Dealing with Senior Hoarding from Comfort Keepers Elder Care in Troy, MO

Everyone these days seems aware of hoarding because of the recent TV series but it's a behavior that's been around for a long time. So how do you deal with it when your elderly parent suddenly starts saving everything? Read the following article for some information and tips.

How to Handle Hoarding

Pseudodementia in Seniors from Comfort Keepers Elderly Care in Troy, MO

Depression can sometimes mask itself as dementia, it's called pseudodementia and you can learn more about it at the following link.

Pseudodementia in Seniors

Recognizing PAD from Comfort Keepers Senior Care in Troy, MO

Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) is a vascular disease that restricts or blocks blood flow in the legs. Since it can cause infestion and possible loss of a leg as well as increasing the risk for heart disease, aortic aneurysms and stroke it is important that you be able to recognize the symptoms. The following article lists the risk factors and symptoms of this disease.

Recognizing peripheral artery disease

Take the Alzheimer's Quiz from Comfort Keepers in Troy, MO

See how you do on this test about Alzheimer's and Dementia



Alzheimer's & Dementia Quiz

10 Deadly Myths about Diabetes from Comfort Keepers Elderly care in Troy, MO

I have heard a lot of misinformation about diabetes, how it is caused and how it is treated. The slide show in the link below sorts out 10 of the myths surrounding this disease.

10 Deadly Myths about Diabetes

Hypertension Treatment: Exercise (High Blood Pressure) from Comfort Keepers Senior Care in Troy, MO

Hypertension Treatment: Diet (High Blood Pressure) from Comfort Keepers Elderly Care in Troy, MO

What Does Hypertension Do? (High Blood Pressure) from Comfort Keepers Elderly Care in Troy, MO

Comfort Keepers Asks Families to WATCH for Signs of Senior Malnutrition

Comfort Keepers Franchisees Raise Awareness on Senior Malnutrition During Hunger Action Month

Diabetes Treatment: Diet from Comfort Keepers Senior Care in Troy, MO

What Does Diabetes Do? from Comfort Keepers Senior Care in Troy, MO

A Diabetes Overview from Comfort Keepers Elderly Care in Troy, MO

Family Mediation Can Help when Caring for an Elderly Loved One in Troy, MO

Too often, with families living so far apart, or siblings arguing about whats best for Mom and Dad it becomes difficult to decide what is best. Please read the following article about mediation:

Alzheimer's Disease: Effective Family Caregiving Can Require Mediation

Getting the Correct Diagnosis for Dementia from Comfort Keepers Senior Care in Troy, MO

Not all forgetfulness is Alzheimer's, the following article has some guidelines for getting the correct diagnosis:

How to Know If Your Aging Parent Has Alzheimer’s – A Short, Clear Overview

VA's Aid and Attendance Benefit from Comfort Keepers Elderly Care in Troy, MO

An Age for Justice: Confronting Elder Abuse in America

Mealtime Tips for Dementia Caregivers from Comfort Keepers Senior Care in Troy, MO

Mealtimes, when your loved one has dementia, can be challenging at best. Here are some tips that may help:

Mealtime Tips for Dementia Caregivers

Foot Care for the Elderly in Your Care from Comfort Keepers in Troy, MO

Many elderly people experience problems with their feet. They can be from normal wear and tear after years of use but could also be the result of arthritis, diabetes or other diseases. Read the following article for advice on foot care.

Taking care of feet and sole when involved with elder care

Understanding Parkinson's from Comfort Keepers Senior Care in Troy, MO

Depression and the Elderly from Comfort Keepers Elder Care in Troy, MO

Many of the changes people experience as thay grow older can lead to depression. Although depression in the elderly is common, very few get treatment. Many believe it's just a part of getting older and some are still concerned about the supposed stigma of mental illness.

Depression in Older Adults and the Elderly

Elder Abuse Video from Comfort Keepers Senior Care in Troy, MO

How Congestive Heart Failure Works from Comfort Keepers Elderly Care In Troy, MO

How Congestive Heart Failure Works

Safety Tips for the Alzheimer's Caregivers from Comfort Keepers Senior Care in troy, MO

Heres a great video from ABC News on keeping your loved ones with Alzheimer's safe in the home.

5 Safety Tips for Alzheimer's Caregivers

How Important is Socializing to Aging Seniors? from Comfort Keepers Elderly care in Troy, MO

The answer is very.. Read this article to find out why.

How Important is Socializing to Aging Seniors?

Alzheimer's and Emotions from Comfort Keepers Senior Care in Troy, MO

As a caregiver I have seen many clients with dementia and alzheimer's whose emotional reactions to events just aren't what you would expect. They may seem depressed, withdrawn or just unaware of the event even if they rember what's going on. The following article explains more:

Emotions May Be Blunted in Alzheimer's Patients

Seniors should keep active but know limitations from Comfort Keepers Elder Care in Troy, MO

The old adage is use it or lose it and this can be a very real consideration as people age, but what if the loved one in your care tries to go too far? And how do you determine what "too far" is?
Take a few minutes to read the following article.

Seniors should keep active but know limitations

Health Supplements, Fact or Fiction?? from Comfort Keepers Elderly Care in Troy, MO

We are always being bombarded with so many health claims for different supplements and foods. The link below will take you to a chart that shows just how much scientific evidence there is for various claims.

Snake Oil?

An Overview of Parkinson's Disease from Comfort Keepers Senior Care in Troy, MO

Check out the following article for an overview of the disease, treatments and caregiving for a parent with Parkinson's.

An Overview of Parkinson's Disease

Getting Into a Dementia Patient’s Head from Comfort Keepers Elder Care in Troy, MO

When I had my training as an Alzheimer's caregiver I was told that I would never win an argument with someone with dementia. If they don't remember something then it never happened, if they know they still live in the apartment they had before they bought the house in 1949 well, then they still live there. (This was what my mother-in-law thought although she knew my husband was her son and who I was she had no recolection of the house she had lived in for 50 years).

I was told that I had to live their reality as much as safety would allow and the following story from one caregiver illistrates this beautifully.

A Caregiver's Personal Story: Getting Into a Dementia Patient’s Head

Understand Alzheimer's Disease in 3 Minutes from Comfort Keepers Senior Care in Troy, MO

From Our Parents View, Comfort keepers Elder Care in Troy, MO

The following is a great article about looking at caregiving from our parents viewpoint.

How Parents Feel About Us Taking Care of Them

Debunking Diabetes Food Myths from Comfort Keepers Senior Care in Troy, MO

There are many misconceptions about what diabetics can and cannot eat. the following article tackles 5 of them:

5 Common Food Myths for People with Diabetes Debunked

Searching for the Wandering from Comfort Keepers Elder Care in Troy, MO

I hadn't even made it to my clients door to check on him when there was a knock on the door. There was a policeman at the door and he had my client, a small 85 year old man in PJs and slippers, with him.

"He couldn't remember where he lived.." the policeman started with.

He had only been a block away and was found before he was even missed but wandering can be a big problem with people with Alzheimer's and dementia. It became such a problem in Virginia that the police are now taking classes on how to find these wanderers. To learn more about it read the following article:

More With Dementia Wander From Home

Interview with Alzheimer's Patient from Comfort Keepers Senior Care in Troy, MO

Understanding and Learning About Elderly Arthritis from Comfort Keepers Senior Care in Troy, MO

Seniors and those over 65 are at risk for several types of diseases, but arthritis is the most common among this age group. Arthritis is not actually just one term, but is instead used to describe more than a hundred kinds of rheumatic diseases, most of which result in limited accessibility. Despite the fact that there are so many kinds of arthritis, among those over sixty five, two specific types, rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, are by far the most common kinds.

Both rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis share some similarities. For example, they both cause joint pain, joint discomfort, and joint inflammation. It is also common for these diseases to have a very impact on the life of the infected, making a number of everyday tasks much more difficult and even painful. While these kinds of arthritis are similar in many ways, they do affect the body differently.

Perhaps the biggest difference between these two diseases is that rheumatoid arthritis is a symmetrical arthritis and osteoarthritis is an asymmetrical arthritis. The difference is in the way the joints are affected. In an asymmetrical arthritis, only one joint will usually be affected out of each pair. For example, in someone with osteoarthritis, if the right hip were to be infected, the left hip would not usually be affected. This differs from a symmetrical arthritis, like rheumatoid, where both hips would typically be infected.

Another difference is in the duration of morning pain and bouts of arthritis pain in general. Both of these diseases often cause the senior to experience morning pain, which is typically the result of long periods of inactivity. As a result, it is also often common for the senior to have periods of pain after having been seated for more than a few minutes. However, in rheumatoid arthritis, the joint pain will usually last much longer than that of osteoarthritis, sometimes well over an hour.

Currently, there is not a cure for arthritis, although there have been a number of studies showing how exercise and proper diet play a large role in preventing it. In either case, however, once the arthritis has developed, its effects can not be reversed, only prevented from continuing to spread. As a result, it becomes necessary for the person with the rheumatic disease to develop ways of making life easier and completing their daily tasks without experiencing pain. This is often dubbed as learning to live with arthritis, which involves first identifying problem activities and then brainstorming ways of making these activities easier.

Often, living with arthritis involves using helper tools to make life easier. For example, many people with hand arthritis have a very difficult time working in the kitchen. It can be very hard to grasp items and support the weight of large pots. One way this is addressed is by investing in utensils with larger handles, making them easier to hold onto. There are also a number of tools, such as jar openers, which are designed to use mechanical principals to reduce the amount of work for the senior.

Samuel is a writer with a knowledge of many conditions and diseases that affect the elderly. Learning how to make life easier and living with arthritis in general is an essential step for people of all ages who are affected by arthritis. It is important to maintain a normal and healthy lifestyle, without being affected by the disease. Often, devices like lift chairs are used to help make daily tasks easier and are often called helper tools. Lift chairs are an important type of helper tool, which looks like a recliner, but is designed to help make standing easier and safer.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Samuel_Tarwell

Caring for Urinary Incontinence from Comfort Keepers Senior Care in Troy, MO

Incontinence is a common problem amoung the elderly, one in every ten people over the age of 65 are incontinent. It is not a normal part of aging and can have many causes. Please read the following article for more information.

How to Help an Elderly Parent with Urinary Incontinence

When a Dementia Patient Loses a Loved One from Comfort Keepers Elder Care in Troy, MO

Losing a loved one is always difficult but imagine what it would be like to feel all those feeling you felt when you first learned of the death over and over again. This is often what some one with dementia experiences because well meaning caregivers think they need to keep reminding them that their loved one has died. I just finished reading the following article on helping people with dementia deal with grief. It is well worth the time to read it.

Helping the Person with Dementia Grieve After the Death of a Loved One

Watch for These Symptoms if Your Loved One is Diabetic from Comfort Keepers Senior Care in Troy, MO

If you are caring for a parent or other loved one with diabetes you already know how hard it can be to keep blood sugar under control and you are also probably aware of some of the possible complications that can arise with the diabetic. The following article lists many of the symptoms that need to be watched for.

Diabetes Symptoms to Never Ignore

Tips on Preventing Elder Abuse from Comfort Keepers Senior Care in troy, MO

The following article has some great tips on preventing elder abuse for the elder, the family and the community:

Preventing Elder Abuse

Humor in Dementia from Comfort Keepers Senior Care in Troy, MO

Can Your Children Help with Caring for an Elderly loved One in Troy, MO?

Caring for our parents can be difficult, especially when we still have our own children at home. This situation, however, could have it's bright side. Take a minute to read the following article and find out how.

Children can have role in caregiving

How to Tell Your Elder Loved Ones Finances are Off Track from Comfort Keepers Senior Care in Troy, MO

Your elder loved ones finances may quickly spiral out of control when there are problems. Here is an article that talks about 8 warning signs you need to watch out for.

8 warning signs an older adult’s finances are off track

Nutritional Drinks for the Elder in your Care in Troy, MO

Problems with eating, appetite and proper nutrition are very common among the elderly but it is not just a normal part of aging. Weight loss needs to be evaluated by a doctor and the problem may be correctable. Please read the following article for more information.

Think twice about giving elders nutritional drinks

Preventing Heat Stroke From Comfort Keepers Senior Care in Troy, MO

Summer is here and the heat is back. The last few weeks have been really bad here in the St Louis area with temps being higher than normal for this early in the season. Our elderly loved ones may not always feel it like we do but the heat can affect them too. Heat stroke and other heat related illnesses sicken or kill many elderly people every summer.

Check on elderly relatives and neighbors when it gets hot like this to make sure they are using their A/C and are doing ok. Read the following article from the CDC to see how you can prevent heat stroke.

Tips for Preventing Heat-Related Illness

Caregiving Spouses from Comfort Keepers Elderly Care in Troy, MO

It's difficult enough caring for a sick or disabled elderly relative. It can be a challenge-- physically, emotionally and financially, but what happens when the caregiver is also elderly and dealling with his or her own health issues?

We, here at Comfort Keepers of St. Louis, St Charles and Lincoln County have seen this happen again and again. One spouse taking care of the other until something happens to the caregiving spouse. Sometimes the spouse being cared for outlives his or her caregiving spouse. The stress of caregiving can lead to depression and anxiety as well as a host of other medical problems.

Spouses face challenges in caring for themselves and their ailing partners

Tips for the Alzheimer's Caregiver from Comfort Keepers Senior Care in Troy, MO

Here is a great article giving lots of good information to make the alzheimer's caregivers life more manageable:

Caring for a parent with Alzheimer's at home

Art & Alzheimer's from Comfort Keepers Elderly Care in Troy, MO

The Basics Of Stroke Care from Comfort Keepers Senior Care in Troy, MO

There are many things a caregiver needs to be proficient in for the proper care of stroke victims. Here are the basics of stroke care for family and friends who have opted to provide care to stroke patients.

Read more: http://www.articlesnatch.com/ezineready.php?id=1159837#ixzz0oqvyw2no
Under Creative Commons License: Attribution No Derivatives

Ten Tips for Parkinson's Caregivers from Comfort Keepers Elderly Care

Alcohol and Aging from Comfort Keepers Elderly Care in Troy, MO

Anyone at any age can have a drinking problem. There is evidence that people become more sensitive to alcohol as they age. Some medical conditions, such as high blood pressure, ulcers, and diabetes, can worsen with alcohol use. Please read the following article if you believe your elderly loved one may have a problem.

Alcohol Use and Abuse Among Elderly Parents

Would You Recognize the Symptoms of a Stroke? Comfort Keepers Senior Care in Troy, MO

A TIA or transient ischemic attack is often known as a mini stroke. It is also a warning for an impending major stroke. Treatment can reduce the risk of a major stroke but many people don't recognize the signs that they have a TIA or ignore it because the symptoms don't last. The American Stroke Association lists the symptoms here:

Learn to Recognize a Stroke

Men and Caregiving from Comfort Keepers Elderly Care in Troy, MO

Many more men then most people realize take on caregiving duties to family members. Some tend to try to keep it a secret and not talk about it. The following article explains why they may do this:

The Secret Caregivers

Could it be NPH? from Comfort Keepers Senior Care in Troy, MO

NPH or Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus, is often diagnosed as Alzheimer's or Parkinson's Disease. Unlike these two diseases, however, NPH can be treated. To find out more read the following article.

If It's Not Alzheimer's Disease or Parkinson's Disease, It May Be NPH

Reducing Prescription Costs from Comfort Keepers Senior Care in Troy, MO

The major goal of the following web site from The University of Chicago is to promote communication between patients, doctors, and other health care providers regarding out-of-pocket prescription costs.

Talk To Your Doctor

Caregiver Burnout Quiz from Comfort Keepers Elderly Care in Troy, MO

Check this quiz out if your caring for an elderly loved one:

Quiz: Are You Heading for Caregiver Burnout?

Driving and Alzheimer's from Comfort Keepers Senior Care in Troy, MO

Many believe it is safe to allow someone with early Alzheimer's to continue driving. Unfortunately this isn't always the case. Alzheimer's is a very unpredictable disease and even though your elderly loved one may seem capable of driving to the corner grocery, there is no way of knowing when that may not be the case. According to a study published in the American Journal of Occupational Therapy, of 207 drivers with Alzheimer's who went missing while driving, 32 died and 35 were found injured. Please read the two following articles for more information.

Early Alzheimer's can erode driving skills

Driving With Early Alzheimer's May Be Ill-Advised

Bicycling and Parkinson's from Comfort Keepers Elderly Care in Troy, MO

Overcoming Depression for Caregivers of the Elderly from Troy, MO

Research from Yale University shows that nearly one-third of people caring for terminally ill loved ones suffer from depression, according to.

Caregivers often overlook their own needs while taking care of their loved one making them vulnerable to anxiety and depression.

12 Depression Busters for Caregivers gives the caregiver 12 tips to help protect them from anxiety and depression as they care for a loved one.

Preventing Heat Related Illness from Comfort Keepers Elderly Care in Troy, MO

Summer is almost here and every year we hear about older adults dying from heat related illnesses, these deaths can often be prevented. The elderly are often more prone to heat stroke and heat exhaustion than younger people. They often don't seem to feel the heat as we do, complaining of being cold when it's over 80 degrees. Medications and the inability to adapt to temperature changes can contribute to the problem. Many times they will turn the AC off or down thinking they are saving money at what could be a great risk to their health. this page from the CDC explains the risk and how to prevent it.

Heat Stress in the Elderly

In Case of Emergency from Comfort Keepers Senior Care in Troy, MO

Do you know what medications your mom takes? Or what the name of your dad's cardiologist is? It's a good idea to find these things out now before you need to know if there is an emergency. This article from the Mayo Clinic lists the things you may need to know.

Aging parents: During emergency, details count

Drug Advertising and the Elders in Our Care in Troy, MO

Every time we turn on the TV we are inundated by advertising for different medications that are gong to cure all our ills and make our lives better. The elderly, already concerned about their health, are not immune.

The advertisements push the new (and expensive) drugs, using healthy, attractive looking people in their ads. They overlook the facts that for many of these medical conditions they are claiming to fix, there are are older tried and true (and less expensive) alternatives.

These adverisements are designed to manipulate the veiwer, that's what advertising does, they are after all just sales pitches.

It should be up to your loved ones doctor to decide what is best, not an overly-slick unrealistic commercial. Talk to your loved ones doctor about any concerns or problems with their current medications. If there are no problems, maybe it doesn't need fixing.

Family Caregiving and the Virtual Dementia Tour from Comfort Keepers Elderly Care in Troy, MO

When Parents Misbehave from Comfort Keepers Elderly Care in Troy, MO

Caring for our parents is hard enough without them complicating it with bad behavior. Sometimes it's a continuation of behavior patterns they have always had. Sometimes it's a brand new behavior. Either way, the following article provides some insight and advice on why it happens and what to do about it.

How to handle an elderly parent's bad behavior

10 Common Medication Errors That Can Kill from Comfort Keepers Elderly care in Troy, MO

There are 1.5 million people who are sickened or severely injured by medication errors, and 100,000 die every year. These can all be prevented but how? We need to be aware so please take the time to read about the ten medication mistakes that are most likely to harm or kill you:

10 Common Medication Mistakes That Can Kill

Driving and Alzheimer's from Comfort Keepers Senior Care in Troy, MO

Many people with early Alzheimer's continue to drive figuring that they will give it up when things get worse before "something happens". Unfortunately there is not really any way to tell when this "something" is going to happen. Getting confused and lost or in an accident can happen even in the early stages. Please read the following article for more information.

Driving With Early Alzheimer's May Be Ill-Advised

Learn More About COPD from Comfort Keepers Elder Care in Troy, MO

Supporting Your Caregiving Spouse from Comfort Keepers Elderly Care in Troy, MO

Is your spouse the primary caregiver for an elderly relative? If so read the following article on how to best support him or her.

How to Support a Caregiving Spouse: Three Tips from My Other Caregiving Half

Loss of Taste in the Elderly from Comfort Keepers Senior Care in Troy, MO

A few years ago I had a client with end stage Alzheimer's. She couldn't walk or talk but she could let you know when she didn't like what you were feeding her. What she didn't like was anything bland or only lightly seasoned, Mexican foods were her favorites. Her doctor conjectured that this may be because she had lost some of her ability to taste and the only things that really registered were the highly spiced foods. Many things can affect our sense of taste as we grow older and the following article explains more about it.

Loss of Taste in the Elderly

Art and Alzheimers from Comfort Keepers Senior Care in Troy, MO

Sundowner's Syndrome and Alzheimer's from Comfort Keepers Elderly Care in Troy, MO

Over the years many of the clients with Alzheimer's I have cared for have experienced Sundowner's Syndrome. They can become very agitated and fearful at dusk and into the night. One lady would start thinking the people in the TV were real about that time even when the TV had been on all day without incident. Many who experience it will get up repeatedly during the night. No one is really sure what causes it. If you want to read more about it, please read the following article.

Sadness, Agitation, Fear: Could This Be Sundowner's Syndrome?

Learn About Congestive Heart Failure says Comfort Keepers Senior Care in Troy, MO

Confronting Elder Abuse in America from Comfort Keepers Senior Care in Troy, MO

The It’s My Money! Financial Education Game from Comfort keepers Elderly Care In Troy, MO

Here's a downloadable game to help seniors protect themselves from con artists and identity theives.

It's My Money!

Choosing an In Home Senior Care Company in Troy, MO

Although the article I've linked to below is about a Comfort Keepers office in Santa Clarita, California, most of what it says holds true for other Comfort Keepers offices including ours here in Troy and St Louis. The article also includes tips from AARP on choosing an in home care company. To inquire about services in the St Louis, St Charles and Lincoln County areas in Missouri call toll free: (888) 892-2993

Keeping the comfort

Diabetes Etiquette for Non-Diabetics from Comfort Keepers Elderly Care in Troy, MO

Diabetics can become very frustrated by other peoples reactions to their health, whether it's unsolicited advice and/or ignorance of the disease. Dr. Polonsky, PhD, CDE, founder and president of the Behavioral Diabetes Institute (BDI) in San Diego, California gives us these ten tips on Etiquette for People Without Diabetes.

Thinking About a Reverse Mortgage? Comfort Keepers Senior Care in Troy, MO

There is a lot of misinformation about reverse mortgages and the following article can help clear it up.

Using a Reverse Mortgage to Pay for Home Care

Singing, Dancing and Parkinson's from Comfort Keepers Elderly Care in Troy, MO

Not only are singing and dancing enjoyable activities for many people but there is also some evidence that they can provide therapy for some Parkinson's victims. Check out these two articles and take a few minutes to listen to the singing.

Parkinson's disease chorus sings for fun, therapy

Dancing the Tango May Help Parkinson's Patients

When is it Time to Give Up the Keys? from Comfort Keepers Senior Care in Troy , MO

A couple years ago I had surgery and was unable to drive for almost 6 weeks. Although my adult daughter took me everywhere I needed to go, I hated the idea that I had to wait for her if I wanted to go anywhere. I really hated the loss of freedom I experienced and it made me more aware of how many of my clients felt. But there often comes a time when we need to talk to our elderly loved ones about giving up the keys. How do we know it's time and how do we approach this conversation? This story from Good Morning America may help you have that conversation.

Mom and Dad, We Need to Talk: Aiding Elderly Drivers

Reporting Elderly Financial Abuse in Troy, MO from Comfort Keepers Senior Care

Very often, the person who is taking financial advantage of your elderly loved one is another family member. This can make the descission to report it more difficult. But it needs to be reported, your loved one needs to be protected. The following article explains more about the process and what you need to tell the authorities.

Preventing financial abuse and exploitation of elderly parents

Are You the Caregiver of a Veteran?

If you are check this out

Seeking Family Caregivers of Veterans for a New Study

Malnutrition and Your Elderly Loved One from Comfort Keepers Senior Care in Troy, MO

If your parents are still living in their own home one of the many things you may be worried about is whether or not they are eating properly. Just checking the cabinets and refrigerator to see if they have adequate and healthy food may not be good enough. I’ve had several clients who appeared to have a plenty of groceries in their cabinets, but on closer examination much of what they had was expired and out dated. The food they were buying wasn’t being prepared and eaten in a timely matter.

Researchers in Sweden have found that up to 15% of all older adults between 75 and 80 were at risk of malnutrition.

Many things can factor into this, People who are depressed often just don’t feel like eating, mobility problems may make it difficult to get up and make meals or mild dementia may just cause them to forget to eat every meal. Lose of teeth and even the sense of taste can also contribute as well as many factors from illness to medications that can cause a loss of appetite.

What can you do if you suspect your parent or loved one is getting inadequate nutrition?
The first thing you need to do is talk to your loved one’s doctor, if your parent will allow it, but it’s important to keep in mind that the doctor may know as little about their eating habits as you do. He will, however, be able to tell you if they are taking any medications that may decrease the appetite or have any disease that could put them more at risk. He may also be able to tell you if there has been any unexplained recent weight loss that could indicate a problem.

Symptoms of Malnutrition in the Elderly

Check-Ups and Dementia from Comfort Keepers Senior Care in Troy, MO

I have been to many eye and dental checkups with clients who have had Alzheimer's and dementia. Sometimes it went well, and sometimes it didn't. Sometimes the solution is fairly simple, I had one eye doctor use the children's charts and that seemed to work well. Sometimes the client became so frustrated and confused nothing could be done.

This article, Eye, Ear, Teeth Check-ups Are Difficult When Elders Have Dementia, talks about this problem further.

When Your Loved One Acts Inappropriately from Comfort Keepers Senior Care in Troy, MO

What do you do when your shy and usually reserved father or oh-so proper mother suddenly starts saying or doing things of a sexual nature? Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia can cause changes in the areas of the brain that handle impulse control and the social filters that keep most of us from acting out in this manner. So what can you do? The following article has some suggestions on how to handle this situation.

Alzheimer's Disease and Inappropriate Behavior

Safety Tips for Your Loved Ones Home by Comfort Keepers Elderly Care in Troy, MO

When a loved one falls they can go from being healthy and independent to losing their mobility and Independence. We can help by eliminating the dangers in your loved ones home. One of the most important thing to remember is to have their vision checked at least once a year. Also talk to your parents doctor to find out which, if any, of their medications could increase the risk of a fall. In the home check for hazards and correct them if found.

1. A change in color to denote changes in surface types or levels helps . Use contrast in paint, furniture and carpet colors so to make boundaries easier to see..

2. Use nonskid tape to secure rugs and carpet edges. Remove throw rugs that can be tripped over. Nonskid mats or carpet in areas that can get wet such as bathrooms and kitchens help reduce fall risks also.

3. Reduce clutter by removing over sized furniture and objects. Arranging furniture (especially low coffee and end tables) so that they can easily move around it with out bumping into it.

4. Make sure light bulbs are of adequate brightness and not burned out. Remember to check the ones in places your loved one doesn't frequently go such as in the basement or attic. Nightlights in bathrooms, kitchens, and hallways can help at night. Use a light on the nightstand beside the bed that is easily turned on and off. Keep curtains, window shades, and blinds open for good lighting during the day.

5. Keep electrical and telephone cords out of walkways. Keep them as close to the wall as possible and never have them extended across a room. Add electrical outlets in places where an outlet is needed if possible.

6. Make sure all stairways have secure handrails on both sides of stairs. Use brightly colored or glow in the dark tape at the edge of the steps to make them more visible. Keep everything off of a stairway, your loved one may not see what has been placed on the steps.

7. Keep commonly used items within easy reach in kitchen cabinets and closets. Make sure there is a sturdy step stool available to reach higher items to reduce the temptation of climbing on a chair or other unsafe object.

8.In the bathroom install grab bars on walls in and around the tub and beside the toilet. Make sure they are strong enough to hold your loved ones weight. Use nonskid appliques or mats in the shower or tub and make sure there is a nonskid mat for them to step out on after they are done. A liquid soap dispenser in the on the tub or shower wall can also help, as can a hand held shower head. A shower seat can also make the shower safer. A raised toilet seat can make it easier to get up and reduce the risk of falls.


9. Remove caster wheels from chairs so they don't slide away as your loved one is trying to sit down. Also make sure chairs and couches are easy to get in and out of. Adjusting the height of bed can make it easier to get in and out of.

10. Have at least one phone extension in each level of the home and post emergency numbers at each phone. Locate the bedroom telephone within reach of the bed.

We can do what we can to prevent falls but unfortunately they still happen. An electronic emergency alert system can help your parent get help when it is needed. Comfort Keepers has a system we call Safety Choice. For more information in the St Louis area call us toll-free at (888) 892-2993.

Keeping our Elderly Loved Ones Safe from Dangerous Activities from Comfort Keepers Senior Care in Troy, MO

Everyone needs a purpose in life and a reason to get up in the morning. This doesn't change just because they get older. We want to protect our loved ones and keep them safe. But we also don't want to interfere with their sense of purpose and self worth. Some of the chores, activities and hobbies they have done all their lives can become increasingly dangerous as their abilities decrease.

How to keep elderly parents safe from dangerous hobbies and activities

Alzheimer's Association Education Video from Comfort Keepers Senior Care in Troy, MO

Preventing Bed Sores from Comfort Keepers Elder Care in Troy, MO

Bedsores, also known as pressure sores or decubitus ulcers can easily develop if your loved one is either bedridden or is in a seated position in a wheelchair or other chair for the majority of the day. These can be extremely painful and can cause damage to muscles and bone. They can be difficult to treat once the develop so prevention is the key. This artcle explains steps you can take to prevent your loved one from getting bedsores.

Bedsores: Nothing to take lightly

Avoiding Sibling Rivalry When Caring for Elderly Parents in Troy, MO

Whether or not you get along with your siblings, the illness of a parent can strain this relationship. Here is one womans story and some tips for avoiding these kinds of problems

When the Other Sibling Cares for an Aging Parent

Companions from an Elder Care Agency- An Alternative to Nursing Homes in Troy, MO

By: Tyler Moon

A fit and healthy lifestyle always leads to much alert sense in the elderly. A fit lifestyle includes healthy and nutritious meals, regular exercise and stimulating the mind with mental activity. With the aid of elder care services, a senior member of the family can get the support they need to keep up with their physical and mental health.

A well controlled nutritious diet not only contributes to the physical health, but also has a great role to play for mental stability. Five times consumption of fruits and vegetables in a day would suffice, with fish once or twice a week. Fats of any type should always be avoided. A companion from elder care services can make sure that someone living on their own will continue with their healthy eating, and not skip meals.

Physical activities that take care of cardiac fitness and vascular health can also take care of brain required for mental stability. For senior members, thirty minutes of exercise every alternate day allows for cardiovascular benefits. This vascular health and maintenance translates into a sharp mind for seniors. An elder care companion to visit an elderly person will make sure that a patient keeps up with their exercise routine.

Engaging an elderly person in mentally challenging activities can also help them keep their minds healthy and quick. Reading novels, solving crossword puzzles, games, brain teasers or learning a new language or musical instrument keeps the mind active and occupied. These activities can be good pastimes for an elder and a caregiver sharing these pastimes can be a positive experience for the seniors.

Personalized care for seniors from non-medical care agency can be a good alternative to assisted living facilities or nursing homes. A senior member will stay more active physically and mentally if they stay more at home rather than in a nursing home. Companions provided from elder care agencies can help an individual with their routine and assist in their activities. It is a priority for a patient to continue to live a healthy lifestyle.

Ideally, once you find a senior care provider you're happy with, you should provide the newly-hired caregiver with a detailed job description outlining job title, purpose, duties and responsibilities.

Using resources available, elderly care in the home becomes a viable option. Elder care does not have to mean you have to do it alone. Becoming knowledgeable about elderly care issues make the aging transition an easier road to travel.

About the Author

Tyler Moon is an expert in article writing and internet marketing. She regularly contributes articles on various topics like security services, birth announcements etc.
Senior Care

(ArticlesBase SC #833146)

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/ - Companions from Elder Care Agency – An Alternative to Nursing Homes

Tips forTraveling with an Elder with Dementia from Comfort Keepers Senior Care in Troy, MO

Sometimes just taking a trip into the next town can cause problems when your traveling with someone with dementia. Although most people with dementia benefit from a familiar environment it is often possible to take a trip with proper planning. Read the following article for some great tips on traveling with your loved one with dementia.

Plan for traveling with loved ones with dementia

Health Benefits of Tai Chi from Comfort Keepers Senior Care in Troy, MO

In the past I have posted a couple of Tai Chi exercise videos for the elderly here and here. I just came across this article on the Mayo Clinic website listing the many health benefits of Tai Chi not only for your loved one but for yourself. It can help with anxiety, depression and lower blood pressure.

Tai chi: Discover the many possible health benefits

Tips for Choosing Home Care from Comfort Keepers Senior Care in Troy, MO

Please take a few minutes to read this.

How to Choose Home Care for Elderly Parents

Our caregivers here at Comfort Keepers are our employees. Every one of them has undergone a thorough background check. They are bonded and insured, trained and supervised. Even if you don't choose us please make sure your loved one is being cared for by an agency that can say the same.

Communicating When Your Loved One Can't Speak from Comfort Keepers Elder care in Troy, MO

When stroke, Alzheimer's or other forms of dementia rob our parents or other loved ones of the ability to speak, communication can become difficult. The following article has some great tips on how to deal with it.

How to Communicate When Your Elderly Parent Can No Longer Speak

Advice for the Alzheimer's Caregiver from Comfort Keepers Senior Care in Troy, MO

Jokesercises for the Senior in Your Care in Troy, MO

This is a cute video that also has some great chair exercises that your loved one can do while sitting down.

Planning Ahead: Advanced Directives from Comfort Keepers Elder Care in Troy, MO

Take a couple of minutes to watch this video about making the hard decisions and advanced directives.

Useful Tips for Alzheimers Care in Troy, MO

Reviewing Some Useful Tips For Better Alzheimer Care
Author: MIKE SELVON
When the Alzheimers diagnosis first hits you, it can feel devastating and overwhelming. Alzheimers patients often feel angry and fall into the "Why Me?" syndrome, while caregivers suffer with helplessness and uncertainty about how the disease will progress. For the 5 million patients and their families, Alzheimer care can go on for as many as 20 years, so learning how to cope and seeking education on the matter is crucial.
The medical difficulty of Alzheimers is that no two patients progress at the same rate or exhibit the same Alzheimers symptoms. Some Alzheimers patients are prone to wandering off or forget that they are unable to drive a car.
Other earlier signs of alzheimers include misplacing keys, forgetting names and becoming irrationally upset without remembering why. In the worst stages, the patient can no longer speak or recognize friends and family.
"Each individual is so unique, so different, there is no black and white or this is how you take care (of the patient)," says Connie Kudlacek, former director of the Alzheimers Association Midlands Chapter. "Instead of focusing on the negatives, we need to look at the positives and find an opportunity to continue to nurture their personality and give them an opportunity for success, even in the later stages."
The emotional difficulty of caring for someone with Alzheimers is the "losing and grieving while providing the care because Charlie isn't Charlie anymore," relates Professor Jacquelyn Frank at the Frank of Ulndy's Center For Aging & Community. She describes the feelings as "anticipatory grief," which refers to the fear of losing someone before they've even died, and "ambiguous loss," which is the discordant feeling of caring for someone who is physically alive but socially lacking. Frank highlights the importance of airing out emotions in an Alzheimers support group to maintain a positive attitude in the face of such isolation and hopelessness.
Reducing frustrations is one tactic that will help you provide effective Alzheimer care. At first you may struggle with your loved one trying to bathe or feed them, but over time you'll get to know their natural schedule of when they are most agreeable.
Established routines can help make the day less unpredictable and more manageable for the Alzheimers patient and you. Limiting difficult decision-making is very helpful for the Alzheimers caregiver. For instance, a closet full of clothes may be intimidating, whereas a choice between two outfits may be totally do-able.
You may sometimes feel like you're walking on egg shells when communicating with a loved one who requires Alzheimer care. Frustrations can flare up tempers and it can be hard to understand the root of the problem. Sometimes Alzheimers patients forget words or substitute incorrect words. They can lose their train of thought, require more time deciphering your words or they may curse incessantly.
The stages of Alzheimers can change suddenly, without warning. You can help by remaining patient, making eye contact while listening, using visual cues and keeping your language simple, as well as avoiding criticism, interrupting and arguing.
There are many different Alzheimer care treatment options, depending on the severity of the illness and your budget. Many caregivers try to keep their loved one at home for as long as possible, looking into products that may safeguard them from an accident or heightened confusion. Other family members may try splitting their time with the patient so he or she is never left alone.
There are specialized caregivers, such as "Comfort Keepers," who make house calls as well. There are adult day care centers, which allow family members to continue working their normal schedules while the Alzheimer patient receives care or participates in planned activities. Lastly, there are long term care facilities that fully address the needs of Alzheimers patients 24/7.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/reviewing-some-useful-tips-for-better-alzheimer-care-442020.html
About the AuthorEnrich your knowledge further about alzheimer care from Mike Selvon portal. We appreciate your feedback at our nursing care blog where a free gift awaits you.

Friends, Family and Criminals Could Steal from the Elders in Our Care in Troy, MO

Crimes against the elderly are on the increase. They are being robbed by their adult children, grandchildren, other relatives, caregivers, friends and strangers. How do we protect the loved ones in our care? Being more aware of the problem can help us spot potential problems. Take a minute to read the following article:

Preying on elderly: An age-old problem worsens

Home Safety Tips for Parkinson's Sufferers from Comfort Keepers Elderly Care in Troy, MO

I know a man with Parkinson's who recently had a serious fall that resulted in a several day hospital stay. Having Parkinson's increases the risk of falling due to many factors. The following article lists ways you can help your loved one with Parkinson's reduce these risks. Many of these tips can be used for anyone with mobility and balance problems.

Safety Tips for Parkinson’s Disease

Physical Therapists Role in Stroke Care from Comfort Keepers Senior Care in Troy, MO

Physical Therapy for Stroke Survivors

Author: Gia Patterson

What a Physical Therapist Does

A physical therapist treats a person to relieve pain, build up and restore muscle function, and maintain the best possible performance. The therapist does this by using physical means such as active and passive exercise, massage, heat, water, and electricity. Broadly speaking, a physical therapist:

· sets up the goals of treatment with patient and family
· shows how to use special equipment
· instructs in routine daily functions
· teaches safe ways to move
· sets up and teaches an exercise program

NOTE: The American Physical Therapy Association, often located in the state capital, can provide a list of licensed therapists.


What a Physical Therapist Determines

Depending on a person's physical condition, a therapist may work on range-of-motion exercises, correct body positions when resting, devices to help the person in your care, and other simple ways to improve daily functions. A physical therapist checks things that can affect a person's daily activities:

· the person's attitude toward his situation
· how well he can move his muscles and joints (range of motion)
· his ability to see, smell, hear, and feel
· what he can do on his own and what he needs to learn
· his equipment needs, now and in the future
· what can be improved in the home to make moving around safer and more comfortable
· who can and will help to give support

Range-of-Motion (ROM) Exercises

The purpose of range-of-motion exercises is to relieve pain, maintain normal body alignment (positions), help prevent skin swelling and breakdown, and promote bone formation. A ROM exercise program should be started before deformities develop. Here are some things to do when you are asked to help with exercises at home:

· Communicate what you are doing.
· Use the flats of both hands, not the fingertips, to hold a body part.
· Take each movement only as far as the joint will go into a comfortable stretch. (Mild discomfort is okay, but it should go away quickly.)
· Do each exercise 3 to 5 times.
· Use slow steady movements to help relax muscles and increase joint range.
· If joints are swollen and painful, exercise very gently.

Proper Positions to Use When Resting:

· flat on the back or no more than 30° raised
· prone (lying flat) on the stomach (for up to 20 to 30 minutes only, not for sleeping)
· one-quarter left or right turn onto the back
· three-quarters right or left turn on to the stomach
· aided by special positioning devices (for example, splints for leg, foot, hand, or back support)

About the Author:

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Stroke Physical Therapy

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Physical Therapy for Stroke Survivors

Questions for Your Aging Parents from Comfort Keepers Senior Care in Troy, MO

It's hard enough approuching your parents about their plans and finances as they age, but do you even know what to ask? The following link has a checklist for the more important things you may need to know about.

Questions to Ask Aging Parents