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…

5 Foods That Help Prevent Diabetes

By Rob Buck, 9:00 am on October 22, 2015

The foods seniors eat can have a big impact on their health. In fact, making healthy dietary changes can even help reverse Type 2 diabetes. Some foods can reduce inflammation and promote healthy insulin levels. When providing home care in Anchorage for your senior loved one, try adding some these 5 foods to his or her diet to help prevent and reduce the symptoms of diabetes. 1. Healthy Fats Nuts, seeds, and olive oil have anti-inflammatory properties important in managing diabetes. Nuts and seeds also provide high levels of antioxidants and protein, which can improve glycemic regulations. Almonds have a particularly low glycemic index for supporting normal blood sugar levels and a healthy weight. 2. Fruits Fruit contains important antioxidants…

What Are the Top Symptoms of Elderly Insomnia?

By Rob Buck, 9:00 am on October 15, 2015

In the United States, approximately 50 percent of older adults experience some level of insomnia. Could your loved one be one of them? The staff at Anchorage Home Care Assistance suggests you be on the lookout for the most common symptoms of elderly insomnia so the disorder can be treated if necessary and further complications can be prevented. Difficulty Sleeping Since insomnia is defined by the inability to sleep, patterns of difficult sleep are often the first signs of the disorder. Take note of the time it takes your loved one to fall asleep, a period that should not last more than 30 minutes on average. Waking often during the night or too early in the morning may also be indicators…

Financing Options for Senior Home Care

By Rob Buck, 9:00 am on October 8, 2015

As your elderly loved one ages, you may discoverhe or she requires more care and attention than you are personally able to provide. At that point, you may begin researching options for in-home assistance. Many families, however, are not able to afford the cost of such services out-of-pocket. Fortunately, there are several financing options for senior home care, and the staff at Home Care Assistance Anchorage has put together a list of some you may want to look into. Reverse Mortgage You may be able to use equity in your or your loved one’s home to help cover the cost of care services. This involves taking out a loan that doesn’t need to be paid back as long as the…

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