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The recommended daily dose of this vitamin is 90 milligrams for men and 75 milligrams for a woman.

For seniors, good eating habits improve physical health, which in turn has a positive effect on mental wellbeing and overall quality of life. Vitamin intake is often an important part of maintaining a healthy diet and getting the necessary nutrients.

As seniors age, vitamin deficiencies can occur for many reasons, such as skipped meals, medications interfering with the absorption of vitamins or certain health issues.

One vitamin that can greatly play a role in the quality of life of seniors is vitamin C. While usually associated with colds, this vitamin plays a part in keeping older adults healthy all around. Benefits of vitamin C include:

• Fights off colds: Vitamin C reduces the duration and severity of some illnesses
• Immunity boost: Assists in the formation of white blood cells, which help fight off infection
• Supports healthy joints: Helps form collagen, which helps hold skin, ligaments and cartilage together
• Builds strong blood vessels: Helps keeps blood vessel walls strong and resistant to damage

When people age, the need for vitamin C only increases as they become more susceptible to illness and disease. Whether it is preventing macular degeneration, heart disease, osteoporosis or cancer, vitamin C has a vital role.

Seniors that want to ensure that they are getting enough of this crucial vitamin on a regular basis should talk to a healthcare professional. Typically, avoiding vitamin C deficiency is possible with a healthy diet, but some older adults find that a supplement can be beneficial.

 Foods rich in vitamin C are citrus fruits, bell peppers, tomatoes, Brussels sprouts, broccoli and cantaloupe.

Comfort Keepers^® Can Help

For seniors struggling to maintain healthy eating habits, Comfort Keepers caregivers can help with meal planning, grocery shopping, meal preparation and support for physician-prescribed diets. Our custom care plans focus on physical and mental health and wellness activities. Our goal is to see that clients have the means to find the joy and happiness in each day, regardless of age or acuity.

To learn more about our in-home care services, contact your local Comfort Keepers location today.

References

Oregon State University. “Micronutrients for Older Adults.” Web. 2020.

SF Gate. “How Much Vitamin C Should Seniors Take in Addition to Multivitamins?” Web. 2018.

Next Avenue, “Malnutrition is Affecting Too Many Older Adults.” Web. 2016.

Sixty and Me. “The Importance of Vitamin C for Older Women…and a Few Problem Signs.” Web.
Healthline. “How Your Nutritional Needs Change as you Age.” Web. 2017.

Many people worry that their senior loved ones spend too much time alone, and may be suffering from isolation. But there are many ways for people to stay connected to the older adults in their lives. And, studies show that seniors are physically and mentally healthier when they maintain social connection and foster relationships.

It’s important to remember that it takes a team to ensure the highest quality physical and mental care for a senior. According to the CARP, nearly one in five family caregivers is providing unpaid care for an adult with health or functional needs. There are many ways that other family and friends can provide social support and create meaningful interactions with their senior loved one.

For those trying to connect with a senior in their life, they can consider the following options:

Teach them something new – while many seniors are adept at using technology, some could use extra help getting set up for video chats or finding sources of online connection. Helping a senior learn to use new technology can be a fun bonding experience and pays off in continued contact! And if the family member or friend isn’t an expert, they can consider taking a class together.

A study by William Chopik, a professor at Michigan State University, found “greater technology use was associated with better self-rated health, fewer chronic conditions, higher subjective well-being and lower depression.”

Involve others – Group video chats have never been easier to set up, and there are free options that are great for small groups or paid options for larger gatherings of friends and families. Seeing each other’s faces and sharing stories is a great way to stay connected.

Play together online – Popular board games have gone virtual! Classics like Monopoly, Scattergories and Scrabble can be played online together, and there are a host of sites with card games, trivia and other fun activities to do together. Sometimes, a game night is all it takes to make people feel closer.

About one-third of Canadians 65 and older don’t use the internet. Even among those who use it, roughly one-third aren’t confident when performing tasks online.

Spend time in-person when possible – While it may not always be possible, it’s great to see loved ones when the situation permits. Families should take some time out of their week when possible to take their senior loved ones to community events, or plan special meals at home. This can be especially important for seniors with mobility issues that can keep them from doing the activities they love outside of the home.

Become pen pals – The art of writing letters may be rare today, but everyone still loves to receive notes in the mail. Send letters with updates, drawings, photos and other small mementos, and encourage the recipient to reply. Letters and cards will quickly become cherished memories that can be shared and revisited in times of separation.

Consider hiring an in-home caregiver – For seniors that need a little extra help around the house, a caregiver not only provides assistance with daily living, but companionship and conversation too. And, a caregiver can facilitate calls and video chats with loved ones. Caregivers are also trained to keep seniors safe in their home, and can be a great option to provide companionship during periods of illness or isolation.

Comfort Keepers^® Can Help

For seniors that need companionship or help fighting loneliness, Comfort Keepers caregivers can help with encouragement, support and assistance with daily living. And, caregivers can encourage overall health through meal planning, grocery shopping, meal preparation and activities. Our custom care plans focus on physical and mental health and wellness activities. Our goal is to see that clients have the means to find the joy and happiness in each day, regardless of age or acuity.

To learn more about our in-home care services, contact your local Comfort Keepers location today.

References:

AARP. “Tech Training Builds Connection and Confidence for Older Adults.” Web. 2018.

Statistics Canada. “ Study: Evolving Internet Use Among Canadian Seniors.”  Web. 2019

Forbes. “More Seniors Are Embracing Technology. But Can They Use It? UCSD Researchers Suggest Asking Them.” Web. 2019.

Psychology Today. “How to Help Older Adults Fight Loneliness During COVID-19”. Web. 2020.

Thrive Global. “How Technology can Help Seniors. Web. 2019.

AARP and National Alliance for Caregiving. Caregiving in the United States 2020. Web. 2020.

For many families, starting a discussion with a senior loved one about care needs can be difficult. The Conference Board of Canada has estimated 2.4 million Canadians 65 years and older will need continuing care, both paid and unpaid, by 2026 – a 71% increase since 2011.  And, 9 out of 10 seniors want to remain in their home as they age.

It is comforting to know that talking to the older adult in one’s life about their care needs doesn’t have to be a negative experience. Family and friends should remember to share the ways that in-home care can help seniors live the life they want, maintain their physical and emotional wellbeing, and bring more hope, purpose and joy to their days.

Timing is Everything

Deciding when to start the conversation about care needs is important. It is never too early to discuss what care might be needed and the desires of the person that will be receiving care. And, when it is time for care to start, everyone will be on the same page about the plan.

Ideally, there will be multiple discussions on the topic of care. Making plans before there is an emergency or sudden problem in the senior’s home helps alleviate stress for everyone. Families and friends should talk to the senior in their life early and often.

Gather Information

Remember that everyone will have the best experience possible if this is a true conversation with the care recipient, not about them. Those involved should have the opportunity to speak their mind and talk about the future. There are many options for in-home care, from the type of care services to the number of hours a week. It is a good idea for participants to do research online or by calling a care provider to get questions answered before the family meets to talk about options.

Support is Imperative

Ultimately, everyone wants to ensure that the care recipient is supported, cared for, and safe in their home. It can reduce stress if those speaking to their senior loved one understand that there may be resistant to the idea of having a caregiver provide assistance, and the care recipient may feel that they are losing independence. While family and friends should be honest about their observations and feelings, the senior that will be receiving care should also have a voice. This not only helps everyone feel comfortable with the plan moving forward, but opens up the conversation about all the ways home care can improve quality of life – physically, mentally and emotionally.

People aged 85 years and over make up the fastest growing age group in Canada — this portion of the population grew by 127% between 1993 and 2013.

Think Beyond the Basics

Care doesn’t have to only be about basic physical care needs. At Comfort Keepers, we believe that in home care improves lives and helps seniors do the things they most love. We develop custom care plans that include physical safety and wellbeing, emotional health, and socialization. Our goal is to help our clients have the best quality of life while maintaining their independence at home. This can include tasks like transportation to appointments, meal preparation, light housekeeping and personal care, But all of our custom care plans also include wellbeing tasks like:

• Assisting with outings, social events, shopping trips, and other activities of interest to maintain engagement
• Activities that bring joy, provide mental stimulation and encourage physical and emotional wellbeing
• Education for families
• Respite care for family and loved ones
• Referrals to medical professionals, support groups and resources
• Change in condition monitoring
• Fall risk assessment and assistance with fall prevention
• Facilitating connection with loved ones through phone calls, video chats and other technology

Comfort Keepers® Can Help

Comfort Keepers caregivers can help with encouragement, support and assistance with daily living. And, caregivers can encourage overall health through meal planning, grocery shopping, meal preparation and activities. Our custom care plans focus on physical and mental health and wellness activities. Our goal is to see that clients have the means to find the joy and happiness in each day, regardless of age or acuity.

To learn more about our in-home care services, contact your local Comfort Keepers location today.

References

Canadian Medical Association. The State of Seniors Health Care in Canada.  Web 2016.

Readmission after an illness or injury is a serious health issue for seniors. However, it is important for seniors and their loved ones to remember that in many cases, readmission is avoidable and can be prevented with a thoughtful post-hospital care plan.

Over 12% of seniors in Canada  who are discharged from the hospital end up returning within 30 days. There are many reasons seniors may need to be readmitted to the hospital, but healthcare agencies are focused on finding ways to reduce these numbers and educate patients about how to have a healthier recovery at home.

For many seniors, this means having a quality caregiver that can help them overcome some of the main preventable causes for returning to the hospital. Consider the following:

Medication is critical: Some seniors need assistance taking medication in the right amount on the correct schedule. When you consider that, on average, seniors with chronic conditions fill 50 different prescriptions annually, it is not difficult to imagine how someone could get confused when a new medication is added to their regimen. Caregivers can not only remind seniors to take medications as prescribed, but they can also help seniors keep a list of those medications and their dosages so the information is readily available for healthcare professionals. Managing medications is one of the best ways a caregiver can help seniors during their recovery.

Follow up visits prevent readmission: A full two-thirds of patients readmitted to the hospital would have avoided that trip if they had seen their physicians within two weeks for follow up. The reasons for not following up vary but can include transportation difficulties and forgetting to make or keep appointments. Hospital staff can aid the senior by setting up appointments for the individual before discharge, but getting to the appointment can still be a challenge. In addition to a host of uplifting care services, caregivers can provide transportation to appointments and keep track of any post-care visits.

Discharge plans only work when implemented properly: Having a discharge plan for the patient before he or she leaves the hospital can be crucial for recovery, but it can be difficult for seniors and their family members to focus on the plan during the stress of the illness and discharge. Caregivers can help the senior follow the instructions, and will connect with family or other approved individuals when there are problems or change in condition during recovery. They can also help explain the information or ensure that the appropriate person is notified if the older individual has questions about his or her course of treatment. This takes the stress off the family and the patient so he or she can focus on recovery.

Having a helping hand during recovery can ensure positive outcomes and a return to an active, engaged life. Family members, friends and neighbors are often willing to serve as a post-hospital recovery caregiver, but there is professional help available for those that don’t have someone nearby to assist them. For long-term recovery, those who have the assistance of friends and family can benefit from a professional caregiver to provide respite care and support.

People over the age of 65 are more likely to be readmitted than younger patients, and readmission can be more serious for seniors.

Comfort Keepers® Can Help

Comfort Keepers caregivers can help with encouragement, support and assistance with daily living. And, caregivers can encourage overall health through meal planning, grocery shopping, meal preparation and activities. Our custom care plans focus on physical and mental health and wellness activities. Our goal is to see that clients have the means to find the joy and happiness in each day, regardless of age or acuity.

To learn more about our in-home care services, contact your local Comfort Keepers location today.

References

CMAJ.  “Care setting and 30-day hospital readmissions among older adults: a population-based cohort study:  Web 2019.

Relias. “What you need to know about readmission among seniors.” Web. 2016.

American Hospital Association. “Examining the drivers of readmissions and reducing unnecessary readmissions for better patient care 2011 AHA Policy Research.” Web. 2011.

Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. “Ten things you should know about care transitions.” Web. 2013.

It’s been proven time and again that exercise is good for seniors’ physical and mental health. Regular exercise, even in small amounts, can improve mood, relieve stress and improve health. According to the CDC, four of the five most expensive health conditions older adults face can be prevented or managed with physical activity. But, only about 35% of adults over the age of 65 are physically active.

Any senior starting a new exercise plan should consult with their physician. And, it is helpful for family and members of the care team to assist and support physical activity in any way they can.

For those that are physically able to begin an exercise program, regular movement can help them live a more vibrant and healthy life. Some of the health benefits include:

• Improved mental health, mood and outlook
• Prevention, or improvement of, diseases such as diabetes, obesity, heart disease, and osteoporosis
• Reduced pain from arthritis and minimizing its severity
• Decreased risk of falls

Each individual has different needs when it comes to exercise and varying health conditions that may need to be taken into consideration before beginning an exercise regimen. A health professional to determine the best approach to physical activity with senior care.

There are a variety of ways to incorporate aerobic activity, strength building exercises, stretching and balance – all without leaving the comfort of home!

Aerobic exercise – Walking in place, dancing or aerobic routines can help get the heart rate up. These activities improve cardiovascular health and help older adults maintain a healthy weight.

Strength building exercises – there are many easy strength building exercises that can help seniors build the muscles they need to do everyday activities and prevent muscle loss. And, exercises can be done with household items or using body weight, so no expensive equipment is required.

In one study, 100 nursing-home residents performed resistance exercises three times a week for 10 weeks. At the end the exercise group could lift significantly more weight, climb more stairs, and walk faster and farther than their sedentary counterparts.

Stretching – Stretching before and after exercise can help prevent soreness after exercise. And, the additional benefit is improved flexibility, which is good for older adult’s physical health. For those looking to improve their flexibility even more, there are exercise routines available online that include yoga or stretching routines specifically for seniors.

Balance exercises – Balance exercises help seniors prevent falls and improve mobility. Yoga, tai chi, and other low-impact activities can all help improve balance and overall physical health.

Those that need a little assistance getting started should not hesitate to reach out to their doctor, family or caregiver. It is never too late to adopt an active lifestyle!

Comfort Keepers^® Can Help

For seniors that need a little extra help living an active lifestyle, Comfort Keepers caregivers can help with encouragement, support and assistance with physician-prescribed exercise plans. And, caregivers can encourage overall health through meal planning, grocery shopping, meal preparation and activities. Our custom care plans focus on physical and mental health and wellness activities. Our goal is to see that clients have the means to find the joy and happiness in each day, regardless of age or acuity.

To learn more about our in-home care services, contact your local Comfort Keepers location today.

References

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Adults Need More Physical Activity.” Web. 2019.

Health and Human Services. “Facts & Statistics: Physical Activity.” Web. 2017.

National Council on Aging. “Exercise Programs That Promote Senior Fitness.” Web.

Reader’s Digest Canada, “5 of the Best Exercises for Seniors to Build Strength, Improve Balance and Boost Hearth Health.” Web.

Harvard Health Publishing. “Exercise after age 70.” Web. 2007.

We all know that we feel better when we eat well. Good eating habits, and being mindful of healthy eating goals, can improve mental and physical health, and give us the energy we need to do the activities we love.

Unfortunately, too many seniors are not having their nutritional needs met. Changes in our bodies as we age, and changing dietary needs, can make healthy eating more difficult for older adults.

One in three hospital patients is malnourished upon admission and almost one-third of Canadian patients (31 percent) experiences declines in nutritional status while in the hospital.

The health risks associated with malnutrition can be especially concerning for seniors. Symptoms can include:

• Weakened immune system
• Poor wound healing
• Muscle weakness
• Weight loss
• Dental issues

If engaging in good eating habits is a struggle, there are steps anyone can take to ensure that they are getting proper nutrition. In addition to consulting a physician about diet or health concerns, they can also try the following tactics to get back on the right track:

One out of every two older adults are at risk of becoming malnourished.

• Make meals a social occasion – Sharing a meal is one of the most enjoyable ways to ensure that someone is eating well. This can look like making something healthy and delicious for others or reaching out to people that love to cook healthy food and offering them your company.
• Make healthy eating fit your budget – Good food doesn’t have to be expensive. A doctor or nutritionist can point patients to budget friendly, nutritious food options. And, maintaining a healthy lifestyle saves money on medical care in the future.
• Shop for healthy foods – Having a kitchen stocked with healthy snacks and meal options is one of the most important steps to maintaining a balanced diet.
• Encourage people to ask for help – If someone you know has concerns about their ability to plan healthy meals, shop for the groceries or if they just aren’t getting the nutrition they need, tell them to ask for help! In-home caregivers, delivery services, family, friends and medical professionals can all help older adults reach their nutrition goals.

For those concerned about their nutrition, or the eating habits of a senior loved one, speaking to a medical professional is critical.

Comfort Keepers^® Can Help

For seniors struggling to maintain healthy eating habits, Comfort Keepers caregivers can help with meal planning, grocery shopping, meal preparation and support for physician-prescribed diets. Our custom care plans focus on physical and mental health and wellness activities. Our goal is to see that clients have the means to find the joy and happiness in each day, regardless of age or acuity.

To learn more about our in-home care services, contact your local Comfort Keepers location today.

References

Feeding America. “Facts about Senior Hunger in America.” Web.

Mayo Clinic. “Senior health: How to prevent and detect malnutrition.” Web. 2017.

Next Avenue, “Malnutrition is Affecting Too Many Older Adults.” Web. 2016.

Public Health Post. “Malnutrition in Older Adults.” Web. 2017
Healthline. “How Your Nutritional Needs Change as you Age.” Web. 2017.

For seniors with memory issues, receiving care while remaining in their home can further enhance their quality of life. This is true for those with minor memory problems that result from age or for those with Alzheimer’s, dementia or other forms of memory loss. A familiar environment can reduce confusion and improve mental engagement, and being surrounded by beloved objects and memory cues can foster a sense of connection and peace.

For older adults, there are some conditions that progress over time and have a significant effect on memory. However, lifestyle changes may help control memory problems and help seniors continue to remain independent at home with a little extra help from family or a professional caregiver.

• Mental exercise: Research has shown memorization helps keep the brain healthy. Learning how to play an instrument or fix a car, and even teaching others, strengthens the brain’s circuits.
• Take a class: Formal education works the brain through the learning process. For those that want to keep their mind sharp, many colleges and universities offer courses at low cost or for free to seniors.
• Socialize: Seniors who interact regularly with friends, family, and community are less likely to experience cognitive decline and can experience a better sense of overall wellbeing. Those who are unable to drive can enlist the help of family and friends to get to social engagements or seek the assistance of a caregiver.
• Get up and move: Exercise is a great way to help keep the mind sharp. Seniors that are interested in increasing their physical activity should consult with a physician before beginning an exercise program.
• Eat well: Good nutrition benefits the mind and the body. Healthcare professionals can suggest dietary guidelines and/or supplements that can help with memory issues.
• Believe in yourself: Scientists are not sure why self-efficacy seems to ward off mental decline, but it may have to do with a person’s ability to manage stress.
• Organize the home. Creating to-do lists, calendars, dedicated spot for keys and items that are often lost, and ensuring that things are put back after use can help those with memory issues feel comfortable and confident.
• Get enough sleep. Lacking sleep can contribute to memory loss, so seniors should take steps to improve their sleep.

Almost 40 per cent of people over the age of 65 experience some form of memory loss.

Taking an active role in engaging the mind can help older adults continue to live with purpose, connection and joy. To learn how professional caregiving can help seniors stay active, social, and engaged, contact your local Comfort Keepers^® office today.

Comfort Keepers^® Can Help

Our goal is to provide uplifting in-home care that benefits seniors and their families. The individualized care plans we create for our clients can include companion care, respite care and Alzheimer’s and dementia care. Our caregivers can provide transportation to community events, support physician-prescribed exercise and diet regimens, provide companionship and help families stay connected through technology. We strive to elevate the human spirit through quality, compassionate, joyful care.

References

Normal Aging vs Dementia.  Alzheimer Society of Canada.  Web 2020.

Psychology Today. Physical Activity Improves Cognitive Function. Web. 2014.

Verywell Mind. Self-Efficacy and Why Believing in Yourself Matters. Web. 2019.

U.S. News & World Report. 5 Secrets to staying sharp as you age. Web. 2015

WebMD. 1 in 9 U.S. Adults Over 45 Reports Memory Issues. Web. 2018.

Mayo Clinic. 7 Tips to Improve Your Memory. Web. 2018.

For seniors, maintaining social connections and staying in touch with loved ones not only improves quality of life, it improves health. Socially isolated seniors have a 59% greater risk of mental and physical decline than those who do not experience social isolation, and socialization has been shown to slow Alzheimer’s and Dementia patient’s decline.

According to Statistic Canada, 5 million people (25% of the population) who are aged 65 and older, now live alone and over 40% of women over 80 live alone. By taking intentional steps to reduce isolation and reduce lack of contact, overall wellbeing is also improved.

So, how can seniors foster connection and reduce loneliness?

• Social Media – Facebook, Instagram and other social media sites can help seniors stay connected to friends and family across the country. And, many social media platforms have built in chat functions, games and other features that foster connection.
• Togetherness Activities – For older adults, planning activities reduces lack of contact. This can be in-person, when possible, or through video chat and phone calls. Virtual or in-person activities can include good conversation, cooking and eating together, reading together, playing games, scrapbooking, or listening to music. And, studies show that planning and looking forward to an event can have mental health benefits too!
• Online Interaction – Seniors may enjoy virtual meetups, online worship services, Facebook trivia night, virtual communities focused on hobbies, and other online activities can help people connect to others in their community without leaving home. For those that are able to go out, sharing hobbies and activities with others can bring joy and connection.
• Virtual Volunteers – For seniors looking for a sense of purpose, there are opportunities to volunteer to help others from the comfort of home. This can include building Easter baskets for children’s charities, sewing quilts for shelters, writing cards for military service members oversees and other activities that allow people to do good works in their free time.

The health effects of social isolation and loneliness on seniors is equivalent to smoking 15 cigarettes per day.

Isolation and loneliness can be signs that a senior lacks the support and tools needed to live a healthy, independent life. However, with planning and deliberate action, fostering positive relationships and connections can be incredibly rewarding for everyone involved.

Comfort Keepers^® Can Help

For seniors that need companionship or help fighting loneliness, Comfort Keepers caregivers can help with encouragement, support and assistance with daily living. And, caregivers can encourage overall health through meal planning, grocery shopping, meal preparation and activities. Our custom care plans focus on physical and mental health and wellness activities. Our goal is to see that clients have the means to find the joy and happiness in each day, regardless of age or acuity.

To learn more about our in-home care services, contact your local Comfort Keepers location today.

References:

Statistics Canada.  “Living Arrangements of Seniors”. Web.  2018.

Forbes. “Technology can help the lonely elderly endure social distancing” Web. 2020.

Journal of Aging Research. “use of Physical and Intellectual Activities and Socialization in the Management of Cognitive Decline of Aging and in Dementia”. Web. 2012.

Psychology Today. “How to Help Older Adults Fight Loneliness During COVID-19”. Web. 2020.

Caring.com. “Senior Loneliness: The Risks of Loneliness and Senior Neglect” by Melanie Haiken. Web. 2015

Forbes. “Are Social Determinants the Missing Key to Improving Health?” Web. 2018

Changes to vision and concerns about eye health can happen rapidly for older adults. Seniors should get a vision test once a year and should always follow a doctor’s recommendations on treatment plans and vision health.

Here are eight strategies for seniors to maintain eye health:

1. Diet – Eating delicious food is one of the most enjoyable ways seniors can maintain eye health. And, there are a variety of options that provide vitamins and nutrients that help with eye health – kale, carrots, eggs, sweet potatoes, oranges, almonds and salmon are great sources.
2. Exercise – A physician-recommended exercise plan can not only help with overall health, but has benefits for the eyes too. Increased blood circulation can remove toxins and increase oxygen levels in the eyes.
3. Avoid eye trauma – Injuries can have a huge impact on long-term eye and vision health and taking precautions can prevent accidental eye trauma. Remembering to wear protective eyewear or goggles when appropriate, using chemicals and sharp objects with caution, and eliminating trip hazards are some of the ways that accidents can be avoided.
4. Smart computer use – Regular computer use can lead to eye strain and discomfort at any age. However, computer screens can be more harmful to our eyes as we age, and can cause headaches, eye irritation or vision issues like blurriness or seeing double. Seniors that use a computer regularly, particularly those who are in front of a computer for long periods of time, should make sure that their desk has good lighting, take regular breaks and always use corrective eyewear.
5. Consider other health issues – Older adults can have health issues that affect their vision health, and it’s important to talk to a healthcare professional about how physical conditions and medications can have an impact on the eyes.
6. Sunglasses – Protective eyewear becomes more important as we age, and it’s important for seniors to build the habit of always wearing sunglasses when they are outside.
7. Sleep – Sleep has beneficial properties for overall health, wellbeing and quality of life. It’s no surprise that getting a good night’s rest is important for eye health too!
8. Vision screenings – Changes to vision and eye health can happen rapidly for older adults. Seniors should get a vision test done once a year and should always follow a doctor’s recommendations on treatment plans and health.

One in three seniors has some form of vision-reducing eye disease by age 65.

Comfort Keepers^® Can Help

If someone is experiencing changes in their vision, or wants to build healthy habits, the trusted care team at Comfort Keepers^® can help. Our caregivers can assist with meal preparation, medication reminders and can support physician-prescribed exercise regimens and diets. Our goal is to see that clients have the means to find the joy and happiness in each day, regardless of age or acuity.

To learn more about our in-home care services, contact your local Comfort Keepers location today.

References

ClearCare. “3 Easy Tips for Seniors to Maintain Healthy Eyes & Improve Vision.” Web. 2016.

American Academy of Ophthalmology. “Tips for Eye Health in Adults Over 60.” Web. 2014.

All About Vision. “Boost your diet to protect aging eyes.” Web. 2019.

Bausch + Lomb. “60+ Eye Health.” Web.

Many of us enjoy having a cocktail with friends or drinking a glass of wine with dinner. For seniors, with a doctor’s approval, this doesn’t have to change. However, it’s important to be aware of the ways that alcohol can physically affect older adults, and how the signs of alcohol abuse look different for seniors that suffer from the negative effects.

As we age:

• How we process alcohol changes – Slower metabolism can cause alcohol to stay in the body for longer periods of time. Also, having less muscle mass means alcohol stays in the blood for a longer period, prolonging the effects.
• Being intoxicated feels different – Seniors have a lower tolerance to the effects of alcohol. Intoxication typically happens more swiftly and lasts longer than in someone younger.
• Older adults are more likely to have other conditions made worse with alcohol consumption – Health conditions more common in seniors can be made worse with alcohol use. Seniors are also more likely to be using medications that should not be mixed with alcohol.

Some seniors may discuss their personal situation with their physician, and find they are able to consume alcohol without any health issues. However, those that may have a problem with alcohol can exhibit the following signs and symptoms:

• Feeling ill-tempered when not drinking
• Sleep difficulties
• Sustaining injuries while intoxicated
• Drinking to fight depression or anxiety
• Loss of appetite
• Developing social or financial problems related to drinking
• Lying about drinking habits
• Poor hygiene
• Drinking against the advice of their physician or healthcare provider

10-15% of people don’t start to drink heavily until they are older in age

There are many programs in place that can help seniors that are abusing alcohol, and research shows that programs are more effective when they are targeted to people in this age group. If you think someone may have a drinking problem, encourage them to reach out for help.

Comfort Keepers^® Can Help

It’s hard to stay connected to loved ones that live far away, and the trusted care team at Comfort Keepers can help. Our caregivers can provide companionship and wellness support, remind clients to take medication, provide transportation to scheduled appointments, and support physician-prescribed exercise regimens and diets. As part of an individualized care plan, caregivers can let a senior’s care team know if there are changes in behavior or physical characteristics. Our goal is to see that clients have the means to find the joy and happiness in each day, regardless of age or acuity.

To learn more about our in-home care services, contact your local Comfort Keepers location today.

References

Aging.com. “Alcohol Abuse Amongst the Elderly: A Complete Guide.” Web. 2018.

National Institute on Aging. “Facts about Aging and Alcohol” Web.2017.

U.S. News and World Report. “The Do’s and Don’ts of Alcohol Intervention for Seniors” Web. 2018.