Rhode Island

Staying fit is an important part of remaining healthy. The health of a caregiver is very important. If a caregiver is not healthy, they will not be able to provide services efficiently to seniors. The list below contains some great ideas and resources for staying fit. These activities can be a great way for Rhode Island caregivers and seniors to interact and stay healthy together.

1. There are many programs available through AARP that will be helpful when trying to get in shape or stay fit. These programs offer some great ideas on starting points and can also provide structure for those who are already active and wish to follow a schedule or set a regimen each day. Seniors can also join in with many of the activities provided, allowing another opportunity for the caregiver and senior to have special time together.

2. The benefits of exercise far exceed just toning the body and staying fit. There is a mental and emotional component to it as well. The Fat 2 Fit journey is a great program for seniors and caregivers to do together. This program will walk you through the steps to losing weight and keeping it off. It also provides some daily exercise that will benefit seniors and caregivers.

3.  Make sure to take time for mental breaks. If you have a negative thought about the way you are exercising or your weight at the current time, it may be time to take a break. There are links on the source page that contain useful information for keeping your mind as healthy as the rest of your body.

Source: aarp.org

Home Instead Senior Care in Rhode Island provides non medical home care services for seniors and the elderly who choose to live at home instead. Please call us for more information on our in-home care services at 401-667-2923.

At Rhode Island Senior Care we know that there are many seniors out there affected with diabetes. It is important for seniors to be aware of the risk factors that are associated with Type 2 diabetes. The list below contains some risk factors that seniors should look for. These factors could be the cause of the development of this type of diabetes.

1. If you are over the age of 45, you are at a higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Family history also plays a large role in the risk factor.

2. If you are over-weight, you will be at a risk. Individuals who are not physically active will be at risk. Try to exercise daily and maintain a healthy weight.

3. Females who have had babies weighing more than 9 pounds, or who have had diabetes during a pregnancy will be at a higher risk.

4. High blood pressure is a risk factor for Type 2 diabetes. If your HDL cholesterol level is below 35 mg/dL, your risk factor is increased.

5. Previous diagnoses of metabolic syndrome and an impaired glucose tolerance both play a role in the development of Type 2 diabetes.

6. Polycystic ovarian syndrome and acanthosis can affect Type 2 diabetes. If you have been diagnosed with either of these conditions, you will be at a high risk of developing the disease.

Do you have a parent with diabetes? The American Diabetes Association offers these tips on how to help your parent manage their diabetes.

Source: www.nlm.nih.gov

Home Instead Senior Care in Rhode Island provides non medical home care services for seniors and the elderly who choose to live at home instead. Please call us for more information on our in-home care services at 401-667-2923.

Rhode Island Home Care enables seniors to live happy, healthy, and independent lives in their own homes.

The health of a caregiver is very important, but many times it is overlooked. There is no reason for a caregiver to sacrifice their own health. They will be of no use to the seniors they provide for if they become ill. This is why caregivers need to make their health a priority and take the necessary steps and precautions to stay healthy and fit. Below is a short list of tips that can be of help to caregivers.

1. Daily vitamin supplements can make a huge difference. The vitamins can be very useful for those who are tired and listless.

2. Exercise is the key to a healthy lifestyle. Even if it is just a short walk each day, exercise can be very beneficial in maintaining health.

3. Respite time is very important. Since many caregivers do experience stress and the feeling of being burnt out, respite time can provide for rest and relaxation. These are needed to remain healthy so you can continue to provide for a senior in need.

4. Flu shots can help caregivers stay healthy. Not only will this help avoid the flu, but it will also remove the chances of spreading the virus to a senior.

5. Do not make work your entire life. Being a caregiver is very demanding. It is important to have a well-balanced life. This includes having hobbies and spending quality time with family and friends.

6. Make sure to visit the doctor regularly. Routine check-ups can prevent illness and will help with over-all health maintenance.

Source: thefamilycaregiver.org

Home Instead Senior Care in Rhode Island provides non medical home care services for seniors and the elderly who choose to live at home instead. Please call us for more information on our in-home care services at 401-667-2923.

Rhode Island Home Care enables seniors to live happy, healthy, and independent lives in their own homes.

Diabetes is a common disease among seniors. Many seniors are affected with Type 1 diabetes. This type requires the patient to inject insulin daily. Since the pancreas no longer produces insulin, patients must provide the body with the correct amount of insulin each day. Monitoring daily blood sugar levels is very important for patients with this type of diabetes. Below is a list that contains some facts about Type 1 diabetes.

1. Those with Type 1 diabetes must take insulin every day. Without insulin, the patient will not survive. It is important to find out exactly how much insulin is needed to control blood sugar levels.

2. The onset of Type 1 happens rapidly. The warning signs of the development of type 1 diabetes include increased blood sugar levels, increased urination and thirst, weight loss, blurred vision and fatigue. If any of these symptoms are noticed, contact a doctor as soon as possible.

3. It is important to test blood sugar levels regularly. These levels allow patients to monitor their diabetes and can tell them how much insulin they need to control the levels. It is best to test before meals, a few hours after meals and before bedtime.

4. A regular diet is important, but so is the time meals are eaten. Many diabetics have to eat at the same time every day to keep their blood sugar levels under control.

5. A healthy life style will help the battle with Type 1 diabetes. Work with doctors to find a regime that works best and stick to it. Once your diabetes is under control, you will lead a normal life.

Source: diabetes.about.com

Image: diabetic-forum.net

Home Instead Senior Care in Rhode Island provides non medical home care services for seniors and the elderly who choose to live at home instead. Please call us for more information on our in-home care services at 401-667-2923.

Rhode Island Home Care enables seniors to live happy, healthy, and independent lives in their own homes.

Seniors might find themselves shying away from Valentine’s Day. For some, it might be because they find the holiday cheesy; and for others, it might simply be because it brings back romantic memories with a spouse who has since passed. But, Valentine’s Day can be fun for people of all ages, so if you are one of these seniors, break out of your shell and surround yourself with loved ones whether it’s about romance or friendly fun.

• Attend a community event – visit a senior’s center or community center hosting Valentine’s Day celebrations. Performances like concerts by choirs, plays and poetry readings can be fun to attend and great for the whole family

• Try doing some crafts – seniors who are already part of craft groups are likely to be beginning themed activities for Valentine’s Day, but do them at home as well. Seniors can also make cards and decorations with their family members

• Do some baking – Valentine’s Day is often associated with treats. Chocolate and goodies are usually a feature of the holiday. For seniors that can eat these items without any health repercussions, they can do some baking with family members. Otherwise healthier recipes can be tried incorporating food coloring of heart shapes to get into the spirit!

Via: Suite101

Image: daylife.com

Home Instead Senior Care in Rhode Island provides non medical home care services for seniors and the elderly who choose to live at home instead. Please call us for more information on our in-home care services at 401-667-2923.

Home Care Baton Rouge helps seniors remain active and healthy in their own homes.

Many members of the elderly population are affected with coronary heart disease. While this disease can be treated, there are some other things that can be done to reduce the risks of developing other heart issues. Many seniors are trying new medications, or combinations of medications, to treat their current disease while reducing other risks. The following list contains some facts and tips for using medications to reduce heart risk.

1. Increased doses of Lipitor or other cholesterol lowering medications has been shown to reduce the risk of developing heart related health problems.

2. In combination with medication, lowering bad cholesterol can reduce the chances of heart disease.

3. Seniors who have coronary heart disease should try to get their bad cholesterol levels below 100mg per each deciliter of blood.

4. High doses of statin has been shown to lower cholesterol levels to 70.

5. In addition to reducing the chances of developing heart disease, seniors can also reduce the likelihood of stroke and heart attack.

6. Regardless of the current heart condition, lowering bad cholesterol can have many health benefits for seniors, including lower blood pressure, lower mortality rates and the reduction of risks of coronary heart disease.

7. Seniors who are currently taking medication to lower their cholesterol should speak to a doctor regarding the possible benefits of increasing the dosage.

If you are a caregiver, or know anyone with a heart condition, you could benefit from watching the following clip, which features a modified form of CPR called CCR that is easier to learn, easier to do and can save even more lives!

Source: reuters.com

Home Instead Senior Care in Rhode Island provides non medical home care services for seniors and the elderly who choose to live at home instead. Please call us for more information on our in-home care services at 401-667-2923.

Each year more seniors are diagnosed with high blood pressure. This can lead to other health issues if it is not immediately addressed. There are many symptoms that can signify that high blood pressure has caused other problems. The following list contains some important facts that Home Care Rhode Island thinks all seniors should know about high blood pressure.

1. High blood pressure is the primary risk factor for heart attack and stroke. It can also cause kidney damage, blindness and heart disease.

2. The symptoms of high blood pressure can be different for each person. Some seniors will never experience any symptoms. Symptoms include dizziness, blurred vision, headaches and fatigue.

3. If the heart has been affected, the following symptoms may be present: chest pain, heart palpitations, shortness of breath and dizzy spells.

4. If the kidneys are affected by high blood pressure, patients may experience frequent urination, urinary tract infections, pain in the lower abdomen, increased glucose and protein in the urine or blood.

5. Should high blood pressure affect your eyes, you will experience loss of vision, blurred vision, headaches or double vision.

6. Malignant hypertension is caused by the rapid onset of high blood pressure and may cause shortness of breath, severe headaches, nausea, chest pain, confusion or seizures.

7. Talk to your doctor if any symptoms are present. Then work on a solution to lower your blood pressure, either by diet changes, medications, exercise or a combination of all three.

Source: hearthealthyonline.com

Image Source: sxc.hu

Home Instead Senior Care in Rhode Island provides non medical home care services for seniors and the elderly who choose to live at home instead. Please call us for more information on our in-home care services at 401-667-2923.

While seniors might think they’re benefiting their health by jumping onto some fad diet, eliminating everything can be more harmful and helpful. Instead, seniors can try adopting a way of eating inspired by the Mediterranean that allows them some luxuries, but also has proven health benefits:

• Produce and grains – forget the Atkins diet, with the Mediterranean diet, whole grains are encouraged but with some moderation. Nuts, fruits and vegetables are also essential and should make up approximately ¾ of the food consumed during any meal

• Limit fatty foods – with the Mediterranean diet there is a focus upon fish and lean meats for protein, as well as nuts as mentioned above. Red meat is consumed only in moderation

• Spice instead of salt – this diet is low in sodium because instead of using salt for flavor, the Mediterranean use other spices

• Indulge in healthy luxuries – canola oil and olive oil which are healthy fats make up a portion of this way of eating, and red wine can be consumed in moderation regularly!

Via: Mayo Clinic

Image Source: sxc.hu

Home Instead Senior Care in Rhode Island provides non medical home care services for seniors and the elderly who choose to live at home instead. Please call us for more information on our in-home care services at 401-667-2923.