Whitsyms In-Home Care

Lewy body dementia is the second most common form of degenerative dementia, affecting approximately 1.4 million people across the U.S. While the disease affects millions, few people have a good understanding of the disease, its symptoms, or how to manage them. American, Advocate and Whitsyms In-Home Care share information about Lewy body dementia symptoms to help family caregivers develop strategies to better manage and even reduce symptoms and improve the care experience.What Is Lewy Body Dementia?Lewy body dementia is a disease in which abnormal deposits of a protein called alpha-synuclein, also known as Lewy bodies, attach to the brain. The cause of Lewy body dementia is as yet unknown; however, research shows that a buildup of Lewy bodies is associated with the loss of specific neurons in the brain. One of these neurons is vital for memory and learning, and the other plays an essential role in movement, cognition, behavior, mood, and sleep.The loss of these neurons produces a range of behavioral symptoms that can be challenging to manage, including:Cognitive changesVisual hallucinations, which occur in up to 80% of people with Lewy body dementiaChanges in concentration, attention, and wakefulness that are often unpredictableDisorganized or illogical thoughtsPoor judgment, confusion about time and place, and difficulty with language and numbersMovement issuesWeak voiceRigid or stiff musclesTremor or shaking when restingShuffling gait and slowed movementBalance issues and higher tendency to fallStooped postureDecline in coordinationSmaller handwriting than was usual for the personLack of facial expressionsTrouble swallowingProblems sleepingREM sleep behavior disorderFeeling very tired during the dayInsomniaRestless leg syndromeBehavioral issuesAnxietyDepressionLack of interest in daily activities or social interactionAgitation and irritabilityParanoia and delusionsHow to Manage Lewy Body Dementia SymptomsMedications, such as antipsychotic drugs, can be dangerous for people with Lewy body dementia and may make symptoms worse. Finding non-drug related methods to help manage symptoms is an ideal first step before trying medication.Accept behaviors that do not cause harm. Some Lewy body dementia symptoms, like paranoia and agitation, can lead to aggression or physical acting out. However, for those behaviors that are milder and do not cause the person or others pain or potential for physical harm, it can be best to tolerate the symptoms and focus more on distraction and reassurance.Determine if there is a physical cause for the behavior. Physical pain or discomfort can exacerbate symptoms, so check to see if something else, such as arthritis pain, injury, urinary tract infection, or other ailment may be causing the symptoms. Treating physical pain can often reduce negative behavioral issues.Modify the environment. Loud noises and clutter can trigger hallucinations and delusions common with Lewy body dementia, so ensure that the persons environment is clean and as calm and quiet as possible to reduce symptoms.Create daily routines. A daily routine can help people with dementia feel safe and secure and minimize agitation. Keep to a regular schedule and break down daily tasks to make them easier to accomplish and reduce frustration.Seek therapy for movement and swallowing issues. Exercise and physical therapy can greatly help with many movement issues related to Lewy body dementia. For swallowing problems, speech therapy can teach seniors techniques that can make swallowing easier and safer.Get Help from Florida Home Care ProfessionalsCaring for a loved one with Lewy body dementia can be challenging. Partnering with a referred home care provider can help. At American, Advocate, and Whitsyms In-Home Care, we offer professional Alzheimers and dementia care services through referred care providers that help older adults live safer, happier lives at home. Additionally, in-home respite care services allow busy family caregivers the time they need to take care of work, family, and themselves.Contact our team today to find out more about how an experienced referred care provider can help the older adults in your life. Reach out to the office nearest you by clicking the links below to get started:American In-Home Care  Serving North, Central, and West Coast of FloridaAdvocate In-Home Care  Serving Southeast and Southwest FloridaWhitsyms In-Home Care  Serving Southeast and Southwest FloridaState of Florida License and Registration Numbers: 30211518, 30211651, 30211295, 30211390, 30210978, 30211293, 30211382, 30211504, 30211733, 30211535, 30211531, 30211710, 30211709, 30211045, 5661

For more information on the author, Whitsyms In-Home Care, CLICK HERE!Receiving a diagnosis for a serious health condition changes life in an instant both for the person diagnosed and for those who love them. And with 80% of people over the age of 65 currently living with at least one chronic disease (and 68% with two or more), its important for all of us to educate ourselves on how to effectively manage chronic health conditions in older adults.As your top resource for Florida aging care needs, American, Advocate and Whitsyms In-Home Care has compiled some helpful information about the most common chronic diseases in seniors along with tips to help:HypertensionHypertension (or high blood pressure) can lead to a heart attack, stroke, or other serious health condition. To keep blood pressure levels in check:Follow a healthy diet, including limiting salt and alcoholLose weight, if needed and with the help of a registered dietitianExercise each day, incorporating aerobic, strengthening, flexibility and stretching activitiesTake daily blood pressure readingsMinimize stressArthritisArthritis affects one in three seniors, most commonly women. Symptoms can be eased through:Ensuring the legs, back, and arms are always supportedMaintaining a healthy weight; even losing just one pound will take four pounds of pressure off your kneesQuitting (or never starting) smokingCoronary Heart DiseaseCoronary heart disease occurs when plaque builds up in the arteries leading to the heart, which can cause a heart attack, blood clots, and other complications. Try:Maintaining a diet free from trans and saturated fats, while limiting salt and sugarGetting sufficient sleep each night at least seven hoursCardio exercisesQuitting (or never starting) smokingMinimizing stressDementiaAlzheimer's disease and other types of dementia and the ensuing memory loss and cognitive decline are not a normal part of aging and can be extremely difficult to manage. To ease the effect of symptoms:Ensure plenty of physical activity as well as mental stimulationStick to a routine that includes healthy meals at regular intervals and sufficient hydration, and at least seven hours of deep sleep each nightEngage in meaningful, enjoyable pastimes dailyDepressionDepression in seniors is both common and treatable. If red flags of depression such as pessimism and ongoing feelings of sadness, fatigue, loss of interest in socializing or engaging in previously enjoyed activities, appetite changes, or problems with decision-making are noted, contact the doctor for help. Additionally, ensure:Plenty of exercise to release endorphins and boost self-confidenceSocialization opportunities such as taking a class, volunteering, meeting a neighbor for coffee each morning, etc.A healthy diet that limits highly processed foods, sugar, alcohol, and caffeineStress-relieving activities, such as journaling, prayer, or meditationAt American, Advocate, and Whitsyms In-Home Care, our referred care providers are here to help seniors achieve a positive outcome in managing chronic health conditions. We can plan and prepare healthy meals, provide friendly companionship to boost socialization, engage in enjoyable activities and exercise programs, and much more. We also offer respite care services to help family caregivers alleviate stress for themselves and take necessary breaks from care to tend to their own needs.

Are you currently caring for an older loved one? Perhaps youve had a recent visit with Dad and it seems like he needs some extra support at home. Whatever the case, home care services can make a difference for both you and your loved one. November is National Home Care and Hospice Month, and its the perfect time to explore the many benefits of in-home care services.How Does Home Care Help Seniors?Home is where the heart is. So, its no wonder why aging in place is ideal for most older adults. In-home care services help seniors in numerous ways, including:Preventing dangerous falls in the homeAs a person ages, changes in muscle mass and balance can increase the risk for falls. An in-home care provider can assist with mobility, remove clutter and tripping hazards from around the home to create a safer environment, assist with muscle and balance-building exercises, and more to ensure the older adults safety. Allowing for continued independence A primary concern for people as they age is the loss of independence. Few people have a desire to give up the car keys or leave their homes for a care facility. However, as health concerns progress, the need for support arises. Home care services allow older adults to maintain independence and live on their own for as long as possible. The referred care providers at American, Advocate and Whitsyms In-Home Care offer safe and reliable transportation services for those who can no longer drive themselves to appointments and social outings. Errand and shopping services are also offered to help older adults stay on top of their needs.Providing personal care as neededEveryone is unique. Some older adults may not be able to drive, but can otherwise take care of themselves. Others may have multiple chronic conditions and need assistance with day-to-day activities. Referred care providers can assist with a wide range of personal care needs including: Bathing and personal hygieneGetting dressedGoing to the bathroomWalking, transferring, and positioningDiabetic careMedication assistanceAnd moreProviding a friendly companionOlder adults who live alone often experience feelings of loneliness due to social isolation. This can lead to depression and a decline in overall health. The providers we refer offer a friendly face each day, providing conversation, engagement in hobbies and pokies that use pay id games, and connection that can make a positive difference in an older adults life.How Does Home Care Help Family Caregivers?Balancing care for an older loved one with work, family life, personal obligations, and more can be daunting. Home care services arent just a great benefit for older adults; they provide a much-needed break for family caregivers as well. The services offered by our referred care providers allow family caregivers to get the rest they need to avoid caregiver burnout. For family members who live at a distance from older loved ones, in-home care services provide peace of mind, ensuring that seniors are well cared for.Discover the Full Benefits of Home Care Today!With the assistance of knowledgeable and compassionate referred care providers, older adults throughout Florida can remain in the homes and communities they love while living vibrant and independent lives.To learn more about the in-home care services available through referred care providers and the benefits of partnering with American, Advocate or Whitsyms In-Home Care, contact the office nearest you.American In-Home Care  Serving North, Central, and West Coast of FloridaAdvocate In-Home Care  Serving Southeast and Southwest FloridaWhitsyms In-Home Care  Serving Southeast and Southwest FloridaState of Florida License and Registration Numbers: 30211518, 30211651, 30211295, 30211390, 30210978, 30211293, 30211382, 30211504, 30211733, 30211535, 30211531, 30211710, 30211709, 30211045, 5661

Prediabetes is a serious but beneficial diagnosis to receive. Think of it as an early warning sign that gives you the opportunity to take important steps to make changes that can help improve your health, while avoiding some of the more serious health complications.Currently, as many as one in three adults in America are living with a prediabetes diagnosis. And many people live with the condition for years without any noticeable symptoms, remaining undetected until it becomes a serious health concern.At American, Advocate and Whitsyms In-Home Care, we know the first and most important step in assessing the danger for prediabetes is to understand the risk factors, which include:Age (over 45)Race (a higher risk for African Americans, Hispanic/Latino Americans, American Indians, Pacific Islanders, and some Asian Americans)Being overweightA family history of type 2 diabetesA sedentary lifestylePrevious diagnosis of gestational diabetes, or giving birth to a baby weighing over 9 poundsIf you or someone you love falls into any of these categories, a routine blood sugar test can help preempt the condition or detect and get it under control. The good news is, simple lifestyle changes can make a world of difference. These include:Maintaining a healthy weight and BMI. Losing as little as 5 to 7% of body weight for someone who is overweight (about 10 to 14 pounds for a 200-pound person) can have a tremendous impact on reducing the risk for diabetes.Staying physically active. Check with the doctor for specific recommendations, but in general, the guideline is to strive for 30 minutes of brisk walking or a similar activity, five days per week.Following a healthier diet. Replace foods that are high in saturated and trans fats, salt, and sugar with fruits and veggies, fish and lean meats, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products.Most importantly, follow the doctors guidance and ensure youre staying up to date with recommended check-ups.As youre working to reverse prediabetes, be sure to keep an eye out for the symptoms of type 2 diabetes and contact the doctor as soon as possible if you notice them. These include:Extreme thirst or hungerIncreased urine patternsBlurry visionFatigueDiabetes can lead to a number of serious health issues such as kidney failure, adult-onset blindness, and lower limb amputations. Not only that, but nearly three in four patients with type 2 diabetes need treatment for hypertension, and nearly half are impacted by severe cardiovascular disease.At American, Advocate, and Whitsyms In-Home Care, our referred care providers can help those with prediabetes, diabetes, and other serious health conditions in a variety of ways. We can plan and prepare healthy meals, provide motivation to stay physically active, run errands like grocery shopping and picking up prescriptions, and more. We also care for family caregivers by providing the professional respite care services that allow crucial time for self-care.Contact us at the location closest to you and let us connect you with just the right caregiver to meet your needs. American In-Home Care  Serving North, Central, and West Coast of FloridaAdvocate In-Home Care  Serving Southeast and Southwest FloridaWhitsyms In-Home Care  Serving Southeast and Southwest FloridaState of Florida License and Registration Numbers: 30211518, 30211651, 30211295, 30211390, 30210978, 30211293, 30211382, 30211504, 30211733, 30211535, 30211531, 30211710, 30211709, 30211045, 5661

For more information on the author, Whitsyms In-Home Care, CLICK HERE!Your usually calm loved one suddenly starts shouting and swearing at you. You wake up in the middle of the night to find your father wandering down the street. Your mother suddenly feels confused and has trouble sleeping at night.It is common to see changes in behavior in a loved one with Alzheimer's. Still, scenarios like these can be deeply upsetting for family members. It is important to remember that these changes, while challenging, are typical as the Alzheimer's progresses. And while its easier said than done, caregivers should try not to take these episodes personally.Another vital thing to remember is that all behavior is triggered by something. If a loved one with Alzheimer's has recently become aggressive, this change is occurring for a reason. Perhaps it is loud noises or something else in his or her environment that causes the aggression. Maybe someone said or did something that triggered the behavior. At American, Advocate and Whitsyms In-Home Care, we know that getting to the root of the behavior can help family caregivers manage and potentially avoid many behavioral challenges associated with dementia.WanderingA common behavior for people with dementia, wandering poses a number of potential safety hazards. Boredom, medication side effects, or the urge to look for something or someone are often triggers for wandering. If a loved one is wandering, try these tips:Help the older adult get regular exercise and participate in enjoyable activities to reduce boredom and restlessness.Camouflage doors with removable curtains or use safety covers on door knobs.Install an in-home monitoring system that can alert you if a loved one is moving around or attempting to leave the home.Have the older adult wear an ID bracelet and/or a GPS tracking device that will help with identification and location tracking if wandering occurs.Alert neighbors about a loved ones propensity for wandering and make sure they know how to contact you if needed.SundowningSundowning consists of restlessness, disorientation, sleeplessness, and agitation around nighttime. This behavior can be caused by a number of factors, including exhaustion and changes to a persons biological clock. These steps can help ease sundowning behaviors:Discourage inactivity and napping during the day.Cut back on sugar, caffeine, and other foods that may contribute to sleeplessness.Plan for calm, quiet activities in the afternoon and evening hours.Turn on lights before sunset and close curtains. This can eliminate shadows and help reduce confusion.Consider talking to the older adults doctor about medication side effects if you feel that may be an issue.AgitationAgitation can be a particularly troubling behavior to witness in a loved one with Alzheimer's. This can include irritability and verbal and physical aggression. Agitation may be triggered by environmental factors such as loud noises or clutter, fear, and fatigue. It can also be the result of the person feeling as though they are losing control of their own lives. These tips can help:Reduce noise and clutter in the home.Follow routines as much as possible and keep commonly used household objects and furniture in the same place.Allow the person to do as much as he can for himself to support a sense of independence.Play soothing music, read, or take a walk to soothe agitation.Do not confront or argue with a person experiencing agitation. Instead, distract him or her with a calming activity.Alzheimer's disease gradually changes loved ones in a number of different ways, and everyone experiences the disease differently. If you have a loved one with dementia who is exhibiting challenging behavioral changes, remember, you are not alone.The referred care providers at American, Advocate, and Whitsyms In-Home Care are always on hand to help reduce restlessness or boredom, and they are highly skilled at creating calming environments that allow older adults with Alzheimer's to feel relaxed and peaceful. For family caregivers overwhelmed by new behaviors and caregiving duties, our referred caregivers also provide respite care services to ensure you get a chance to rest and recharge yourself.

For more information on the author, Whitsyms In-Home Care, CLICK HERE!Staying healthy at any age is essential, but as we get older, health and wellness take on a whole new importance. People are living longer and the senior population is growing larger each year. As older loved ones age, their minds and bodies go through some changes, and having a healthy lifestyle makes them better prepared for the changes ahead.September is Healthy Aging Month, and it's the perfect time to focus on lifestyle habits that can benefit the older adults in your life. American, Advocate and Whitsyms In-Home Care offer the following simple tips for older adults that can help them stay healthy and well as they age.Eat, drink and be healthy! A balanced diet is essential for good health at any age. Making healthy food choices, like fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products, can have numerous health benefits. It is also important for seniors to drink plenty of water and avoid excessive alcohol consumption.Get moving.Getting regular exercise helps prevent, delay, and manage chronic illnesses such as heart disease and diabetes. Exercise can also improve brain health as well as balance and flexibility, which are essential for preventing falls in older adults. Seniors should aim for moderate physical activity, such as walking, 22-30 minutes each day and strength building exercises at least twice a week.Quit Smoking.If your senior loved one is a smoker, one of the best things they can do for their long-term health is to quit. Giving up tobacco can lower a persons risk of several types of cancer, lung disease, heart disease, and stroke.Keep up with check-ups. Doctors visits aren't just for when a senior is feeling sick. Visiting the doctor for regular check-ups can help prevent illness or identify it early so it can be treated. Doctor visits are also a great time to review medications and any side effects that a senior might be experiencing.Know the seniors family health history. Many illnesses can be hereditary, so it is important to know and share family health history with your seniors doctor. This helps them take steps to prevent diseases or catch them early.Be aware of changes in cognitive health.As a person ages, changes in the brain, such as mild forgetfulness or slower reaction times, are normal. However, bigger changes in brain health, like struggling to do common tasks, confusion in or trouble navigating well-known areas, or rapidly forgetting people or events can be signs of serious cognitive decline related to dementia or Alzheimers disease. If you are concerned about a senior loved ones memory or cognitive health, talk to their health care provider.Its never too late to start improving your health. Following these tips can help senior loved ones stay healthy as they age. Partnering within-home senior care experts, like those at American, Advocate, and Whitsyms In-Home Care, can also help seniors better manage their health. The professional care providers we refer can assist with things like meal preparation and diet monitoring, medication assistance ,diabetic care, transportation to doctors appointments, monitoring for health changes, and more.

What if you could stop into your favorite major retailer while running errands and pick up hearing aids for someone you love, at a reasonable cost? Wouldnt you love the ease and convenience of opening up a world of better hearing in a matter of minutes? This is now a reality, bringing relief to many who have put off getting help for their hearing loss because of cost and other constraints involved with prescription hearing aids.Of course, youll want to find answers to some common questions about the new OTC hearing aids before making your purchase, such as:What kind of hearing loss will OTC hearing aids help with?OTC hearing aids are best suited for those with moderate or mild hearing loss. This includes tens of millions of people in America. To best determine if theyre right for someone you love, answer these questions: Is it easy for you to hear when one person is speaking to you in a quiet location? Can you hear the TV or someone on the phone better if you turn the volume up just slightly? Would hearing aids be necessary just in particular circumstances, rather than all the time? An answer of yes to these questions means OTC hearing aids may be appropriate.How much do they cost?Heres the best part: the price tag for OTC hearing aids starts as low as $199. Prescription aids, which are NOT covered by most insurance plans or Medicare, can run as high as $8,000 or more.What is an audiologist and is it necessary to see one first?Audiologists are specialists in hearing and balance disorders who can diagnose and treat these conditions. This includes a full review of an individuals medical history, an examination of the outer ear, and a series of audiological tests. They will then make recommendations based on the results of an overall review of these factors.Technically, an audiology visit isnt needed to simply purchase hearing aids over the counter. However, there are some important benefits to making an appointment with an audiologist, even if you plan to use OTC hearing aids.An audiologist performs an in-depth assessment, including a thorough hearing test to determine where the hearing loss originates (i.e., in the inner or middle ear), if youre experiencing hearing loss more in one ear over the other, and real-ear measurement (REM) to determine the appropriate volume for your particular type of hearing loss. This information can be incredibly valuable in getting to the root cause of your problem and effectively correcting it.With these details in hand, the audiologist can then help you review the pros and cons of treatment recommendations, which could be OTC hearing aids, but may also include prescription aids or cochlear implants. They can also provide help with both fitting and adjusting hearing aids a process that takes time, as the brain adjusts to hearing and processing sounds differently.Although prescription hearing aids are typically not covered by Medicare and most insurance providers, hearing assessments and visits with the audiologist typically are so its well worth the investment of a little time to gain the professional expertise that will help ensure youre obtaining the best solution for your particular type of hearing loss and, determining if there are any underlying conditions contributing to your hearing loss that need to be addressed in a different way.Research shows that only one in four people in America experiencing hearing loss are actually using a hearing aid. Having OTC hearing aids readily available at a reduced cost is a life-changer.The referred care providers at American, Advocate and Whitsyms In-Home Care are here to help older adults with hearing loss as well, with customized Florida home care services. A referred care provider can run errands (including picking up hearing aids), provide transportation to the audiologist, other medical appointments, and fun outings, and so much more.To learn more about the Florida home care services offered by trusted referred care providers at American, Advocate or Whitsyms In-Home Care, contact the office closest to you.American In-Home Care  Serving North, Central, and West Coast of FloridaAdvocate In-Home Care  Serving Southeast and Southwest FloridaWhitsyms In-Home Care  Serving Southeast and Southwest FloridaState of Florida License and Registration Numbers: 30211518, 30211651, 30211295, 30211390, 30210978, 30211293, 30211382, 30211504, 30211733, 30211535, 30211531, 30211710, 30211709, 30211045, 5661

For more information on the author, Whitsyms In-Home Care, CLICK HERE!Did you know that a well-rounded fitness routine is just as important as a well-rounded diet to maximize an older adults health and physical abilities? While older adults who remain active throughout aging reap several health and wellness rewards, research has shown that its important to include endurance, strength, balance, and flexibility exercises for the maximum health benefits.To help older adults incorporate physician-approved exercise as part of their weekly routine, the senior care experts at American, Advocate and Whitsyms In-Home Care, share more information about each of these four fitness categories.Endurance ExercisesEndurance or aerobic exercise is designed to increase breathing and heart rates, improve health and overall fitness, and provide stamina for everyday activities. Endurance activities improve heart and lung health and can prevent various diseases and health conditions that are common in older adults, such as colon and breast cancers, diabetes, heart disease and others. Aim for at least 150 minutes of endurance activity per week and try to spread activities throughout the day to avoid long stretches of sitting or inactivity. Examples of exercises that build endurance include:Yard work (raking, mowing, pulling weeds, etc.)Brisk walking or joggingDancingSwimmingBikingStrength ExercisesStrong muscles help older adults remain independent by making day-to-day activities such as climbing stairs, carrying groceries, and getting up and down from a chair easier. Strong leg and hip muscles help with balance and can reduce the chance of falls. Older adults can build strength through weights and resistance training and should aim to target all major muscle groups at least two days per week. Examples of strength exercises include:Lifting handheld weights or bottles of waterCarrying groceriesUsing resistance bandsWall pushupsGripping a tennis ball or small rubber ballBalance ExercisesFalls are a leading cause of injury to older adults. Increasing lower body strength in combination with balance exercises can reduce the risk of falls and help older adults remain confident and independent. When working on balance, its important to start slowly and to have a sturdy chair or person nearby to hold onto to ensure safety. Balance exercise examples include:Standing from a seated positionTai Chi a form of exercise that involves gentle, flowing movementsStanding on one footWalking heel to toeSide leg raisesMarching in placeFlexibility ExercisesIncreased flexibility also helps older adults continue to complete a variety of day-to-day activities safely and independently, such as reaching down to pick something up and looking over the shoulder when backing out of a parking space. The best time to do flexibility exercises is after completing endurance or strength exercises because muscles are warmed up. Stretching exercises also help ease stiff joints and provide greater range of motion, making it easier to move. Theseflexibility exercisescan be completed standing or seated:Overhead stretch Standing with feet hip-width apart, raise hands overhead and interlace fingers. Gently pull arms to the left, holding for 10 30 seconds, and then repeat on the right.Shoulder stretch Standing with feet hip-width apart, reach your left arm across your body. Place your right hand on your upper left arm, gently drawing your right arm closer. Hold for 10 30 seconds, and then repeat on the right.Triceps stretch Standing with feet hip-width apart, raise your arms overhead and bend your left arm so that it is behind your head. Place your right hand on your right elbow and gently pull your right arm in, holding for 10 -30 seconds. Repeat with your right arm.Hamstring stretch Place your left heel on a bench or other slightly elevated surface. Extend your leg straight with toes pointed up. Without rounding your lower back, gently hinge forward from the hips until you feel a comfortable stretch. Hold for 10 30 seconds and repeat on the right leg.Helping older adults remain independent, active, and engaged in their local community is a top priority for thereferred care providersat American, Advocate and Whitsyms In-Home Care. OurFlorida companion care servicescan be customized to meet the specific needs of each individual offering help and encouragement with everything from daily exercises and meal preparation to friendly companionship and accompanied transportation for social outings, and much more.

Arthritis pain impacts an astounding one in every two older Americans and can cause seniors to limit physical activity leading to a vicious circle of additional pain and discomfort. The top-rated referred care providers at American, Advocate, and Whitsyms In-Home Care offer the following suggestions to ease arthritis pain in older adults and lead to a better quality of life.Heat and cold therapy Both heat and cold can help with improving circulation, reducing muscle spasms, and relieving stiffened muscles and joints. Some individuals respond better to heat, and others to cold, so try both to see which works best for a senior you love. Be sure to place a thin towel between the seniors skin and the source of heat or cold, and then apply a heating pad, heat wrap, air-activated heat patch, cold wrap or pad, a small bag of ice or frozen peas. Remove after no more than 10 15 minutes to protect the skin.Massage Gentle massage, with lotion or oil to reduce friction on the skin, can help relax painful joints and muscles, and also promote better sleep. Warming the area first as mentioned above can help prevent any pain that may be experienced.Healthy lifestyle choices Losing weight removes extra pressure on the knees and other joints. For a senior who is overweight, talk with the doctor for a recommended diet and exercise plan, and then help the senior stay motivated to stick with the plan. Having someone to exercise with is a great motivator, so join in and work out together!The referred Florida in-home care experts at American, Advocate, and Whitsyms In-Home Care can help seniors with arthritis to feel more comfortable too. Whether the need is for transportation to medical appointments, planning and preparing healthy meals, offering encouragement and opportunities to remain physically active, or a wide range of other care needs, families trust our referred care providers to make life the very best it can be for seniors at home.Contact us any time for more information and additional tips and resources to help with better management of arthritis pain in older adults. You can reach us by clicking the appropriate link below for the location that is nearest to you.American In-Home Care  Serving North, Central, and West Coast of FloridaAdvocate In-Home Care  Serving Southeast and Southwest FloridaWhitsyms In-Home Care  Serving Southeast and Southwest Florida

Lewy body dementia is the second most common form of degenerative dementia, affecting approximately 1.4 million people across the U.S. While the disease affects millions, few people have a good understanding of the disease, its symptoms, or how to manage them. American, Advocate and Whitsyms In-Home Care share information about Lewy body dementia symptoms to help family caregivers develop strategies to better manage and even reduce symptoms and improve the care experience.What Is Lewy Body Dementia?Lewy body dementia is a disease in which abnormal deposits of a protein called alpha-synuclein, also known as Lewy bodies, attach to the brain. The cause of Lewy body dementia is as yet unknown; however, research shows that a buildup of Lewy bodies is associated with the loss of specific neurons in the brain. One of these neurons is vital for memory and learning, and the other plays an essential role in movement, cognition, behavior, mood, and sleep.The loss of these neurons produces a range of behavioral symptoms that can be challenging to manage, including:Cognitive changesVisual hallucinations, which occur in up to 80% of people with Lewy body dementiaChanges in concentration, attention, and wakefulness that are often unpredictableDisorganized or illogical thoughtsPoor judgment, confusion about time and place, and difficulty with language and numbersMovement issuesWeak voiceRigid or stiff musclesTremor or shaking when restingShuffling gait and slowed movementBalance issues and higher tendency to fallStooped postureDecline in coordinationSmaller handwriting than was usual for the personLack of facial expressionsTrouble swallowingProblems sleepingREM sleep behavior disorderFeeling very tired during the dayInsomniaRestless leg syndromeBehavioral issuesAnxietyDepressionLack of interest in daily activities or social interactionAgitation and irritabilityParanoia and delusionsHow to Manage Lewy Body Dementia SymptomsMedications, such as antipsychotic drugs, can be dangerous for people with Lewy body dementia and may make symptoms worse. Finding non-drug related methods to help manage symptoms is an ideal first step before trying medication.Accept behaviors that do not cause harm. Some Lewy body dementia symptoms, like paranoia and agitation, can lead to aggression or physical acting out. However, for those behaviors that are milder and do not cause the person or others pain or potential for physical harm, it can be best to tolerate the symptoms and focus more on distraction and reassurance.Determine if there is a physical cause for the behavior. Physical pain or discomfort can exacerbate symptoms, so check to see if something else, such as arthritis pain, injury, urinary tract infection, or other ailment may be causing the symptoms. Treating physical pain can often reduce negative behavioral issues.Modify the environment. Loud noises and clutter can trigger hallucinations and delusions common with Lewy body dementia, so ensure that the persons environment is clean and as calm and quiet as possible to reduce symptoms.Create daily routines. A daily routine can help people with dementia feel safe and secure and minimize agitation. Keep to a regular schedule and break down daily tasks to make them easier to accomplish and reduce frustration.Seek therapy for movement and swallowing issues. Exercise and physical therapy can greatly help with many movement issues related to Lewy body dementia. For swallowing problems, speech therapy can teach seniors techniques that can make swallowing easier and safer.Get Help from Florida Home Care ProfessionalsCaring for a loved one with Lewy body dementia can be challenging. Partnering with a referred home care provider can help. At American, Advocate, and Whitsyms In-Home Care, we offer professional Alzheimers and dementia care services through referred care providers that help older adults live safer, happier lives at home. Additionally, in-home respite care services allow busy family caregivers the time they need to take care of work, family, and themselves.Contact our team today to find out more about how an experienced referred care provider can help the older adults in your life. Reach out to the office nearest you by clicking the links below to get started:American In-Home Care  Serving North, Central, and West Coast of FloridaAdvocate In-Home Care  Serving Southeast and Southwest FloridaWhitsyms In-Home Care  Serving Southeast and Southwest FloridaState of Florida License and Registration Numbers: 30211518, 30211651, 30211295, 30211390, 30210978, 30211293, 30211382, 30211504, 30211733, 30211535, 30211531, 30211710, 30211709, 30211045, 5661

For more information on the author, Whitsyms In-Home Care, CLICK HERE!Receiving a diagnosis for a serious health condition changes life in an instant both for the person diagnosed and for those who love them. And with 80% of people over the age of 65 currently living with at least one chronic disease (and 68% with two or more), its important for all of us to educate ourselves on how to effectively manage chronic health conditions in older adults.As your top resource for Florida aging care needs, American, Advocate and Whitsyms In-Home Care has compiled some helpful information about the most common chronic diseases in seniors along with tips to help:HypertensionHypertension (or high blood pressure) can lead to a heart attack, stroke, or other serious health condition. To keep blood pressure levels in check:Follow a healthy diet, including limiting salt and alcoholLose weight, if needed and with the help of a registered dietitianExercise each day, incorporating aerobic, strengthening, flexibility and stretching activitiesTake daily blood pressure readingsMinimize stressArthritisArthritis affects one in three seniors, most commonly women. Symptoms can be eased through:Ensuring the legs, back, and arms are always supportedMaintaining a healthy weight; even losing just one pound will take four pounds of pressure off your kneesQuitting (or never starting) smokingCoronary Heart DiseaseCoronary heart disease occurs when plaque builds up in the arteries leading to the heart, which can cause a heart attack, blood clots, and other complications. Try:Maintaining a diet free from trans and saturated fats, while limiting salt and sugarGetting sufficient sleep each night at least seven hoursCardio exercisesQuitting (or never starting) smokingMinimizing stressDementiaAlzheimer's disease and other types of dementia and the ensuing memory loss and cognitive decline are not a normal part of aging and can be extremely difficult to manage. To ease the effect of symptoms:Ensure plenty of physical activity as well as mental stimulationStick to a routine that includes healthy meals at regular intervals and sufficient hydration, and at least seven hours of deep sleep each nightEngage in meaningful, enjoyable pastimes dailyDepressionDepression in seniors is both common and treatable. If red flags of depression such as pessimism and ongoing feelings of sadness, fatigue, loss of interest in socializing or engaging in previously enjoyed activities, appetite changes, or problems with decision-making are noted, contact the doctor for help. Additionally, ensure:Plenty of exercise to release endorphins and boost self-confidenceSocialization opportunities such as taking a class, volunteering, meeting a neighbor for coffee each morning, etc.A healthy diet that limits highly processed foods, sugar, alcohol, and caffeineStress-relieving activities, such as journaling, prayer, or meditationAt American, Advocate, and Whitsyms In-Home Care, our referred care providers are here to help seniors achieve a positive outcome in managing chronic health conditions. We can plan and prepare healthy meals, provide friendly companionship to boost socialization, engage in enjoyable activities and exercise programs, and much more. We also offer respite care services to help family caregivers alleviate stress for themselves and take necessary breaks from care to tend to their own needs.