Seniors are at a greater risk of drug interactions than the general population as they typically take more medications. A 2008 study by the Canadian Institute for Health Information stated that almost two-thirds of Canadian seniors are taking five or more types of prescription drugs. The study further found that at least one in 25 older Canadians take drugs in potentially harmful combinations.
Seniors: What’s Good for the Heart Is Good for the Brain
A well-balanced, heart-healthy diet—rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains—reduces plaque build-up in the arteries to deliver a free-flowing stream of oxygen to all parts of the body, including the brain.
Why An Efficient, Nutrient-Rich Diet Is Essential To Senior Health
A nutritious diet is especially important for seniors’ health. That is because a variety of factors puts older adults at greater risk of malnutrition, according to the Public Health Agency of Canada. These factors include chronic disease, physical disability, isolation,limited income and medications that limit nutrient absorption.
Elder Caregivers: Dementia’s Secondary Victims
In Canada alone there are more than 750,000 people living with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. One-in-five Canadians age 45 and over are providing some form of care to seniors who have long-term health problems. These unpaid family members are performing a great service to both the individuals with dementia and society as a whole, but they pay a hefty price with their own wellbeing and an increased financial burden.
Skin-Deep Advice For Better Senior Health
Senior skin care: how much our skin and wrinkles betray our age depends a lot on our genes as well as our lifestyle, such as smoking, diet, physical activity and how well we protect our skin from the sun. Even in our later years, lifestyle can help us improve our skin health, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD).
Caring for Seniors’ Muscles, Joints and Bones
As we age, our bones lose density, muscles lose flexibility, and joints become worn over time. Mobility can become limited and balance can be affected, making us more at risk for falling and fracturing bones. Seniors are especially prone to falling, and also to diseases such as osteoporosis and arthritis, which can impose limitations in the most basic activities of life.
It’s Summer, Seniors! Eat Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
For older adults, there are particular benefits of healthy eating. They include increased mental acuteness, resistance to illness and disease, higher energy levels, faster recuperation times and better management of chronic health problems. Eating well can also be the key to a positive outlook and staying emotionally balanced.
Summer Skin Protection for Seniors and Elders
Because of the natural changes that occur in skin as we age, the summer season can leave seniors even more vulnerable to its harmful effects. Chief among them are the impacts of being outdoors – the sun, the heat, and the environment. Caregivers can easily help their senior loved ones enjoy the great outdoors and the many fun activities that go along with it by being aware of potential risks and taking some practical yet effective precautions.
Summer Safety for Seniors and Elders
Our bodies work hard every day to maintain a normal temperature. Excessive heat forces our body to work harder than normal, which often is the root cause of heat-related illness. Essentially the heat forces our bodies to work beyond their limits. For senior citizens, this can be a dangerous – and even deadly – problem. With awareness and preventative measures, caregivers can help their senior loved ones enjoy a healthy, active summer.
Comfort Keepers Canada, Nursing Homes and Assisted Living Communities
Comfort Keepers Canada offers in-home senior and elder care with the goal of keeping seniors independent and in their own homes for as long as possible. There may be times when independent living is not the best answer for the senior.