finding the right match.
Your mother has always been fiercely independent. She raised a family, ran a household, had a career and prided herself on doing things herself. But lately, you’ve noticed changes—laundry piling up, skipped medications, or signs of forgotten meals. Or maybe your father, who used to enjoy his daily walks, now struggles to get out of the chair without wincing. You see the signs, but the thought of bringing up in-home care feels daunting. You worry it might hurt their feelings or make them feel like they’re losing control.
The good news is you’re not alone. Sure, it’s only natural to want to handle everything yourself, and maybe even feel a little guilty thinking about outside help. But that’s exactly what professional elderly care is for. If you’re in Northridge or nearby, don’t hesitate to look into expert support, it can make life easier for both you and your loved one.
How to talk to elderly parents about in-home care?
Talking to elderly parents about in-home care is an act of deep love. It requires listening more than lecturing, supporting rather than persuading. Here’s how you can discuss this sensible matter with them.
1. Start with love, not logistics
Start simple. Tell them you’ve been thinking about them a lot. Let them know you’re worried, not because you doubt them, but because you love them. When you lead with emotion instead of logic, the conversation softens. You’re not “telling them what to do” – you’re showing up for them, as someone who cares deeply and wants what’s best.
2. Acknowledge their feelings
If they seem defensive or uncomfortable, that’s okay. This is a big shift. They might be afraid of losing their independence or feel embarrassed that they need help. Try not to correct or rush past those feelings. Just listen. Tell them you understand how hard this might be. Let them talk without jumping in to fix it. Sometimes the best thing you can do is simply say, “I get it—and I’m here for you.”
3. Use real-life examples and gentle observations
Instead of making sweeping statements, keep things grounded. Mention something small you’ve noticed, for instance, a missed appointment, an empty fridge, a bruise on their arm—and gently ask how they’re feeling. You’re not accusing them of anything; you’re noticing, and you’re asking. That difference matters.
4. Present in-home care as an empowering choice
This part is key: a lot of people see in-home care as the beginning of the end. But in reality, it can be the opposite—it can actually help them keep living the life they want, on their own terms. Help them see that. A little extra support might mean fewer worries, more energy, and more time doing what they love. Care isn’t about taking control away. It’s about giving it back.
5. Make it a joint decision
Nobody wants to feel backed into a corner. So make it clear that this isn’t a decision you’re making for them. Talk through it side by side. What would help? What wouldn’t? Would they feel better starting with just a couple hours a week? When they feel like their voice matters, it’s easier for them to feel comfortable with the idea.
6. Focus on trust and comfort
It’s not just about what a caregiver does—it’s about who they are. Your loved one might imagine a stranger coming in and disrupting their life, or have other misconceptions about in-home caregiver services. But many caregivers become trusted companions—people who bring warmth, respect, and even joy. Talk about finding someone they connect with, someone who’ll take time to understand their routine and make things easier.
7. Be patient and willing to revisit the conversation
If they’re not ready to say yes today, that’s okay. Sometimes, it takes more than one conversation. Be patient. Keep checking in and remind them that you’re in this together.
Who offers comprehensive elderly care in Northridge?
Supporting an aging loved one comes with a lot of emotions and questions, and you don’t have to figure it all out alone. At A Better Way in Home Care, we’re here to make things a little easier. Whether you’re not sure how to talk to your senior family members about in-home care, how to make your loved one’s home safer, or why companionship matters so much as they age, we’re here to help and answer all your questions. If you’re in Northridge or nearby, let us help you find compassionate, reliable care your loved one truly deserves.
You’ve noticed the changes – your loved one isn’t quite as independent as they used to be. You want to step in and support them, but it’s hard to know where to begin and your own responsibilities pull you in a dozen different directions. So, you’ve started wondering: Is it time for professional senior care? But what kind of care is best? What if she feels abandoned? Can we even afford it?
These thoughts are familiar to so many families across Northridge and the area. And with them often come hesitations based on long-standing myths about care for the elderly. Whether you’re considering in-home care, assisted living, or something else entirely, misconceptions can cloud your judgment and make a hard decision even harder.
What are some common misconceptions about senior in-home care?
Before making any decisions, it’s important to separate fact from fiction. Here are some of the biggest myths you should know about:
Myth #1: We can handle everything ourselves
The truth: Love alone can’t refill prescriptions, help with mobility, or lift a full-grown adult safely. While family caregiving is powerful and deeply meaningful, it can also lead to burnout, guilt, and exhaustion. In-home care doesn’t replace a family’s love, it supports it. It gives you space to be the daughter, son, or spouse again, rather than only the caregiver.
Myth #2: Getting help is just too expensive
The truth: Many people are surprised to learn that professional care is often more affordable than long-term residential facilities. Because it’s customized to your needs, you only pay for the care you use. When compared to the cost of assisted living or skilled nursing homes, in-home care can actually be a budget-friendly option.
Myth #3: Caregivers aren’t really qualified
The truth: Reputable home care agencies hire trained, certified, and background-checked professionals. Many are deeply experienced in geriatric care, and some even have medical credentials. More importantly, they’re people who choose this line of work because they care. They’re compassionate, reliable, and dedicated to your loved one’s well-being.
Myth #4: Facility care is a better choice
The truth: While some medical conditions do require specialized facilities, many seniors thrive best in the familiarity of their own home. Home care offers a personalized, family-centric approach, full attention, and emotional stability that’s hard to match in a busy institution. With trained experts visiting regularly, your loved one can have both the safety and the familiarity of home.
Myth #5: Having a caregiver will make my loved one feel alone
The truth: One of the biggest benefits of in-home care is connection. Seniors often build strong, trusted bonds with their caregivers, who may become like extended family. As a result, it can reduce feelings of isolation and depression, help seniors stay active in their community, enjoy outings, or attend social events, all while ensuring someone is by their side to assist.
Myth #6: It’s just a short-term solution
The truth: This option can be temporary or long-term. It’s flexible. Some families need a short recovery plan after surgery, while others welcome ongoing help as needs change over time. It’s not a “one-way door.”
Who provides expert senior care in Northridge?
If you’ve been feeling unsure about what kind of help your loved one needs, or how to even bring it up, you’re not the only one. At A Better Way in Home Care, we help families in Northridge and beyond take those first steps with confidence. Whether you’re unsure how to start the conversation about home care, need advice on making the home safer, or simply want someone your loved one can truly connect with, we’re here for you. Get in touch with us and let us help you find the kind of care that brings peace of mind—and a little more ease to everyone’s day.
When day-to-day tasks become daunting ordeals for your elderly loved one, it is paramount that you ensure their safety. Consider the risk of having them live alone and find ways to keep them safe, especially when they have health problems. One of the best ways to ensure they are totally safe yet free to continue their way of life is to hire in-home care services in Hollywood.
But how do you know it is the appropriate time to seek professional help for your senior? Here are some signs:
Loneliness
With a busy work schedule, you might find it difficult to make time to spend with your elderly loved ones and cater to their every need. Let’s not forget that you too have a family of your own that needs your attention. Even though it is unintentional, seniors may feel neglected at some point.
If you notice that they are seeking your attention, chances are they are feeling lonely. And, apart from squeezing in some little time, it may be a good idea to hire a caregiver for them. The caregiver will offer round-the-clock companionship which is critical to the elderly. They can also be good outdoor walk partners and friendly board game opponents. Professionals will always treat your elderly loved one as a member of their family, and they’ll never feel lonely.
Lack of mobility
If you notice that your aging family member has it rough moving from one place to another and requires constant assistance, then it might be a good time to seek the services of in-home care. A caregiver will be able to help them move around and accomplish their daily activities such as doctor appointments, strolls at the park, going to the grocery store, and even having a bath. The elderly in this situation may even need round-the-clock services and companionship.
Poor memory
Memory loss and other dementia symptoms can be hazardous when a senior is living alone. If you notice these signs, it is important that you hire in-home senior care services as soon as possible. They will remind your loved one to take their prescribed drugs and other important things on their schedule. With a professional taking care of your elderly relative, you will have the peace of mind to do other things and not worry about their safety.
Medication is not taken correctly
Whether it is unintentional forgetfulness or just being stubborn, missing prescribed medication is a health hazard to your elderly loved one. You can help them by creating a medication schedule for them to follow. Or, hire an in-home caregiver who will not only ensure medications are taken on time, but will also give general personalized care to your loved one.
Inability to prepare food properly
Sometimes there comes a point in an older adult’s life when they lose the desire and ability to cook healthy meals for themselves. This may lead them to eat unhealthy foods which are dangerous at their age. If you notice such behavior, then it is best to seek in-home senior care services in Hollywood. The caregivers will ensure that your senior has a proper diet.
Declined personal grooming
It is not unusual for the elderly individual to overlook basic grooming habits like wearing clean clothes and bathing. It is best to hire a professional to assist your senior by setting up a convenient personal grooming schedule and laundry assistance.
Huge arrears in utility bills
If you notice that your elderly loved one is constantly failing to pay bills on time, then it is best that they should not live alone. Unpaid bills may lead to disconnection of amenities such as gas, water, and electricity. Do not let a loved one live in such misery, help them pay their bills and hire them a professional to assist them in their daily activities.
Desired independence
Independence and freedom are crucial for any human being. We are created to be mobile. Therefore, being restricted to a certain area can be detrimental to us both mentally and psychologically. This is why we should always respect our seniors’ decision to age and die in their homes and not a nursing center.
If you notice that your aged loved one cherishes their independence but would need help from time to time, then it is appropriate that you hire an in-home caregiver in Hollywood City for them.
It is not easy to witness the deterioration of the physical and/or cognitive abilities of our aging parent, or another loved one. This applies in particular when you remember the days when they took care of you. The task of providing senior care for your aging relative can be overwhelming both financially and emotionally.
Many people regard independence as one of the things that are crucial for them. From when a child learns how to tie their shoelaces, to the day a teenager passes their driving test, there is a sense of pride that comes with the autonomy.
Likewise, an aging parent, even one in need of senior care, will cling to their independence for the longest time possible. With 80% of seniors requesting in-home care during their golden days, some gentle persuasion and creativity may be needed to extend the independence of your senior parent at their Sherman Oaks home.
Write lists
Regardless of the age, lists can be a valuable resource to help us remember stuff around the house. They can be especially important for seniors who have failing memory. If you often notice a pattern of incomplete or overlooked tasks, write your senior relative a list of objectives to help them keep their house in proper order. The list can include some things that were important to them like watering plants or even recording a TV program.
The list can also include due appointments and locations of some items in the house. Ask them to complete each task on the list before the next visit and show them how to mark out complete tasks. While the list will act as a reminder, it can also help you in keeping track of your senior relative’s abilities.
Supply the needed equipment
There are many household aids out there to help your senior parent become more independent in their house. Learn what they consider to be their limitations, research the available options and find the best solution to help them get around those restrictions.
Some useful daily living aids that can assist them to take care of their home include grabbers, door knob grips, remote controls, faucet turning aids, and phones and clocks with large numbers for better visibility.
Check in regularly
Whether or not you have hired an in-home care professional to cater for your parent’s care needs, checking in regularly can help a lot. You should try to visit as often as you can to monitor how the caregiver is taking care of your relative and to make the relative feel less isolated.
If you space the visits too far, you may not be aware of their current condition. This can create room for more complications, especially if your relative does not have an in-home care provider.
Consider hired help
As a matter of fact, this may be the best option for your senior parent, particularly if you don’t live together with them. If mom is struggling with light housework and your schedule does not allow you to help her and offer companionship, hiring an in-home care provider may be your best option.
A housekeeper or other senior care provider can help ease the pressure and help your elderly mom retain her independence. A Better Way In Home Care can link you with an in-home care provider to help your aging parent regardless of where they live in Sherman Oaks.
Address their emotional needs
Although dad may still want to demonstrate his ability to manage his life, there is a sincere need for companionship. According to research conducted by the University of California, loneliness increases the chances of death by 45% among senior citizens.
In-home care can be a major source of emotional contact since they will spend time with them, share stories and encouraging words which will consequently boost their morale. In addition, they can help them focus on maintaining a nutritious diet, which is essential for your loved one’s well-being.
You should also remember that senior adults have also been accustomed to living productive lives and their day should involve engaging activities and hobbies. This is one of the essential roles of caregivers. You can also arrange with your care provider to find a local community center in Sherman Oaks where they can take your parent for senior aerobic classes, take them to daycare once in a while for some engaging activities.
Your decision to seek other senior care options should not be fueled by fear. There are still more ways that you can make life easier for mom or dad and yourself while they enjoy more independence.
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.
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.
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