Alabama - Gulf Coast

If you are a Caregiver, you are one of the 1.8 million Caregivers in Alabama. One in four Baby Boomers (ages 57-75) are caregivers, providing regular assistance to friends or family who have a disability or health problem. The burden of caring for a loved one can be time-consuming, expensive and can cause Caregivers to become depressed and feel guilty about their decisions. Caring for the Caregiver is Relatively NewUntil the late 70s, Caregivers were an unseen, unheard and unrecognized part of the healthcare team. These families and friends were caring primarily at home - for loved ones with cognitive disorders like Alzheimers disease, strokes and other age-related diseases.  The first national caregiving organization was founded in 1977 the National Caregiving Alliance to raise awareness. This was followed by a 2016 reauthorization of the Older American Act of 1965 to assist Caregivers, the RAISE Family Caregivers Act of 2018 and the National Family Caregivers Support Act in 2000. Recently, the national CARES Act (Coronavirus legislation) also includes caregiving support provisions. I Cant Take Care of You, If I Dont Take Care of MeBoth the Caregivers and the cared for can experience similar emotions. As days, weeks and months continue with mounting responsibilities, Caregivers can become overwhelmed physically, emotionally, spiritually and develop significant health problems. They worry their compassion is faltering (compassion fatigue) and experience guilt (Caregiver Guilt Syndrome) they are not doing enough for their loved one. Caregiver assessments reports that 20% of family caregivers suffer from depression, twice the rate of the general population. Meanwhile, those in their charge also can experience anxiety, frustration and depression.  Options for Caregivers and Their ChargesAs many Caregivers need to work or be away from home for most of the day, AARP recommends adult daycare as a more affordable option (ranging from $50 - $70 per day) for Caregivers respite. When older loved ones are unable to structure ones activities, feel isolated and lonely, have difficulty starting and focusing on activities and no longer seem safe on their own, adult daycare provides watchful care and socialization. An adult daycare is typically a non-residential facility that supports the health, nutritional, social and daily living needs of older adults.Caregiver support is built into the program, with counselling and other support services. Caregivers are provided daily respite to continue to live their own lives, work and take care of other family members and obligations. Other options for Caregiving respite include home health care, assisted living facilities and nursing homes. The best advice is to know your healthcare plan and options: Medicare now offers long-term home and community-based services, like adult day care, in-home personal care assistance, and respite care in certain conditions; Medicaid can pay 100% of nursing home care costs if you meet eligibility requirements; and private health insurance companies typically offer some respite care assistance.  Local resources for Caregivers can be found on the Area Agency on Aging website listed under programs: Alabama Cares Caregiver Program. Article courtesy of the Via Health, Fitness and Enrichment Center Community Outreach Division. The Via Center provides health, fitness and enrichment programs for older adults and Community Outreach services to Seniors and their families. For information onthe Via Center GrandFriends Adult Day Services program, contact 251.478.3311.

The Sweet Tooth Mystery: Why Seniors Crave Sweets After Eating Do you find yourself or older loved ones reaching for dessert shortly after finishing a meal? If so, you're not alone. It's a common observation that many seniors have a seemingly insatiable craving for sweets after they've finished their main course. And its not just a coincidence, either. There are actually several physiological and psychological factors that are responsible for the guilty pleasure and can explain why seniors crave sweets after eating.  Lets shine some light on both the biological and emotional underpinnings of this common occurrence. Changing Taste BudsAs we age, our taste buds undergo significant changes. Think about some of the food items you like now that you wouldnt dare touch when you were a child. Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, the list goes on. But as you get older, the sense of taste becomes less acute, and certain flavors, particularly sweet ones, become more appealing. This is often because the perception of sweetness lessens with age, making sugary foods more enjoyable. You may find that you need more intense flavors to satisfy your palate, and sweet foods provide this intensity. Thus leading to seniors craving sweets after eating. Nutrient DeficienciesIts not uncommon for seniors to have some sort of nutrient deficiency due to various factors, such as poor dietary choices or medical conditions. Cravings for sweets can be a result of the body seeking essential nutrients. For example, a deficiency in certain minerals like magnesium or zinc can lead to sugar cravings. Chocolate is a common sugar craving resulting from vitamin deficiency. Eating sweets can provide a temporary boost in energy and mood, but it's important for seniors to address any underlying nutrient deficiencies through a balanced diet or supplements. Emotional ComfortWhat do most of us reach for when were depressed? SWEETS! It doesnt get any easier the older we get. Seniors often face unique emotional challenges, such as loneliness, grief, or the physical limitations that can come with aging. Sweets are associated with comfort and can trigger the release of endorphins, which provide a temporary emotional boost. This psychological connection between sugary treats and comfort can lead to cravings. The taste of sweets provides solace, helping to comfort us during our difficult times.  Medications and Side EffectsMany seniors are on various medications to manage chronic health diseases and conditions. Some of these medications can cause changes in taste perception or trigger a metallic aftertaste, which may make sweets more palatable. Additionally, certain medications can affect blood sugar levels or metabolism, leading to sugar cravings as the body seeks to maintain equilibrium. Social and Cultural FactorsThe social aspect of sharing dessert with family and friends after a meal can also be a powerful motivator. Seniors may have fond memories of family gatherings and celebrations where sweets were a central part of the experience. This cultural and social conditioning can create a desire for sweets, especially after a satisfying meal. Habitual BehaviorSeniors who have developed a lifelong habit of indulging in desserts after meals may continue this pattern. Habits are difficult to break, and the association between eating sweets and feeling satisfied after a meal can be deeply ingrained. How to Manage Sweet CravingsWhile some level of craving for sweets after a meal is common, especially in seniors, it's important to strike a balance to maintain a healthy diet. Here are some tips for managing sweet cravings. Maintain a Balanced Diet: Ensure youre following a well-balanced diet that meets your nutritional needs. Incorporate fruits and other healthier sweet alternatives to satisfy your cravings. Monitor Medications: Discuss any medication-related changes in taste or appetite with a healthcare provider and explore potential solutions or alternatives. Emotional Support: Address emotional factors by providing companionship, engaging in activities that bring joy, and connecting with others and support networks to combat loneliness. Hydration: Sometimes thirst can be misinterpreted as hunger or sugar cravings. Make sure you stay adequately hydrated to avoid unnecessary cravings. Small Portions: Instead of eliminating sweets entirely, enjoy smaller portions to satisfy the craving without overindulging.  The tendency for seniors to crave sweets after eating isnt as simple as one might think.  Understanding the physiological and psychological factors that contribute to these cravings can help you find the necessary support and guidance to ensure you dont overindulge. While a sweet treat can be enjoyable and comforting, moderation and balanced nutrition remain key to promoting overall health and well-being.This article was contributed by VIPcare of Alabama.  VIPcare provides primary care for the 65+ community.  Call VIPcare at 866-333-7897 for more information or to make an appointment.

The holiday season is upon us, and if youre like me, Im sure youre looking forward to in-person celebrations and gatherings. This is something to be especially thankful for after two years of social distancing.All this together time is great for re-connecting as well as getting up to speed with how your aging loved ones are faring. Its also an opportunity to take note of any concerning physical or cognitive declines. Of course, our older family members might not come right out and tell us about any decline in health as they fear they may lose their independence. Thats why I recommend engaging them in casual conversation that takes into consideration their feelings.  Here are five main areas to assess: Activities of daily living. Can they pass the peas at the dinner table? Im somewhat joking here, but if it appears that your loved one has lost a lot of strength or dexterity that makes a simple task difficult, there may be some physical decline. Other things to inquire about could be the last time they got their hair cut. Take note of their appearance: Are their clothes clean? Do they match? Are they bathing? If it appears that they have lost some weight, ask them what they have been eating lately. This can tell you if they are having trouble with food shopping or cooking. A noticeable loss of weight is a definite cause for concern, as it could indicate an underlying health condition.The home environment.  If you are visiting their home for the holidays, check to see if the home is more cluttered than usual. This could be a sign they are having trouble keeping up with housekeeping. You can also check the refrigerator and cabinets to get a sense of how well they are eating. Additionally, take a look at the expiration dates on the medicine bottles and appropriately discard any expired medicationsprescription as well as over the counter ones. Throw away any expired food items, too. Memory. A great way to assess memory is by engaging in a conversation about current events you know this family member would typically be following. It could be the weather, sports, entertainment or politics. If they dont elaborate on their responses to your questions, they may be protecting themselves from being found out that they are experiencing some memory loss. You can also ask what they did earlier in the day or a few days ago to see if they are having trouble putting together a sequence of events. Mobility. Take note of how they move about the house. Are they grabbing onto furniture to steady themselves? Do you notice any bruising which may indicate a recent fall? Go on a walk with them to see if they tire easily or seem unbalanced. In addition, look at their car for any dings or scratches.  Social engagements. Isolation is often a gateway to depression, which can negatively impact memory or activities of daily living. Ask about friends they are in touch with either in person or on the phone, as well as any regular activities or recent outings. Are there activities they have stopped doing? Are there things they wish they could do but dont have a companion or a ride?If you notice any concerning changes, its important to act now, before a crisis presents itself. Consult with your siblings and other family members to see if they have noticed similar behaviors. If so, the next step is to make an appointment with the loved ones primary care physician to rule out any emergent health conditions.The good news is that the growing desire to age in place means that more and more people are turning to in-home care for that extra assistance. Whether a loved one needs a companion to help them stay active, more personal care such as assistance showering, or full-time support for a chronic condition, SYNERGY Home Care can help. Dr. Macie P. Smith is a licensed gerontology social worker who is focused on helping families support their aging loved ones through long-term care. Specifically, Dr. Smith educates caregivers on how to care for seniors with dementia. She is an advocate for specialized care and assists others in finding a way to provide a better quality of life for individuals with Alzheimers or dementia. Dr. Smith has dedicated over 22 years of her life working in gerontology and assisting families in finding personalized solutions for dementia care. For more articles by Dr. Macie Smith, go to https://synergyhomecare.com/blog/.This article was submitted by SYNERGY Home Care of Daphne, Alabama.  You can reach them at 251-621-1900

Ideas for Heart-Healthy Dates for Couples Over 65 Love is ageless, and so is the fun of date nights! But for couples over 65, keeping date nights heart-healthy can add a touch of care and well-being to your romance. Here are some delightful and unique heart healthy date ideas to make your evenings together enjoyable and beneficial for your heart health.1. Stroll Down Memory LaneTake a leisurely walk in your favorite park or along a beachside trail. Walking hand-in-hand not only boosts cardiovascular health but also gives you a chance to reminisce about cherished memories. For a unique twist, recreate your first date or visit a spot that holds sentimental value. 2. Cook a Heart-Healthy Meal TogetherCooking can be a wonderful bonding activity! Choose heart-healthy recipes featuring whole grains, lean proteins, and plenty of colorful veggies. Try preparing a Mediterranean-inspired dinner with grilled salmon, quinoa, and a fresh Greek salad. Dont forget the red winein moderation, its good for the heart! 3. Dance the Night AwayPut on your favorite tunes and dance like no ones watching! Whether its a waltz, a tango, or simply swaying to the beat, dancing is a fantastic way to get your heart pumping while enjoying each others company. Bonus points if you dress up to make it feel extra special. 4. Explore a Farmers MarketSpend a morning or afternoon wandering through a local farmers market. Pick up fresh, seasonal produce and plan a picnic or dinner around your finds. Walking through the market keeps you active, and choosing fresh ingredients supports your heart health. 5. Take a Fitness Class for TwoTry something new together! Whether its yoga, tai chi, or a water aerobics class, exercising as a couple can be a lot of fun. Many community centers offer classes specifically designed for seniors, making it a great way to stay active and meet new friends. 6. Garden TogetherGardening isnt just therapeutic; its also good for your heart. Planting flowers or cultivating a vegetable garden gets you moving and provides fresh air and sunshine. Plus, growing your own herbs and veggies adds a personal touch to your meals. 7. Host a Heart-Healthy Game NightInvite a few friends over for a game night featuring board games or cards. Serve heart-healthy snacks like air-popped popcorn, veggie platters, and fruit kabobs. Laughter and socializing are wonderful for reducing stress and boosting happiness. 8. Star Gazing PicnicPack a picnic with heart-friendly snacks like hummus, whole-grain crackers, and fresh fruit, and head to a quiet spot with a great view of the night sky. Bring a blanket, relax under the stars, and enjoy the serenity together. This date is as good for the soul as it is for the heart. 9. Volunteer TogetherStrengthen your bond while giving back to your community. Volunteering at a local shelter, food bank, or community event keeps you active and engaged while sharing meaningful experiences. 10. Try a Puzzle WalkCombine exercise with a mental challenge by exploring a museum, botanical garden, or even a historical district. Many of these places offer scavenger hunts or trivia activities that make the experience interactive and engaging. Love + Health = HappinessPrioritizing heart health doesnt mean giving up on fun and romance. With these creative heart healthy date night ideas, you can nurture your relationship while also taking care of your heart. So go ahead, plan your next adventure together and make every moment count!  VIPCare is Senior-Focused Care that caters specifically to the needs of older adults 65+.  Call 251-257-2886 for more information.