Top 5 Reasons to Consider Home Care Assistance for Older Adults

Since 2007, the Alzheimers Association has published an Alzheimers Facts and Figures report every year to raise awareness about this all-too-common disease. This comprehensive report explains the latest statistics, challenges, and breakthroughs relating to Alzheimers disease. In this way, it serves as an important resource for individuals, families, communities, and policymakers alike.At ComForCare, were passionate about Alzheimers services and education. Recently, Cindy GrayRN, certified dementia practitioner, and owner of ComForCare Orlandosat down with Kristen Moore Bennett, Health Systems Director at the Alzheimer's Association, to have a conversation about the latest edition of ALZ Facts & Figures. We wanted to break down some of the key takeaways from their discussion as they relate to older adults and their families throughout the nation. If youd like to listen to the full conversation, check out the ComForConnections podcast here.The State of Alzheimers Disease Today: Key StatisticsRight now, more than 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimers disease (AD), a specific brain disease that causes dementia. AD involves both a buildup of abnormal proteins and the tangling of nerve cells in the brain, known as neurons. The first neurons to be damaged are those responsible for memory, language skills, and thinking ability. As of 2019, Alzheimers disease-related dementia was the 6th leading cause of death in the United States, more than breast cancer and prostate cancer combined. Currently, this costs the nation about $345 billionnot to mention the unquantifiable and devastating toll it takes on our families.If no medical breakthroughs occur in the coming decades, it is estimated that the number of Americans with AD will rise to 13.8 million by 2060. Thats why continuing AD research and development is so crucial.Medical Breakthroughs in Alzheimers TreatmentDespite these challenges, there is plenty of hope to be found. Great strides have been made over the last year in researching the cause, prevention, and treatment of AD. The U.S. Food & Drug Administration has now approved three disease-modifying treatments:Aducanumab (Aduhelm): a medication that reduces beta-amyloid plaques (a marker of AD), slowing the progression of Alzheimers diseaseLecanemab (Leqembi): a medication that moderately slows cognitive and functional decline by blocking the formation of new amyloid plaquesBrexpiprazole (Rexulti): a medication approved to treat agitation behaviors associated with AD dementiaBrexpiprazole was approved on May 11, 2023, making it the newest Alzheimers drug to bring hope to the millions of families affected by this disease.Unfortunately, many patients wont have access to these treatments, as the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) currently do not cover them. This is the first time that the CMS has declined coverage for an FDA-approved treatment. We encourage families interested in these groundbreaking treatments to talk to their legislators about expanding coverage!The Importance of Early DetectionAs research into AD medications continues to grow, so too does research into the effects and expansion of early detection methods. Experts now believe that brain changes may begin as early as 20 years before memory loss and other symptoms appear. New studies are allowing medical professionals to identify these early changes, screen for genetic markers that heighten dementia risks, and make earlier interventions.Early detection is important for a number of reasons:Access to treatments targeted toward the early stages of the diseaseAccess to clinical trials and other promising research initiativesA chance to prioritize your health & well-being to slow disease progressionMore time for financial planningMore time for Alzheimers care planningBarriers to Early DetectionUnderstanding the challenges that people face when it comes to detecting AD early is critical if we want to break those barriers down. Racial disparities: A recent study shows that Black Americans have more risk factors for AD and greater symptom severity, but have a 35% lower chance of receiving an Alzheimers or dementia diagnosis at their initial visit compared to white study participants.Disease stigma: Only 40% of Americans said they would proactively speak with their healthcare providers about AD. However, when surveyed, 70% of seniors said they would want to know if they had it. Physician reluctance & lack of training: Primary care physicians and staff can be reluctant to diagnose and assess a patients cognition due to constraints on time, knowledge, and training on the best next steps for treatment.As a nation, we need to talk about these challenges, tackling the stigmas and biases that prevent all people from receiving the services and treatment they need. Together, we can help more people set themselves up for the best possible future and optimize their remaining time with their families.The Realities of Caring for Someone with Alzheimers DiseaseIn 2022, 11 million caregivers provided 18 billion hours of unpaid services to loved ones living with AD. Eventually, the cost and stress of caretaking take their toll on family caregivers own health, relationships, and mental well-being. Thats why understanding the signs of burnout and how to obtain help for someone with AD is crucial.At ComForCare, we developed a training program for our caregivers called DementiaWise. Approved by the Alzheimers Association, this training program empowers our caregivers to not only provide world-class dementia care to their clients but also help create better days for their families.Bottom Line: Lets Talk About Alzheimers DiseaseIf youre concerned about yourself or a family member, the best thing you can do is keep talking about it! Keep exploring options and opinions from healthcare professionals, and dont be afraid to investigate early on. And if you have already received a diagnosis, dont lose hopewhile we still have much to learn about this disease, the treatment and services available is more advanced than ever before.For more information about Alzheimers disease, its signs and symptoms, and how to find the right support for your familys needs, browse our Dementia Care resources today.Find Your Perfect In-Home Alzheimers Care Solution with ComForCareComForCares DementiaWise trained in-home caregivers are here for people with Alzheimers and other forms of dementia. With flexible options to fit your schedule, caregiver matching, and personalized strategies and resources to optimize health and well-being, ComForCare is leading the nation in dementia services. Contact us today to find your perfect caregiver!

Good nutrition is important, no matter your age. Eating right is how your body gets vital nutrients: substances that our bodies need so they can function and grow, like carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, minerals, and even water. But as you age, your body and life change, and so does what you need to stay healthywhich is why senior nutrition is such an important topic.Many people dont realize how big of a role nutrition plays in their long-term health and happiness. They may have a general sense of what healthy means, but knowing and doing are, of course, two different things. Lets take a closer look at what special considerations adults over 50 need to know about nutrition that can help them lead longer, healthier lives.5 Things Everyone Should Know About Senior NutritionOlder Adults Need Fewer Calories, But More NutrientsWe all know that finding the right balance of calories is crucial for maintaining a healthy weight throughout adulthood. But older adults generally need fewer calories than they used to due to changes in metabolism, physical activity levels, and age-related loss of muscle mass.However, while you may need fewer calories, you still need the same amount of nutrients, if not more. Nutrients are crucial for energy and weight control. They can also help prevent some diseases, like osteoporosis, high blood pressure, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers.Foods to Focus OnOver 50, its more important than ever to cut empty calories like sodas, chips, candies, and alcohol. Instead, focus on calorie-light but nutrient-packed foods, such as:Fruits and vegetables (choose different types with bright colors)Whole grains, like oatmeal, whole-wheat bread, and brown riceFat-free or low-fat milk and cheese, or soy or rice milk that has added vitamin D and calciumSeafood, lean meats, poultry, and eggsBeans, nuts, and seedsProtein Plays a Role in Fall PreventionDespite needing fewer calories, older adults actually have higher protein requirements than younger adultsespecially if theyre dealing with an illness. Our bodies progressively lose muscle mass, strength, and function over time, beginning as early as our 30s. When people get older, their bodies cant process protein as efficiently, especially in the face of stressful situations like chronic disease, acute illness, or hospitalization. That means seniors need to get more protein from their diet to support and preserve muscle mass.  Why Is Muscle Mass So Important? Muscle loss and general weakness resulting from inadequate nutrition can lead to falls. Every year, one out of four older adults experience a fall, which can have serious physical and mental health consequences. Fall prevention is a multifaceted but highly important part of overall health and wellness in older age.Additionally, studies have suggested that older adults who consume more protein are more capable of performing activities of daily living for longer. When muscle mass is preserved, everyday functions like getting out of bed, bathing and dressing, and moving around the house may be, too! A Good Time to Focus on Good CarbohydratesCarbs have a bad reputation these days, with the rise in low-carb diets sweeping the nation. But for a balanced diet, the Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends carbohydrates make up 45%-65% of every adults diet. Instead of cutting carbs entirely, nutrition is about focusing on the right carbohydrates to support energy and digestion.There are good and bad carbohydrates, and the bad ones only cause more problems as we age. Bad carbs are simple: they are mostly starches or sugars, stripped of nutrients, and make blood sugar levels spike quickly. Good carbohydrates are complex: they are mostly fibers and other beneficial nutrients, which are slower to digest, helping regulate blood sugar and feelings of fullness.Good Carbs (Complex)Bad Carbs (Simple)Whole-grain bread, pasta, rice, oatmeal, baked goods containing whole-what flourWhite bread, white paste, white rice, baked goods containing white flourNuts and seedsProcessed foods like potato chips, crackers, breakfast cerealLegumes (lentils, beans, etc.)SodaFruits and vegetables with edible skinsSugary desserts and candiesThe Low-Down on SodiumSodium (aka salt) is another nutrient that has a bad reputation, though it comes by it honestly. Sodium is necessary for proper body function: it helps maintain fluid balance, conducts nerve impulses, and helps with muscle contraction. However, most American adults get too much sodium, which contributes to high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease.There are also special considerations for seniors. As we age, our kidney function naturally decreases, which can make it harder to remove excess sodium from the body. That means taking special care to limit sodium intake to less than 2,300mg per dayabout the equivalent of one teaspoon of table salt.Vitamin D & CalciumWe know that the sun helps our bodies produce Vitamin D. But not only is sun exposure risky for our healthour skin also changes as we get older, becoming less adept at producing Vitamin D. That means we need to rely more on food sources and supplements to get it. Vitamin D helps our bodies absorb calcium, which is why taking both together is so crucial for building and maintaining healthy bones. Research shows that it can prevent and even improve osteoporosis, a condition that leads to weak, brittle bones. Older adultseven those who already struggle with weakness or frailtycan develop stronger muscles and reduce their fall risk with adequate Vitamin D levels.Your doctor can help you determine the right amount of Vitamin D for your diet and recommend a supplement. You can also focus on eating foods like:Egg yolksFatty fish like salmon, tuna, and sardinesOrange juiceYogurtMilkMushroomsGet Online Resources to Support Meal Planning & More!Prioritizing nutrition can be challenging for seniors, and navigating each consideration can feel a little daunting. If you or your loved one faces challenges with accessing and preparing healthy foods or has other barriers like difficulty chewing or swallowing, help is out there! At ComForCare, weve prepared a free meal planning guide filled with simple yet nutritious recipes developed with seniors unique needs in mind. This guide is packed with helpful tips, recipes, and advice for caring for a loved one with dietary barriers. Plus, you can join us on Facebook every Thursday at 1 pm EST for the latest episode of Care Kitchen, our live cooking program led by chef Steve Toll! Were always exploring new ways to support and inspire creativity in cooking, whether for yourself or for loved ones in your care. ComForCare: Compassionate, Personalized In-Home Care for Older AdultsIf you or your loved one need more help planning and preparing nutritious meals, ComForCares caregivers can help. Our in-home care services can be personalized to support your needs, including meal prep, personal care, transportation, and more. Learn more about our care services or reach out to your local team today to find your perfect caregiver!

Its a new year, and that means most of us are thinking about making healthy changes. Whether you call them resolutions or not, its only natural to see this time as a perfect moment for reflecting on our health and working toward better habits. For many older adults, however, the fitness gear ads, trendy at-home workouts, and discounted gym memberships feel like theyre geared toward someone elsethat is, a much younger audience. Unfortunately, only 12.7% of people 65 or older get enough physical activity in their lives. Exercise for seniors can feel out of reach for many reasons, from health problems to mobility concerns. But it doesnt have to. There are plenty of ways to get and stay active when youre aging in place. Lets talk about some of the ways that seniors can get moving safely and improve their overall health!The Many Benefits of Exercise for SeniorsExercise has been touted as a wonder drugeven the New York Times has said as much. Even light exercise has a bevy of benefits, from improving longevity to managing chronic conditions. Getting regular physical activity can help older adults maintain their ability to perform activities of daily living, prevent illnesses and health conditions like heart disease, and improve overall quality of life. Lets take a look at some of the top reasons people over 65 shouldnt throw in the towel on fitness.Improved cardiovascular healthEnhanced strength and flexibilityWeight managementJoint healthBalance and coordinationChronic disease managementIncreased longevityBoosted mood and mental healthImproved sleep3 Exercises for Seniors of Any Age & AbilityEach of these exercises can be great for older adults. Remember to always start with a warmup,  listen to your body, and take breaks as needed. It's important to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts as you get stronger.Sample Warm-up (5 minutes):Gentle neck rolls: Slowly roll your head in a circular motion, five times forward and five times backward.Arm circles: Extend your arms out to the sides and make small circles forward and backward, 10 times each direction.Ankle circles: Sit or stand holding onto a chair for support. Make small circles with your feet, 10 times clockwise and 10 times counterclockwise.Balance Exercises for SeniorsTo reduce the risk of falls, improving balance becomes increasingly important as we age. Thankfully, several simple yet effective exercises can help seniors improve their stability and prevent falls. Here's an example of a fun and engaging balancing exercise routine for seniors:Single-leg stand: Hold onto a chair or wall for support if needed. From a standing position, lift one leg off the ground and hold for 10 seconds. Repeat on the other side. Gradually increase the hold time as you get stronger. Heel-toe walk: Stand tall with your feet shoulder-width apart. Take a step forward, placing your heel where your toes were from the previous step. Continue walking in this heel-toe fashion for 10-15 steps, then turn and repeat in the other direction. Marching in place: Lift your knees high as you march in place, keeping your core engaged and your back straight. Do this for 30 seconds to 1 minute. Chair Exercises for SeniorsChair exercises offer a fantastic way for seniors to keep their bodies moving and improve their overall health and well-being, all from the comfort of their own homes. Remember to use a sturdy chair, listen to your body, and take breaks as needed.Bicep curls: Sit tall at the edge of the chair. Hold a lightweight object (water bottles or soup cans work well) in each hand. Bend your elbows, bringing the weights towards your shoulders, then slowly lower them back down. Repeat 10-12 times. Shoulder shrugs: Raise your shoulders up towards your ears, hold for a second, then relax. Repeat 10-12 times. Heel raises: Sit with your feet flat on the floor. Lift your heels off the ground, squeezing your calf muscles. Hold for a second, then lower them back down. Repeat 10-12 times. Leg extensions: Sit tall with your legs extended straight out in front of you. Slowly lift one leg up as high as you comfortably can, hold for a second, then lower it back down. Repeat 10-12 times per leg. Core Exercises for SeniorsIf you havent heard by now, crunches are OUT. Instead, try these three core exercises recommended by a Harvard-affiliated physical therapist to build strength in the abdomen, back, and pelvis area.Bridges: This exercise is perfect for beginners or those with limitations. Simply lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Push through your heels and squeeze your glutes to lift your hips off the ground until your body forms a straight line. Hold for a few seconds, then slowly lower back down.Knee Plank: This is the most beginner-friendly type of plank. Keep your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Engage your core and draw your belly button towards your spine to maintain a straight line from your head to your knees. Hold for as long as you comfortably can, starting with 10-15 seconds.Bird-dog (a.k.a. Opposite leg and arm raise): Start on all fours with your hands shoulder-width apart and knees hip-width apart. Keep your back flat and core engaged as you extend one arm forward and the opposite leg back, keeping them parallel to the floor. Hold for a few seconds, then return to the starting position and repeat on the other side.Need Help with Healthy Aging in Place? Consider In-Home CareBefore starting any new exercise routine, you should always consult your doctor and keep your well-being top of mind. If you or your loved one has limited mobility, has been diagnosed with dementia, or has other conditions that might make finding the right wellness routine challenging, now might be the time to consider at-home senior care.ComForCares senior caregivers can take care of tasks around the home that they may no longer be able to safely accomplish on their own. They can also help seniors manage chronic conditions, provide medication reminders, and perform home safety checks to ensure a safe environment. As part of their comprehensive companionship, personal care, and wellness services, they can tailor a plan to your or your loved ones needs. That could include helping navigate fitness options, coordinating talks with healthcare providers about exercise, and being there during exercise to ensure safety.Choose ComForCare: Americas Choice for In-Home Senior CareWith over 200 locations in North America, ComForCare is dedicated to person-centered care for older adults. Our flexible services can easily adapt to your familys needs, from light assistance to around-the-clock care. Help your loved one live their best life possible when you choose ComForCare. Reach out today to learn more about our services and find your perfect caregiver!