Caring for an elderly loved one requires hard work, dedication as well as the ability to adapt to new and ever-changing circumstances both internal as well as external. Being a caregiver is a demanding role during the best of circumstances, however, the Coronavirus has presented even more unique challenges. There are new ‘best practices’, health […]
Hygiene management and bathing is an important yet stressful daily aspect of living with someone with Alzheimer’s disease. Often, it can be a battle to create a care routine that keeps your elderly loved one physically safe from the damaging effects of poor hygiene, as bathing can be nerve wracking for someone with Alzheimer’s. Attempts […]
Fall is the season of autumnal colours, slowing down and finding peace. Usually the pace of our lifestyle slows as the weather gets colder and the sun begins to set sooner. This is a wonderful time to connect with close loved ones and spend quality time on hobbies that bring you joy. Making space for […]
As we move through October and into November, we are entering the cold and flu season in Ontario. The temperatures drop and the amount of vitamin D we are receiving decreases as our daily sunlight minimizes incrementally. These factors, compounded with the cold and flu season, hinder our body’s natural defenses and compromises our immune […]
Daylight savings time, first conceived by Benjamin Franklin, changes our schedule to suit our preference. The primary purpose of daylight-saving time is to enjoy more of the daylight, so we either ‘fall’- back or ‘spring’- forward depending on the time of the year. As we move into autumn, we ‘fall’-back to utilize more sunlight in […]
Repetition is one of the behavioral symptoms of Alzheimer’s. A person with Alzheimer’s may fixate on a specific phrase or action and repeat it over and over to self-soothe. As well, they may focus on undoing chore such as unmaking a bed, which can be troubling for them and their caregivers. An elder with Alzheimer’s […]
Last week we discussed the possible medical and non-medical causes of appetite loss in the elderly. It is critical to address any medical conditions by working with your family doctor, or specialist and creating a plan of care that specifically addresses your elderly loved ones individual medical needs. A personal care worker can be of […]
As we age our natural physiological and behavioral changes affect our health habits. It is not uncommon for health-based habits such as diet, exercise and sleep to suffer as a result of ageing and age-related health issues. Appetite can suffer because of the slower pace of retirement and a decrease in metabolism and biological functions […]
Birthdays embody the experience of showing love and appreciation for your loved ones. We meticulously schedule and arrange for transit, gifts and accommodations and the look on our loved one’s face as they sit as the guest of honor makes it all worthwhile. This is true if they are 9 or 90 years old, a […]
Limited mobility does not equate to a limited life. People with varying degrees of mobility and ability are fully capable of living rich meaningful lives well into their old age. Similar to all ages and stages of life, activities may look different. As well, each person will find meaning in their unique way, so discussing […]
