How Social Dining Positively Impacts People Living In Senior Homes

For seniors, good nutrition is one of the keys to staying healthy and strong. The human body works best when it has access to all of the vitamins and nutrients that it needs. A well-balanced diet not only helps ensure that seniors are getting proper nutrition but it also can help them maintain a healthy weight, making it easier to stay active. A diet that incorporates key vitamins and minerals can help with everything from maintaining good bone density to preserving good mental clarity and focus.

Unfortunately, not all seniors follow healthy eating habits. Poor nutrition can increase the risk of health problems like high blood pressure, heart disease, high cholesterol, and diabetes. It can also result in a general decline in their overall quality of life.

Eating In Isolation Is Detrimental To Seniors’ Well-Being

Years ago, most families gathered around the dinner table to eat a meal with one another, talking about the events of the day. Unfortunately, as life becomes busier, this habit is becoming less and less common. This is bad news – not just from a social perspective but also from a health perspective. Studies have shown that families that don’t eat meals together generally aren’t as healthy as families that do. When everyone grabs dinner on their own, they are more likely to make poor food choices. This can result in an overall decline in health.

Although it may seem unrelated, this actually is a good illustration of why it is so detrimental for seniors to eat alone. When people eat in isolation, they are less likely to eat balanced meals. Instead, there is a tendency to just grab whatever is handy and easy to prepare. Over time, this can cause a wide array of health problems ranging from a compromised immune system to problems with malnutrition or weight loss. This is especially problematic for seniors since their bodies are not as strong as those of younger people.

According to recent research, approximately one-fifth of all seniors experience loneliness when they eat by themselves. Unfortunately, this problem is all too common. Many seniors live alone and don’t have anyone to keep them company during mealtime. Getting out of the house is also more challenging than it used to be, which can make it hard to connect with others for a meal.

Understanding How Socializing During Meal Time Can Make Seniors Healthier

Interestingly, researchers have found that people who eat meals with someone else generally enjoy better health. When people eat around others, they are more likely to make good food choices. It is easier to find the motivation to prepare a healthy meal when there is someone to share it with. Additionally, the simple act of socializing during a meal can lift the spirits of a lonely senior, making them feel more like eating. The simple act of sharing a meal with someone else provides a social experience that can be uplifting and inspiring for someone who has spent a lot of time eating alone. It is easier to get excited about a meal when there is someone around to enjoy eating it with.

This is one area where senior living communities really shine. When it comes to senior care Houston TX has some excellent facilities that provide a warm, welcoming environment for seniors to share meals with others. Typically, these facilities are set up in such a way that residents can choose their own food and can decide who they want to sit with. In many cases, the environment is similar to a restaurant. Over time, people who live at these facilities develop friendships with other residents, providing them with a rich social life that can lift their spirits and make them excited about living. Moving into one of these facilities and forming friendships can even help combat mental health issues such as depression. People of all ages can benefit from having friends and feeling like they are part of the crowd.

A Closer Look At Mealtime

Every senior living facility is different. However, most of them go above and beyond to make sure that residents are getting good nutrition. Not only do they use fresh, locally grown ingredients but they also cook the food at the facility. Seniors may even be able to customize their meals based on their individual preferences. The chefs who work in these facilities put the needs of the residents first, making sure that their dietary requirements are being met.

Eating In A Social Setting Provides Countless Health Benefits For Seniors

Seniors who share meals with other people are far more likely to feel like they belong than those who eat alone. Even though people often eat by themselves in this day and age, seniors grew up in a different time when meals were all about gathering together with loved ones and sharing good conversation. As a result, it can be particularly disheartening for them to find themselves alone at mealtime. Over time, this sense of isolation can cause them to become depressed or withdrawn.

When seniors live alone, they often lack the motivation to cook a meal for themselves. They may decide to skip eating or they might just grab a pre-packaged snack or meal to skip the hassle of preparing a home-cooked meal. This can lead to nutritional deficiencies, weight loss, and other problems that can negatively impact their health.

The human body naturally declines with age. One way to combat these changes is by making sure that all of our nutritional needs are being met. When the body’s metabolism slows down, the appetite decreases as well. Oftentimes, seniors are also taking prescription medications that can interfere with their desire to eat. Dental problems can also make it harder to consume certain types of food. Again, this can interfere with good nutrition.

One way to combat all of these problems is by looking into senior care facilities in the Houston area. Residents of these facilities not only enjoy comfortable accommodations and good food but they also develop rich, rewarding social lives that can keep them active and engaged. When people have friends to talk to and activities to take part in, they are far more likely to maintain their vitality. If you have an elderly loved one who may benefit from living in one of these facilities, it is worth learning more today. Don’t wait until their health has already deteriorated to begin talking about the benefits of senior living facilities.

For more related articles, visit our blog. If you have any questions, please feel free to give us a call or contact Assisting Hands Houston today!

Technologies Houston Caregiver Agencies Are Using

There are a number of studies that show socializing with family and friends can have a positive impact on the health and longevity of seniors. One study performed in 2012 discovered that staying socially engaged was just as important as other healthy living habits when it came to healthy aging. The study involved 100 centenarians and was conducted by UnitedHealthcare.

However, some people don’t like to meet others in person. Thankfully, technology offers a number of solutions. Below are different ways Houston caregiver agencies are staying in touch with technology.

Video Chat/Social Media

Seniors can use social media to stay connected. Sharing thoughts and comments via Twitter and Facebook is a trend that is continuing to grow in the senior community. This is something that should be encouraged.

It’s a good idea to set up a Nucleus intercom system. It’s easy to use and it is a device that is senior-friendly. This device lets people video chat with anyone in the family, if they have their own device or if they have the app. All it takes is pressing one button for an older adult to get in touch with family.

Use Video Games

Using videos games can help seniors keep both their body and mind active. Video games are fun too. This is one of the reasons seniors should play them.

Furthermore, playing video games may improve vision. In one study, it showed that seniors with cataracts reported an improvement in their eyesight after they’ve played Call of Duty and other first-person shooting games. The seniors’ eyes strengthen because of rapid eye movement and because the focus was required. A Houston caregiver should add games to their clients weekly or daily routine.

Use Apps For Tracking Medication

A key aspect of caregiving is allowing seniors to live independently, and part of maintaining independence is taking medications when they’re supposed to be taken. Caregivers should consider using an app that can help seniors track medications. Seniors will love using such an app.

However, finding the right app isn’t that easy. This is because there are so many other there. The good news is this task doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Over 270 medication tracking apps were looked at by the University of Sydney. They narrow down their list.

Medisafe Pill Reminder & Medication Tracker made the list. So did Alar Meds. The other two that made it to the top included MedicineList+ and My Heart My Life.

Are you a Houston caregiver and are you thinking of using technology because if you are, then consider some of the technology discussed above. Maybe you’re already using technology. If you are, then what are you using and what do you recommend using because we would love to know more about them.

For more insight, visit our blog. If you have any questions, please feel free to give us a call or contact us today!

How You Can Honor Your Grandparents!

Our great nation has evolved to the country we love today thanks to millions of older Americans who have made great sacrifices through the decades. Unfortunately, younger people don’t always have the time or the inclination to show that we appreciate all that older generations have done for us.

Every September, we’re given an opportunity to show that we care by taking part in Grandparents’ Day! This year, Grandparents’ Day fell on a Sunday on September 10th. If you had not already made plans, these are some of the activities that you can share with your grandparents or other seniors who may not have immediate family members.

Activities To Share With Grandparents

• Plant a tree together: Trees have long been seen as symbols of longevity, life, and legacy. What better way to honor your relationship with a grandparent than to plant a tree together? As the tree matures from a sapling, it becomes a lasting testament to the love you share. Not to mention, trees can benefit people for generations to come!
• Help clean up the community together: If your community has a regular clean up day you can participate in, sign up with a grandparent and help keep the community free of trash and debris. If no such a day exists, you can still work together on a designated day to give nature a helping hand and to collect trash while bonding.
• Find somewhere to volunteer together: Volunteering is not only great for senior mental health, but it can bridge the gap between different generations. Find a place where you and a grandparent can volunteer together such as a food pantry, church, hospital or an animal shelter.
• Grab lunch with a grandparent: Many restaurants and cafes participate in Grandparents’ Day and show their appreciation of older generations by offering free coffee or food. Join your loved ones and invite your grandparents to such a restaurant or cafe to enjoy a meal together. It’s a great way to support a local business and show your love.

Help Your Grandparents Get The Care They Need!

Caring for your grandparents shouldn’t just be on Grandparents’ Day but every day of the year. If your grandparent needs help, consider talking about elder caregiving in Houston. Assisting Hands Houston is a community of seniors where every day is a chance to share the knowledge of generations with younger people and to enjoy a variety of exciting activities. Our community is wholly based on a personal approach where staff and family members regularly interact to give the care that seniors need.

It’s important for younger generations to learn from older generations. Assisting Hands Houston aids in providing seniors and young people the ability to interact in different social settings such as classrooms and through a multitude of activities. Regular school visits are scheduled where children and seniors can share their life experiences.

Get Educated!

Whether a loved one needs care or you’d like to volunteer, you can learn more about Assisting Hands Houston by calling us today at 281-540-7400 or by contacting us here. Our dedicated staff members can help answer all of your questions and provide you with volunteer opportunities.

Understanding The Essential Cancer Screenings For Older Adults

We live in an era where we have the ability to take control of our own health and stay healthy.

The American Cancer Society suggests that all individuals should follow the recommendations that they have listed for essential cancer screenings.

This is an important aspect for older individuals as they are more likely to be diagnosed with some form of cancer than other areas of the population.

Seniors and their caregivers should know the various screenings that are available and when they should be scheduled.

Cancer Screenings For Older Adults

Considering that Stand Up to Cancer Day is scheduled for September 9, the following is a list of various screenings that you or a loved one should keep in mind.

Lung Cancer Testing

If you are an active smoker or have quit in the past 15 years, it is recommended that you schedule a lung cancer screening. This type of screening features a low-dose CT scan which will look for early signs of lung cancer. It is essential that you discuss any risks, questions, and benefits with your health care physician or provider.

Colon Cancer Testing

Anyone of the age of 50 should have a colon cancer screening scheduled. This type of screening is covered by Medicare as it specifically searches for pre-cancerous polyps. If these polyps are found early enough, they can be removed before they become cancerous.

There are several different types of cancer screenings that are covered under Medicare depending upon risk factor and the date of the last testing. In fact, the American Cancer Society offers an extensive breakdown of Medicare coverage in these screenings.

Prostate Cancer Testing For Men

A prostate screening is essential but all seniors should talk to their physician about the many benefits and possible risks associated. When deciding upon a screening it is essential to consider overall health and not just age.

Breast Cancer Testing For Women

Mammograms are one of the most important aspects of screening for breast cancer in women. It is recommended to schedule a screening every two years. Women who are at a much higher risk should have one scheduled yearly.

If you are unsure of whether you are at a higher risk for breast cancer, it is best to discuss the situation with a health care provider. Age and family history will play a role in the risk factor.

As women age, the risk of cancer will increase. Some physicians will recommend other tests for those who are at a higher risk.

Cervical Cancer Testing For Women

Cervical cancer testing is essential for a healthy life for women, only if you have not been tested in the past ten years.

Are you still looking for more information about the best types of screenings for various ages?

The American Cancer Society has an excellent timeline that features the recommended ages for various cancer screenings.

Assisting Hands of Houston wants to help you make the best decisions for your life.

Regular cancer screenings are just a small part of a healthy lifestyle. The choices you make with your daily life matter as well. It is essential to consider the choices you make with diets, exercise, and habits, as they affect you in many ways.

One of the best ways to stay up to date on the latest research about aging and elder care in Houston Texas is to read the Assisting Hands Houston Blog. We feature many topics that older adults are interested in reading about including fitness, health, and nutrition.

Or we invite you to call us today or contact us here!

How To Look And Feel Amazing As You Age

Until someone stumbles upon the legendary Fountain of Youth, there is no way to avoid getting older. There are, however, some things that you can do that can minimize the effects of aging on your body and your mind, helping you to look and feel amazing as you age.

It goes without saying that one of the cornerstones to better health as you get older is to lead an active, healthy lifestyle. Here are some tips that you can use to look and feel your absolute best regardless of your age.

The Keys To Aging Gracefully

Scientists have discovered quite a few different techniques that you can use to slow down the aging process. Try using some of these suggestions to feel as young and attractive as possible:

1. Maintain an active social life.

Studies have shown that socializing with friends can actually increase your lifespan. Enjoying companionship and finding ways to laugh with others can boost your mood and can help keep depression at bay. Socializing can become more difficult as you age, simply because you may not be working or participating in as many activities as you did when you were younger.

Fortunately, there are some ways that you can get more socially active. One way is to look for groups in your area that you can join. If you are Internet-savvy, there are plenty of websites that you can use to search for groups of people who meet in your area who also share your interests. Going to church provides another opportunity to meet new people. You can also look into volunteering. Not only does it give you a chance to help others but it also allows you to meet people who are as committed to improving your community as you are.

Socializing can provide countless benefits. In addition to lengthening your lifespan, it can also help you get more out of your life. After all, living is all about having fun and enjoying yourself. Regular socializing rivals exercise in terms of the positive impact that it can have on your physical and mental health.

2. Get moving.

Exercising can do wonders for your body and your mind as you age. Along with helping you maintain a healthy weight, it can also reduce hormone levels in your body that are associated with stress.

Don’t feel like the only way to exercise is to run on a treadmill or to lift weights. There are plenty of things that you can do in your everyday life that can get your heart pumping. Taking a walk, signing up for a local yoga class, or digging in your garden can all positively impact your health by keeping you active.

3. Make smart food choices.

The food that you eat can have a major impact on your overall level of health as well as on your appearance. It is easy to fall into the habit of eating junk food. However, if you can incorporate healthier foods into your diet, your energy levels will naturally increase, making it easier to get through the day with enthusiasm. You may also notice improvements in your skin, hair, and nails when you get the nutrition that you need.

Eating right can also minimize the risk of age-related problems like osteoporosis. If you aren’t sure what you should be eating, the USDA publishes a lot of helpful information that you can use to design a healthy diet that will give you the energy that you need.

Please call us today or contact Assisting Hands Houston today for more information on the best caregivers in Houston!

How To Manage Sibling Rivalry While You Are Caregiving

When aging parents start experiencing health problems requiring caregiving, issues of sibling rivalry can arise.

Despite everybody’s best intentions, they can sabotage all of the efforts made to offer good care.

The key to making sure this extra stress is avoided as well as major family conflicts, is to learn how to manage sibling conflicts before they cause serious problems.

Conflicts among siblings frequently originate in childhood. This can make it tricky to work them out. Even those adults who believe they have been able to leave their old feelings in the past frequently find them resurfacing whenever family pressures start to intensify.

Old Rivalries May Be Replaced By New Family Dynamics

Fortunately, there are several potential pathways that can be taken to improve the relationships you have with your siblings. Finding the one that will work best for your specific situation is the key.

The following are a couple of suggestions from family relationship experts.

1. Maintain A Good Perspective On What Is Important

Sibling rivalry can increase stress levels noticeably for everybody, including your parents. Health and Houston caregivers issues that are associated with aging already have the potential to increase stress levels, but when sibling rivalry is added to the mix it can raise levels of toxicity even more.

Your sibling fights can potentially become another health problems for the very individual you are trying to help!

Try to take a step back and remember what is most important and what is at stake: the safety and health of your parent. When you stop to do that it may make it easier for you to resolve the problems you are having with your siblings.

2. Realize That Stakes Are Also High In Other Ways

AARP clinical psychologist and family therapist Barry J. Jacobs, states that the way people behave during the caregiving process remains with you all of your life. So those years of caregiving may set the tone for the way you get along with your siblings long after your parent has passed.

3. Keep Your Communication Open

When there are strong emotions involved it can be hard to keep communication open and clear. It is also very difficult to keep everybody informed when you have siblings living all across the country. You need to make your best effort to keep in touch since poor communication can make relations tense.

In these types of situations, one of the biggest complaints is that one sibling will feel disrespected or hurt when they discover that a decision has been made without their input. Frequently, medical conditions may suddenly arise, and somebody may forget to inform a sibling that lives far away.

To help avoid these kinds of potential family conflicts, plan for better communication.

4. Do Some Planning To Be Proactive

A small bit of planning can really go a long way. The best time to discuss caregiving responsibilities and roles before there is a major crisis. The most effective way to ensure that there is a good collaboration between sibling is decide which caregiving roles, if any, should be outsourced and divide up tasks and responsibilities between siblings ahead of time.

It is also essential to plan the financial aspects of your family caregiving. Financial factors associated with caregiving can potentially be a major source of conflict among siblings. Make sure to discuss and plan this aspect of caregiving with your siblings.

Consider Getting Help For Your Caregiving

Whenever an issue arises that none of your family members feel confident in handling, you should consider getting outside help. Assisting Hands Houston is able to help with issues such as how senior living can be financed or assisting when the main caregiver is going on vacation.

Give us a call today or contact us to learn about what Houston caregivers services we offer for short-term visitors or speak with one of our residents at Assisting Hands Houston to find out how they enjoy being a full-time resident with an Assisting Hands Houston caregiver.

Key Immunization Conversations For Seniors And Their Physicians

There can be little doubt about the miraculous nature of vaccines and their ability to stop previously deadly diseases from developing in those treated with them. Thus, it is most perplexing that a large number of seniors citizens have failed to keep current when it comes to being vaccinated themselves. Those who are aged 65 or older may in fact be in need of boosters for vaccines already administered in the past.

There is no better time to discuss this issue with your physician than August, which is National Immunizations Month. Diseases that can be prevented with modern vaccines run the gamut from diphtheria to shingles, and it makes good sense to stay on top of them.

Key Vaccinations For Senior Citizens

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has indicated that those older than 65 must remain current on the following vaccines:

1. Influenza/Seasonal Flu

Seniors have been told for years and years by physicians that they face a far greater risk of serious flu complications than younger individuals. With aging, the immune system loses strength and thus makes individuals far more susceptible to ailments related to the flu.

Annual statistics show that senior citizens are over-represented in the number of flu-induced hospitalizations and fatalities. Anyone under the impression that the flu vaccine has unacceptable levels of risk needs to know that both the CDC and the Public Health Agency of Canada strongly suggest that all seniors remain current with flu vaccinations, as these are the best defense obtainable.

2. Tdap or TD

The TD shot is a booster designed to guard against diphtheria as well as tetanus. Similarly, the Tdap vaccination provides coverage for those illnesses as well as whooping cough, otherwise known as pertussis. Each of these sicknesses has the potential to become deadly. Breathing issues are known to stem from diphtheria, due to the thickening that arises in the throat. Furthermore, tetanus can produce lockjaw, a condition which proves fatal in roughly one out of every five cases. The coughing that results from pertussis can be difficult to quell and is known to cause brain damage, seizures and even death in those affected.

3. Pneumococcal Vaccinations

The truth is that a pneumococcal disease is essentially a type of infection. It is the result of bacteria and may lead to bacterial meningitis, pneumonia, middle-ear infections and blood infections. Both young and old are vulnerable to this type of infection, and vaccination is the only mode of prevention. However, senior citizens are at greater risk of developing pneumococcal disease than all other demographic groups.

4. Zoster Vaccinations

This is a vaccine known to guard against an illness that plagues older individuals at alarming rates, namely, shingles. If you have ever known an individual afflicted by shingles, you already know that it brings excruciating pain and debilitating rashes. While the Zoster vaccination does not provide absolute protection against shingles, it does dramatically lessen the risk of acquiring the ailment. Also, if a case of shingles does emerge, it will be far less severe in someone who has received the Zoster vaccine.

Help From A Qualified Care Manager

When the time comes to have a discussion with your physician about vaccinations, having an advocate on your side can be a great help. Assisting Hands Houston employs the type of in home caregiver Houston trusts most. Not only can these professionals help with daily needs, they can also assist in the development of their Individualized Service Plan which provides a road map for comprehensive care.

Call us now or contact us today for more information!

A Guide For Keeping Your Marriage Strong

Many baby boomers are facing a decision about caregiving for their elderly parents or other relatives. This is not an easy decision and if a person decides to take on the role of primary caregiver, it can be quite stressful. This stress will often migrate into the caregiver’s marriage and cause problems. Providing full-time caregiving is extremely difficult and usually results in the caregiver trying to work in responsibilities involving caregiving, family, and marriage. This tightly packed and incredibly organized schedule typically results in very little time for the caregiver themselves. They are tired, stressed, and often feeling frustrated.

Primary caregivers also face another challenge

taking care of their own health. When a person becomes a full-time caregiver it often results in the caregiver’s health failing before the health of person they’re caring for. It can also become financially difficult when someone becomes a primary caregiver. They often must give up their job or at least reduce their hours which results in a loss of income. When all of these challenges are combined, it can wreak havoc on a marriage.

Couples can survive the trials and tribulations of being a primary caregiver, but it takes work. There are some steps a couple can take to keep their marriage strong. If both partners are committed, they can make it through and come out stronger on the other side.

1. Own It

Both the caregiver and the spouse must acknowledge that the caregiving is impacting their relationship. Providing care for someone else is a hard job and at the end of the day, the caregiver probably doesn’t want to clean house or do the grocery shopping. They are tired and perhaps a bit short-tempered. Both partners must realize there are issues and work together to help each other out

2. Prioritize Your Spouse

Both partners must do this, but the caregiver may need to work hard at prioritizing their spouse when they are providing care for another person all day long. It is important that both partners make time to connect, even if it’s just a short chat while making dinner. It helps to plan something special every once in a while so both partners remember how important they are to each other.

3. Ask For Help

Family caregiving should be just that – family. When the primary caregiver needs a break, they should never hesitate to ask for help. If they don’t recognize when they need time away, it could end badly for both the caregiver and the one they are caring for. It is only human to need time for oneself, so ask family and friends to step in occasionally.

If there are no family or friends nearby, consider hiring a professional caregiver, if only for a day or a few hours. These home care companions can take your loved one to their doctor’s appointment or shopping or to the hair salon. Meanwhile, the caregiver can get a much-needed break or take care of a few personal errands.

4. Use Available Resources

There are usually resources available within the community to help family caregivers. The local Area Agency on Aging will have specialists who can provide help and advice. There may also be support groups where primary caregivers can meet others who are facing the same challenges.

5. Take Time For Yourselves

This is a big one. All marriages need recharging at times, so plan some time for yourselves. If you can’t get away, plan a “stay-cation” and try a new vineyard or go to a show. Spend this time together talking and strengthening your marriage bonds.

Many communities offer respite programs where your loved one can do a short-term stay at a local long-term care facility or senior retirement community. This is a great way to ensure your relative or friend is safe while you and your spouse get some much-needed time alone.

5. Know When To Stop

When the care giving is causing too many problems in the marriage, take a step back and admit you need help. Assisting Hands Houston is here to provide you assistance. Our caregiver in Houston specialists will work with you to determine if a change is needed for the health of everyone concerned. Give us a call or contact us today to talk about your options.

Home Safety Audits Can Enable Seniors To Stay In Their Own Homes

As people get older, their homes may require modifications in order to account for their changing needs.

The vast majority of seniors would rather stay in their own home rather than moving into an assisted living facility or a Houston senior home. One of the primary determining factors as to whether or not that is possible is the overall safety of the home. The best way to tell whether or not a home is safe for an elderly loved one is by conducting a special type of inspection known as a home safety audit.

Understanding How Home Safety Audits Work

The aging process can take a toll on the body. Because of that, seniors often have specific safety requirements when it comes to the environment where they live.

When you have been living in the same place for an extremely long period of time, it can sometimes be difficult to look at it without allowing your emotions to cloud your judgment. One way to get around this is by using a special checklist that was published by AARP. This checklist is designed to help you evaluate a home objectively to see whether or not it is safe for seniors.

As you read through the checklist, you will encounter questions that may not have otherwise crossed your mind. From determining whether or not the doorbell is loud enough to make sure that the door has an easily accessible peephole, there are a lot of factors that need to be considered.

Additional Safety Measures

Along with going through the entire checklist provided by AARP, there are several other things that you need to think about when making sure that a home is safe for an elderly loved one.

Suggestions For Senior-Friendly Living Environments

There are some steps that you can take that will not only make the home safe but also more comfortable to live in. Try using these tips along with the AARP checklist:

• Arrange furniture in such a way that it can be used for stabilization. Being able to hold onto furniture as they move through the house can help keep an elderly person from tripping and falling. Make sure that the furniture itself is strong enough to support their weight if they lean on it and that it is sturdy enough that it won’t fall over.
• Choose contrasting colors. As people get older, it becomes more difficult to tell colors that are close in value apart from one another. You can make it easier for seniors to spot color changes by choosing colors that sharply contrast with one another. A great example of this is with flooring. By choosing area rugs that are a far different color than the surrounding floor, you can make it easier to see where one area ends and the other begins.
• Allow in as much light as possible. Skylights, windows, and other sources of natural light can make it easier for seniors to see when they are indoors. Natural light can also help regulate the sleep cycle and can help alleviate symptoms of depression.

There’s No Place Like Home

It is only natural for seniors to want to stay in their own homes for as long as possible as they age. Fortunately, with a few simple modifications, most homes can accommodate elderly occupants with ease. The tips in this article should help.

For more information call Assisting Hands Houston or contact us by visiting here!

Hot Weather Dangers To Watch For

There are certain health ailments that older adults tend to be more vulnerable to, due to changes that occur in their immune systems that are age-related and potential effects of injuries or chronic illnesses. These changes in health can often be helped by Houston elder care services. It is also very important to keep a close watch on them whenever there is an increase in temperature too quickly identify as well as treat any of the following heat-related conditions:

1. Heat Stroke and Heat Exhaustion

If the core body temperature of your loved one gets too high, they could be at risk for getting hyperthermia, or also called heat exhaustion and in more serious cases heat stroke.

For both of these conditions, it is very important to immediately get the elderly person out of the heat. If they are in the sun, move them over to the shade, or preferably help them get indoors. Take any extra clothing off so that they can cool down faster. Also get them to drink as much water as possible, or a hydrating sports drink containing electrolytes. If there are any indications that your loved one might have heat exhaustion, if there is no improvement in their symptoms in one hour then call a doctor. In the event of a heat stroke, you either call 911 or take our loved one to the emergency room immediately. To help quickly lower their body temperature, if possible try to submerge the person in a cool bath. Or use a cool, damp cloth on them while they are sitting by a fan.

For safety purposes, their home should always be maintained at a reasonable temperature. Use air conditioning and fans whenever possible, and ensure your loved one remains hydrated all day long, even when only resting inside. Even when not out directly in the sun it still is possible to overheat.

Also, seniors shouldn’t ever be left unattended locked inside of a car for long periods of time. The National Weather Service reports that it can only take a couple of minutes for the heat to reach dangerous levels inside of a vehicle, even when parked in the shade or the windows on the car are rolled down.

2. Sun Poisoning and Sunburn

It is a very painful experience to get sunburned and if it gets bad enough can be extremely dangerous. According to South Dakota State University, compared to younger adults seniors are a lot more sensitive to the sun’s effects.

Serious sunburn may cause fevers, blister, and peel. According to Cleveland Clinic, skin is damaged at the cellular level by sunburns, which may result in significant damage along with bruising and skin cancer eventually. The difference between sun poisoning and sun sunburn is that usually sun poisoning also includes nausea, chills, and bumps that might itch.

In order to treat sunburn, there are over-the-counter solutions such as aspirin that you can try, or topical ointments like aloe vera gel. However, if your loved one is feeling fatigued or sick after they get a sunburn, you should make sure they see a doctor right away.

In order to prevent sun poisoning or sunburn, a broad-spectrum sunscreen that has a high SPF needs to be used. It should be applied 20 to 30 minutes at least before going outdoor and then every two hours that they are outside after that. Even on a cloudy day, sunscreen should still be applied, since harmful UV rays are still able to penetrate through cloud cover.

Your loved one needs to avoid being outside in the sun from 10 a.m. through 3 p.m. when it is at its peak. If they have to be outside during those hours, or at anywhere they will be exposed to the sunlight for long periods of time, then sunglasses should be worn, along with long-sleeved clothing and wide brim hats so that their skin is protected from being in direct contact with the sun for prolonged periods of time. When outside during the day, taking periodic breaks and resting in the shade is very important. If their skin starts to look pink or red or they begin to feel hot, then they should go inside.

There are also certain medications that can make seniors more sensitive to the suns effects that normal. Speak to their doctor or check their prescriptions to find out if any of their medications need to be watched.

3. Dehydration

When it is hot outside it is easy to not get enough fluids. During the summer heat, your loved one is going to tend to sweat more, and if they don’t make a conscious effort to drink more water they can quickly become dehydrated.

Whenever an individual becomes dehydrated, it also becomes more difficult for all of the systems of their body to function properly. Symptoms include the following:

• Experience muscle cramps
• Have headaches
• Have dark-colored urine or not urinate enough
• Have a sticky or dry mouth
• Feel thirsty

If there is severe dehydration, symptoms will also include shallow and rapid breathing, confusion, dizziness, dry skin and rapid heartbeat.

If you act fast then dehydration is easy to treat. If you suspect that your loved one is suffering from dehydration, then make sure they drink a sports drink that is fortified with electrolytes or water. If it is difficult to drink water due to dehydration making them feel ill, then they might choose gently sip on water or suck on ice cubes instead.

If symptoms are not relieved by consuming more liquid, or if at any time your loved one ends up losing consciousness, then take the person to the emergency room or call 911. Prolonged, serious dehydration can be fatal. Don’t wait for dehydration signs before you start to ensure that your loved one drinks enough water. You should be proactive and make sure they have access to lots of hydrating fluids to help them stay hydrated and cool during the summer.

Dehydration can also be exacerbated by other illnesses. If the elderly person is sick and has diarrhea or vomiting also, then drinking plenty of fluids is very important.

Have Fun All Summer

With all of the different outdoor activities that are available to enjoy, no one should be forced to stay indoors and hide away from the sun all summer long. You just need to ensure that all safety precautions are followed – such as providing lots of water, applying sunscreen and making sure your older loved one spends time in the shade to get a rest from the sun – so that they can stay healthy and safe all summer long.

For more information please call us today or contact Assisting Hands Houston!