What is Age-Related Macular Degeneration?

Age-related macular degeneration (ARMD) is the breakdown of the macula, which is the region of the eye with the greatest visual acuity. This breakdown causes central vision to blur, making reading, driving, and sewing difficult. Because ARMD is a common disease in the elderly, there are several things you should know when providing home care in Prescott to help your loved one prevent or delay the onset of the disease.

The Disease Itself Doesn’t Lead to Blindness

The macula is responsible for central vision and allows us to see fine details. While ARMD can cause a loss of vision in this area, it doesn’t affect peripheral vision.

It Can Develop Either Slowly or Rapidly

In some seniors, the disease develops so slowly that symptoms aren’t noticed for a long time. In others, however, the disease can rapidly progress, causing loss of vision in one or both eyes.

Early Detection Is Critical

Because early symptoms sometimes go unnoticed, it is important for your loved one to receive regular eye examinations. If you or a Prescott caregiver notices your loved one experiencing any of the following symptoms, schedule an appointment for him or her as soon as possible.

• Blurriness in part of the eye
• Seeing dark areas
• Blank spots that may grow and enlarge
• Distorted view

Though there is no cure for early ARMD, lifestyle changes can be made that may prevent the disease from further progressing. Additionally, your loved one’s doctor may recommend more frequent eye exams to check on the progression of the disease.

As the ARMD progresses, supplements may be recommended by your loved one’s doctor to slow down the progression. The disease can also be treated with injections, photodynamic therapy, and laser surgery.

Lifestyle Changes Can Prevent or Delay AMD

Genetics have been found to play a role in developing ARMD. People over the age of 50 are also at a higher risk if they:

• Smoke
• Get little or no exercise
• Eat an unhealthy diet sparse in fruits and vegetables

A recent study from the National Eye Institute found those with a family history of the disease were less likely to develop it when they made healthy lifestyle changes.

Does your loved one need help maintaining healthy habits that can lead to the prevention of ARMD and other complications? Home Care Assistance offers part-time and 24-hour care Prescott families trust, and our caregivers can assist your loved one with exercise, nutritious meal prep, and help with a wide array of other daily tasks. For more information on our senior care services, call one of our knowledgeable Care Managers at 928-771-0105 to schedule a free in-home consultation.

Visit us today @ www.homecareassistanceprescott.com

Why Seniors Need to Get an Adequate Amount of Sleep

    

In a society focused on productivity, sleep is often viewed as one of the first things that can be skipped when times get busy. While cutting down on sleep is not good at any age, it is particularly hard on seniors. For older adults who need motivation to maintain their sleep hygiene practices, here are a few reasons getting enough sleep is important during the golden years.

Reduce the Risk of Fall-Related Injuries

Staying alert is critical for senior safety. Seniors who are overtired are more likely to make mistakes such as tripping over a cord. Simply going to bed on time each night helps seniors be aware of what they are doing during the day so they can reduce the risk of falling.

Seniors can face a variety of challenges as they age, many of which can be mitigated with the help of professional in-home caregivers who provide high-quality home care. Prescott families trust in Home Care Assistance to help their elderly loved ones age in place safely and comfortably.

Enhance Memory Retention

Sleep deprivation can lead to brain fog. This is especially true for seniors who need time during their sleep cycle to renew the connections between the neurons in their brain. Seniors should strive to get at least six to eight hours of sleep at night to keep their brains functioning properly.

Maintain the Immune System

In addition to strengthening neural connections, sleep helps the body repair the injuries it sustains during the day. Proper sleep hygiene is often recommended for seniors who are recovering from an illness or injury. For some seniors, it may even be necessary to take a short nap during the day to get enough sleep while they recover.

 Living with a serious health condition can make it challenging for seniors to age in place. However, they can maintain a higher quality of life with the help of professional live-in home care. Prescottseniors can benefit from assistance with meal prep, bathing, transportation to the doctor’s office, medication reminders, and much more.

Promote Emotional Wellbeing

Seniors may feel agitated from a lack of sleep, and they must watch out for mood swings caused by sleep deprivation. For instance, seniors may be prone to the symptoms of depression after a night of going without sleep. Ideally, a senior’s bedtime routine should involve dimming the lights and engaging in a quiet, soothing activity such as reading. Focusing on relaxing activities before bed can alleviate stress and help seniors feel better in the morning.

Increase Energy for Exercise

When recovering from an injury or illness, seniors are often prescribed therapeutic exercises that they may find challenging. For this reason, seniors should make sure their sleep is restful enough that they have the energy needed to complete their daily exercise routine.

Exercising during the day also helps seniors get better sleep, and maintaining good sleep hygiene can reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. Seniors with Alzheimer’s have much to gain when their families opt for professional Alzheimer’s home care. Prescott, Arizona, families can rely on compassionate and dedicated caregivers to help their elderly loved ones manage the various challenges of Alzheimer’s disease so they can enjoy a higher quality of life. If your aging loved one needs assistance managing the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease or another form of cognitive decline, turn to Home Care Assistance at 928-771-0105.

Changing the way the world ages!    

Visit us today @ www.homecareassistanceprescott.com

Aging In Place

Staying at Home Instead of Senior Housing is the First Choice for Most

According to AARP, 87% of older adults want to age in place, or stay in their own home as they age. As the senior population continues to grow, Aging in Place is the secret to the future of aging because it is not only preferred, but will become necessary to accommodate the growing population of older adults.

Between 2006 and 2030, the number of U.S. citizens over the age of 65 is expected to double from 37 million to 71.5 million, a number that represents 20% of the total population. By 2050, there are expected to be 89 million older adults over the age of 65.

Despite the booming construction of senior housing and senior facilities across the nation, it is anticipated that there won’t be sufficient availability for the number of Baby Boomers as they age.

While Aging in Place is the situation most seniors prefer, it will also become the necessary choice for seniors and society as a whole.

For the past six years, 10,000 people have been reaching retirement age daily. As a result, nearly 22 million people have entered the retirement phase of their lives. However, these numbers significant-ly outpace the senior housing industry, which is expected to build only 96,000 residences per year. 

In addition, the population of adults 85 and older will rise simultaneously and increase from approximately 14% in 2010 to 21% by 2050. In addition, this age group will most likely require some additional form of support and care.

In a 2004 study supported by the National Alliance for Caregiving and the AARP, 75 was the average age that a person started needing care at home, most commonly motivated by frailty due to aging. Additional reasons requiring home care included diagnoses of diabetes, cancer and heart disease.

Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia also require home care support for aging adults. As of 2016, nearly 5.4 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease. One in nine people over the age of 65 has the disease. As Baby Boomers continue to age, this number is anticipated to triple from over 5 million to almost 14 million.

Staying in the familiar home environment can prevent the onset and progression of symptoms of cognitive decline, provide security and fulfill physical, emotional and social needs. Given that senior housing availability will be outpaced by the maturing population, planning for Aging in Place will allow seniors to remain in the comfort of home and help our communities, which include a stronger representation of seniors each day, continue to thrive.

Our mission at Home Care Assistance of Prescott is to change the way the world ages. We provide older adults with quality care in Prescott, that enables them to live happier, healthier lives at home. Our services are distinguished by the caliber of our caregivers, the responsiveness of our staff and our expertise in live-in care. We embrace a positive, balanced approach to aging centered on the evolving needs of older adults. If you have questions or want more information regarding care options for you or a loved one in Prescott, AZ, or the surrounding area, please call us at 928-771-0105 or schedule a complimentary in-home consultation with a dedicated Care Manager.

Visit us online today @ www.homecareassistanceprescott.com 

How To Keep Seniors Cool in a Heat Wave

Heat waves are uncomfortable for most people, but they can be deadly for seniors. Soaring temperatures can cause serious medical consequences for the elderly, and finding ways to keep your loved one cool during a heat wave can be essential to his or her overall health and wellbeing. The senior care experts at Home Care Assistance of Prescott have a few simple tips for keeping your senior loved one cool on the hottest days.

Stay in Contact

When the temperatures start to rise to the top of the thermometer, make an extra effort to check on any seniors who are living alone. Make sure they have adequate air conditioning, cold water, and ventilation in their homes. Some seniors are often unaware when temperatures have reached dangerous levels, so it is important to check on your loved one often to make sure he or she is staying cool.

Take Your Loved One Out

If your loved one lives in a home without air conditioning, it may be necessary to get him or her out of the situation until the weather returns to normal levels. This may mean staying in a hotel or simply going to a cooling station during the day. Many cities open gyms and recreation centers for people who are seeking to beat the heat. A day at the movie theater or indoor mall may be just what your loved one needs to keep cool.

Keep Him or Her Hydrated

Seniors often get dehydrated quickly, so it is important they get the right amount of fluids to stay healthy. In addition to drinking water, it is vital they drink an adequate amount of electrolytes, which are lost when your loved one sweats. Electrolytes can be found in many sports drinks.

Staying cool during a heat wave is important for all seniors, but if your loved one faces any health challenges,it may be difficult to do what it takes to avoid the heat. A professional caregiver from Home Care Assistance can offer that extra helping hand. At Home Care Assistance, we offer live-in and part-time hourly care in Prescott, and our caregivers can provide transportation or even go grocery shopping whenever your loved one starts running low on fluids. For more information, call a Care Manager today at 928-771-0105 to schedule a complimentary in-home consultation.

Visit us online @ www.homecareassistanceprescott.com 

5 Ways Older Adults Can Protect Themselves Against Crime

Even though violent crimes against seniors are decreasing, property crimes against people over the age of 65 still take place at an alarming rate. Older adults are often the targets of scams that end up costing them thousands of dollars. However, these five steps can drastically reduce a senior’s risk of being targeted by criminals.

1. Invest in a Paper Shredder

It can be easy for a criminal to steal an individual’s identity by sifting through his or her trash. By stealing a few bills, the criminal can apply for new loans and credit cards in a senior’s name. Paper shredders aren’t completely foolproof, but they deter most criminal activities. Anything that has a senior’s name, address, phone number, social security number, or banking information should be shredded before it is thrown away.

Many older adults are choosing to age in place, and some need a helping hand to continue living at home safely and comfortably. Luckily, there is professional in-home senior care Prescott seniors can trust and rely on.

2. Take a Look at New Scams Once or Twice a Year

New scams make headlines almost every month. The vast majority of scams may not affect every senior, but it is a good idea to keep an eye out for potential risks. Whether the scam involves fraudulent IRS bills or fake companies asking for donations, seniors need to be aware of the most common crimes targeting seniors.

3. Avoid Unusual Files and Downloads

Even if seniors don’t use their computers or smartphones often, they might have some personal data stored on these devices. The easiest way for criminals to steal digital information is to trick seniors into downloading unusual files or documents. As a general rule, seniors should never download anything unless they know the source of the file. They also need to update their computers and software as often as possible to keep the system secure. As a caregiver, educate your loved one about the dangers of downloading suspicious files and keep a watchful eye on the files he or she downloads.

Family caregivers sometimes need a break from their caregiving responsibilities. When they need respite care, Prescott families can rely on professional caregivers to help their senior loved ones remain safe at home.

 4. Always Research Companies

With access to the internet, seniors can easily carry out research on companies. In addition to skimming over the past work and the history of a company, seniors should look at reviews as well. Fake reviews do exist, but seniors can typically get a pretty good sense of a company by skimming through recent reviews. Companies that don’t have reviews or references should be avoided.

5. Turn Away Solicitors

The two most common types of solicitors are those who repeatedly call landlines and door-to-door salespeople. While the occasional salesperson may be from a legitimate company, it is a good idea to avoid anyone who is trying to aggressively sell a product or service. Signing up for the Do Not Call registry is one of the best ways to avoid unpleasant phone calls, and putting up a “No Soliciting” sign in the front yard is one of the most effective ways to legally keep solicitors away.

Aging in place can present a few unique challenges for older adults. Some only require part-time assistance with exercise or meal preparation, while others are living with serious illnesses and benefit more significantly from receiving live-in care. Prescott, Arizona, Home Care Assistance are leaders in the elderly in-home care industry for good reason. We tailor our care plans based on each senior’s individual needs, our caregivers continue to receive updated training in senior care as new developments arise, and we also offer comprehensive care for seniors with Alzheimer’s, dementia, and Parkinson’s. To learn about our high-quality elderly care plans, give us a call at 928-771-0105 today.

Visit us online today@ www.homecareassistanceprescott.com 

4 Reasons Why Senior Need Strong Muscles

Exercise is important to healthy aging. Strong muscles improve balance and decrease the risk of falls. Strong muscles can also reduce aches and pains and increase an overall sense of well-being. Seniors don’t need to become competitive weight lifters but the stronger their muscles become the better their health will be.
 
As we age, muscle mass decreases. Starting in our thirties and continuing into our eighties we lose up to 15% of our lean muscle mass. Maintaining muscle strength and mass helps to strengthen bones and restore balance, one of the most important factors in avoiding falls. It can help to reduce the common symptoms of some common aging problems including arthritis, diabetes, osteoporosis, obesity, back pain, and depression.The good news is that the body is responsive to strength training at any age.
 
Here are four reasons why seniors need strong muscles:
 
1. Reduce the risk of falls: Each year, more than 1.6 million older U.S. adults go to emergency departments for fall-related injuries. They are a leading cause of injury and even death. Lifting weights just two or three times a week can increase strength by building lean muscle. Studies have shown that even this small amount of strength training can increase bone density, overall strength, and balance. The fewer falls your loved one experiences the healthier they will be.
 
2. Improve balance: Improving balance can decrease the risk of falls and increase mobility. Better balance means better walking and that makes exercise easier. Improved balance will also reduce the risk of accidents at home. When a senior has better balance they are more able to carry out the activities of daily living independently.
 
3. Fight osteoporosis: As we age, bone density decreases. That can lead to osteoporosis, a condition in which the bones become fragile, weak and are more prone to fractures. More than 40 million Americans have, or are at risk for, osteoporosis. It is more common in women than in men. However, exercise can increase bone strength and density. Weight-bearing activity is particularly useful in fighting osteoporosis because it causes the bones to work harder and strengthens the muscles around them.
 
4. Fight osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis is a condition in which the cartilage between the joints breaks down with age. It causes stiffness, pain, and loss of movement in the joints. Strength training is effective in fighting osteoarthritis and improving the joints, especially when exercises improve range of motion, flexibility and endurance. Staying active and maintaining a healthy weight are two of the most effective ways to manage osteoarthritis.
 
In addition to these specific benefits, exercise improves overall mood and cognitive function for seniors. Studies have shown that regular physical activity can slow memory decline and protect against dementia. The Balanced Care Method puts these findings into practice. It is a program developed by Home Care Assistance built on studies that demonstrate that only one-third of our longevity is based on genetics and two-thirds on lifestyle factors within our control.
 
Home Care Assistance caregivers are trained in the Method, offering the first senior care solution with an emphasis on balance and longevity. By working with specific lifestyle behaviors, Home Care Assistance caregivers extend and enhance the lives of seniors, helping them live longer, happier, more balanced lives. We can help your senior remain active in order to fight age-related disease, maintain strong muscles and prevent what can be the devastating effect of falls.

Visit us online @ http://www.homecareassistanceprescott.com 

How To Help A Parent Recover From A Stroke At Home

Recovering from a stroke is a lifelong process made up of tiny steps over the course of many months and years. It is not a process with a specific time frame or goals that can be accomplished according to a set schedule. In order to help your parent recover from a stroke at home you need information and support. Recovery is a long process and the more you know the easier it will be.
 
Going home from the hospital or rehabilitation center may be the hardest thing your loved one will do after a stroke. When your parent comes home you will be able to determine the full extent of their limitations as they try to carry out activities of daily living. Entering familiar surroundings will bring memories of all the things he or she loves and wants to do; some of which may not be possible due to the impairments of the stroke. Your parent must also try to apply the skills learned in rehab to the home environment. These factors make returning home a time fraught with emotion and frustration. Encouragement is key at this time. Remind your parent that the first step is coming home and that together you can work toward resuming beloved activities.
 
As a caregiver, you must prepare yourself for the road ahead as well. It can be difficult to adjust to the fact that your parent can no longer do some things for themselves. It can be disconcerting to watch him or her struggle to do simple things like walk, talk or get a glass of water. You may have to give up your free time and the ability to do things that you enjoy. It will help if you seek out support for yourself immediately through stroke support groups, and set up a personal support network of friends and family who can share some of the caregiving responsibilities. It is important to take stroke recovery one day at a time.
 
Make sure that the home environment is safe and easy for your parent to navigate. Make sure that walkways outside the house are smooth and well lit. Make sure that indoor traffic patterns are wide, clear and non-slip. Grab bars beside the tub and toilet are essential and night lights are a must-have throughout the house.
 
Information is power and you are going to need lots of it as you help your parent recover from a stroke at home. Start by scheduling a follow-up appointment for your parent with his or her primary care physician, they’ll be able to give you important information to about how to approach post-stroke and identify signs of stroke. Ask about support services available at the hospital and in your community. Talk to the doctor about whether your parent qualifies for visiting nurse services or other types of at-home clinical support. Then ask if you can speak to the social worker at the hospital in order to get a list of all the community support services that you might access.
 
Inquire about specific types of programs in your area including Meals on Wheels that delivers hot meals to the home, adult day care with activities that can support your loved one’s recovery, and at-home care agencies that can provide highly trained caregivers with specific skills to help you care for a parent after a stroke. You will also want to check on local transportation services that can take wheelchair users and others on errands such as shopping or doctor’s visits.

Visit us online today @ http://www.homecareassistanceprescott.com