How to Make Bathing Safer for Your Elderly Loved One

By Rob Buck, 9:00 am on January 7, 2016

Though keeping the body clean is important for people of all ages, it can become more difficult to manage in the senior years. Many elderly people have limited mobility or other health conditions that prevent them from performing this task safely. Luckily, there are some simple adjustments that can reduce the risk of falls or other accidents in the tub. The staff at Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of in-home care Anchorage families trust, has a few suggestions to help increase your loved one’s safety when bathing. Provide Assistance Even if your loved one is mobile, it is important to have someone nearby in case an accident does occur. Consider hiring an hourly caregiver in Anchorage or setting a…

Why Your Elderly Loved One Should Get a Flu Shot

By Rob Buck, 9:00 am on December 31, 2015

Many people prevent influenza every year. The ones who are at highest risk of complications are often very young children or elderly people with compromised immune systems or other chronic health conditions. The staff at Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of at-home care Anchorage families trust, has put together a list of reasons why your senior loved one may want to consider getting a flu shot. Flu Symptoms Can Be Dangerous The symptoms that occur due to influenza infection can overwhelm and even kill susceptible seniors. The only way for your loved one to prevent these symptoms is to prevent the infection itself. Flu shots strengthen the body’s ability to fight off influenza. Influenza Vaccines Work Getting an annual…

Top 5 Ways for the Elderly to Save Money Post-Retirement

By Rob Buck, 9:00 am on December 24, 2015

Many seniors are surprised to learn a lifetime of saving and careful money management doesn’t necessarily become easier or less involved after retirement. Here are some tips to help your senior loved one continue to save money and prosper as he or she ages. 1. Take a Look at the Housing Situation If your loved one isn’t adamant about staying in his or her current home, there are some great options for places to live that can be very affordable. Senior communities or condo associations are one place to start since your loved one will likely have other seniors living nearby to make friends with and may receive maintenance, lawn care, and other services either included with his or her…

How to Prevent Senior Depression During the Holidays

By Rob Buck, 9:00 am on December 17, 2015

Holidays can be a time of celebration and, most importantly, a time to bond with family. Unfortunately, many seniors receiving Anchorage elderly care find themselves facing depression during the holidays for a variety of reasons. However, no matter what the reason, there are ways to boost your senior loved one’s emotional wellbeing during this time of year. Depression Resulting from Poor Nutrition An unhealthy diet can lead to depression. If your loved one is already experiencing depression, poor nutrition can make the symptoms worse. Depression has been linked to deficiencies of vitamins D, B6, and B12. When preparing holiday meals for your loved one, make sure to incorporate and share healthy food options that are high in vitamins and minerals…

Signs of Normal Aging Versus Age-Related Health Concerns

By Rob Buck, 9:00 am on December 10, 2015

It’s normal to expect a decrease in certain abilities as we age. However, there is a distinct difference between changes resulting from natural aging and those related to more serious health concerns. Take a look at these comparisons to help ensure your elderly loved one’s health and safety. Poor Eyesight The gradual loss of visual acuity is to be expected as we age. Cataracts, the most common cause of vision loss in people over 40, are the clouding of the eye’s natural lens. However, peripheral vision that is worse than central vision, or vice-versa, is cause for concern because it may be a sign of glaucoma, which can result in blindness. Hearing Impairment One-third of people over the age of…

Managing Debt in the Senior Years

By Rob Buck, 9:00 am on November 26, 2015

One of the benefits the elderly deserve is enjoying their time after retirement without financial worry. However, since many seniors live on a fixed income, it can be easy to fall into debt if finances are not managed properly. If your senior loved one needs help getting his or her finances in order, Anchorage senior care experts recommend pinpointing the reasons why and implementing strategies to prevent further debt. Credit Cards Many seniors are not able to afford items they were once able to purchase when working full-time. Often, they begin to depend on credit cards just to take care of their basic needs. The interest rates and high balances from credit card debt are monthly obligations that can take…

Apps That Can Benefit an In-Home Caregiver

By Rob Buck, 9:00 am on November 19, 2015

Being a caregiver can be a tough job often requiring juggling dozens of responsibilities, but it doesn’t have to be so difficult. The following apps can make your life and Anchorage home care a little easier by helping you track everything from symptoms and prescription refills to medical documents and important tasks. CareZone Free Android and iOS devices The CareZone app is a versatile all-in-one caregiver app that includes a journal to document symptoms for easy reference, a calendar to track appointments and prescription refills, and a list of contacts to organize important numbers. You can quickly create a complete list of your loved one’s medications by taking photos of prescription bottles, create lists or schedules that can be emailed or…

It’s National Diabetes Month: Here Are 4 Ways to Alleviate Diabetes Symptoms

By Rob Buck, 9:00 am on November 12, 2015

If you are providing in-home care in Anchorage for a senior loved one with diabetes, diligently following a treatment plan can be a constant and important effort. Everything you do to help him or her control this disease can limit the likelihood of serious related complications. Here are 4 ways you can help alleviate your loved one’s diabetes symptoms while bolstering his or her overall health. 1. Encourage Your Loved One to Stop Smoking Smokers who have been diagnosed with diabetes should consider trying a smoking cessation plan. Smoking cigarettes can further reduce circulation in the hands and feet and increase your loved one’s likelihood of developing problems like ulcers and infection. Smoking also increases the risk of heart disease…

Reasons Why a Family Caregiver Might Need Respite Care

By Rob Buck, 9:00 am on November 5, 2015

Family caregivers are known for giving their all, but there may come a time when you need a break from this duty. Anchorage respite care is one option that allows a professional caregiver to step in and help so families can tend to their personal needs. Here are some common reasons why you may need to consider respite care. Medical Appointments As a family caregiver, finding time to visit the dentist or doctor can be challenging, yet staying healthy means you can provide the best care for your loved one. Respite care can be scheduled for a single appointment or on an ongoing basis, depending on your needs. Vacation Whether you long to travel the world or just enjoy a…

How to Ensure Your Senior Loved One Is Safe on the Road

By Rob Buck, 9:00 am on October 29, 2015

Seniors and their families should be aware of age-related changes that can interfere with safety while driving. Although many seniors drive for years without a problem,Anchorage elder care experts suggest every family implement these strategies to ensure their elderly loved one stays safe on the road. Schedule Annual Eye Exams Seniors often experience changes in their vision as they age, which can pose a significant risk on the road. Make sure your loved one visits the eye doctor regularly so problems such as blurred vision can be addressed early on. Read Medication Side Effects It is critical to understand all possible side effectsof any new medication prescribed to your loved one. Many prescriptions come with warning labels regarding driving or…

Blog Throughout Anchorage, Alaska

Blog