Articles by Diane Carbo on ArticleSnatch.com

Deal With Caregiver Stress - What You Need to Know About Handling Guilt, Frustration and Anger

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 01:43:06 -0500

Overcome caregiver stress by putting strategies into place. Tips for dealing with guilt, frustration and anger start with identifying the expectations you have for yourself as a caregiver. Caregivers have a tendency to try to do everything themselves. Some individuals become overprotective or believe that their "caring" and attention is all that the aging senior requires. No one will provide care as well as they do. Many caregivers today are taking care of their own family, as well as their aging parents or an aging relative. It is important for many caregivers to realize and accept the fact that not only are they human, they are imperfect beings. That means, no matter how hard they try, no matter how hard they plan, there are moments in life when things happen. No one person can ever meet every need of another human being. It is just not possible. It takes many individuals to support an aging senior in the home. And it should. There should always be a back up person or persons in place that can provide care should the primary caregiver become unable to provide support. There is another reason that there should be a back up system. **End Summary** Topics: caregiver stress]]> dealing with guilt]]> frustration]]> anger]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Diane Carbo RN Please visit http://www.aginghomehealthcare.com/baby-boomers-as-caregivers.html sign up for Aging Home Health Care Ezine her free newsletter and receive a complimentary copy of the Home Health Care Planning Guide.

The Challenges to the Caregiver When Dealing With End Stage Dementia

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 01:42:30 -0500

End stage dementia is the last of the three stages of dementia. The challenges of this stage are dramatically different for the earlier stages. Many family caregivers are exhausted and often burned out from providing care at home when they get to this level of care. The care giving skills needed are dramatically different than the previous stages. At this stage of the disease the former personality or the person that once was, is no longer there. The mental capacities have remarkably deteriorated. The majority of brain cells in all areas of the brain have disintegrated. The death of these brain cells has profound negative affect on the body and its organs. Most problems in the early stages of the disease were mental, especially in terms of the memory. Now, at end stage dementia, it will be the physical decline that will take most of the caregivers time. The negative and disruptive behaviors will decrease or be eliminated. At this stage, the body and mind are deteriorating and starting to fail. The individual affected by dementia can no longer control many bodily functions and requires total care. **End Summary** Topics: end stage dementia]]> home health care]]> hospice]]> three stages of dementia]]> caregivers]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Diane Carbo RN Please visit http://www.aginghomehealthcare.com/end-stage-dementia.html sign up for Aging Home Health Care Ezine her free newsletter and receive a complimentary copy of the Home Health Care Planning Guide.

Middle Stages of Dementia - What to Expect as a Caregiver

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 01:41:58 -0500

Caregivers, providing care for an individual in the middle stages of dementia have difficulty managing behaviors that are exhibited. Studies show that of the 5.1 million individuals diagnosed with dementia in this country, seventy percent remain in their homes and are receiving care from family and friends. The middle stages of dementia will bring increasing challenges for you the caregiver and the individual that you are caring for. The early signs of dementia will worsen and new signs of dementia will develop. The caregivers will notice increased mental declines and personality changes will become more noticeable. Physical problems, such as poor balance, become much more apparent. The individual will become more and more dependant on the caregivers in their life. Middle stage dementia is the longest and can be the most challenging stage for both the caregiver and the individual for whom they are providing care. For the caregivers, there are tremendous mental and emotional challenges. The individual with dementia does not adjust to new of different experiences, as they can cause confusion or frustration. Of the three stages of dementia, this is the time when routines become vital. **End Summary** Topics: stages of dementia]]> signs of dementia]]> three stages of dementia]]> caregivers]]> early signs of dementia]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Diane Carbo RN Please visit http://www.aginghomehealthcare.com/stages-of-dementia.html Sign up for Aging Home Health Care Ezine her free newsletter and receive a complimentary copy of the Home Health Care Planning Guide.

Early Signs of Dementia For Family Caregivers to Watch For

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 22:38:41 -0500

Early signs of dementia, here are some tips for a successful approach to providing care. The first of the three stages of dementia may present with memory problems that the individual is able to hide. Other signs of dementia may exhibit as depression, lack of interest or initiative in some individuals, or in other words the inability to carry out plans. Still others may begin to have some personality changes and begin to have difficulty with expressing emotions. Being aware of the early signs of dementia and seeking early treatment may prolong the early stage of this disease. At the present time, there is no cure for the progressive dementia's, such as Alzheimer's. The present treatment for this disease is medication, nutrition and behavioral approaches. Medications will assist with some of the irritability, anxiety and restlessness that many individuals with dementia experience. The most successful approach to providing care for the individual is through interpersonal communication. This is not an easy task, as by the time the diagnosis of dementia is given, the brain has already begun to deteriorate. Communication is difficult not only for the caregivers, but for the individual with this diagnosis. **End Summary** Topics: early signs of dementia]]> early onset dementia]]> caregivers]]> signs of dementia]]> three stages of dement]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Diane Carbo RN Please visit Early Signs of Dementia Sign up for Aging Home Health Care Ezine her free newsletter and receive a complimentary copy of the Home Health Care Planning Guide.

Causes of Dementia Caregivers, Become Empowered to Provide Better Care

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 22:26:25 -0500

What are the causes of dementia? Just what is dementia? How will caregivers knowledge of this disease help them provide better care? Knowledge is power. This dementia overview will help you, as a caregiver, to understand the various causes of dementia and what you can do to be prepared to provide quality care with confidence. Knowledge will take the mystery out of the condition and allow you to develop a plan for handling behaviors and changes as they present themselves. There are so many different causes of dementia it is difficult at times to tell them apart. There are a variety of health related conditions that can cause dementia symptoms, especially in aging adults. These causes include a variety of different diseases and infections, head injuries, nutritional deficiencies, medications, drug abuse and strokes. To understand dementia is to become aware that this disease is the result of a disease or injury. In other words, something causes injury or insult (through a disease process) to the brain first. If the injury or insult to the brain is severe or progressive, the brains ability to properly function is compromised mentally, physically and emotionally. All dementia's affect the tissue of the brain. **End Summary** Topics: causes of dementia]]> dementia overview]]> dementia]]> what is dementia]]> caregivers]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Diane Carbo RN Please visit Causes of Dementia sign up for Aging Home Health Care Ezine her free newsletter and receive a complimentary copy of the Home Health Care Planning Guide.

Caregiver Stress - Don't Even Bother Trying to Relax -Use These 7 Stress Reduction Tips

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 20:08:42 -0500

Caregiver Stress -- You want to be there for the people you love, prepare yourself by learning to manage stressful times. Caregivers, when caring for your aging loved one, it is important to take action and incorporate these seven tips into the care giving part of your life. The 7 stress reduction tips to take when caring for your aging loved one are: * Be true to yourself. In other words, take care of yourself. Stay healthy and happy. You are an individual that has needs too. It is not selfish or thoughtless to think and take care of you. This will make your care giving experience a more wholesome one. Taking care of yourself will also make you better prepared to handle those difficult and all encompassing days ahead. * Be flexible. This is a hard one for many care givers. There is more than one way to care for someone. Everyone has a different approach. It may not be the same as yours, but sometimes it is important to let go of the little things. Be willing to learn a new way to do things. **End Summary** Topics: caregiver stress]]> stress reduction]]> aging]]> caregivers]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Diane Carbo RN Please visit Avoid Care Giver Stress Sign up for Aging Home Health Care Ezine her free newsletter and receive a complimentary copy of the Home Health Care Planning Guide.

A Dementia Overview For Caregivers - Understanding Dementia Will Help You Provide Better Care

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 20:08:27 -0500

A dementia overview is important to those caregivers providing care to a loved one at home; as this condition can be very challenging. Some reading this may already be experiencing the day to day stressors. There are so many causes of dementia and different types of dementia; it can all get very confusing. As a caregiver, anticipating and planning to care for an individual with a diagnosis of dementia, knowing what types of dementia will influence how you provide care. The treatment of dementia depends on many factors, they type of dementia, the causes of the disease and the area of the brain that is and will be affected as they go through the stages of dementia. Providing care for anyone with this diagnosis is stressful and at times frightening. This does not have to be the situation. Taking time to educate yourself about the basics of the specific type of dementia will give you knowledge or what to expect and take some of the mystery out of this disease. Having a better understanding will empower you to be a more confident and assured caregiver. **End Summary** Topics: dementia overview]]> dementia]]> causes of dementia]]> symptoms of dementia]]> dementia stages]]> caregivers]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Diane Carbo RN Please visit Dementia Overview and sign up for Aging Home Health Care Ezine , her free newsletter and receive a complimentary copy of the Home Health Care Planning Guide.

Deal With Caregiver Stress What You Need to Know About Handling Guilt, Frustration and Anger

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 20:08:25 -0500

Overcome caregiver stress by putting strategies into place. Tips for dealing with guilt, frustration and anger start with identifying the expectations you have for yourself as a caregiver. Caregivers have a tendency to try to do everything themselves. Some individuals become overprotective or believe that their "caring" and attention is all that the aging senior requires. No one will provide care as well as they do. Many caregivers today are taking care of their own family, as well as their aging parents or an aging relative. It is important for many caregivers to realize and accept the fact that not only are they human, they are imperfect beings. That means, no matter how hard they try, no matter how hard they plan, there are moments in life when things happen. No one person can ever meet every need of another human being. It is just not possible. It takes many individuals to support an aging senior in the home. And it should. There should always be a back up person or persons in place that can provide care should the primary caregiver become unable to provide support. There is another reason that there should be a back up system. **End Summary** Topics: caregiver stress]]> dealing with guilt]]> frustration]]> anger]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Diane Carbo RN Please visit Baby Boomers as Caregivers . Sign up for Aging Home Health Care Ezine her free newsletter and receive a complimentary copy of the Home Health Care Planning Guide.

Do You Need Tips For Successful Aging in Place -- Baby Boomers and Others Take Notice

Tue, 06 Oct 2009 15:22:19 -0400

Aging baby boomers are determined for successful aging in place. They are so determined to reach their goals; the boomers have created an entire new home remodeling industry. The hopes of the aging baby boomer generation are to avoid being institutionalized and to live out the life in the comforts of their own home. In order to reach that goal, baby boomers are finding support and guidance with Certified Aging in Place Specialists. It is important that aging boomers realize that their bodies will change and our ability to maneuver our physical environment with ease may change. An aging boomer must realize that successful aging in place requires planning, support and guidance from many different areas. The first step, for success, is to make your home your partner as you age. Most homes were built for young growing families. A young body can maneuver stairs, stand at the kitchen sink or stand on a stool to get out of reach things. As we age, these activities can become difficult or even impossible. Balance can become a problem and falls rob the aging body of independence. **End Summary** Topics: successful aging]]> aging in place]]> home remodeling plans]]> universal design]]> aging baby boomers]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Diane Carbo RN You will find extensive helpful information that will be continually updated. Please visit Diane's web site and learn more about successful aging and preparation. Sign up for "The Caring Advocate" her free newsletter and take advantage of a complimentary e-course Advocating For Yourself and Others"

Compulsive Hoarding - A Well Kept Family Secret

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 21:23:24 -0400

Compulsive hoarding may have been a well kept family secret, but now the family is concerned over the aging parent's safety in the home. This is an elder care crisis that is starting to rear its ugly head. Care giver stress over concerns about health code violations, fire safety or a fall that could lead to a death and being buried by trash. City and county agencies have developed task forces to deal with the compulsive hoarder. The home of a hoarder looks like any other person's home from the outside. Sooner or later, the accumulation of debris in the house gets to a point where the local government agencies are contacted. The neighbors may have complained about a terrible stench coming for the home or the local utility company has cut off the electricity or water to the home. For some, their care giver or family member has had to report them. Upon discovery, what is found is often shocking: things piled from floor to ceiling. Doors and windows are blocked. The stove, refrigerator, bathtubs and sinks are unusable because they are covered by piles of clutter. The hoarder has created a maze in their home, as their nest. **End Summary** Topics: compulsive hoarding]]> caregiver stress]]> elder care]]> Symptoms of dementia]]> types of mental illness]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Diane Carbo RN Please visit http://www.aginghomehealthcare.com/compulsive-hoarding.html and sign up for Aging Home Health Care Ezine her free newlsetter and receive a complimentary copy of the Home Health Care Planning Guide.

The Best of The Best Anti Aging Products For Aging Baby Boomers

Sun, 05 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0400

Aging baby boomers are determined to fight the aging process. They spend millions of dollars a year on what they perceive as the best anti aging products money can buy. They are being very short sighted in their quest for youth. Just as a well maintained car eventually breaks down, our bodies do the same. Aging is a chronic and ongoing condition we all face. Successful aging requires planning. The baby boomer generation has made it loud and clear that they want to remain in their homes and communities as they age. Yet they ignore the most important factor that will help them achieve the goal to age successfully at home. The home environment most boomers reside in was built for the young family. A young body can run the stairs, stand at the sink and get on a stool to reach things. These are activities that become difficult or even impossible for some as they age. Falls are the number one robber of independence of the aging body. Yes, all the exercise, good nutrition and botox cannot help one from falling and breaking a bone. Eventually the body slows down and being mobile can be an issue. **End Summary** Topics: aging baby boomers]]> anti aging products]]> best anti aging products]]> successful aging]]> ]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Diane Carbo RN Please visit Diane's web site and learn more about why planning for the future is the wisest use of Baby Boomer spending. Sign up for "The Caring Advocate" her free newlsetter and take advantage of a complimentary e-course Advocating For Yourself and Others"

Baby Boomers Caring For Elderly Parents Six Tips For Overcoming Caregiver Stress and Guilt

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0400

Caring for elderly parents as well as their own family many aging baby boomers find they are stressed and dealing with guilt. Overcoming caregiver stress and the guilt feelings that often accompanies the role of one person taking care of another is possible. Guilt is a feeling of perceived failure. This failure may come in the form of expectations we set for ourselves or what we perceive are the expectations that others have set for us. Our response to these feelings of perceived failure affects our decisions and our actions. Guilt, in any form is detrimental to any relationship. When caring for another individual, guilt presents itself to us on many different levels. Along with guilty feelings, there are feelings of anger, frustration, resentment and sadness. Many individuals torment themselves with unrealistic expectations and worry trying to anticipate every possible need. Others find themselves dealing with the disappointment and frustration of uninvolved and uninterested siblings or extended family members Still others find guilt stemming from sadness and fear of losing someone very close to them. They second guess themselves into believing that if they had paid attention sooner, or did something different their aging senior's condition would be different. **End Summary** Topics: caregiver stress]]> dealing with guilt]]> caring for elderly parents]]> aging baby boomers]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Diane Carbo RN Please visit Diane's web site and learn more about caregiver stress and feeling of guilt. Sign up for "The Caring Advocate" her free newlsetter and take advantage of a complimentary e-course Advocating For Yourself and Others"

Caregiver Needed? Top 6 Reasons a Family Caregiver Contract Makes Sense

Fri, 19 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0400

A family caregiver contract is a legal contract in which a family member is paid to care for the aging senior member of the family. Once an unspeakable or even unthinkable topic, there is a growing interest in the family caregiver contract. As the aging population is living longer, baby boomers are facing caring for aging parents. Many are providing this care as they plan for their own retirement. Elder law estate attorneys are reporting an increase in interest in a formalized family agreement. With the recent economy and new regulations regarding the qualifications for Medicaid, families are exploring creative solutions to providing care for the aging senior in their life. Caring for an aging parent can involve time, emotional and financial sacrifices. Providing care can involve many years of commitment and dedication. Families are exploring options so that they can provide the quality care the aging senior deserves. Many do not want to suffer the financial consequences or losses of providing that care, even though there may be tax consequences to the income they receive. More on the top 6 reasons a family caregiver contract makes sense when a caregiver is needed. **End Summary** Topics: caregiver needed]]> caregiver contract]]> inheritance]]> caregiver stress]]> aging baby boomers]]> ]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Diane Carbo RN Please visit Diane's web site and learn more about why a family caregiver needed to have a formal contract. Sign up for "The Caring Advocate" her free newlsetter and take advantage of a complimentary e-course Advocating For Yourself and Others"

Aging Baby Boomer Generation Alert -- Is There a Family Care Giver Contract in Your Future?

Tue, 09 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0400

Caregiver needed? This is a wake up call for the aging baby boomer generation. What is a family care giver contract and why would it be in your future? This is a formal contract under which family members are paid to care for the aging senior in their life. Before you get make a negative judgment on this practice, I ask you to hear me out. The aging baby boomer is experiencing a phenomenon never experienced by past generations. As we are living longer and healthier lives, we have found ourselves providing care for our parents long beyond expectations. In fact, studies revealed that there are over 50, 000 family members providing over $300 billion dollars of free or uncompensated care each year. Many family members get upset over the idea that they would get paid for providing care for a family member. There is a sense of obligation and family commitment. I understand that. I have been financially and professionally impacted by my decisions to provide care and support for the family members in my life. So it was with great hesitation that I started explore this as an option for other family members. **End Summary** Topics: baby boomer generation]]> aging baby boomer]]> care giver]]> care giver contract]]> caregiver needed]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Diane Carbo RN Please visit Diane's web site and learn more about caregiver contracts and the baby boomer generation. Sign up for "The Caring Advocate" her free newlsetter and take advantage of a complimentary e-course Advocating For Yourself and Others"

Care Givers and Eldercare Are You Stressed Out-- What Do I Do?

Mon, 08 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0400

Care givers are stressed out providing eldercare for their family member. There is a cure that is sure to help stress relief, renew your energy and your spirits. This has been a survival technique that has successfully worked for me and I feel that I should share it. There are several parts of this "care giver stress cure": alone time, reflection, positive thinking and stress relief techniques. I know what you are thinking, "Who has time for all of that?" Since discovering the benefits of this simple little method, I have found a way to incorporate this into my everyday life. The first step is to allow yourself to reclaim your alone time. It will give you a sense of freedom and control over your life. I have become selfish about my alone time. I get up in the early hours of the morning, before everyone else. It is quiet, calm and peaceful. If it is warm outside, I sneak out to the garden to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors. When it is cold, I bundle up with blankets and a hot cup of tea and I start my morning just enjoying the silence. **End Summary** Topics: care givers]]> eldercare]]> stressed out]]> power of positive thinking]]> stress relief]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Diane Carbo RN Please visit Diane's web site and learn more about my solutions for releaving my stress. Sign up for "The Caring Advocate" her free newlsetter and take advantage of a complimentary e-course Advocating For Yourself and Others"

Narcissism and the Aging Adult -- What Caregivers Can Do to Deal With This Difficult Task

Mon, 08 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0400

Caring for an aging parent with narcissism is very difficult position to be put in. Many care givers find themselves in the unenviable position of providing care of the elderly narcissist at the cost of their own survival. Care giving is stressful, at times overwhelming and promotes guilt. The aging narcissist finds this to be a perfect scenario. Care giver stress is real. When you choose to take on the role of care of the elderly and aging narcissist you may not be prepared for what is in store for you. Every culture or religion has some belief of "Honor thy father and thy mother." It does not say that you have to love or even like them. If you are an adult child or a spouse of a narcissist you are in a situation of constantly trying to please a person that is unable to be pleased. The narcissist must control everyone and everything in their world. These individuals have an ego and an exaggerated sense of self importance. The aging narcissist considers their skills, their achievements and themselves to be far superior to any other individual that crosses their path. **End Summary** Topics: narcissism]]> care giver stress]]> aging]]> care of the elderly]]> care givers]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Diane Carbo RN Please visit Diane's web site and learn more about narcissism. Sign up for "The Caring Advocate" her free newsletter and take advantage of a complimentary e-course Advocating For Yourself and Others"

What the Baby Boomer Generation Should Know About Dementia, Alzheimer's and Memory Loss

Mon, 01 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0400

As the baby boomer generation retires, many are concerned about dementia, Alzheimer's and memory loss. Modern technology and scientific advancements in health care are helping individuals live longer and healthier lives than any previous generation. The statistics of past generations indicate that 10 percent of individuals over the age of 65 years of age develop memory problems. By the age of 85 years of age, the percentage of memory problems increases to 50 percent. Baby boomers are a generation that expects to grow old gracefully, physically and mentally. They expect to remain youthful and full of vitality as they age. Boomers do not want to know or experience the ill effects of aging, such as mental decline. This has been a driving force resulting in the research and studies done on the cognitive (thought) processes of the brain. Although there is still much research to be done, there are some very promising findings being reported. Science now confirms that memory loss is not a normal part of aging. Proper nutrition, physical exercise and challenging the brain frequently are linked to brain fitness. The causes of memory loss can occur gradually over time. **End Summary** Topics: baby boomer generation]]> the loss of memory]]> dementia]]> Alzheimer's]]> causes of memory loss]]> memory los]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Diane Carbo RN Please visit Diane's web site and learn more about the baby boomer generation and memory loss, dementia and Alzheimers here. While visiting sign up for "The Caring Advocate" her free newlsetter and get the opportunity to take a Health Care Advocacy e-course.

Dangers of Assuming Medicare Covers Everything - Elderly Home Health Care Vs Assisted Living Costs

Tue, 26 May 2009 00:00:00 -0400

Elderly home care is and will continue to be much more cost effective now and in the future. When considering the cost of elder home care versus assisted living costs, there are many factors to take into consideration. One consideration is to understand the trends of the health care industry, so that you can financially plan for your future. Many believe that Medicare will cover everything they need as they age. Although many realize that they need to financially prepare for the future, most do not investigate the cost and options of future care needs. Many do not feel that they can afford to invest in long term care insurance. In 2008, Prudential Insurance did a study on long term care. The results, which will be followed up every year, had some alarming information regarding the costs that will pay for care and services as we age. The information from this and other studies is important to assure successful planning for our future care needs. It was noted that elderly assisted living homes have seen the largest increase in costs over a 2 year period. **End Summary** Topics: elderly home care]]> assisted living costs]]> assisted living centers]]> elderly home health care]]> elder]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Diane Carbo RN Please visit Diane's web site and learn more about home health care Sign up for "The Caring Advocate" her free newlsetter and receive a complimentary copy of the Home Health Care Planning Guide.

Gift Ideas For Senior Citizens Perplexing You? 5 Tips to Finding the Perfect Gift For Baby Boomers

Sat, 23 May 2009 00:00:00 -0400

Need gift ideas for the senior citizens in your life? Not to worry, I have some ideas to help you find the perfect gift for the seniors citizens or baby boomers in your life. Many gift givers have the perception that as we age, we have accumulated everything we need in life. In some case that may be so, but, just because we are getting older, does not mean we don't enjoy or appreciate a meaningful and well thought out gift. Tip #1. As we age, our needs change. Our thoughts focus on our past, what we accomplished, what we wanted to do, but postponed due to life's responsibilities that came our way. Many fondly recall the dreams, plans and hopes of their youth. There are many that have things in their life that they miss or wish they had a chance to do. Now, because of their age, they think that this is no longer a possibility. Trust me, there is a gift giving idea in those postponed dreams and plans. And all you have to do is discover what they are. Tip #2. Every aging senior has different personalities, lifestyles, interests, financial and health situations. **End Summary** Topics: gift ideas for senior citizens]]> gifts for seniors]]> baby boomers]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Diane Carbo RN Please visit http://www.aginghomehealthcare.com/gift-ideas-for-senior-citizens.html for more information on gifting baby boomers and senior adults. Sign up for The Caring Advocate Ezine her free newlsetter and receive a complimentary copy of the Home Health Care Planning Guide.

How Do Home Health Care Products Allow You to Adjust Your Home to Meet Your Need to Successful Aging

Tue, 19 May 2009 00:00:00 -0400

Many home health care products promote independence and freedom for those individuals that require assistance with any function they are no longer capable of doing for themselves. These products actually allow an individual to successfully age in place. There are a variety of home health care products on the market today. For every condition or symptom, there is a home health care product to offer a solution. The key to successful aging in place is for the consumer to become aware of those solutions. Let's start with the basic activities we perform each day. Bathing, dressing, brushing your teeth, shaving and combing your hair are functions we perform everyday and take for granted. For some, the ability to do these tasks can feel as if performing that function is insurmountable. Finding the right home health care product can make performing that task possible. It is important to note here, that many well meaning care givers would rather perform the task for their aging loved one, instead of painstakingly watching an individual attempt to perform the task themselves. Please remember, that self reliance is important to an individuals self esteem. **End Summary** Topics: home health care products]]> successful aging]]> independence]]> aging in place]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Diane Carbo RN Please visit http://www.aginghomehealthcare.com sign up for Aging Home Health Care Ezine her free newlsetter and receive a complimentary copy of the Home Health Care Planning Guide.

Why to Many Senior Citizens Happiness is Pets

Tue, 19 May 2009 00:00:00 -0400

Senior citizens that have pets will be sure to tell you "Happiness is pets". There is a good reason for that statement. Aging pet owners experience physical and emotional health benefits from having a pet that they may not even be aware they are experiencing. Here are just a few of the health benefits of having a pet: " Reduces stress and anxiety - pet owners, even without research studies will tell you how great they feel when they are greeted and spend time with their loving pet. Pets show unconditional love. Our pets are there for us when we need them, even when others in our life can't be there for us. We can talk to our pets, share our innermost thoughts and feelings and not worry about rejection. The mere act of petting releases naturally occurring chemicals into our bodies that calm and soothe our nerves. " Lowers blood pressure - the same chemicals that are released when we pet our faithful companions are also the ones responsible for helping lower your blood pressure. **End Summary** Topics: senior citizens]]> happiness is pet. baby boomer]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Diane Carbo RN Please visit http://www.aginghomehealthcare.com/taking_care_of_the_elderly.html sign up for Aging Home Health Care Ezine her free newlsetter and receive a complimentary copy of the Home Health Care Planning Guide.

Human Aging and the Mind Body Connection - Priceless Humor and the Benefits of Laughter

Tue, 19 May 2009 00:00:00 -0400

Research has shown that human aging has a mind body connection that we enjoy with the benefits of laughter. Humor, priceless humor, and our response to it can have many unexpected health benefits. Who would ever think that laughing can be so beneficial? Here are some reported health benefits of laughter and a good sense of priceless humor: Stress reduction - research studies have shown that the ability to see humor, even in difficult situations, causes the reduction of stress reducing hormones in our bodies. Elevates our mood - Laughing increases the release of endorphins in our bodies. This increases our sense of well being and improves our mood. Boost immune system - studies show that laughter can raise the level of hormones that produce infection-fighting antibodies in the body and boost the effectiveness of immune cells. Enhance brain functioning - as you experience a bout of laughter, the increase in your circulation also effects the amount of blood to your brain. Laughing stimulates both sides of the brain, so it also increases our ability to focus and retain information: the result is improved mental clarity and attentiveness. **End Summary** Topics: human aging]]> mind body connection]]> priceless humor]]> benefits of laughter]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Diane Carbo RN Please visit / http://www.aginghomehealthcare.com sign up for Aging Home Health Care Ezine her free newsletter and receive a complimentary copy of the Home Health Care Planning Guide.

What Can the Benefits of Pet Therapy Do to Make Aging With Grace More Likely

Tue, 12 May 2009 00:00:00 -0400

Aging with grace can be accomplished with the benefits of pet therapy! The benefits are even better than taking medication. Survey conducted of aging individuals that are pet owners reveals that that they feel that their health has benefitted from having a pet in their life. Science can now verify that this information is correct. A study done by the Waltham Center for Pet Nutrition along with Food and Drug Administration revealed that individuals that have pets experience less stress when faced with a trauma or an adverse situation than non pet owners. A survey conducted of senior citizens, conducted by The American Pet Products Manufacturers Association, also confirms that seniors feel having a in their life adds balance in their life. Eighty eight percent of the senior citizens polled felt that pets improved their home life either physically or emotionally. Having a pet in your life has health benefits that are better than medications. The results of a study preformed on stock brokers with high blood pressure were nothing short of astounding. Although the blood pressure medications the stock brokers were taking was able to control their blood pressure. **End Summary** Topics: aging with grace]]> benefits of pet therapy]]> medications]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Diane Carbo RN Please visit http://www.aginghomehealthcare.com/taking_care_of_the_elderly.html sign up for Aging Home Health Care Ezine her free newlsetter and receive a complimentary copy of the Home Health Care Planning Guide.

Activities For Senior Citizens How Hobbies and the Mind Body Connection Work

Thu, 16 Apr 2009 00:00:00 -0400

Hobbies have a mind body connection, they are important activities for senior citizens and are an important part of healthy aging. Active seniors are proof that you can enjoy better health and have fun doing it. Research studies have shown that leisure time and physical activity promote a healthier lifestyle. Our bodies are meant to be active and move. Many, as they age, tend to become increasingly inactive, preferring to watch TV to help pass the time away. Finding fun activities for senior citizens can change that. Active seniors are involved and participate in what life has to offer. Hobbies give an individual a reason to get out and share with others. Whether it is painting, building model airplanes or playing cards the benefits of a hobby can be an increase your chances for improved physical, social and emotional well being. It is important to have regular leisure time physical activity. Anything that promotes moving and being active will benefit you as you age. The health benefits of staying active are a delay or prevention of a chronic disease such as: heart disease, diabetes, some cancers and arthritis. Physical activity also promotes brain fitness. **End Summary** Topics: activities for senior citizens]]> hobbies]]> mind body connection]]> active seniors]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Diane Carbo RN Please visit http://www.aginghomehealthcare.com/activities-for-senior-citizens.html for more information on hobbies and senior activities Sign up for The Caring Advocate Ezine her free newsletter and receive complimentary copy of the Home Health Care Planning Guide.

Stressed Over Loosing Another Night's Sleep? The Truth About Sleep And Aging

Tue, 07 Apr 2009 00:00:00 -0400

Becoming stressed out and worried about loosing another night's sleep can affect your health. The truth is that our quality of sleep affects how we age. A good night's sleep is important for rejuvenating the body and restoring mental and physical health. Quality sleep allows our bodies to overcome cell damage from our daily activities and works to enhance our immune system, to help our bodies fight off infections and illness. A good night's sleep is also responsible for our mental clarity, our ability to concentrate and even our mood. A good night's sleep involves 5 different stages in a normal sleep cycle. These stages are from a light sleep (stage 1) to a very deep sleep (stage 4). Then there is stage 5, the rapid eye movement sleep. During this period of sleep, our eyes move rapidly, our pulse, breathing and even our brain wave activity increases. This is the sleep where we experience dreams. Chronic inability to fall asleep, stay asleep or wakening frequently during the night may lead to: * Memory loss or forgetfulness. * Excessive and ongoing daytime fatigue * Balance problems * Vision problems * Inability to concentrate More Stressed Over Loosing another Night's Sleep? **End Summary** Topics: stressed]]> sleep and aging]]> stress]]>]]> About the Author: ]]> Diane Carbo RN http://www.aginghomehealthcare.com/cant-sleep.html for more ideas. While there sign up for Aging Home Health Care Ezine her free newlsetter and receive a complimentary copy of the Home Health Care Planning Guide.