Seniors who have type-2 diabetes may be at a higher risk of memory loss. Seniors who have high levels of stress are at risk. Recent studies have confirmed the direct relation between stress and memory loss in diabetic patients. The results of this study are alarming for many seniors, but there may be a way to regulate stress hormones to prevent memory loss. The list below contains some important information for diabetic seniors.

1. Cortisol is a stress hormone. When this hormone is elevated, brain function can be slowed. This reaction is common in seniors with diabetes. The hormone could be the cause of most memory loss in diabetic patients.

2. The study that was conducted included men and women between 60 and 75. All individuals had type-2 diabetes. The study revealed that older adults who have high stress levels will experience more memory loss.

3. When there are high levels of the stress hormone present, cognitive abilities will be affected. It may be possible to regulate the levels of cortisol in the blood to control and even prevent memory loss.

4. Others studies have been performed regarding the association of diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease. The studies revealed that those with diabetes could experience increased memory loss associated with Alzheimer’s.

Source: telegraph.co.uk

Home Care Walnut Creek, CA delivering home care and elderly services to seniors in the Contra Costa area including Concord. Call us 925-280-9688.

Millions of seniors battle diabetes. In addition to altering their daily lives, some diabetic seniors may have another thing to be concerned about. A study has revealed that stress could increase the risk of memory loss in diabetic patients. The list below provides seniors with some useful information about how stress could be linked to the chances of memory loss.

1. The study focused on more than 1000 men and women who had type-2 diabetes. All of the people involved in the study were between the ages of 60 and 75. This type of diabetes has been linked to memory issues, but the reason was never clear until this study was performed.

2. The study revealed that diabetic patients who have high levels of stress are at a much higher risk of experiencing memory loss and cognitive decline. The levels of cortisol in the blood may play a role in memory function.

3. Cognitive decline in patients with type-2 diabetes may be controlled by regulating the levels of cortisol.

4. Prior studies have revealed that patients with diabetes may be at risk of memory loss that is associated with Alzheimer’s disease.

5. Cortisol may be the key factor in regulating memory loss. This hormone is responsible for much of the brain’s function. If patients with type-2 diabetes have high levels of this hormone, they will be at risk for memory loss.

Source: telegraph.co.uk

Home Care Walnut Creek, CA delivering home care and elderly services to seniors in the Contra Costa area including Concord. Call us 925-280-9688.

Many seniors prepare their own foods. This is why all seniors should know how to prevent the spread of foodborne illness and how to prevent food poisoning. By following some of the tips that are provided below, seniors will be able to prepare food safely and not worry about the chances of illness or poisoning.

1. Hand washing is essential. More than half of the potential cases of foodborne illness can be removed by properly washing your hands. Make sure to wash hands before, during and after all food preparation. Washing during preparation reduces the chances of cross-contamination.

2. Check refrigerator settings to make sure the food is being stored properly. The setting should be below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. After shopping, put perishables away quickly.

3. Clean the refrigerator often. Any lunch meat that has been open for more than 5 days should be discarded.

4. When thawing food, do not just leave them on a counter. Place them in the refrigerator overnight to thaw them properly. Foods can also be thawed by running them under cool water or placing them in the microwave, but both of these methods should only be used if the food will be prepared immediately.

5. Wash preparation surfaces often to prevent contamination. This is very important when preparing raw meats. It is suggested to have two separate cutting boards, one for raw meat, poultry and fish and the other for breads and vegetables.

6. Be aware of proper cooking temperatures. Always make sure food is thoroughly cooked.

Source: eatright.org

Image: chicken.org

Home Care Walnut Creek, CA delivering home care and elderly services to seniors in the Contra Costa area including Concord. Call us 925-280-9688.

Food safety is an issue that everyone should be aware of, especially seniors. Many seniors still prepare their own meals. When doing so, there are some tips that seniors can use to help prevent the chances of developing a foodborne illness. The tips provided below will help seniors prepare their food safely and maintain their health.

1. Older individuals, newborns and pregnant women are more susceptible to foodborne illnesses. This is because they usually have a weaker immune system than a healthy young adult. People in these groups need to be very careful of the foods they ingest.

2. To protect yourself from becoming ill from a food, make sure that all food is stored properly.

3. When cooking food, make sure that the food has reached the proper temperature. This can be done by inserting a thermometer into the food as it is being prepared. This is very important when cooking meat and poultry.

4. When preparing food, be sure to wash your hands often. This will help prevent cross-contamination. This is important when coming in contact with raw fish, meat and poultry.

5. Some foods are more prone to carrying bacteria. This is common in chicken and some red meat. Try to avoid preparing or eating these foods, especially if they are undercooked.

Source: eatright.org

Home Care Walnut Creek, CA delivering home care and elderly services to seniors in the Contra Costa area including Concord. Call us 925-280-9688.

Food allergies and intolerances can cause serious reactions in seniors. This is why seniors should always know what they are eating. Many prepared meals contain multiple ingredients. Some of these could trigger an allergic reaction. The list below provides seniors with important facts regarding intolerances and food allergies.

1. Food allergies are more common in children, but they do affect seniors as well. Family history plays an important role. Seniors should be aware of any other family members who have allergies or intolerances.

2. Food allergies can be mild or severe. Seniors need to know how they react to specific foods and be prepared for the worst possible reaction at all times.

3. The most common allergies include those to milk, peanuts, eggs, fish, shellfish, wheat, soy and tree nuts.

4. The best way to cope with food allergies and intolerances is to avoid the foods that trigger a reaction. Most seniors will be tested by a doctor to determine what foods cause a reaction and how severe that reaction may be.

5. Anyone with a food allergy or intolerance should know what is in the foods they eat. Since some food allergies are to common ingredients, this is very important when managing allergies.

6. When preparing food at home, always read the labels. Even if you are familiar with an ingredient in a recipe, it may contain traces of an allergen.

7. Make everyone informed of your allergies and intolerances. This includes family members, caretakers and friends.

Source: eatright.org

Image Via: healthinlife.com

Home Care Walnut Creek, CA delivering home care and elderly services to seniors in the Contra Costa area including Concord. Call us 925-280-9688.

It is important for seniors to know the facts about food allergies and intolerances. Managing a diet to allow for allergies can be a difficult task, especially when there are multiple allergies. The following list contains some useful facts about allergies and intolerances for seniors. Seniors need to be aware of everything they eat and how those foods could affect them.

1. There are eight foods that account for more than 90% of all food allergies. These include eggs, peanuts, milk, soy, wheat, tree nuts, fish and shellfish. Many people can have an anaphylactic reaction when they ingest a food they are allergic to.

2. Anyone with a food allergy or intolerance should know what foods make them ill and do their best to avoid these foods. It is important to make mention of any food allergies to anyone who is preparing food you will be eating.

3. Food allergy symptoms appear almost immediately after eating the food. The symptoms can include itchy nose and throat, watery eyes, shortness of breath or hives. There are many symptoms, but these are the most common.

4. Food intolerance is when the body cannot digest the food components. This is common with foods that contain lactose or sulfides. The symptoms may include abdominal pain and cramping, diarrhea or nausea. Unlike food allergies, food intolerance is not life-threatening.

5. If you have a food intolerance or allergy, make sure to meet with a dietician to understand what foods you need to avoid. You also need to learn about food ingredients so you know what to watch for. Make sure to read all labels on packaged foods and inform family members and friends of the intolerance or allergy.

Source: eatright.org

Home Care Walnut Creek, CA delivering home care and elderly services to seniors in the Contra Costa area including Concord. Call us 925-280-9688.

1. Caregivers should remember that they are not alone. The role of a caregiver can be stressful, exhausting and demanding. Many times, caregivers suffer from depression. While it may seem like the caregiver must do this alone, family and friends can offer much support and make a big difference.

2. Caregivers need to know their strengths. It is important to reward yourself for a job well done. Knowing your strengths as well as your limitations will help you become a better caregiver.

3. Many caregivers neglect their own health because they are so preoccupied with caring for a senior. Your personal health should be your number one priority. Never put aside your own health needs.

4. It is ok to ask for help. If you begin feeling overwhelmed, there is no shame asking for help. This could be as simple as words of encouragement. Family members may also be able to help you care for an elderly relative. This can make a huge difference because you will not be responsible for every aspect of care. It is ok to take a break!

5. Caregivers need to be an advocate for seniors. It is important for every caregiver to know their own rights in addition to the rights of the senior receiving assistance or treatment.

Source: thefamilycaregiver.org

Home Care Walnut Creek, CA delivering home care and elderly services to seniors in the Contra Costa area including Concord. Call us 925-280-9688.

Studies have shown that by mid-February, about 80% of New Year’s resolutions have been abandoned. Have you stuck to yours? Keeping a New Year’s resolution may be a difficult task, and especially for seniors. Often times, seniors choose resolutions that have health benefits. These can include diets, exercise, quitting bad habits or just managing their over-all health more efficiently. No matter what the resolution is, some seniors will need a little extra help. Now is the perfect time to check in and see how you’re doing with your resolutions. The list below provides some ways to keep on track with the goals you have set.

1. Have a support network, Friends and family can provide emotional support. This can be beneficial if the resolution included some drastic changes to daily living. If you have made some tough resolutions, you may benefit from being in the company of others who are also making changes to their lives. This can help seniors stay on track. Positive support groups are essential.

2. Resolutions can be difficult to keep, depending on what they are. Many seniors choose to lose extra weight or start an exercise program. The key to being successful with these resolutions is to just do them. If you have a new diet, stick to it. If you have a new exercise regime, make time for it each day. These changes can greatly improve health and mood, so stick with them regardless of how it feels at the time.

3. If you slip up on your resolution, do not quit completely. Many people make little mistakes. This does not mean the time you have already put into keeping the resolution needs to be thrown away. Just count that day as a loss and pick up where you left off.

Source: associatedcontent.com

Image Source: sxc.hu

Home Care Walnut Creek, CA delivering home care and elderly services to seniors in the Contra Costa area including Concord. Call us 925-280-9688.

1. Talk about it – while family might believe a senior requires home care assistance, their elderly loved one might not feel the same. Talking about it gently is essential, and not all seniors are likely to simply accept the suggestion of help. A family counselor can intervene if necessary.

2. List the help needed – talk together and determine specific things that a senior care provider like Home Care Walnut Creek could assist with. Whether it’s grocery shopping, help with bathing and dressing, or other tasks.

3. Do research – talk to friends and family about home care agencies they’d recommend, but during that process as costs are addressed, it’s also essential that any funding or insurance coverage that may be available is investigated

4. Don’t jump into a decision – even once a specific agency is narrowed down, it’s okay to interview them and ask questions about their history and their policies. Ask if they’ll spend time with the senior first to assess comfort level, and also verify that a replacement caregiver will be provided if one doesn’t work out

Via: The Family Caregiver

Home Care Walnut Creek, CA delivering home care and elderly services to seniors in the Contra Costa area including Concord. Call us 925-280-9688.

1. Check local Home Care Agencies. These companies staff many caregivers. However, they do provide different levels of service, so take the time to make sure all services that are needed can be provided.

2. If the senior in need of a caregiver is approved for care that will be paid for by Medicare, the Health Care Agency must be Medicare certified. This ensures that the agency meets the minimal federal requirements.

3. If the senior only requires personal care or homemaking services, caregivers do not have to come from an agency that is certified for Medicare.

4. If there is no Medicare coverage, the cost of the caregiver will have to be paid by the person receiving services. These services can be expensive, but there are some low rates for personal care attendants, also known as PCA’s. They are typically paid by the hour at rates between $13 and $35.

5. Do not be afraid to contact multiple agencies. It is important to find the right caregiver that will provide all services needed by the senior.

Source: thefamilycaregiver.org

Home Care Walnut Creek, CA delivering home care and elderly services to seniors in the Contra Costa area including Concord. Call us 925-280-9688.