5 signs your parent is suffering hearing loss

suffering hearing loss

As we age, our sensory cells and nerves of the inner ear progressively decline. Surgery is not always a treatable option, and in most cases using hearing aids can minimize the condition’s symptoms. Hearing loss manifests in many different ways and ranges from mild to severe.  Below are five signs your parent may be suffering hearing loss:

Disengaging from conversation

Are Mom or Dad becoming increasingly quiet at the dinner or during family gatherings?  Withdrawing from conversations and avoiding social settings, it can be a sign of of hearing loss.

Complaints of distorted or mumbled speech

Understanding certain words can become difficult because they may sound distorted or mumbled. It can especially become challenging to understand women and children’s voices due to their higher octaves.

Lapse in concentration

Difficulty concentrating on conversations, especially in noisy environments can become an issue. Background noise makes it especially distracting for some to follow conversations when there hearing begins to decline.

Adjustment of volume levels

Turning the sound up on the television or radio is often one of the first signs that a parent may be experiencing a loss of hearing.

Overcompensating

Preferring one ear as opposed to the other when using the phone can prove to be an indication as well.

Signs of hearing loss won’t always be readily apparent, so it’s important to know what to look for. Reach out to your loved one’s primary care physician for assistance on minimizing the risks and treating the symptoms of hearing loss. In the meantime, if you suspect your loved one is experiencing hearing loss, encourage them to take this free online hearing test. When consulting a physician, you may even discover that the suspected hearing loss is due to a buildup of wax, rather than a hearing disorder.

 

 

Paradise Living Centers to open second home in Central Phoenix

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Exciting news from Paradise Living Centers – An announcement of a second home! That’s right, we’ll soon be opening up a brand new assisted living facility. This latest residence will operate in conjunction with our Paradise Valley home, but is located in Central Phoenix. However, the new home will provide the same level of exceptional service that has set Paradise Living Centers apart.

 

Construction on the ten-bedroom, ten-bathroom classic ranch style home located on the corner of 3rd Street and Maryland Avenue and targeted to be complete in March. In addition to each resident having their own private bedroom and bath, they will enjoy spacious common areas for dining and entertainment, as well as a relaxing outdoor space.

 

Many of the luxurious amenities that distinguish our properties will continue to be a part of our future. In addition to the dedicated 24-hour awake staff of state-certified Caregivers, we’ll also have a full-time nurse, who is on call 24/7, to regularly assess our residents’ health and coordinate with primary care physicians.

 

Three fresh healthy meals, and various snacks, are prepared daily by our private chef – and residents are encouraged to give taste and dietary input at our monthly food counsel meetings.

 

Our elegant new home will continue to foster a sense of comfort that welcomes residents and their families. Daily and weekly activities are tailored to a resident’s interests and abilities, and the large open indoor and outdoor living spaces encourages social interaction, but does not compromise individual privacy.

 

Situated in the heart of Central Phoenix at 302. E, Maryland Ave., our new home provides easy access to nearby family, hospitals and health care facilities, businesses and entertainment. For families that live or work in this area, it is nice to have Mom and Dad conveniently living nearby.

Top Alzheimer’s and Dementia books for Caregivers

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Although a cure has not yet been found for dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, the exponential increase of technology has helped researcher’s find ways to slow the onset of memory loss. We have complied a list of top Alzheimer’s and dementia caregiver books to help guide you through the process of caring for a loved one with the disease, be it in the home or if you are a caregiver working in a specialized facility. These books are invaluable resources that look at treatment through diet, exercise and various other caring techniques.

 

Eating healthy

The Alzheimer’s diet: a step-by-step nutritional approach for memory loss prevention and treatment (volume 1)  

Dr. Richard Isaacson, a Harvard trained neurologist and nutritional expert Dr. Christopher Ochner created a nutritional guide to help individuals concerned with memory loss. Based on observed evidence; the book outlines what to eat, what not to eat, and highlights a step-by-step approach (which is easy for caregivers to follow) for improving memory and protecting brain cells through a healthy diet.

 

Alzheimer’s Prevention Cookbook: 100 Recipes to boost Brain Health. 

Dr. Marwan Sabbagh, a geriatric Neurologist and dementia specialist, and celebrity chef Beau MacMillan collaborate to take an in-depth look at the foods that can help boost cognition. This book features 100 recipes created to reduce and delay the risk of dementia, Alzheimer’s and memory loss for those who have a genetic history or are already in the early stages, and their caregivers.

 

Exercise

Alzheimer’s Activities that Stimulate the Mind.

This author uses a study and 15 years’ experience in dementia and Alzheimer’s related care and offers exercises to keep the mind stimulated in all four stages of the disease. The book offers hundreds of exercises covering more than physical activity and crafts.

 

Keep Your Brain Alive: 83 Neurobic Exercises to Help Prevent Memory Loss and Increase Mental Fitness.

A regimen of mental cross training and simple exercises that stimulate neurotrophins in brain cells by breaking routine. The book also helps keep memory stronger by using the 5 senses in new ways.

 

General

Alzheimer’s prevention program: Keep your brain healthy for the rest of your life. This book acts as a guide for preventing memory loss, Alzheimer’s and dementia and for those in the beginning stages of the disease. The book discusses new techniques such as cross-training the brain.

 

The 36-Hour Day (5th edition): A Family Guide to Caring For People Who Have Alzheimer’s Disease, Related Dementias, and Memory loss. 

An updated version of the original published in 1981, remains the definitive guidebook for those caring for loved ones suffering with dementia. The book discusses causes, managing early stages, prevention, and finding long term arrangements.

 

Caring for a loved one is not a task to take lightly, especially if it includes memory care. These books are helpful in gaining an understanding of the disease, and learning how to organize a prevention plan. With the ability to prevent early onset, it’s important to know where to find support. We understand the depth of caring for a loved one, because we specialize in individualized care, particularly for seniors with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Finding a support group is also a great comfort and resource for caregivers. This gives the caregiver an opportunity to talk with peers and discuss the best care techniques and approaches for their loved one. Learn more about Paradise Living Centers care programs here.  .

 

The most common dangers of seniors living alone

A study by Genworth Financial shows more than 55 percent of Americans over the age of 65 admit their biggest fear lies in needing long term care, and being a burden to their family. To avoid becoming a burden, more and more seniors are remaining in their homes without assistance. Unfortunately, avoidance adds risks that leave seniors living alone more likely to die earlier than those living with others.

Here are just some the ways the most common dangers of seniors living alone manifest.

At home tasks

Seniors living alone can find difficulty in daily tasks.  Many of which also pose a number of hidden dangers.

Cooking can be unsafe when a lapse in memory causes a loved one to leave food unattended and the stove or oven on for long periods of time. Studies show people over the age of 65 have a two and a half times greater risk of dying in a kitchen fire.

The bathroom poses added dangers that include but are not limited to falling on slippery surfaces and injuries from stepping in and out of the bath tub or shower. People 85 and older suffer over half their injuries near the toilet.

Stairs can be particularly hazardous, especially when the surface is slippery, the area is poorly lit, or the railing is difficult to grasp or nonexistent. Falls are the leading cause of accidental injury visits to the emergency room.

Doorknobs also present challenges and can lead to falls, as they can be painful to grasp for those suffering from arthritis and other immobilizing illnesses.

Fortunately, these issues can be prevented with modifications made to a home and/or enlisting the aid of a care provider.

Maintaining health

Medication management can also become a concern when seniors are living alone. At least 25 percent of seniors take at least three drugs daily. Forgetting to take medications is common, especially when the person is taking more than one prescription.  Reading dosing labels on bottles can also become a problem when vision decreases. Dexterity can become an issue too, making it difficult to open bottles, to administer eye drops, injections, use an inhaler or break tablets.

 

Social support

A lack of social interaction can also hinder a person’s overall quality of life. Seniors that are more social are less likely to develop memory decline.  In addition, staying active leads to increases in life expectancy. Unfortunately, for those living alone there is limited interaction with others and it can be difficult to attend social outings. It can also be to be more difficult to motivate and exercise without the support of a loved one or caregiver.

If you have an aging family member that is currently facing these common dangers, you may want to reevaluate their living situation. If you have any questions regarding assisted living, please contact Paradise Living Centers to learn more about our services and levels of care.

Happy Holidays from Paradise Living Centers

Christmas Tree

Happy holidays!

Whatever is beautiful, whatever is meaningful, whatever brings you happiness… May it be yours this holiday season and throughout the coming year.

Warm wishes for a healthy and happy 2016.
From your extended family at Paradise Living Centers.

Tips for Defeating Loneliness This Holiday Season

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Social isolation is a health concern that can increase the risk of premature death by 14 percent. This is because people who feel lonely have a poor immune response and more bodily inflammation than those who are sociable. A study conducted by Harvard Medical School showed how loneliness could increase the risk of early death by as much as 24 percent. Other health issues like depression can stem from loneliness and lead to a decline in heart health.

The holidays are traditionally a time to get together with family, friends and to meet new people. For those more inclined to isolate themselves it is important to recognize this and make an effort to seek out company. Here are some tips for defeating loneliness this holiday season:

Do things together

Spending the holidays with family will help satisfy the hunger for togetherness and combat loneliness. Make memories and cherish old ones by creating new traditions and embracing the changes that come with the new generations.

Do things for others

Studies show that doing even the smallest things for others on a consistent basis makes you a happier individual with a higher self-esteem as well as a stronger sense of purpose. Giving back increases our happiness and releases endorphins, giving you an enlightened sense of self and positivity.

Do things for yourself

Focusing on your needs will help you feel more secure and at peace. Practicing good self-care also makes you feel productive and content.

Do things you enjoy doing alone, like reading, walking and gardening.  Allowing time for yourself and making it a priority will help eliminate or reduce feelings of loneliness.

The holidays don’t need to come upon you in the form of loneliness, they can be embraced with togetherness, happiness and positivity. Gathering with others is important. Nobody should ever feel isolated or alone, especially during “the most wonderful time of the year.”

What are you Thankful for?

It’s that time of year again! The temperature is finally falling below 70 degrees, and we’re gearing up for Thanksgiving in less than a week. It’s so important these days that we remember to stay grateful for the ones we love, our health, and our dreams for the future. Here are a few things that our Paradise Living Center team wants to say as we approach the holidays:

 

“I am grateful for the wonderful people that live at the home where I work everyday, because everything happens for a reason and everything we have to learn from each other. For my family and grandchildren, for all the good and the bad. I give thanks to God and God’s blessing. I want to be a person that is always grateful and thankful.” – Matha, caregiver.

 

“The opportunity to work with so many clients who teach me about their past history, the joys and sorrows of life and the process of aging gracefully. The opportunity to work with people who share a passion for caring for our elders.” –Laurie, activities director.

 

“One amazing partner. Six healthy kids. Ten wonderful residents. What more could you ask for? I am blessed.” – Kristie, care manager.

 

“The opportunity to give care to the most beautiful people. When I come back after a day off the seniors make me feel special because they missed me.” –JJ, caregiver.

 

“I’m thankful to be blessed with lots of work all year long. I’m thankful to be able to help out the elderly with good food and give them a little piece of happiness.” –Luis, chef.

 

Have the best Thanksgiving, from our Paradise Living Centers family to your’s!

Why should seniors vaccinate against the flu?

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The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone over the age of 6 months and older should vaccinate against the flu yearly, and as soon as the shot becomes available. Contracting influenza over the age of 65 can be extremely serious. According to the CDC, it is estimated that between 80 to 90 percent of seasonal flu-related deaths happen to people aged 65 years and older. The CDC also noted that between 50 and 70 percent of seasonal flu hospitalizations occur among the same age group. Due to the high risk of complications in seniors it is paramount to follow the CDC’s guidelines and get vaccinated.

The flu virus reduces the body’s ability to fight other infection, especially in seniors. One of the most common complications from the virus in seniors is bacterial pneumonia. For those that already have heart or lung related illnesses the complications can sometimes be fatal.

Adults over the age of 65 have two flu vaccine options available. The first is a regular dose flu shot and the second is a newer version that has been specifically formulated for those aged 65 and older. The newer vaccine has four times the amount of virus as the regular shot and has been seen to have a higher immune response afterwards.

In addition to taking the necessary precaution of getting the flu shot, here are some steps to help stay healthy during the winter months:

Ways to prevent osteoporosis as a senior

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Calcium, and various vitamins and nutrients, are essential to an individual’s overall health and wellbeing. In the earlier stages of growth and development, calcium is especially important in order to build healthy, strong bones.

 

However, as we age and our diets/lifestyles change, it can become increasingly difficult to maintain a healthy calcium intake that ensures our bones continue to remain strong in later years. In many cases, a prolonged deficiency of calcium and vitamin D can lead to osteoporosis, as the element becomes essential in maintaining a healthy level of bone density. Therefore, when the body is not absorbing enough calcium, it begins depleting the mineral from your bones.

 

According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, this makes a healthy calcium intake crucial. While it is a bodily necessity, we are unable to actually produce it ourselves. We are only able to obtain the mineral through certain foods and, should they become necessary, supplements.

 

So just how much calcium do you really need? The National Osteoporosis Foundation recommends women ages 50 and under need only 1,000 mg a day, while this same amount applies to men 70 years old and younger. However, women over the age of 51 and men over the age of 71 need an intake of at least 1,200 mg of calcium a day.

 

It’s not as easy as knowing how much calcium you need, it’s knowing just how much calcium your diet permits. Food labels don’t often include the amount of calcium in a single item as a specific amount. Rather, they include the measure as a percentage. Therefore if a specific dish contains 25% of a daily serving of calcium for a woman under 50, the food would contain around 250 mg’s of Calcium.

Healthy Habits for Seniors in Fall

Healthy Habits for Seniors in Fall

Embarking on the beginning of autumn, October brings the arrival of cooler temperatures, particularly at night.  Many of us find ourselves even turning up the thermostat.  For seniors the cooler air can be invigorating, while others may find it more limiting for outdoor activity. That’s why we’ve but together our list of healthy habits for seniors in fall.

Keeping warm during cooler months is important, especially for those over the age of 65. Seniors are at a greater risk of catching the flu, and they are also more susceptible to heart attacks, strokes, pneumonia and depression. When the body is cold, it may indicate an issue with circulation, which can then result in more serious health issues like heart attack and stroke.

With the flu virus spreading most commonly in the colder months, it’s important to:

Eating healthy, staying warm and active, and taking vitamins are just some of the healthy habits seniors should practice in fall.