Dementia is a broad term used to describe a deterioration in mental ability, and it can be caused by a variety of different diseases.
While there is no one-size-fits-all approach to preventing dementia, there are steps that everyone can take to reduce their risk. Asking for professional help from senior home care agencies is a popular choice in Beverly Hills and other nearby areas.
Whether you decide to get help or tackle this yourself, you should be well-informed on this topic. Here are some of the most important measures you can take to protect your senior relatives from dementia.
Can dementia be prevented or reversed?
There is no one answer to the question of whether or not dementia can be prevented or reversed. The cause of dementia is still not fully understood, and as a result, there is no known sure way to prevent it from occurring.
However, there are certain lifestyle choices that have been shown to reduce the risk of developing dementia. In addition, research suggests that certain treatments may help to improve symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.
As our understanding of dementia continues to grow, we may eventually find ways to effectively prevent or reverse this condition.
What are 5 ways to help prevent dementia?
Dementia is a debilitating condition that can rob people of their memories, their independence, and their ability to communicate.
While there is no sure way to prevent dementia, there are some steps that can be taken to reduce the risk. Let’s have a look at 5 of the most important ones:
Regular exercise
Exercise helps to improve blood flow to the brain, which provides essential nutrients and oxygen. In addition, it helps to reduce inflammation and improve the function of the brain’s neural networks.
As a result, regular physical activity can play a key role in dementia prevention, so make sure to encourage your senior relative to go for a walk at Virginia Robinson Gardens.
Healthy diet
While there is no one “dementia diet”, there are certain foods and nutrients that are thought to be beneficial for cognitive health. These include:
omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish and olive oil
antioxidants, found in berries and dark leafy vegetables
B vitamins, found in whole grains and poultry
In addition, limiting processed foods, saturated fats, and sugar can also help to reduce the risk of dementia.
Socialization
Research has shown that people who are socially active are less likely to develop dementia. This is because socializing allows people to stay mentally sharp and engaged.
It also gives them a chance to interact with other people, which can help to reduce stress levels and improve overall well-being.
In addition, socializing can help to build up a person’s resilience, which can be critical in dealing with the challenges of dementia. This can also make communication about their condition easier.
Mentally stimulating activities
Studies have shown that activities like reading, crossword puzzles, and social interaction can help to keep the mind sharp and delay the onset of dementia.
In addition, mentally stimulating activities can help to improve the quality of life for those who are already living with dementia.
Quitting smoking
Studies have shown that smokers are significantly more likely to develop dementia than non-smokers, and even people who have quit smoking face an increased risk.
The good news is that it’s never too late to quit smoking and reduce your dementia risk.
What is one of the most reliable senior home care agencies in Beverly Hills and the surrounding area?
As people age, they sometimes need a little extra help to maintain their independence. That’s where A Better Way in Homecare comes in. We offer a wide range of services to seniors, including transportation, meal preparation, light housekeeping, and medication reminders.
We are experienced, patient, and skilled at providing the care and companionship our clients need. Whether you’re looking for someone to help out a few hours a week or around-the-clock assistance, we can tailor our services to meet your needs.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you or your loved one stay independent and live life to the fullest.
When a loved one starts to exhibit signs of dementia, it can be a confusing and overwhelming time for everyone involved. It’s important to remember that each case is unique, and the best way to provide care will vary from person to person.
Most seniors with dementia can greatly benefit from professional help. There are many in-home professional senior care providers in Beverly Hills that can help with this.
Dementia is a debilitating condition that can cause a wide range of cognitive and physical symptoms. Patients with dementia often need help with basic activities of daily living, such as eating, bathing, and dressing.
They may also have difficulty communicating and may become confused or agitated. As the disease progresses, patients may lose the ability to walk or care for themselves. As a result, they may require full-time care from a family member or professional caregiver.
In addition to providing basic care, caregivers also play an important role in providing social and emotional support to patients with dementia. They can help to reduce anxiety and confusion by providing reassurance and companionship. They also have an important role in explaining and communicating to the person with dementia their circumstances.
Additionally, they can promote cognitive stimulation through activities such as reading, music therapy, and reminiscence therapy. It’s also a good idea to take them outside to a place like Beverly Gardens Park so they can get some sunshine and light exercise.
What are the challenges involved in caring for someone with dementia?
Caring for a loved one with dementia can be a difficult and challenging experience. One of the biggest challenges is providing the person with the appropriate level of care and support. As dementia progresses, it can lead to a decline in physical and cognitive abilities.
This can make it difficult for the person to perform activities of daily living such as eating, bathing, and dressing. As a result, caregivers often need to provide more hands-on assistance and supervision.
In addition, many people with dementia experience changes in mood and behavior. They may become agitated, confused, or anxious, which can be both exhausting and frustrating for caregivers. The key to providing successful care is to remain patient, flexible, and understanding.
By trying to remain positive and keeping open communication with other family members and healthcare professionals, you can help make the experience more manageable for everyone involved.
Who do I call for quality senior care in Beverly Hills and the surrounding area?
At A Better Way in Homecare, we understand that growing older can bring new challenges and obstacles. That’s why we offer a wide range of services to help our elderly clients maintain their independence and quality of life and decrease chances of dementia and other issues.
Our caregivers provide companionship, transportation, light housekeeping, and medication reminders, as well as assistance with meal preparation and other activities of daily living. We also offer specialized care for those who are dealing with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.
Our goal is to help our clients live their best lives, and we are committed to providing the highest level of care possible. Reach out to us today to see what we can do for you.
As our parents age, it can become more difficult for them to live independently. Daily tasks that were once easy may now seem daunting, and simple errands can become overwhelming.
For many reasons, homecare for seniors is becoming a popular choice among many Beverly Hills families, as they provide the most effective solutions in these circumstances.
As our parents age, it’s important to stay in touch with them and make sure they are doing okay. This can be difficult if we live far away, but there are a few things we can do to stay connected.
Visit often
Visiting your parents regularly will help maintain your relationship and build trust, as they will feel more secure. This can be challenging if you’re very busy, but it’s important to try to make the effort to see them as often as possible.
This is how you can make sure that they don’t feel isolated or abandoned, especially if they cannot or don’t want to socialize with other people. This is also how you can keep an eye on their health.
Call or text regularly
For many elderly people, their children are their only connection to the outside world. Staying in touch with your parents can help them to feel loved and supported, and it can also give you peace of mind knowing that they are okay.
Whatever method you choose, make sure you do it regularly so that they always know you’re thinking of them.
How can I help my elderly parent at home?
As your parent might have trouble executing their daily activities the way they used to, they’ll likely appreciate your help with the house and errands. Here are some of the ways you can help your parent and show your support:
Hire a in-home professional care
One option is to hire elderly care professionals to help with things like cooking, cleaning, and bathing. You can also help out by doing things around the house yourselves, like running errands or taking the dog for a walk around Reseda Park.
Provide emotional support
Another way to help your elderly parents is by providing them with emotional support. This could be anything from just listening and being there for advice to keeping the lines of communication open, all while taking into consideration their age-appropriate needs.
Where can I find professional homecare for seniors in Beverly Hills & the surrounding areas?
If you are in need of a caregiver for a senior loved one, look no further than A Better Way in Homecare. We are your professional referral agency experienced and dedicated to connecting you with excellent Caregivers.
We will take the time to learn about your unique situation and needs, and then match you with a Caregiver who is experienced, dedicated, and dependable. We have an extensive network of caregivers who are ready to provide high-quality care for the maximum safety and comfort of your elderly loved ones.
Whether you need help with cleaning or providing transportation to doctor’s appointments, we will find the perfect caregiver for your needs. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you live independently in your own home.
As your loved ones age, their needs for safety and security also change. They may require help with daily activities, managing medications, cooking, cleaning, and staying on their feet.
There are a number of ways to ensure that the elderly stay safe and healthy. One option is to hire senior homecare to help them with activities of daily living. While hiring a professional is a great way to keep your elderly relative safe and sound in their home in Beverly Hills, there are other ways you can protect their wellbeing. Keep reading to find out exactly how!
What are the safety and security needs of the elderly?
The elderly have age-specific needs, and they may be in danger or fear of becoming a victim of the following stressors and accidents:
Falls – if their surroundings aren’t adjusted properly, the elderly can easily slip and fall during everyday activities, which can be life-threatening.
Crime – the elderly are more likely to be targets of property crimes such as burglary and theft.
Diseases – When their immune system is compromised, they need to be kept safe from infectious diseases. Many elderly people are very concerned and worried about diseases.
Stress – the elderly can react negatively to a variety of stressful situations, so it’s important to keep the stress at minimal levels. For example, they will react negatively to highly emotionally charged situations, and become irritable, or depressed due to sudden changes in their surrounding.
Emergencies – many seniors live alone and may need additional assistance in case of an emergency, as they can be exposed to greater risks of residential fire,
How do you help the elderly feel safe?
While it’s important for elderly people to take steps to protect themselves, it’s also important for their families and loved ones to do what they can to help them feel safe. There are a number of ways to address their safety needs:
Creating a support network
One of the best ways to keep the elderly safe and secure is to create a support network. This can involve family members, friends, neighbors, or even carers.
The key is to make sure that there are people who can check in on the elderly person on a regular basis. This way, if anything happens, there will be someone nearby who can provide assistance.
Adjusting their environment
It’s important to adjust the living environment of an elderly person to their age and specific needs. First of all, you should ensure the home is well-lit, both inside and out. Install motion-sensor lights around the perimeter of the home.
Secondly, you will need to remove any trip hazards from the yard, such as loose stones or tree roots. Keep the walkways clear of snow and ice in winter.
Finally, you should check the smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors monthly, and change the batteries as needed.
How to keep the elderly household healthy?
Many elders face issues with their health as they age. To keep our elderly household members healthy, there are a few things we can do.
Physical activity
First, we should make sure they are getting enough exercise. Exercise helps to maintain our muscle strength and flexibility, both of which can deteriorate as we age. Taking a light walk through Beverly Gardens Park is a great way to stay active, soak in nature, and relax.
Healthy diet
Second, we should encourage them to eat a healthy diet. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains provides the nutrients our bodies need to function properly. They also need to stay hydrated throughout the day.
Keep it clean & germ-free
The elderly can be more prone to contracting infectious diseases and may struggle to keep their home hygienic. This is why they usually need some help disinfecting the bathroom and kitchen, and keeping their household nice and tidy. Making regular visits and paying attention to disinfection can go a long way. They’ll be less worried about viruses and bacteria, and a clean house will boost their mood.
Who can help me find reliable & client-focused senior homecare in Beverly Hills?
If you’re looking for experienced and reliable senior care, then you need to contact our referral agency. At A Better Way in Homecare, we offer in-home assistance with a wide range of tasks, from light housekeeping to personal care.
Whether your loved one needs full-time assistance or just a few hours of help each week, we can find the right caregiver to provide the support they need. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you and your family.
Do you have an elderly loved one who is having trouble hearing? It can be difficult trying to communicate with them if they don’t hear you well. You may be wondering what you can do to help. Don’t worry – you are not alone. Many families in West Los Angeles and beyond face this same issue each year. Fortunately, experts in senior care know how to help you make communication easier and improve the living conditions of your elderly loved one.
How do you communicate with an elderly person who is hard of hearing?
There are a few things that you can do to help the elderly with hearing problems. When you start noticing that they have an issue with hearing, follow these tips:
Speak one at a time – When you are talking to someone who has difficulty hearing, make sure that you speak one at a time. This will help them focus on what you are saying and they will be less likely to get confused.
Face the person – When you are speaking to them, make sure that you face them directly. This will help them see your
Speak clearly and loudly – Make sure that you speak clearly and loudly. This will help them hear you better, especially if they are in a noisy environment.
Use visual cues and notes – Do this whenever possible. This can include pointing to what you are saying or using facial expressions.
Don’t shout – Yelling will only make it harder for the elderly person to hear you, as you’ll change the frequency of your voice, and your facial expression can be misinterpreted as anger or frustration.
Repeat yourself – If the person didn’t hear you the first time, make sure to repeat yourself. This will help them understand what you are saying.
Rephrase your statement or question – This is a great way to get the elderly person’s attention and ensure that they are following the conversation.
Let them choose how to communicate – Some elderly people may feel more comfortable communicating in a certain way. Let them choose how they want to communicate with you. This could include written notes, sign language, or lip reading.
Be patient – allow them enough time and show that you care in more than just words, this way they will feel less isolated and misunderstood. This way, you’ll be able to support them in keeping their everyday routine and help them with other tasks.
How can I help the elderly with hearing problems?
Besides knowing how to communicate with your loved one after hearing issues occur, there are other ways that you can help them lead a normal life, despite the disability.
Take them to an audiologist appointment
This is a great way to find out what type of hearing aids would work best for them and to get a professional’s opinion. The audiologist will also be able to help them with hearing loss rehabilitation.
Invest in quality hearing aids
If the elderly person decides to get a hearing aid, make sure that you invest in quality ones. This is important. If they don’t hear well with the first pair of hearing aids, they may become frustrated, giving up on them altogether.
Do home modifications
When the elderly person is trying to focus on a conversation, make sure that there is not a lot of noise in the background. This will make it difficult for them to hear what you are saying. If they live beside a noisy street, consider installing quality windows or sound isolation.
If the elderly person lives in your home, you can do some modifications to make it easier for them to hear. This includes turning up the volume on the TV, adding soundproofing material to walls, and installing visual alarm systems. If they don’t hear the doorbell, they will be able to see the light flashing.
Educate yourself and others about hearing loss
It’s important that you educate yourself and others about hearing loss. This will help them understand what the elderly person is going through and how they can help make communication easier. This way, you’ll be able to address other concerns as well, such as the issue of poor mobility in old age or oral and dental hygiene issues.
What if the senior resists using hearing aids?
If your loved one resists using a hearing aid, don’t give up! There are many ways that you can work with them to make sure that they are getting the most out of their hearing aid. Don’t try to force them, as you’ll just encounter more resistance. Here’s how you can convince them:
Listen to them closely – this is something that hearing doctors often forget and you, as their caregiver, need to allow the seniors address their concerns
Let them drive the conversation – the best way to convince a senior to wear hearing aids is by allowing him or her to do the talking and discover that this is the best option
Use easily comprehensible visual aids – Proper visibility can go a long way and help seniors who are hearing impaired use visual cues to better understand what is being said to them.
Get support from other family members – sometimes, you simply don’t have enough power, and it’s useful to invite other family members to help you out and serve as advocate for the cause. The elderly will know that you’re doing this in their best interest.
Where in West Los Angeles, CA can I find experienced professionals in senior care?
When you’re looking for reputable and experienced experts that can aid your aging loved one in West Los Angeles, you don’t have to look far. A Better Way in Home Care is there to help you reach the support that you need. With our pool of vetted and professional Caregivers, you can be sure that your elderly relative is getting the care they need and deserve. It doesn’t matter if they live in Beverlywood or elsewhere in West LA, we’re always at your beck and call!
Call us today and we’ll match you with the most suitable Caregiver.
In this article, you’ll learn more about the effects of low mobility. Also, you’ll find out ways to increase functional mobility in seniors. For efficient solutions for caregivers who want to help their elderly loved ones live a better life, learn from West Los Angeles experts in home care. Read on!
Why is mobility so important for elderly?
The ability to move freely is key to a good quality of life, especially as you age. When you can no longer walk, stand up, or sit down as easily as you once could, your health and wellbeing start to decline. Functional mobility serves the following purposes:
It keeps them healthy. Mobility is essential for good health and helps prevent conditions such as immobility-related diseases.
It keeps them socially engaged. With good mobility, seniors can stay active and engaged in life, doing the things they love without restrictions.
It makes them feel independent. Being able to take care of yourself and live life on your own terms is crucial to a positive mental state.
How can seniors increase their functional mobility?
There are many ways for seniors to increase their functional mobility. The following are some tips that caregivers can use to help their elderly loved ones:
There are many ways for seniors to increase their functional mobility. The following are some tips that caregivers can use to help their elderly loved ones:
Encourage exercise
Get seniors moving as often as possible. This can be done through light workouts, walking, and even dancing. Make it fun – If movement is enjoyable, seniors are more likely to stick with it. Try incorporating their favorite activities into their mobility routine.
Promote independence
Assist seniors in doing things for themselves whenever possible. This will help them maintain their independence and boost their confidence.
Adjust their living space
When necessary, make small adjustments to the home environment in order to help seniors with mobility issues. This might include:
adding grab bars in the shower,
installing a raised toilet seat,
widening doorways,
adjusting the height of cupboards and door handles
installing ramps or stair lifts
Choose the right walking aid
If a senior needs help getting around, choosing the right walking aid is essential. There are many different types of aids to choose from, so it’s important to find the one that best suits the individual’s needs.
Enhance balance and stability
Many seniors find that improving their balance and stability helps them become more mobile. This can be done by removing unstable rugs, installing anti-slip surfaces, or by using a walking aid that provides extra support. In addition, you can encourage exercises like Yoga and Tai Chi that enhance balance.
Promote a healthy diet
A healthy diet and good nutrition are essential for seniors with mobility issues. Eating a balanced diet helps the body to function at its best, keeping muscles strong and bones healthy. Scientific studies have also shown that there’s an association between low micronutrient intake and poor mobility in the elderly.
How do you assist seniors with a mobility problem?
There are many ways to assist your elderly relative or client that has trouble moving. As with any other type of physical limitation, you need to allow them time and offer a helping hand. You may need to:
Who can we count in West Los Angeles for advanced home care?
If you are looking for reliable and professional elderly home care in West Los Angeles, look no further! Here at A Better Way in Home Care, we can match you with professional Caregivers that are stringently screened and qualified to provide high-quality in-home care to seniors of all ages and abilities. This way, you can ensure that they can live safely and comfortably in their own homes.
Whether your elderly relative lives in Westside or anywhere else in LA County, our expert Caregivers will be happy to assist you!
Experts agree that regular oral hygiene in seniors is one of the most important health aspects. Unfortunately, many elderly people do not take care of their teeth and gums as they should, which can lead to a host of problems. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some ways caregivers can promote oral hygiene in senior care.
Let’s discuss why it’s important to visit the dentist in old age and what are the consequences of poor oral hygiene. Whether you’re looking to hire professional home care in West Los Angeles, or caring of your loved one yourself, keep reading to learn more!
What is oral hygiene in aged care?
When it comes to regular oral hygiene, there’s no big difference between age groups. This usually involves the following:
Brushing teeth at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste
Flossing every day
Seeing the dentist regularly (at least once every six months)
However, there are some points that are unique for dental and oral hygiene in seniors, so caregivers should keep them in mind:
There may be a need for more than two brushings per day, due to receding gum tissue exposed root canals, or similar issues.
Some seniors experience difficulties with brushing teeth properly due to arthritis or poor vision. In these cases, it is important for caregivers to assist in brushing teeth correctly at least twice a day.
Some medications can cause dry mouth, which can lead to increased tooth decay. It is important to discuss any medications with the elderly person’s dentist to see if there are ways to combat this side effect.
Memory loss is another factor that can cause complications, especially if regular brushing and flossing isn’t a part of a strong routine.
Poor nutrition, smoking, and other unhealthy habits can further hinder dental health
Old crowns, fillings, or dental implants need to be checked and replaced after a while
It is important for caregivers to take seniors to the dentist regularly, as many dental problems can be easily treated if caught early.
Why is oral hygiene important in the elderly?
It goes without saying that maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for everyone, but it’s especially important for seniors. Studies have shown that poor oral health is directly and indirectly linked to a variety of problems, including:
dental cavities
gum disease
cardiovascular issues
stroke
some types of cancer
diabetes
osteoporosis
respiratory infections
rheumatoid arthritis
Did you know that tooth decay and gum disease are the two most common chronic diseases in seniors? In fact, almost 90% of all adults over the age of 65 have had some form of tooth decay. This is why it’s so important for caregivers to promote oral hygiene in senior care.
Now, how can you promote dental and oral health to your elderly patient or loved one? Here are a couple of ideas that caregivers can implement:
Make sure they are using fluoride-based toothpaste.
Help them floss their teeth every day.
Encourage them to eat healthy foods and drink plenty of water.
Talk to their dentist or doctor about ways to combat side effects of some medication that could cause dry mouth, or interfere with substances used in the treatment.
How often should seniors have their teeth cleaned?
The American Dental Association recommends visiting the dentist at least twice a year, and this applies to people of all ages. This allows for tartar removal and cleaning to prevent complications. However, some seniors may require more visits than that, especially if they are experiencing severe pain, chronic discomfort, or exhibiting any other indications that would necessitate an emergency dental visit.
As a caregiver, you shouldn’t ignore signs that your senior is in pain. You may also need to encourage them to talk about their current problem. If your senior has hearing loss or impairment, you’ll need to set up an appointment for them. Also, your duty will be to drive them to the dentist’s office.
Who can we count on for qualified home care in West Los Angeles and beyond?
Whether your elderly loved ones are living in Little Ethiopia or anywhere else in West LA, you can rely on A Better Way in Home Care. We have ample experience with matching the most reliable and qualified Caregivers with local families. The experts we work with can assist with a number of daily tasks, and help your loved one lead a healthy, pleasant, and fulfilling life while aging in place.
With their help, you’ll also save precious time and energy for other family and career commitments. Feel free to contact us today to discuss your needs and requirements!
Daily routines can seem like something we take for granted, but they play an indispensable role in old age. Keeping a healthy everyday pace and taking care about how they look and dress is something that some seniors tend to neglect, which indicates a need for a helping hand. If not treated properly, this can soon become a hurdle for their family members and cause the elderly to feel like a burden. How can you help them take care of themselves and lead a satisfying life?
Fortunately, professionals who provide dedicated homecare across West Los Angeles can give you straightforward answers. If you wish to learn some of their most useful tips for aiding the elderly, continue reading!
Why is grooming important for elderly?
In the context of assisted living, taking care of grooming and dress is equally important as taking regular medication. Feelings of social isolation are prevalent among elderly people. It can lead to loss of self-esteem, social withdrawal, and self-neglect, so it’s important to remind them that they still have a role to play.
One of the most common issues that seniors face is a lack of interest in personal grooming and taking care of their appearance. This can be caused by several factors, including poor vision, dementia, arthritis, or depression. While it may not seem like a big deal at first, soon enough it will start to take a toll on their mental well-being and physical health. It should be addressed from the very start to prevent further negative consequences.
How do you groom an elderly patient?
The elderly may need assistance with a variety of daily grooming tasks, such as:
Some of these tasks may require the help of a caregiver or family member, while others can be done with the aid of special products and equipment designed for seniors who age in place. For example:
electric toothbrushes with extra-soft bristles and specialized flossers
long-handled bathing sponges that make it easier to reach all parts of the body
shower seats and benches
bath lifts
raised toilet seats
portable commodes and vanity tables
There are a few things that you can do to encourage your loved ones to stay looking their best, even as they age:
Include plenty of mirrors in their home. This will give them the opportunity to check themselves regularly and improve self-care and awareness of their look.
Make grooming a fun and positive experience by chatting or playing music while you help them with tasks such as shaving, applying makeup, or doing their hair.
Don’t be afraid to hire professional in-home care services if you need an extra set of hands.
How do you help an elderly patient dress?
Keep in mind that dressing will involve a whole new set of responsibilities and potential challenges to the elderly. Dressing is challenging for the elderly who faceissues with movement due to chronic pain or disability. For example, those who are wheelchair-bound will need help getting in and out of clothes, while those with dementia or motor impairment may forget how to dress altogether.
The best way to help an elderly patient dress is to take your time and be patient. Of course, this isn’t always easy. For instance, if you need to encourage them to use hearing aids, you’ll probably face some resistance with other tasks.
Help them choose clothing that is both comfortable and stylish, and make sure that all items are easy to put on and take off. If possible, try to involve them in the process as much as possible so that they can still feel like they have some control over their appearance.
Where can I find more information about companies that provide expert homecare in West Los Angeles?
Taking care of your elderly loved ones is an important responsibility that should not be taken lightly. A well-groomed elderly person will feel more confident and have a better outlook on life. However, if you’re overwhelmed with everyday responsibilities, you don’t want to be left feeling like you’re neglecting your loved one. If you’re living in Rancho Park or anywhere else in West Los Angeles area, reach out to A Better Way in Home Care. We’ll gladly connect you to someone who’d be eager to assist with everyday tasks. With our help, your senior relatives can continue looking and feeling their best – no matter what age they are! Call us today and let us match you with the best Caregiver.
When it comes to home care for the elderly, one of the most important activities that caregivers can encourage is playing games. Boardgames, card games, and even video games can help keep elderly adults engaged and mentally stimulated. This is not only fun for them, but also has a number of health benefits that can improve their overall quality of life.
Let’s explore some of the reasons why play is so beneficial for seniors, and shed light on examples of good games that caregivers can use to keep the elderly entertained. Whether you’ve already found someone in Encino that provides professional home care, or you’re catering to the needs of your loved one yourself, read on!
Do the elderly play games?
Now, it’s obvious that seniors do play games, but should they, and why? Now, you’re probably familiar with an image of senior patients playing board games and puzzles in nursing homes. There are a number of reasons behind this, and it’s not only to make the time pass.
Someone said that the secret of wisdom is to carry the spirit of the child into old age. This involves keeping the level of enthusiasm high and making sure that there’s something enjoyable to look forward to each day. This is why any well-designed elderly care plan should include mentally stimulating activities, and games are a perfect example.
Are board games good for the elderly?
It’s no secret that playtime and hobbies are a great way to keep the mind engaged, at any age. This is especially important in the elderly, who can face cognitive decline as time goes by. There’s also a range of other advantages that it brings:
Games promote mental fitness. Playing games can help improve memory, focus, and problem-solving skills.
Games stimulate socialization. Games serve a great role in enriching the everyday routine. This is important for elderly adults who may not have many opportunities to interact with people their own age.
Games help ward off depression and anxiety. They don’t only serve as distractions from every day worries. Seniors can establish certain games as weekly or daily rituals, which promote resilience to stress, anxiety, and depression.
Games promote a higher quality of life. Staying mentally sharp, optimistic, and curious into old age makes the elderly more motivated and eager to put their effort into spending their days in a fulfilling manner.
What are some good games for seniors?
There are a number of different types of board games that are perfect for seniors. Here are some examples:
Word and logic puzzles like Scrabble, Sudoku or Jenga
Card games such as bridge, poker, or gin rummy
Strategy games such as chess, checkers, or backgammon
Trivia games like Jeopardy! or Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?
Classic board games like Monopoly, Candyland, or Clue
Can seniors benefit from playing video games?
Although it might seem a bit funny at first, there’s nothing wrong with seeing your elderly loved one playing their favorite game on a PC, console, iPad, or another device. After all, computer games have been there for over four decades, so it’s not really something we should associate with the young population exclusively.
Of course, spending too much time in front of the screen isn’t good for anyone, but a moderate amount of brain-stimulating games can do wonders. Combine that with healthy physical exercise, and you’ll have a packed daily schedule that will keep you active. Elderly people enjoy playing:
Logic games like Portal or The Witness
Adventure games like Uncharted or Tomb Raider
Strategy games like Civilization or Age of Empires
Casino games like blackjack, poker, and roulette
Our aging loved one in Encino, CA needs reliable home care. Who can we call?
It’s clear that you want only the best for your elderly loved one, so imagine having someone to accompany them on relaxing walks to Los Encino State Historic Park. Fortunately, you don’t have to look far to find an ideal match!
A Better Way in Home Care is happy to assist by connecting you with the most reliable, motivated, and qualified Caregivers in your vicinity. They will gladly assist your loved one with everyday tasks, including personal hygiene and dressing, meal preparation, taking medication watering plants, doing light housework, helping with their beloved pets, and driving them to doctor’s appointments.
Give us a call today to find out more about our services and our Caregivers!
It’s a known truth that owning a pet can be a rewarding experience for people of all ages. Pets provide us with companionship, love, and affection – something that is often missing in our fast-paced lives. But what about seniors? Can the elderly still enjoy the benefits of pet ownership? Absolutely!
However, some seniors may find it difficult to care for a pet on their own. That’s where home care can help! When you hire professional assistance for your senior relative in Encino, or elsewhere in California, they can help them take care of their pets and enjoy their company. Let’s see how pets can benefit the elderly in a variety of ways.
Do pets help older people live happier and longer?
Having a pet definitely helps people to feel better. In fact, one study found that pet owners over the age of 65 had a 36% lower risk of heart attack than those who didn’t own pets. This may be due to the fact that owning a pet provides a sense of purpose and companionship, which are both crucial for seniors.
In addition to reducing the risk of heart attack, pets can also help seniors live longer. One study found that senior dog owners an average of 22% longer than those who didn’t own dogs. This may be due to the fact that owning a pet gets people out and about, which is crucial for elderly individuals who often have a harder time getting around.
What are the benefits of pet ownership for the elderly?
There are many benefits of pet ownership for seniors that you should consider. It brings the following advantages:
Companionship. Most people fondly recall moments from their childhood when they played with their first puppy or kitten. This is especially heartwarming for seniors. Besides reliving childhood memories, they get to share their time and space with a friend that won’t abandon them.
Emotional support. While pets don’t speak and we don’t really have a way to tell on which level they “understand” what we’re talking, this unspoken emotional comfort is known to provide much-needed warmth and happiness to seniors.
Purpose and meaning. Retirement is difficult due to a loss of a professional role. Other challenges of advanced age only add up to the burden, such as bereavement and loneliness. Having a pet can restore a sense of purpose and belonging, and keep seniors cognitively engaged.
Pets can help get people out and about. Whether they’re walking their furry friends or taking them to special events with you, the elderly can have an additional reason to remain physically active and to socialize.
Reduced level of stress. Studies have shown that the elderly who have owned a pet cope better with stressful situations.
Lower blood pressure. This is an interesting point, as pet owners have on average lower blood pressure, which is a sign of better cardiovascular health.
Better sleep. Certain pets bring a feeling of tranquility to the life of their owners. Cat purring on a sofa next to your bed or a puppy curled underneath your feet can be so soothing that you’ll have no problem falling asleep.
Better self-esteem. Owning a pet helps seniors keep their confidence and self-esteem on high levels. They will wake up feeling happy and proud of their pet.
Assist with feeding the pet. Help them buy appropriate food and give them fresh water on a daily basis.
Help walk and play with the pet. Keep in mind: you’re just making sure nothing does wrong while the senior is walking the pet.
Monitor the pet’s health together. Consult with the owner to see when you should take the pet to the vet for checkups and vaccinations.
Help the senior clean up after the pet. Try to make this task accessible to seniors, or carry it out yourself, if they have trouble walking.
Check the safety of pet houses, aquariums, cages, litter boxes, feeders, and other pet equipment. Older people often find it very difficult to check and clean these, so they’ll definitely need an extra hand.
Where can I find reliable and pet-friendly homecare in Encino, CA?
If your elderly relative needs assistance in everyday activities, including taking care of their pets, A Better Way in Home Care is happy to help. We can connect you with the most experienced and trustworthy Caregivers in Encino and elsewhere in Los Angeles County.
Caregivers we refer are capable of helping seniors with a variety of daily tasks, from grooming, dressing, meal preparation, and helping with taking care of their pets and plants. They can provide assistance in playing a variety of brain-stimulating games and can create and follow tailored care plans to make sure your loved ones get the attention they deserve.
If you’re interested in our services, don’t hesitate to contact us today. We would be happy to discuss our services with you and answer any questions you may have.
