Senior Care Fairfax helps seniors remain active and healthy in their own homes.

Emotional and mental well-being are important parts to maintaining senior health. There are many small things that can add great happiness to the lives of seniors. The following list contains some tips to cheer up seniors. Many of these tips stem from the past hundred years, but they are a great way to bring a little cheer to a senior loved one.

1. Read an amusing book. This is a great way to escape from reality while providing a sense of happiness. Try not to look too far down the road. Having short views of life can be rewarding. It helps to ensure that the little things are not overlooked!

2. Make time for friends and people who bring a smile and offer some amusement. This can make seniors very happy by giving them a social outlet as well as someone to laugh with.

3. Enjoy the outdoors. Fresh air can be invigorating and can increase mood.

4. Do not be hard on yourself. Life is too short to dwell on shortcomings. Try to focus on positive aspects each and every day.

5. If there is a location in the home that makes a senior feel comfortable and happy, try to arrange daily living so that much time is spent there.

Source: happiness-project.com

Image: tom.intellisite.com

Home Care Fairfax County South, VA provides elder home care and senior care in Fairfax, Alexandria, Burke, Springfield, Annandale, Fairfax Station, Lorton, Mt. Vernon and Fort Belvoir. Call us today at 703.750.6644.

Home Care Fairfax helps seniors remain active and healthy in their own homes.

As we age, our health begins to decline. This is a normal process, but there are some things that seniors should watch for. Noticing the signs of declining health is very important. When signs are noticed, seniors can seek treatment for illness and other health problems. Early detection is the key to successfully battling many illnesses. Below is a list of signs for seniors to watch for.

1. If seniors suddenly lose interest in something they previously enjoyed, there is cause for concern. This includes socializing with friends, involving themselves in hobbies or losing interest in physical activity.

2. When seniors become less active, there may be an underlying problem. It is important to talk to a doctor when seniors begin to be less physically active on a day to day basis.

3. Be aware of how seniors move. If they normally move at a normal pace and suddenly begin to slow down, there may be a medical reason. Seniors should try to remain as active as possible. If they suddenly walk differently, make sure to talk to a doctor.

4. Seniors who begin to lose weight rapidly and have changes in appetite or eating habits could have a medical problem. These changes are unhealthy and should always be taken seriously. Be sure to report any changes in weight or eating habits to a doctor.

5. Many seniors do not walk as well as younger adults. However, if seniors begin to wobble when they walk, this is a warning sign. Seniors who lose their balance could have a medical problem that needs treatment.

Source: getmommoving.com

Home Care Fairfax County South, VA provides elder home care and senior care in Fairfax, Alexandria, Burke, Springfield, Annandale, Fairfax Station, Lorton, Mt. Vernon and Fort Belvoir. Call us today at 703.750.6644.

Aging Care Fairfax helps seniors remain active and healthy in their own homes.

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 Fairfax County South, VA provides elder home care and senior care in Fairfax, Alexandria, Burke, Springfield, Annandale, Fairfax Station, Lorton, Mt. Vernon and Fort Belvoir. Call us today at 703.750.6644.

Our Fairfax Caregivers help seniors remain active and healthy in their own homes.

Many seniors battle with daily life with food allergies. When a senior has a food allergy, they must be very cautious when eating any foods they do not prepare themselves. A food allergy could be life-threatening. In addition to food allergies, a lot of seniors have intolerances. The reactions are not as severe, but seniors still need to be aware of what they are ingesting. The following list contains some facts on allergies and intolerances for seniors.

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 Riverside keeps seniors and elderly independent and safe at home. Call us for more information at 951-369-7047.

Home Care Fairfax County South, VA provides elder home care and senior care in Fairfax, Alexandria, Burke, Springfield, Annandale, Fairfax Station, Lorton, Mt. Vernon and Fort Belvoir. Call us today at 703.750.6644.

Fairfax Elder Care helps seniors remain active and healthy in their own homes.

Seniors with food allergies need to be very careful when they eat. This is even more important when they are not preparing their own foods. If a senior eats something they are allergic to, they could have a severe and life-threatening reaction. Some seniors do not have allergies, but they do have intolerances. These do not include the same severe reactions, but they can cause some health problems. The list provided contains some facts about allergies and intolerances.

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 Fairfax County South, VA provides elder home care and senior care in Fairfax, Alexandria, Burke, Springfield, Annandale, Fairfax Station, Lorton, Mt. Vernon and Fort Belvoir. Call us today at 703.750.6644.

Fairfax Senior Care helps seniors remain active and healthy in their own homes.

Many seniors are now requiring the assistance of a caregiver. While this is an honorable role to be in, it is also draining. This is why caregivers need to pay special attention to their own physical needs. Respite time is very important as well. Time off can allow the body to rest and recuperate. If this is not done, there will be the risk of illness. The list below contains some important tips all caregivers should know about.

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 Fairfax County South, VA provides elder home care and senior care in Fairfax, Alexandria, Burke, Springfield, Annandale, Fairfax Station, Lorton, Mt. Vernon and Fort Belvoir. Call us today at 703.750.6644.

Home Care Fairfax helps seniors remain active and healthy in their own homes.

New Year’s resolutions can pose some problems for many seniors. While it sounds like a great idea to make some small changes to daily life, these resolutions are not always easy to keep. The list below provides some helpful tips for seniors who may need a little extra help with keeping their resolutions. Change can be beneficial, and a little help along the way can make a world of difference.

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 Fairfax County South, VA provides elder home care and senior care in Fairfax, Alexandria, Burke, Springfield, Annandale, Fairfax Station, Lorton, Mt. Vernon and Fort Belvoir. Call us today at 703.750.6644.

When it’s time to hire a caregiver, family members and close friends of the senior are usually the first ones to take notice that it’s time for a change. Once health and safety could be sacrificed is when it’s necessary to start the journey for caregiving, and while it can be stressful, by following the right process the outcome can be positive.

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 Fairfax 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 Fairfax County South, VA provides elder home care and senior care in Fairfax, Alexandria, Burke, Springfield, Annandale, Fairfax Station, Lorton, Mt. Vernon and Fort Belvoir. Call us today at 703.750.6644.

Home Care Fairfax helps seniors remain active and healthy in their own homes.

When hiring a caregiver for a loved one, there are many factors to consider. First, you should know what kind of services the senior will need. You will then have to find an agency that staffs a caregiver that will meet these needs. The hiring process can take some time, but with a little information and research, you should be able to find a caregiver that will provide the services needed. The following list provides some tips and information when looking to hire a caregiver for a senior.

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 Fairfax County South, VA provides elder home care and senior care in Fairfax, Alexandria, Burke, Springfield, Annandale, Fairfax Station, Lorton, Mt. Vernon and Fort Belvoir. Call us today at 703.750.6644.

Home Care Fairfax helps seniors remain active and healthy in their own homes.

Heart health is a major concern in the senior population. Many seniors have been affected by a heart issue. This is why so many are looking for new ways to protect themselves and reduce risks. Increasing the doses of statin can reduce the risks of heart disease and other heart issues. Recent studies have confirmed that statin levels can have a huge impact on heart health. Below is a list containing some facts about statin and how to can reduce risks and improve health.

1. Increased doses of Lipitor or other cholesterol lowering medications has been shown to reduce the risk of developing heart related health problems.

2. In combination with medication, lowering bad cholesterol can reduce the chances of heart disease.

3. Seniors who have coronary heart disease should try to get their bad cholesterol levels below 100mg per each deciliter of blood.

4. High doses of statin has been shown to lower cholesterol levels to 70.

5. In addition to reducing the chances of developing heart disease, seniors can also reduce the likelihood of stroke and heart attack.

6. Regardless of the current heart condition, lowering bad cholesterol can have many health benefits for seniors, including lower blood pressure, lower mortality rates and the reduction of risks of coronary heart disease.

7. Seniors who are currently taking medication to lower their cholesterol should speak to a doctor regarding the possible benefits of increasing the dosage.

If you are a caregiver, or know anyone with a heart condition, you
could benefit from watching the following clip, which features a
modified form of CPR called CCR that is easier to learn, easier to do
and can save even more lives!

Source: reuters.com

Home Care Fairfax County South, VA provides elder home care and senior care in Fairfax, Alexandria, Burke, Springfield, Annandale, Fairfax Station, Lorton, Mt. Vernon and Fort Belvoir. Call us today at 703.750.6644.