Today, there are more than 10 million Canadians living with diabetes or prediabetes. With more than 20 Canadians being newly diagnosed with the disease every hour of every day, chances are that diabetes affects you or someone you know. However, it is known how to prevent and/or delay type 2 diabetes so these trends do not have to continue.
How to Effectively Communicate with Seniors with Dementia
Seniors and elders with Alzheimer’s or dementias don’t only have difficulty expressing thoughts and emotions, but also have trouble understanding others. Here are some ways to help you be successful at communicating with seniors and elders dealing with Alzheimer’s or dementia.
Assisting Seniors with Alzheimer’s and Other Chronic Conditions and Diseases
More than 15 percent of Canadians 65 and older now have Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) according to the Alzheimer’s Society of Canada, and 95% percent of all elderly people with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias had at least one other chronic medical condition. This article helps elder caregivers who are assisting seniors with Alzheimer’s or other chronic conditions and diseases.
Seniors: Your Bones Will Thank You
At least 1 in 3 women and 1 in 5 men will suffer from an osteoporotic fracture during their lifetime. Our goal for bone health should be to keep as much bone as possible for the rest of our lives. We can take action now to prevent bone loss and watch for warning signs of a more serious condition.
Alzheimer’s Assistance Dogs Lend a Helping Paw for Seniors
Pet therapy has been shown to be particularly helpful to Alzheimer’s patients and those affected by other dementias. Pets, and dogs in particular, can calm those affected by dementia, help them stay active, and help them stay social through interactions with passersby who cannot resist these fuzzy companions.
Sweet Dreams: Managing Sleep Changes in Seniors
Insomnia and the inability to stay asleep are common complaints of older adults. While it is not uncommon for older adults to sleep more lightly than they did when they were younger, they still need a good night’s sleep. Having insomnia or feeling sleepy throughout the day could be indicative of underlying problems.
Senior Self-Engagement in Wellbeing Enhances Quality of Life
Ensuring senior adults are actively involved in their own health and wellbeing is a priority for health professionals and policy makers. Many of the difficulties associated today with growing older are preventable or at least manageable. Adults can grow older and remain active by making choices that benefit their overall health.
Preparing Seniors for Natural Disasters
If you are the caregiver for an older family member, you may need to help your loved one get ready for unexpected events. Since most people over the age of 50 report that they are not prepared for natural disasters, it may fall to families and healthcare providers to help older adults become proactive in their emergency plans. Our older population is most vulnerable at a time of crisis, so getting prepared today means a faster response time and less stress in the future.
Seniors: Dietary Changes as We Age
Every year over the age of 40, our metabolism slows. Though our nutritional requirements stay almost the same as younger adults, our energy needs decrease. To keep our bodies feeling good and functioning well, we need to be aware of how our diet needs are evolving as we age. Every stage of life brings changes to our bodies, and taking an active role in diet and nutrition can mean more energy and better disease prevention in the future.
Dietary Changes in Seniors: A Colorful Plate is Key
One key to finding high-nutrient foods for seniors and elders is easy: color. A colorful plate with a variety of vegetables and fruits each day will boost your intake of important nutrients. Look for a mix of fruits and vegetables and fill your plate with these valuable foods.