Top 5 Memory Care Activities To Practice With Seniors

Top 5 Memory Care Activities To Practice With SeniorsSeniors with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease often withdraw from their favorite activities with family members and friends because it’s too difficult to remember or stay focused. While witnessing such behavior can be devastating, it’s imperative you, their caregiver, family member, or friend, work hard to maintain their relationships and interests.

Various research studies have found physical and mental activities can help stimulate memories and emotional connections while reducing the severe cognitive effects of dementia and Alzheimer’s. Therefore, it’s important you encourage your loved one to participate in meaningful activities that help them feel connected to their surroundings.

There are many “suggested” activities available on other dementia and Alzheimer’s disease-related blogs, but the caregivers, nursing staff, and memory care experts at Paradise Living Centers have actual experience in this area. They are available on call 24/7 or during normal business hours to provide residents with the individualized attention they deserve. In their experience, the following memory activities work wonders for seniors with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease:

  1. Participate In Arts and Crafts

This may seem like a “no-brainer,” but helping seniors participate in arts and crafts can help encourage self-expression and positivity while lessening irritability. The goal, however, is not to choose activities you think they’d enjoy, but pick activities you know they would enjoy. Do your research and take the time to actually find out what your loved one or patient likes, and most importantly, keep is simple. Some crafts, like knitting or cross stitch, may overwhelm the person you’re caring for, so keep these little tidbits in mind as you come up with memory care activities.

  1. Read Books, Newspapers, Magazines, Etc.

Reading is a great brain-stimulating activity for people with dementia or Alzheimer’s. Try to encourage your loved one to read a book or article aloud to you or someone they know. If their condition is so severe that reading is too difficult, take it upon yourself to read them some of their favorite books. Re-reading books they’ve already read may help stir memories.

  1. Take Long Walks

According to a study conducted by researchers at the University of British Columbia, exercise helps memory and cognitive thinking through direct and indirect means. The research team found regular aerobic exercise increased the size of the hippocampus, which is the area of the brain involved in verbal memory and learning. That said, the caregivers at Paradise Living Centers encourage daily walks for those affected by these debilitating conditions.

  1. Work on a Puzzle

Puzzles are a fun, yet mildly challenging activity that can help boost cognitive function, specifically problem solving skills. Because puzzles are relatively thought-provoking, they may hold the interest of your loved one with dementia for long periods of time. This activity is generally more enjoyable for individuals affected by dementia over Alzheimer’s because it requires a great deal of concentration. Nevertheless, gauge the situation and see if your loved one would be up for the task.

  1. Sing Songs or Dance

Lastly, singing and dancing can help stimulate healthy brain activity in people with dementia or Alzheimer’s. As we alluded to previously, movement of any kind can help boost cognitive function, and dancing is no exception. If your loved one is physically capable of dancing, have them participate in a dance class or play some music in their room to encourage movement. Singing can also help bring up memories and promote self-expression, two things that can help with behavior, memory, and thought.

Try these five memory care activities with your loved one today and let us know what you think!

National Seniors Fitness and Health Day

senior-crossing-1253800Wednesday, May 25th is National Seniors Fitness and Health Day and approximately 100,000 older adults will participate in activities at more than 1,000 locations throughout the U.S. This year’s theme is “Improve Your Health for a Better Self,” which encourages older Americans to get healthy and fit and focus on becoming the best they can be.

Living in the desert it can begin to heat up by the end of May, making it more difficult to be active outside, especially if you’re elderly. Staying fit in Phoenix during the summer can be daunting to anyone looking to improve or maintain their health, and for seniors it can often be especially challenging. To help overcome the challenges of our inevitably sweltering summer weather and inspire seniors to get moving, we offer up some exercise tips for the season:

Indoor Action:

While the hot sun might be good for breaking a sweat faster, it can be too much and dangerous even over a shorter period of time for elders. Instead, look at moving activity regimens inside. There is a wide variety of video-driven workouts geared towards senior adults that are perfect a guided indoor exercise session. Equipment like resistance bands and light hand weights are always a good option. Stretching on a yoga mat or dancing to a favorite tune can also inspire movement and get the heart pumping.

Taking Advantage of the Early Hours:

A leisurely walk in the early morning hours is good method of exercise at any age. Simply waking up a bit earlier each day to enjoy the outdoors can help minimize the heat challenge, while maintaining a regular workout plan.

Water Aerobics:

A great way to keep healthy joints and boost cardio is resistance training in a pool. The water helps to keep the body cool, making it easier to exercise on a hot day. Additionally, the nature of gravity within the water means that the physical tension on elders with osetoperosis, weak joints, or arthritis is diminished.

National Seniors Fitness and Health Day was established to raise awareness and inspire us to stay active as we age. The reality is 30 minutes of exercise each day to improve and maintain health and overall well-being. So start moving – walk, dance, take up yoga. Whatever you choose to do, keep up the exercise this summer and be sure to stay hydrated and safe!

3 Tips for Preventing Sitting Disease

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More and more research is being conducted with results showing negative outcomes from an overly sedentary lifestyle. One study found a strong correlation between stagnation and a shorter life expectancy, stating “If Americans would cut their sitting time in half, their life expectancy would increase by roughly 2 years, by reducing sitting to less than 3 hours a day, or 1.4 years, by reducing TV time to less than 2 hours a day.”

Staying stationary is linked to heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and some forms of cancer. Fortunately, there are plenty of simple changes to existing habits that can make a positive impact – and most of them are as simple as remaining upright:

1 – Elevate your workstation: A recent surge in the popularity of the ‘standing desk’ encourages proper posture and a more active workday. The average American only stands or stays active three hours a day, while 86 percent of Americans spend the workday sitting. While these are statistics are commonplace across the workforce, few individuals know about the positive changes that can come from standing at work, or taking an important phone call on a stroll.

2 – Commute by foot: We get it – cardio isn’t everyone’s best friend, and we certainly don’t expect for you to have the greatest relationship with it. However, walking to your next appointment, work, or the grocery store can help you lose some of the time you’d spend sitting through the course of your day. If walking to and from these activities is simply not possible – try parking at the perimeter of your destination and going from there.

3 – Socialize outdoors: Yes, patio furniture is inviting – but spending time with friends doing something active outside is a good way to cut down on our predisposition to sit chatting around the pool. Jump in and enjoy a swim or game of Marco Polo, go for a walk and talk around the neighborhood, consider a game of croquet or bocce ball. Spring in Arizona is one of the best times of the year to enjoy outdoor living.

Just making the effort to get up and walk around more often, and for longer periods of time, is an excellent way to help combat a sedentary lifestyle. Once you get into the habit of making this effort, standing will seem like the norm!

Independent vs. Assisted Living

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When it comes down to where a person will be living in one’s older years, a single question is asked more than any other – Will it be more beneficial to live at home, or move to a community or home that provides care and assistance?

 

The answer always comes down to the individual, of course, based on their lifestyle and goals for their sunset years, their family situation and their health. Has this person always lived comfortably in independence and solitary pursuits? Or, would they prefer the more consistent surrounding of peers and activities?

 

A large factor that must be brought into account is financial ability. How the elder has prepared for retirement and their later years greatly influences their position regarding assisted or independent living. Those in circumstances that require someone to assist in a nursing capacity may prefer a live-in nurse or caregiver at home, if they are in a position to pay for personal, round-the-clock care.

 

However, many are also drawn to the social aspect of assisted living, regardless of finances. Group activities, shared meals, social interaction and the opportunity to develop deeper relationships with peers hold great benefits for some. It can be a lot easier to lead a healthy, active lifestyle in one’s senior years when surrounded by others who are doing the same thing.

 

An article by Nancy Walsh on Medpage Today stated that those who were physically active over the age of 75 live almost five and a half years longer than their unhealthier counterparts, according to Laura Fratiglioni, MD, PhD, and colleagues from the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm. No one is denying the asset that is activity. Even in youth, exercising with peers keeps one accountable, on track, and, at the right times, distracted. This drive stays just as crucial to success as one gets older.

 

When it comes down to it, the decision between independent living and assisted living must also be a fit with the individual’s personality. Many people thrive in assisted living environments, but it’s not for everyone. Talking things (including expectations and ideas about assisted living) through with family and friends always adds perspective from the people care about the person most.

 

If you or a loved one are considering the prospect of assisted living, contact Paradise Living Center today to make an appointment.

Tips for Managing Diabetes for Seniors

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Did you know that 29.1 million people in the U.S. have diabetes? The disease is most prevalent in seniors age 65 or older and stands at 25.9 percent. That means an estimated 11.8 million seniors in the U.S. have diabetes (diagnosed or undiagnosed). In 2010, diabetes was the seventh leading cause of death in the U.S. and in 2012 and the cost of diagnosed diabetes totaled $245 billion. The statistics alone indicate it is more important than ever to know how to manage diabetes for seniors and older adults.

There are two kinds of diabetes that can occur at any age but type 1 is most common in children and young adults.  If you suffer from type 2 diabetes it is important to manage with diet, exercise and medication when necessary, as it can affect many parts of the body, and make you a prime candidate for stroke, heart disease and kidney disease. Seniors with type 2 are also at a greater risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.

Managing diabetes

When diet and exercise are not enough, medication is an important factor in managing type 2 diabetes. A physician will prescribe the best medication for you based on a number of factors, including other health concerns or diseases, as well as taking into account everyday routine.  In addition to taking medication as directed, keeping diabetes in check can be best managed with the following

As you age it is important that you also keep in mind the following to best manage your diabetes:

To learn more about diabetes as a sufferer or caregiver visit www.diabetes.org or speak with your healthcare practitioner and take control of your health today.

Six Hobbies for Active Retirees

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While many people are excited for retirement, many also ask themselves “What am I going to do with all my free time?” Most look forward to relaxing, reducing the stress in their lives that comes with work and simply enjoying life more. But the addition of unscheduled time leaves many people needing something to do in order to feel entirely fulfilled and happy. Continuing an active lifestyle into late adulthood also offers a variety of health benefits.

Trying new things as a senior can be intimidating, but when you have more free time, it can also be a great way to discover something new that you love and enjoy.

If retirement is on the horizon and you aren’t sure what you would like to do with your newfound freedom, here are some ideas to help get started:

There is plenty to do during retirement! This list of ideas is just a start. If you’re committed to living an active lifestyle, we’re confident you will find many activities and hobbies that will interest and inspire you throughout your senior years.

Heart Health Awareness

Heart Health Awareness

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February is diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables

As you embark on your journey for a healthier heart, bear in mind the following to make the process more manageable:

The American Heart Association recommends that the best course of action is to get regular check-ups and know your risks. Women often neglect getting themselves checked, as they tend to be the caregiver, but self-assessment is imperative for prevention. If you are concerned about your heart health, contact your physician today and start making the necessary lifestyle changes as soon as possible.

A Guide to Dealing with Grief

A Guide to Dealing with Grief

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In the later stages of life, there are many areas in which one may experience feelings of loss. Whether it be the loss of a long-time career, mobility, health, independence, or a loved one, seniors may have difficulty adapting to these life changes. They will likely grieve for the things that they have lost, and it’s important to remember that everyone experiences grief differently. The following tips offer advice for helping an elderly loved one overcome their loss:

 

 

If you have an elderly loved one that is experiencing some type of loss, understand the ways in which you can help them grieve. It is important to know that everyone processes grief differently, and that you may not understand how they are feeling. The best approach you can take is to be there for your loved one, and to make sure they know that they will always have your support.

The Benefits of Vitamin D

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Vitamin D provides a variety of health benefits, especially for the elderly. It helps strengthen bones, which, in turn, helps prevent falls and fractures, two things that can wreck havoc on a senior’s quality of life. Vitamin D strengthens bones by promoting the absorption of calcium. It can also lower the risk for developing osteoporosis or osteomalacia, diabetes or high blood pressure.

Vitamin D can be taken as a daily supplement or through a diet rich in nutrients.

To increase vitamin D levels consider the following:

  1. Eat fortified foods or drink fortified milk. Vitamin D can be found in foods like salmon, cereal, egg yolks, and cheddar cheese. Simply drinking two glasses of fortified milk a day will fulfill the recommended amount of vitamin D. If milk is not your drink of choice try fortified orange juice.
  2. Spend time outside. If you live somewhere sunny, like Arizona, it is easy to get a good dose of vitamin D! According to Health, 20 to 25 minutes a day should be enough for you to reap the benefits. For longer periods in the sunshine, wearing sunscreen and a hat is necessary for protection from skin cancers, sun burns and sun damage. When you wear protection, it also reduces vitamin D absorption.
  3. Take vitamin D supplements. If you are not able to take in an adequate amount of vitamin D through diet and time spent outdoors, you might want to consider a supplement. There are a variety of vitamin D supplements available at any local drugstore, supermarket or health food store. Before taking any supplements, ask a doctor for recommendations, and make sure they do not interfere with other medications.

 According to Web MD, other benefits of vitamin D include a reduced risk of diabetes, lower chance of heart attack, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis.

 Keep in mind too much vitamin D can be harmful. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends no more than 4,000 IUs (international units) for healthy adults per day. Adequate intake is considered 600 IU per day for those up to 70 years old and 800 for seniors older than 71 years. For those with limited sun exposure, a higher dose may be beneficial.

Ask a medical professional or pharmacist about finding the right balance of diet, sun exposure and supplements to determine the best combination.

What Causes Sundowners Syndrome?

Sundowner's Syndrome

Sundowners Syndrome generally affects sufferers of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. The syndrome received its name because the symptoms are exhibited after “sundown.” However, not all those who suffer from dementia exhibit the symptoms. Sundowners largely remains a mystery to medical science, but there are a number of theories as to why the symptoms present themselves at night. Some believe it is the culmination of all the sensory stimulation that occurs throughout daily routine that overwhelms and causes stress. The syndrome may prevent sufferers from settling in during the night and getting a much needed good night’s sleep. This can make the sufferer agitated and lead them to wander.

There are a number of signs to watch for:

According to WebMD, sundowning happens to almost 20 percent of people with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. The syndrome tends to peak during the middle stages of Alzheimer’s, although it generally gets better as the disease progresses.

There are several factors that may increase the risk of sundowning including:

Sundowning is a common cause of caregiver burnout but there are several treatments to make it less severe for both the parties:

Activity

Diet

Medical advice

Alternative therapies

Conducive sleeping environment

Calm reassurance

As a caregiver it is important to be aware of the behavioral patterns. Help your loved one through reassurance while encouraging activity to distract them and prevent confusion and agitation. Sundowners is not something that your loved one can control, but keeping a level head will help get you through the stressful moments. For more information on quality care of a loved one click here.