Yes, they have good metabolism. That said, if weight loss continues, bring it to the attention of family members. They should, in turn, talk to the family doctor about this and determine if there are other causes or a new health concern.

It really takes the involvement and decision making of the family members. If the senior is cognitively limited, frankly, it is a conversation between social workers and family members on the areas of concern and what options for care are available. Ideally you want the senior included in the decision-making process to the fullest extent that he…[Read more]

Clothes that are easy to care and comfortable. Clothes with elastic waist bands or Velcro closures are great choices. Nothing tight around the neck. Forget zippers, hooks, snaps, and buttons because they are frustrating and stressful to negotiate. Buy soft fabric clothes. Pull-over tops work. Always wear socks and sturdy, non-slip shoes,…[Read more]

See a doctor to assess the cause of the problem. The physician can find the possible health-related culprits of not getting enough zzzz’s at night (i.e., poor nutrition, anxiety, side effects from prescription medication, cardiovascular or neurological condition, depression, and so forth). There are also relaxation exercises (yoga, meditation,…[Read more]

Instead of using outside providers or full-service agencies to find a live-in caretaker in the senior’s own home, or moving in with a family member, another approach would be to have the services provided in the privacy of the caregiver’s own home. Before you consider that option, you might first want to perform a background check and identity…[Read more]

Yes, absolutely. Again it depends on what day-to-day services are needed (i.e., cleaning, driving, dressing, bathing, grocery shopping, reading), to what extent, and whether the senior needs limited or constant assistance. The best way to find someone is to ask close friends of the family members; the next choice is to approach a clergy person…[Read more]

When emotions cause overwhelming fear and panic, it is important to listen and then talk to her in a calm comforting voice. Make jokes; tell stories. Look at family pictures or a family album and ask her to tell you a story or help turn the pages. If the caregiver starts noticing increasing panic attacks, he or she should talk to family members…[Read more]

Pill boxes have compartments in which you can efficiently label the medications, the right dosage to take, and times to take. Go online to gather information on a) dispenser devices that automatically separate medications by day at certain times and b) reminder devices (audibly, visually) that prompt the senior into taking pills at timed…[Read more]

Depends on the mobility of the parent. Frankly any exercise that can be incorporated into the day to help improve coordination, strength and endurance is a huge benefit to his or her well-being. If your parent can walk up and down the stairs, encourage such activity… with applause. If s/he is taking medications that cause dizziness, you may have…[Read more]

There are several supportive safety products on the market for the shower or tub, such as shower seats, tub lifts, grab bars and handheld nozzles. You might also consider sponge baths in a warm room–turning your mom over several times. Many caregivers prefer the sponge baths to showers.