Seniors should try to get a minimum of 30 minutes of exercise at least five days a week to help prevent or control diabetes.
Seniors and Diabetes in Edmonton | Currently, approximately 10 million Canadians suffer from diabetes or pre-diabetic conditions. Every hour, over twenty individuals are confirmed to have the illness. Either yourself or somebody in your life has likely been diagnosed with diabetes.
#DYK | In the spring of 1922 the University of Toronto and researchers Dr. Frederick Banting, Charles Best, J.B. Collip and their supervisor, J.J.R. Macleod announced the discovery of insulin. In 1923, Banting and Macleod received the Nobel Prize for one of the most important, and most controversial, breakthroughs in modern medical history.
Source:The Canadian Encyclopedia
Seniors and Diabetes – Prevention Tips:
It is possible to delay or even stop the rise of type 2 diabetes. Eating healthy foods, increasing physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight can help prevent diabetes, regardless of age. Making changes to your lifestyle now may help avoid some serious health conditions associated with diabetes in the future, including issues related to nerves, kidneys, and heart. Look into the most updated guidelines for diabetes prevention.
Seniors: Get More Physical Activity
Seniors need to stay physically active. As we age, it is necessary to get some form of exercise regularly. Taking part in activities that involve movement can enhance both physical and mental health.
Staying active has a range of advantages; from aiding weight reduction to lowering blood sugar and increasing insulin sensitivity, staying active helps to maintain a healthy level.
As individuals age, their joints may cause them discomfort when exercising; however, inactivity can only make matters worse. If feasible, aerobic exercise and weight training can be beneficial in managing diabetes; yet, a physical activity program which combines both elements will provide the best results.
Seniors: Lose that Extra Weight
Many seniors incorporate walking into their daily schedule due to its low-impact nature, enjoyable quality and easy access. An additional great way for them to get engaged in low-impact exercise is through senior swim classes or sessions.
Senior Centers and organizations are an excellent resource for discovering fitness and exercise regimes in local communities, for instance, groups that participate in “mall walking” whenever the conditions are unpleasant.
Seniors may look to getting active at home by taking ten minutes to march on the spot, stretching while tuning into their favourite show, or opting for a stroll up and down the corridor when living in an apartment building or complex.
Seniors should aim to get at least 30 minutes of exercise five days a week. Even if they break it up into multiple short sessions, older individuals must first consult with their physicians before beginning any exercises.
Elderly adults should strive to reduce excess weight. It is important to watch your diet and exercise regularly in order to shed pounds.
Aging seniors can often reduce their risk of developing diabetes by dropping a few pounds. A significant decrease in the probability can be seen when even a small amount is lost – as little as 7 percent of the initial body weight – and regular exercise is done. One research project revealed an impressive 59 percent reduction in chances among those who met these requirements.
Seniors: Make Healthy Food Choices
Elderly individuals should prioritize their eating habits, selecting food items which are beneficial to their health. They must consume meals that are full of essential nutrients and vitamins. These dietary decisions can have a lasting impact on one’s well-being, so it is important to be mindful of what is being eaten.
To help prevent diabetes, the elderly should observe certain dietary rules. Following a balanced diet, which includes plenty of fruits and vegetables, is essential. It is also important to limit the consumption of foods high in sugar and fat. Furthermore, seniors should strive to get regular physical activity as part of their daily routine.
Getting assistance from a healthcare team, like Comfort Keepers, can be essential to developing a diabetes meal plan. Working together, you can create an eating guide that meets your individual needs.
Tips for Preventing and Managing Diabetes
- Opt for options with fewer calories, saturated fat, trans fat, sugar and sodium.
- Opt for fibre-rich foods like whole grain cereals, breads, crackers, rice, and pasta in your diet.
- Opt for nutrient-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, bread and cereals, and low-fat or skim dairy products.
- Instead of juice and soda, opt for water. Drinking more water can help to both stay hydrated and cut down on unhealthy calories.
Taking proactive steps to help seniors regulate their diabetes can be achievable when effective guidelines are adhered to. Caregivers and families have a major role in monitoring elderly individuals to guarantee that the right lifestyle choices with regard to exercise, weight, and nutrition are being made. Additionally, aiding them in finding exercise programs appropriate for their age and physical limitations, creating shopping lists together, going grocery shopping with them, and supervising meal preparation and portioning of food can all contribute to supporting them in this situation.
Comfort Keepers® Edmonton is Proud to Offer a Wide Range of Home Senior Care Services
Our trained caregivers will ensure your loved one is comfortable, independent and safe in their home. On top of that, we will also aim to enhance their overall health, quality of life and general happiness.
Top-Notch Home Healthcare for Seniors in Edmonton, Alberta
Comfort Keepers of Edmonton offers a wider range of senior care services. We offer retirement care, respite care, senior care, companionship care, end-of-life care, post-surgery care, palliative care, personal care, and senior living transition services. If you are concerned about the health and well-being of your aging loved ones we can help with 24-hour care and more!
Helping Seniors Age-in-Place with Companionship Care and Interactive Caregiving™
Empathetic care starts in the heart and allows us to meet our client’s needs. Our trained caregivers are selected with one specific quality in mind, empathy. We strive to stimulate our clients emotionally, mentally and socially, thus enhancing their overall quality of life.
Our Interactive Caregiving™ provides a system of care that addresses companionship, safety, nutrition, mind, body, and activities of daily living (ADLs). The system increases seniors’ sense of well-being, independence and companionship by focusing on Senior Mind, Senior Body, Senior Nutrition, and Senior Safety.
Affordable and Client-Directed Homecare is Available for Qualifying Albertans
Comfort Keepers® Edmonton is an Approved Service Provider for the Client Directed Homecare Invoicing (CDHCI) Program Offered by Alberta Health Services.
What is the Client Directed Home Care Invoicing Program (CDHCI)?
CDHCI is a great program provided by Alberta Health Services (AHS), allowing clients to choose an approved agency like, Comfort Keepers Edmonton for Personal Care, Respite Care and Homemaking needs. The chosen agency can then bill AHS directly for services rendered for approved hours through Alberta Blue Cross. Read more about the program HERE.
Accredited Home Care Edmonton
Comfort Keepers® Edmonton was awarded the “Accredited with Exemplary Standing” seal by Accreditation Canada. This honour demonstrates Comfort Keepers’ commitment to offering safe, high-quality home care to its senior clients in Edmonton, AB.
To learn more about senior in-home care in Edmonton, contact the Comfort Keepers® office. Our service territory includes Edmonton, Devon, Sherwood Park, Stony Plain and surrounding areas, contact the Comfort Keepers Edmonton office at 780-465-4665.
References:
- “About Diabetes.” Canadian Diabetes Association. Web. 2015.
“Preventing Diabetes in Seniors.” American Diabetes Foundation. Web. 2015. - “Diabetes Prevention.” NIH Senior Health Newsletter. National Institutes of Health (NIH). Web. 2015.
- “Diabetes Prevention.” American Medical Association (AMA). Web. 2014.
- “Diabetes Prevention: 5 Tips for Taking Control. Diseases and Conditions. Mayo Clinic. Web 2013.
- “The Discovery of Insulin.” The Canadian Encyclopedia. Web 2021.
Senior Nutrition & Alzheimer’s Disease
What Every Senior in Edmonton, AB, Needs to Know About Nutrition & Alzheimer’s Disease
What do you need to know about nutrition & Alzheimer’s disease? Food is fuel for the body like gasoline is to a car. What you put into your body directly affects how your body works. Food and nutrition play a vital role in our overall health. Healthy foods help our bodies to grow, fight off disease, and function on a cellular level. Diet has long been correlated with causing, preventing, and managing maladies of the human body, and Alzheimer’s is no exception.
What Is Alzheimer’s Disease?
Many seniors face a growing number of health problems as they age. One particularly concerning disease is Alzheimer’s. Alzheimer’s is a progressive, incurable, fatal disease that usually strikes the elderly but can occur as young as 40.
Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia
Dementia is a term for several diseases affecting memory, intellectual ability, and everyday activities. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common subclass of dementia. Alzheimer’s disease in particular causes memory loss and affects the thinking and behavior of those who suffer from it.
Risk Factors For Alzheimer’s
Currently, Alzheimer’s disease affects more than 747,000 Canadians – that’s 14.9 per cent of Canadians 65 and older. There are a number of risk factors for this disease that the general public is aware of, including head injuries, genetics and a family history. However, one risk factor that does not seem to get as much media attention is the possible link between Alzheimer’s disease and vascular disease.
Nutrition & Alzheimer’s Disease
The human brain is fed nutrients and oxygen by the vascular system. If the vascular system is not functioning well, the brain is also deprived of essential nutrients and oxygen, which can cause disease in the brain, including dementia. Research shows that the same risk factors for vascular disease–diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol–are also risk factors for Alzheimer’s.
Reducing Your Risk of Alzheimer’s Disease
While a person may not have any control over genetics or family history, he or she can take action that may reduce the risk of acquiring Alzheimer’s disease, including following a brain-healthy diet.
The Alzheimer’s Association defines a brain-healthy diet as “one that reduces the risk of heart disease and diabetes, encourages good blood flow to the brain, and is low in fat and cholesterol.” They recommend increasing the intake of foods that can protect brain cells.
Tips for Senior Nutrition & Alzheimer’s Disease
#1. Senior Nutrition & Alzheimer’s Disease and Antioxidants:
According to Alzheimer’s Association, Adopt a Brain-Healthy Diet, dark-skinned fruits and vegetables have the highest levels of naturally occurring antioxidant levels. Such vegetables include kale, spinach, brussel sprouts, alfalfa sprouts, broccoli, beets, red bell pepper, onion, corn, and eggplant.
Fruits with high antioxidant levels include prunes, raisins, blueberries, blackberries, strawberries, raspberries, plums, oranges, red grapes, and cherries.
While studies have not been able to definitively state exactly how much of these brain foods are required to have a noticeable affect on a person’s risk of acquiring Alzheimer’s disease, there are some data that show that older women who eat primarily leafy green and cruciferous vegetables demonstrate mental functioning that is two years younger than their counterparts who do not eat many of these vegetables. Therefore, incorporating as many of these brain-healthy foods into the diet as possible is recommended.
#2. Senior Nutrition & Alzheimer’s Disease and Omega-3:
Consume cold-water fish (halibut, mackerel, salmon, trout and tuna) contain beneficial omega-3 fatty acids.
#3. Senior Nutrition & Alzheimer’s Disease and Vitamin E:
Some nuts can be a useful part of the diet; almonds, pecans and walnuts are a good source of vitamin E, an antioxidant.
Following a brain-healthy diet, along with being socially and physically active, limiting the intake of alcohol and maintaining a healthy weight, could very well mean the difference between acquiring Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia or aging gracefully.
Nutrition & Alzheimer’s Disease for the Senior Patient
It is also vitally important that seniors who already have Alzheimer’s disease practice healthy nutritional habits to help them stay healthy and independent as long as possible. Foods high in cholesterol, saturated fat, sodium, and refined sugar should be greatly limited or eliminated. They should also eat a good variety of foods to ensure an adequate nutritional balance.
Nutrition & Alzheimer’s Disease Obstacles for Seniors
An additional problem that needs to be accounted for, however, is that Alzheimer’s patients may be faced with additional challenges that interfere with maintaining a healthy diet. As the disease progresses the person may have difficulty with dexterity and may not be able to handle cutlery and utensils easily; the person may not recognize foods or may forget when he or she last ate.
Other obstacles to eating well include mouth pain due to poor-fitting dentures or other mouth problems the person is not able to communicate; lack of exercise, which reduces the appetite; a reduced sense of taste and smell; medications that interfere with the appetite; changes in perception that make it difficult for the person to distinguish food from a plate; and distractions that keep the person from eating.
To overcome these obstacles, caretakers can apply a number of approaches to ensure their loved one or client gets the nutrition he or she needs.
9 Tips and Strategies from the Alzheimer’s Association:
Tip #1 – Contrasting colours:
Distinguish food from the plate and the plate from the table by using contrasting colors for plates and placemats. This can help the food to stand out and become identifiable to someone whose perceptions are dramatically altered.
Tip #2 – Temperature control:
Make sure that food and drink are at an edible or drinkable temperature to ensure the person does not burn his or her mouth. Test them before giving them to the Alzheimer’s patient.
Tip #3 – Finger foods:
Make eating easy by providing finger foods that are easy to pick up.
Tip #4 – Simplicity:
Avoid distraction and confusion by only serving two foods at a time.
Tip #5 – Individual preferences:
Let the person eat according to his or her preferences. Keep these preferences in mind and serve foods that the person has liked in the past so that the meal is more appetizing to him or her. If the person’s preferences suddenly change, change the foods and do not try to force him or her to eat foods he or she may no longer like.
Tip #6 – Patience:
Allow the person as much time to eat as he or she needs. Because of limited abilities, he or she may take an hour or more to finish a meal.
Tip #7 – Independence:
Allow the person as much independence as possible, even if he or she makes a mess, and adapt the plates, cups and utensils to accommodate his or her abilities. Bowls may be easier for the person to use than plates, and cups with suction cups on the bottom may aid in preventing spills
Tip #8 – Interactive meals:
Make the meals pleasurable by joining the person at mealtime. Engage him or her in conversation to stimulate the brain and appetite. You can also show the person how to eat as necessary through demonstration.
Tip #9 – Portion control:
If the person forgets when he or she last ate and keeps requesting a meal, break up that meal into several little meals so the person can eat each time he or she wants to without overeating. Portion out the different foods and provide them to the person over the course of the day as he or she asks for them.
For additional tips and information, and some great caregiver guides, visit the Alzheimer Society of Canada website.
Comfort Keepers® Edmonton is Proud to Offer a Wide Range of Home Senior Care Services
Our trained caregivers will ensure your loved one is comfortable, independent and safe in their home. On top of that, we will also aim to enhance their overall health, quality of life and general happiness.
Top-Notch Home Healthcare for Seniors in Edmonton, Alberta
Comfort Keepers of Edmonton offers a wider range of senior care services. We offer retirement care, respite care, senior care, companionship care, end-of-life care, post-surgery care, palliative care, personal care, and senior living transition services. If you are concerned about the health and well-being of your aging loved ones we can help with 24-hour care and more!
Helping Seniors Age-in-Place with Companionship Care and Interactive Caregiving™
Empathetic care starts in the heart and allows us to meet our client’s needs. Our trained caregivers are selected with one specific quality in mind, empathy. We strive to stimulate our clients emotionally, mentally and socially, thus enhancing their overall quality of life.
Our Interactive Caregiving™ provides a system of care that addresses companionship, safety, nutrition, mind, body, and activities of daily living (ADLs). The system increases seniors’ sense of well-being, independence and companionship by focusing on Senior Mind, Senior Body, Senior Nutrition, and Senior Safety.
Affordable and Client-Directed Homecare is Available for Qualifying Albertans
Comfort Keepers® Edmonton is an Approved Service Provider for the Client Directed Homecare Invoicing (CDHCI) Program Offered by Alberta Health Services.
What is the Client Directed Home Care Invoicing Program (CDHCI)?
CDHCI is a great program provided by Alberta Health Services (AHS), allowing clients to choose an approved agency like, Comfort Keepers Edmonton for Personal Care, Respite Care and Homemaking needs. The chosen agency can then bill AHS directly for services rendered for approved hours through Alberta Blue Cross. Read more about the program HERE.
Accredited Home Care Edmonton
Comfort Keepers® Edmonton was awarded the “Accredited with Exemplary Standing” seal by Accreditation Canada. This honour demonstrates Comfort Keepers’ commitment to offering safe, high-quality home care to its senior clients in Edmonton, AB.
To learn more about senior in-home care in Edmonton, contact the Comfort Keepers® office. Our service territory includes Edmonton, Devon, Sherwood Park, Stony Plain and surrounding areas, contact the Comfort Keepers Edmonton office at 780-465-4665.
References:
Alzheimer’s Association. (n.d.). Adopt a Brain-Healthy Diet. Retrieved from http://www.alz.org/we_can_help_adopt_a_brain_healthy_diet.asp
Alzheimer’s Association. (n.d.). Alzheimer’s Facts and Figures. Retrieved from https://www.alz.org/alzheimers_disease_facts_and_figures.asp
Alzheimer’s Association. (n.d.). Food, Eating and Alzheimer’s. Retrieved from https://www.alz.org/care/alzheimers-food-eating.asp
Senior Fire Safety and Prevention Tips
What Every Senior in Edmonton, AB, Needs to Know About Fire Safety and Prevention
What do you need to know about senior fire safety? According to the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association), the leading cause of fire deaths in the home for adults 65 years of age and older is smoking. The second leading cause is heating equipment. It’s important to discuss fire safety and prevention tips for seniors.
Senior Fire Safety
Fire is considered one of the most powerful forces known to man. Our early ancestors relied on it for warmth and protection. In modern times, we utilize it (cautiously) in certain ecological management efforts. Fire is powerful, volatile, and demands our utmost respect. There’s no denying its potential for destruction.
Consider, for instance, the thousands of wildfires that occur in the United States each year, often leaving behind nothing but a trail of devastation. House fires also number in the thousands annually. And while fire undoubtedly knows no bounds and can affect anyone, a certain age group tends to fall victim to fire more than any other.
Where There’s Smoke: Senior Fire Safety
Data continually indicates that older adults (those 65 years of age and older) face a greater overall risk of dying in a fire. In fact, according to the U.S. Fire Administration, older adults made up approximately 14 percent of the total U.S. population in 2014, and yet they represented nearly 40 percent of all fire deaths. What’s more, seniors are two and a half times more likely to die in a fire than those in other age groups. And what exactly accounts for these alarming statistics? As it turns out, there are quite a few.
Senior Fire Safety: Risk Factors
As we age, it’s more common for our physical and mental abilities to decline. Naturally, this can have a direct effect on one’s possibility of survival from a fire. For example, the limited mobility (or even range of motion) that a senior experiences can impede his or her ability to escape a house when it’s aflame. But think of the senses we rely on every day (vision, hearing, smell, taste, touch), and how many of them play pivotal roles in alerting us when danger is close. It’s easy to take these for granted when we’re younger, but it can become increasingly difficult to depend on them to work at peak efficiency, once we’re older.
Reaction Time is also a Factor in Senior Fire Safety
Studies indicate that our physical response time can diminish with age, due to certain changes in the corpus callosum as well as other neural deficiencies. Some medications can also hinder a senior’s ability to react quickly. Similarly, seniors can become drowsy or fall asleep altogether from specific medication, which makes them highly vulnerable to smoke inhalation.
The factors above represent why older adults are more likely to be injured or die in a fire – but what causes these fires to occur? Not surprisingly, a majority result from accidents in the kitchen. If cooking food is left unattended, or if there’s a buildup of grease, a fire can form within minutes. It’s also quite common for fires to start because of problems with electrical distribution (overloaded outlets, faulty wiring, etc.), alternative heating sources, unattended candles, and smoking cigarettes in the home.
With so many potential sources of danger in the home, many of which can be seemingly out of sight and out of mind, it’s not unreasonable for a senior to feel like it’s only a matter of time before a fire occurs. Fires aren’t necessarily inevitable, but it also doesn’t take much for them to start and spread. Fortunately, there are several steps older adults can take to not only alert them of when a fire occurs but also reduce the risk of fire formation.
Fire Risk Reduction Tips for Seniors
Tip #1 – Detect Smoke:
If there are currently no smoke detectors in the home, make sure they are installed immediately. There should be a detector on the ceiling, near each sleeping area, and on each level of the home or apartment. Ensure that the detectors are cleaned and that the batteries are changed at least twice a year. If you have difficulty hearing, be sure to test the detectors to ensure that you can hear them.
Tip #2 – Have A Plan:
While being alert is a vital component of fire safety, it doesn’t mean much if you don’t also have an escape plan. Be sure you understand exactly where you can go if there’s a fire, and what alternative route is available through the home, should the primary escape route be compromised. Any escape plan should adhere to your specific needs and capabilities. That means ensuring that any aids you need to maneuver through the home (e.g., eyeglasses, walking cane, or wheelchair) are with you at any given point.
Tip #3 – Cook Safely:
As previously mentioned, the kitchen represents one of the areas of the home where a fire can ignite in the blink of an eye. Never leave cooking food unattended, and be sure to avoid wearing loose clothing when near a heat source. Similarly, you’ll want to ensure that any other flammable materials (paper towels, towels, mail, magazines, etc.) are as far away from the heat as possible. Finally, every kitchen should have a class ABC fire extinguisher installed or in the immediate vicinity.
Tip #4 – Smoke Responsibly:
Smoking in the home is extraordinarily dangerous. Even if you think that a cigarette is extinguished, there’s a chance that hot ashes can find their way onto furniture or other flammable materials in the room. For similar reasons, one should never smoke while in bed. Ashtrays should be emptied either into the toilet, sink, or an empty metal container. If emptied into a waste bin, the ashes could ignite the surrounding trash.
Tip #5 – Check Wiring:
We often hear about faulty wiring being responsible for house fires, but you may find yourself asking what indicates that there’s a problem with wiring. If you notice that lights are dimming as you use an appliance, or if you have to unplug one appliance for another one to work, bad wiring may be the culprit. Blown fuses also indicate that a problem exists. Be sure that you schedule an electrician to provide a thorough inspection.
Comfort Keepers® Edmonton is Proud to Offer a Wide Range of Home Senior Care Services
Our trained caregivers will ensure your loved one is comfortable, independent and safe in their home. On top of that, we will also aim to enhance their overall health, quality of life and general happiness.
Top-Notch Home Healthcare for Seniors in Edmonton, Alberta
Comfort Keepers of Edmonton offers a wider range of senior care services. We offer retirement care, respite care, senior care, companionship care, end-of-life care, post-surgery care, palliative care, personal care, and senior living transition services. If you are concerned about the health and well-being of your aging loved ones we can help with 24-hour care and more!
Helping Seniors Age-in-Place with Companionship Care and Interactive Caregiving™
Empathetic care starts in the heart and allows us to meet our client’s needs. Our trained caregivers are selected with one specific quality in mind, empathy. We strive to stimulate our clients emotionally, mentally and socially, thus enhancing their overall quality of life.
Our Interactive Caregiving™ provides a system of care that addresses companionship, safety, nutrition, mind, body, and activities of daily living (ADLs). The system increases seniors’ sense of well-being, independence and companionship by focusing on Senior Mind, Senior Body, Senior Nutrition, and Senior Safety.
Affordable and Client-Directed Homecare is Available for Qualifying Albertans
Comfort Keepers® Edmonton is an Approved Service Provider for the Client Directed Homecare Invoicing (CDHCI) Program Offered by Alberta Health Services.
What is the Client Directed Home Care Invoicing Program (CDHCI)?
CDHCI is a great program provided by Alberta Health Services (AHS), allowing clients to choose an approved agency like, Comfort Keepers Edmonton for Personal Care, Respite Care and Homemaking needs. The chosen agency can then bill AHS directly for services rendered for approved hours through Alberta Blue Cross. Read more about the program HERE.
Accredited Home Care Edmonton
Comfort Keepers® Edmonton was awarded the “Accredited with Exemplary Standing” seal by Accreditation Canada. This honour demonstrates Comfort Keepers’ commitment to offering safe, high-quality home care to its senior clients in Edmonton, AB.
To learn more about senior in-home care in Edmonton, contact the Comfort Keepers® office. Our service territory includes Edmonton, Devon, Sherwood Park, Stony Plain and surrounding areas, contact the Comfort Keepers Edmonton office at 780-465-4665.
References:
- Love to Know. “Elderly Fire Safety” by Terry Hurley. Web. 2017.
- U.S. Fire Administration. “Fire Safety Outreach Materials for Older Adults.” Web. 2017.
- Real Insurance. “The Most Common Causes of House Fires.” Web. 2013.
Looking Forward to Fall and Winter: Senior Activities for the Cooler Months
Senior Activities for the Cooler Months in Edmonton, AB
Senior activities for the cooler months look a little different this year. Many seniors continue to isolate due to the Coronavirus pandemic and this can take a toll on their mental health. To enjoy a safe winter, seniors need to develop a positive plan for their mental health.
Senior Health and Well-Being: Purpose and Joy
Winter activities can be more difficult for seniors. Senior health and well-being can be enhanced by living purposefully and entertaining feelings of hope and joy. However, seniors who embody a younger mindset demonstrate incredible brain function including, better memory and less depression.
Studies have shown that staying engaged and connected is important to an individual’s mental and physical health. Medical professionals recognize that socialization impacts health outcomes and quality of life. Especially those that affect the mental, social, emotional and spiritual well-being of seniors.
There are always opportunities for meaningful moments and joyful days with a little planning, conversation and intentional action.
Fall Senior Activities
Fall activities tend to focus on connecting with loved ones, enjoying the turning season and spending time outside before the weather gets icy.
#1. Sports and Socialization:
Fall is a dream for seniors who enjoy football, baseball and hockey and there are ways to participate virtually. Seniors and their loved ones can watch together over a video call or have a socially distanced viewing party at home, as long as everyone adheres to recommended safety guidelines.
#2. Enjoy Autumn’s Beauty:
Enjoying fall foliage is an activity in itself, and can be done sitting on the porch, going for a short walk or on a longer hike outside. Raking leaves can even be fun when done with loved ones.
#3. Autumn Holidays with Food:
Eating is another activity that seems to be more fun in the fall – family dinners for those isolating together, baking projects and Halloween fun are all opportunities for seniors to participate in activities they enjoy while maintaining their nutrition goals.
Winter Senior Activities
The holidays are filled with opportunities to enjoy music, celebrations with family and community service.
#1. Holiday Shopping
Holiday shopping is a fun activity. Online shopping may be the best way for seniors to get their gifts without visiting the mall.
#2. Holiday Festivities
Singing, dancing, playing instruments and listening to holiday carols are ways that seniors can enjoy music, no matter what the weather looks like outside. Streaming music services often have a wide selection, allowing seniors to pick their favourites to listen to through a phone, virtual assistant or computer.
#3. Volunteering
While there are ways that seniors can serve others year-round, volunteering can be even more meaningful around the holidays. Finding virtual volunteer opportunities is even easier this year – writing letters, knitting blankets and finding old coats and sweaters to donate can all be done safely at home.
Comfort Keepers® Edmonton is Proud to Offer a Wide Range of Home Senior Care Services
Our trained caregivers will ensure your loved one is comfortable, independent and safe in their home. On top of that, we will also aim to enhance their overall health, quality of life and general happiness.
Top-Notch Home Healthcare for Seniors in Edmonton, Alberta
Comfort Keepers of Edmonton offers a wider range of senior care services. We offer retirement care, respite care, senior care, companionship care, end-of-life care, post-surgery care, palliative care, personal care, and senior living transition services. If you are concerned about the health and well-being of your aging loved ones we can help with 24-hour care and more!
Helping Seniors Age-in-Place with Companionship Care and Interactive Caregiving™
Empathetic care starts in the heart and allows us to meet our client’s needs. Our trained caregivers are selected with one specific quality in mind, empathy. We strive to stimulate our clients emotionally, mentally and socially, thus enhancing their overall quality of life.
Our Interactive Caregiving™ provides a system of care that addresses companionship, safety, nutrition, mind, body, and activities of daily living (ADLs). The system increases seniors’ sense of well-being, independence and companionship by focusing on Senior Mind, Senior Body, Senior Nutrition, and Senior Safety.
Affordable and Client-Directed Homecare is Available for Qualifying Albertans
Comfort Keepers® Edmonton is an Approved Service Provider for the Client Directed Homecare Invoicing (CDHCI) Program Offered by Alberta Health Services.
What is the Client Directed Home Care Invoicing Program (CDHCI)?
CDHCI is a great program provided by Alberta Health Services (AHS), allowing clients to choose an approved agency like, Comfort Keepers Edmonton for Personal Care, Respite Care and Homemaking needs. The chosen agency can then bill AHS directly for services rendered for approved hours through Alberta Blue Cross. Read more about the program HERE.
Accredited Home Care Edmonton
Comfort Keepers® Edmonton was awarded the “Accredited with Exemplary Standing” seal by Accreditation Canada. This honour demonstrates Comfort Keepers’ commitment to offering safe, high-quality home care to its senior clients in Edmonton, AB.
To learn more about senior in-home care in Edmonton, contact the Comfort Keepers® office. Our service territory includes Edmonton, Devon, Sherwood Park, Stony Plain and surrounding areas, contact the Comfort Keepers Edmonton office at 780-465-4665.
References:
AARP. “Keep Your Brain Active by Doing Things You Love.” Web (video).
Science Daily. “Feeling Young Could Mean Your Brain is Aging More Slowly.” Web. 2018.
Forbes. “The Risks of Social Isolation for Older Adults.” Web. 2017.
Lifehack. “19 Fun Activities for Seniors to Stay Active Physically and Mentally.” Web.
Autumn Safety Tips for Seniors
What Every Senior in Edmonton, AB, Needs to Know About Safety During the Autumn Season
Autumn Safety for Seniors | There’s much to enjoy about the transition from summer to autumn. The intense heat begins to subside, the leaves change colour, and we ready ourselves for the holiday season. But like all other seasonal transitions, there’s a tradeoff, and with the positive changes come certain challenges to our health and safety.
Seniors, in particular, are at risk around this time of year. Colder temperatures, the presence of influenza, and even fallen leaves can severely threaten seniors’ well-being and independence.
#DYK | Older adults account for more than 50% of flu-related hospitalizations and more than 80% of flu-related deaths.
Fortunately, by following a few tips and best practices, seniors can stay safe and enjoy everything that the autumn season has to offer. Here are a few to share with senior clients.
Autumn Safety Tips for Seniors
Tip #1 – Get the influenza vaccine:
While the flu may not be as detrimental to the health of younger people, seniors are at risk from flu complications, such as pneumonia and bronchitis. These complications can result in serious illness, hospitalization, and even death. Adding to this, the flu can also worsen pre-existing conditions. Vaccines to consider include Fluzone High-Dose, Fluad, and Flublok Quadrivalent – but it’s important to talk to a physician or other healthcare professional about the most appropriate option.
Tip #2 – Reduce the risk of influenza:
In addition to vaccination, it’s best to take additional steps toward reducing the risk of the flu:
- Avoid contact with those who are sick
- Wash hands with warm water and soap frequently throughout the day, or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Regularly disinfect surfaces that are likely to be contaminated
- Improve the immune system through regular exercise (with physician approval)
Tip #3 – Reduce fire risk:
As the temperature falls, it’s common to start using space heaters or fireplaces to warm up the home. Seniors should ensure that flammable objects are kept far away from these types of appliances. It’s also important to inspect fire extinguishers to ensure they are in working condition, and that batteries are replaced in smoke detectors.
Tip #4 – Keep warm:
While on the subject of dropping temperatures, seniors must protect themselves from the cold. Although autumn doesn’t present the same bitter weather as winter, there’s still a palpable risk. The National Institutes of Health reports that hypothermia can develop rather quickly after being exposed to relatively mild cold temperatures. Seniors should venture outside only when necessary. When they do, it’s important to dress in layers of loose-fitting clothing.
Tip #5 – Clear away the leaves:
Though certainly pleasing to the eye, fallen leaves can easily cause seniors to slip and fall. They should be raked away from the driveway and sidewalks. This is especially important once they become slippery and soggy from the rain.
Comfort Keepers® Edmonton is Proud to Offer a Wide Range of Home Senior Care Services
Our trained caregivers will ensure your loved one is comfortable, independent and safe in their home. On top of that, we will also aim to enhance their overall health, quality of life and general happiness.
Top-Notch Home Healthcare for Seniors in Edmonton, Alberta
Comfort Keepers of Edmonton offers a wider range of senior care services. We offer retirement care, respite care, senior care, companionship care, end-of-life care, post-surgery care, palliative care, personal care, and senior living transition services. If you are concerned about the health and well-being of your aging loved ones we can help with 24-hour care and more!
Helping Seniors Age-in-Place with Companionship Care and Interactive Caregiving™
Empathetic care starts in the heart and allows us to meet our client’s needs. Our trained caregivers are selected with one specific quality in mind, empathy. We strive to stimulate our clients emotionally, mentally and socially, thus enhancing their overall quality of life.
Our Interactive Caregiving™ provides a system of care that addresses companionship, safety, nutrition, mind, body, and activities of daily living (ADLs). The system increases seniors’ sense of well-being, independence and companionship by focusing on Senior Mind, Senior Body, Senior Nutrition, and Senior Safety.
Affordable and Client-Directed Homecare is Available for Qualifying Albertans
Comfort Keepers® Edmonton is an Approved Service Provider for the Client Directed Homecare Invoicing (CDHCI) Program Offered by Alberta Health Services.
What is the Client Directed Home Care Invoicing Program (CDHCI)?
CDHCI is a great program provided by Alberta Health Services (AHS), allowing clients to choose an approved agency like, Comfort Keepers Edmonton for Personal Care, Respite Care and Homemaking needs. The chosen agency can then bill AHS directly for services rendered for approved hours through Alberta Blue Cross. Read more about the program HERE.
Accredited Home Care Edmonton
Comfort Keepers® Edmonton was awarded the “Accredited with Exemplary Standing” seal by Accreditation Canada. This honour demonstrates Comfort Keepers’ commitment to offering safe, high-quality home care to its senior clients in Edmonton, AB.
To learn more about senior in-home care in Edmonton, contact the Comfort Keepers® office. Our service territory includes Edmonton, Devon, Sherwood Park, Stony Plain and surrounding areas, contact the Comfort Keepers Edmonton office at 780-465-4665.
References:
Medical Alert System Reviews. “5 Autumn Safety Tips for Seniors” by Susie Slack. Web. 2016.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “CDC Says ‘Take 3’ Actions to Fight the Flu.” Web. 2018. WebMD. “Flu Can Have Dangerous Domino Effect on Seniors” by Robert Preidt. Web. 2018.
Steps Seniors Can Take to Prepare for Natural Disasters
September is #NationalPreparednessMonth; What Every Senior in Edmonton, AB, Needs to Know About Natural Disaster Preparation
Steps Seniors Can Take to Prepare for Natural Disasters | We often underestimate the volatility of Mother Nature, forgetting that our possessions, our homes, and even those we love can be taken away from us in the blink of an eye because of a tornado, hurricane, wildfire, flood, or any number of other natural disasters.
Of course, we’ve gotten smarter and more sophisticated with the way these catastrophic events are forecasted and handled. Local officials have detailed plans for evacuations, and relief teams are at the ready to help however possible. Experience also counts for a lot. Think of how many disasters you’ve witnessed up to this point, and how the learnings from those experiences will aid you and others in any future events. Seniors, in particular, have a wealth of knowledge to pull from.
#DYK – The Red Cross delivered more food, relief items, and shelter stays in 2017 than in the last four years combined. American Red Cross
Despite this knowledge and expertise, seniors are often those most vulnerable during natural disasters because of chronic health conditions or diminished hearing and vision. Even those in excellent health may just not be as agile as they once were. Fortunately, age-related limitations don’t have to stop seniors from being able to handle whatever Mother Nature throws their way. Below are some helpful tips that senior clients can follow – together with family caregivers – to prepare for natural disasters.
Steps Seniors Can Take to Prepare for Natural Disasters:
- Become and stay informed
- Study up on which natural disasters are likely to affect your area.
- Learn your community’s established response and evacuation plans.
- Sign up for text or email alert notifications available in your community.
- Create a supply kit that includes the following:
- Water for drinking and sanitation (1 gallon per person, per day – for at least 3 days)
- Non-perishable food (3-day supply)
- Medications (to last at least 7 days)
- First aid kit and manual
- Personal documents (ID, birth certificate, deed to the home, medication list that includes dosages, etc.)
- Manual can opener
- Tools (screwdriver, wrench, pliers, etc.)
- Emergency blankets
- Personal hygiene items
- Change of clothes
- Cell phone and extra chargers
- Flashlights and extra batteries
- Battery-operated or hand crank radio
- Put a plan in place
- Determine who your emergency contacts are, and ensure that they know of community plans.
- Double check that you have a thorough list of family contacts, not only in your phone but also written down.
- Assess your home, and determine the best escape routes, considering specific factors such as limited mobility.
- Write down all plans so that you can reference them at any time.
- Check out Redcross.ca. This is a nationwide resource that connects millions of people to services for many situations, including emergencies and disaster situations.
Comfort Keepers® Edmonton is Proud to Offer a Wide Range of Home Senior Care Services
Our trained caregivers will ensure your loved one is comfortable, independent and safe in their home. On top of that, we will also aim to enhance their overall health, quality of life and general happiness.
Top-Notch Home Healthcare for Seniors in Edmonton, Alberta
Comfort Keepers of Edmonton offers a wider range of senior care services. We offer retirement care, respite care, senior care, companionship care, end-of-life care, post-surgery care, palliative care, personal care, and senior living transition services. If you are concerned about the health and well-being of your aging loved ones we can help with 24-hour care and more!
Helping Seniors Age-in-Place with Companionship Care and Interactive Caregiving™
Empathetic care starts in the heart and allows us to meet our client’s needs. Our trained caregivers are selected with one specific quality in mind, empathy. We strive to stimulate our clients emotionally, mentally and socially, thus enhancing their overall quality of life.
Our Interactive Caregiving™ provides a system of care that addresses companionship, safety, nutrition, mind, body, and activities of daily living (ADLs). The system increases seniors’ sense of well-being, independence and companionship by focusing on Senior Mind, Senior Body, Senior Nutrition, and Senior Safety.
Affordable and Client-Directed Homecare is Available for Qualifying Albertans
Comfort Keepers® Edmonton is an Approved Service Provider for the Client Directed Homecare Invoicing (CDHCI) Program Offered by Alberta Health Services.
What is the Client Directed Home Care Invoicing Program (CDHCI)?
CDHCI is a great program provided by Alberta Health Services (AHS), allowing clients to choose an approved agency like, Comfort Keepers Edmonton for Personal Care, Respite Care and Homemaking needs. The chosen agency can then bill AHS directly for services rendered for approved hours through Alberta Blue Cross. Read more about the program HERE.
Accredited Home Care Edmonton
Comfort Keepers® Edmonton was awarded the “Accredited with Exemplary Standing” seal by Accreditation Canada. This honour demonstrates Comfort Keepers’ commitment to offering safe, high-quality home care to its senior clients in Edmonton, AB.
To learn more about senior in-home care in Edmonton, contact the Comfort Keepers® office. Our service territory includes Edmonton, Devon, Sherwood Park, Stony Plain and surrounding areas, contact the Comfort Keepers Edmonton office at 780-465-4665.
References:
Red Cross. “Disaster Preparedness for Seniors by Seniors.” Web. 2018.
Ready.gov. “Seniors.” Web. 2018.
Take a Deep Breath: Stress Relief Techniques for Seniors
What Every Senior in Edmonton, AB, Needs to Know About Managing Stress
Stress Relief Techniques for Seniors | In many ways, stress is a part of life for all of us. However, for seniors, stress can have a larger effect on physical and mental wellness.
Having worries and concerns is natural, but it is more important as we get older to practice stress-reduction techniques to manage these thoughts.
The great news is that stress, and the techniques to manage it, are usually easy for most people to practice. Meditation, breathing exercises, physical movement and other tactics can help seniors continue to live the best quality of life and can even improve overall wellness.
Stress destroys cells in the hippocampus, a brain site responsible for memory storage and retrieval.
Stress Relief Techniques for Seniors: Why is it critical to manage stress?
As we continue to keep our homes and families safe during COVID-19, it’s even more important to focus on the mental health needs of our seniors when it comes to stress.
Several studies have shown that stress is linked to mental and physical problems, from anxiety and depression to hypertension and immune system complications. It’s estimated that stress increases the risk of heart disease by 40%, heart attack by 25%, and stroke by 50%. Not to mention the fact that stress can also exacerbate existing conditions – which can be very impactful for those with less efficient immune systems.
Stress Relief Techniques for Seniors: What can seniors do to manage their stress positively?
Finding moments of joy and focusing on activities and hobbies that bring meaning and purpose can help seniors manage their stress. Fortunately, there are many more stress relief techniques that seniors can follow to help improve their well-being. What senior clients use to manage their stress today can help better prepare them for any future stress.
Stress Relief Techniques for Seniors:
- Connection can help relieve stress. Seniors can call a friend or family member, have a video chat or spend time with loved ones when possible.
- Meditate at the same time every day or whenever feelings of stress or anxiety arise
- Practice deep breathing and mindfulness exercises
- Reach out to friends and family to connect and spend time together
- Follow a consistent exercise regimen and healthy diet, upon physician approval
- Journal or jot down thoughts and feelings at the end of each day – and be sure to take a moment to reflect on all the positive things that happened throughout the day
- Find a virtual volunteer opportunity to give back to the community
- Put together and execute a to-do list to increase productivity, decrease feelings of restlessness, and combat procrastination
- Join a yoga class or practice it at home (with physician approval)
- Listen to soothing or relaxing music, especially before bed
- Find a way to laugh, whether it’s by watching a funny TV show/movie or listening to a comedy album
Comfort Keepers® Edmonton is Proud to Offer a Wide Range of Home Senior Care Services
Our trained caregivers will ensure your loved one is comfortable, independent and safe in their home. On top of that, we will also aim to enhance their overall health, quality of life and general happiness.
Top-Notch Home Healthcare for Seniors in Edmonton, Alberta
Comfort Keepers of Edmonton offers a wider range of senior care services. We offer retirement care, respite care, senior care, companionship care, end-of-life care, post-surgery care, palliative care, personal care, and senior living transition services. If you are concerned about the health and well-being of your aging loved ones we can help with 24-hour care and more!
Helping Seniors Age-in-Place with Companionship Care and Interactive Caregiving™
Empathetic care starts in the heart and allows us to meet our client’s needs. Our trained caregivers are selected with one specific quality in mind, empathy. We strive to stimulate our clients emotionally, mentally and socially, thus enhancing their overall quality of life.
Our Interactive Caregiving™ provides a system of care that addresses companionship, safety, nutrition, mind, body, and activities of daily living (ADLs). The system increases seniors’ sense of well-being, independence and companionship by focusing on Senior Mind, Senior Body, Senior Nutrition, and Senior Safety.
Affordable and Client-Directed Homecare is Available for Qualifying Albertans
Comfort Keepers® Edmonton is an Approved Service Provider for the Client Directed Homecare Invoicing (CDHCI) Program Offered by Alberta Health Services.
What is the Client Directed Home Care Invoicing Program (CDHCI)?
CDHCI is a great program provided by Alberta Health Services (AHS), allowing clients to choose an approved agency like, Comfort Keepers Edmonton for Personal Care, Respite Care and Homemaking needs. The chosen agency can then bill AHS directly for services rendered for approved hours through Alberta Blue Cross. Read more about the program HERE.
Accredited Home Care Edmonton
Comfort Keepers® Edmonton was awarded the “Accredited with Exemplary Standing” seal by Accreditation Canada. This honour demonstrates Comfort Keepers’ commitment to offering safe, high-quality home care to its senior clients in Edmonton, AB.
To learn more about senior in-home care in Edmonton, contact the Comfort Keepers® office. Our service territory includes Edmonton, Devon, Sherwood Park, Stony Plain and surrounding areas, contact the Comfort Keepers Edmonton office at 780-465-4665.
References
Healthline. “16 Simple Ways to Relieve Stress and Anxiety.” Web. 2018.
Huffington Post. “10 Health Benefits of Relaxation” by Sarah Klein. Web. 2014.
American Institute of Stress. “Improve Memory, Concentration, Productivity, and Health by Reducing Stress.” Web. 2018.
WebMD. “10 Relaxation Techniques That Zap Stress Fast.” Web. 2018.
Seniors and the Positive Impact of Social Media
What Every Senior in Edmonton, AB, Needs to Know About Social Media and Its Positive Impact
Positive Impact of Social Media | According to Pew Research, 59% of adults age 65 and older are online, and 46% of those adults are using social media.
Despite the myth that older people can’t manage technology because of cognitive deficits, seniors are flocking to social media at a rapid pace. Facebook, Twitter, Google+ (and Hangouts), Pinterest, and Instagram all note higher adoption rates among adults 65 and older ─ and see seniors as their fastest-growing audience.
Positive Impact of Social Media: Social, Mental, and Physical Benefits
Older adults who have had positive experiences on social media have reported elevated moods. An American Psychological Association (APA) study found that seniors who spend time on social media sites were more likely to participate in activities that can lead to greater health, such as cooking healthier recipes and finding easier ways to clean and maintain their homes. The study also indicates that they have lower blood pressure fewer instances of diabetes, and fewer negative health habits such as smoking, depression, or disease. This is attributed to the ability for self-education on any number of topics, and remaining in the know about the latest technology trends.
Positive Impact of Social Media: Keeps the Family Together
Facebook is particularly useful for linking up with loved ones. It makes for more frequent conversations and helps close the generation gap.
Sharing current photos allows seniors to see their grandchildren change and grow, and creates a closeness and involvement that may not have existed, especially if the family isn’t living close by. Video chats also are a great way to communicate in “real-time”. There is also the opportunity to relive fond memories or create new ones through postings of photos and home videos.
Positive Impact of Social Media: Gives Family Peace of Mind
When a family lives apart, there can be stress and anxiety on both ends. Social media allows seniors and their families an easy way to check in as often as they wish. This is especially important if the senior is living alone and may experience ill health, a fall, or may not be eating or sleeping well, taking medications, or getting any form of exercise. Family caregivers can use social media to ask critical questions that will let them know what’s occurring in their loved one’s life.
Positive Impact of Social Media: Creates Community Engagement and a Sense of Belonging
Feeling connected is very important to any senior’s well-being. Social media allows seniors to make plans with others to meet up outside of the home. It also allows seniors who are unable to leave home to socialize online to combat loneliness.
Positive Impact of Social Media: Shopping Online offers Convenience and Savings
Even if a senior can’t venture out of the home – due to physical limitations, inability to drive, or inclement weather, for example – he or she can always shop online and enjoy the ease of home delivery. In addition, there are lots of money-saving coupons and online sales, which can be especially convenient and sensible for those who are penny-pinchers or on a fixed income.
Positive Impact of Social Media: Precautions Should Be Taken
As a caregiver, you may want to monitor the senior’s activities. You may want to make sure that the loved one is not falling for phishing scams and the like. You may also want to make sure they are connecting with trustworthy people – especially if they are conversing in chat rooms and through blogs. Also, watch their monetary spending – you don’t want your senior overspending on items they don’t need.
Positive Impact of Social Media: Learning How to Use It
A great source for seniors – and family members – is AARP’s Social Media Education Center. There, you can find out how to use specific (and commonly used) social media websites, apps, and blogs.
Comfort Keepers® Edmonton is Proud to Offer a Wide Range of Home Senior Care Services
Our trained caregivers will ensure your loved one is comfortable, independent and safe in their home. On top of that, we will also aim to enhance their overall health, quality of life and general happiness.
Top-Notch Home Healthcare for Seniors in Edmonton, Alberta
Comfort Keepers of Edmonton offers a wider range of senior care services. We offer retirement care, respite care, senior care, companionship care, end-of-life care, post-surgery care, palliative care, personal care, and senior living transition services. If you are concerned about the health and well-being of your aging loved ones we can help with 24-hour care and more!
Helping Seniors Age-in-Place with Companionship Care and Interactive Caregiving™
Empathetic care starts in the heart and allows us to meet our client’s needs. Our trained caregivers are selected with one specific quality in mind, empathy. We strive to stimulate our clients emotionally, mentally and socially, thus enhancing their overall quality of life.
Our Interactive Caregiving™ provides a system of care that addresses companionship, safety, nutrition, mind, body, and activities of daily living (ADLs). The system increases seniors’ sense of well-being, independence and companionship by focusing on Senior Mind, Senior Body, Senior Nutrition, and Senior Safety.
Affordable and Client-Directed Homecare is Available for Qualifying Albertans
Comfort Keepers® Edmonton is an Approved Service Provider for the Client Directed Homecare Invoicing (CDHCI) Program Offered by Alberta Health Services.
What is the Client Directed Home Care Invoicing Program (CDHCI)?
CDHCI is a great program provided by Alberta Health Services (AHS), allowing clients to choose an approved agency like, Comfort Keepers Edmonton for Personal Care, Respite Care and Homemaking needs. The chosen agency can then bill AHS directly for services rendered for approved hours through Alberta Blue Cross. Read more about the program HERE.
Accredited Home Care Edmonton
Comfort Keepers® Edmonton was awarded the “Accredited with Exemplary Standing” seal by Accreditation Canada. This honour demonstrates Comfort Keepers’ commitment to offering safe, high-quality home care to its senior clients in Edmonton, AB.
To learn more about senior in-home care in Edmonton, contact the Comfort Keepers® office. Our service territory includes Edmonton, Devon, Sherwood Park, Stony Plain and surrounding areas, contact the Comfort Keepers Edmonton office at 780-465-4665.
References:
- SeniorCareCorner.com. “5 Benefits of Social Media for Seniors – Let’s Help Them Get Online.” by Barry Birkett. Web. 2015.
- NPR.org. “Why Are Seniors The Fastest-Growing Demographic On Social Media?” Web. 2013.
- AARP. Social Media Education Center. Web. 2015.