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Which Diets Do Home Health Aides Recommend for Seniors?

Tue, 03 May 2022 19:15:38 GMT

As people get older, their nutritional needs often change. In some cases, a health care professional might recommend making the switch to a specialized diet based on their unique needs and considerations. If you have an elderly loved one in your life and are wondering if they might benefit from a lifestyle adjustment, consider discussing one of the following options with their home health aide .

Soft Food Diet

With soft food diets, the idea is to stick to foods that require minimal chewing and are easy to swallow and digest. This means eliminating anything with a hard texture. If your loved one has difficulty chewing and swallowing, this diet lowers the risk of choking and reduces discomfort when eating. Soft food diets are different from meal plans that consist of just liquids or purees, as many normal foods are still available and easily prepared by a home health aide.

High-Protein Diet

As people age, they lose muscle mass; as such, a high-protein diet is especially crucial for seniors. Protein also takes longer to digest, so your loved one will feel fuller for longer and be less tempted to snack. This offers an added benefit if their doctor recommends they lose weight. A home health aide can easily incorporate heart-healthy protein into your loved one's diet by preparing more fish, eggs, grilled chicken, and tofu.

Low-Cholesterol Diet

If your loved one recently discovered they have or are at risk of having high cholesterol, they'll need to adjust their diet. Doing so will protect their heart health and minimize the risk of clots or heart attack. This diet focuses on eliminating foods that are high in LDL, or "bad" cholesterol, and swapping them out for foods that are high in HDL, or "good" cholesterol. This means avoiding foods like fattening dairy, processed and red meat, and sweets. Instead, they should incorporate options like beans, fatty fish, nuts, and whole grains.

If you're seeking a home health aide to help your elderly loved one stick to a specialized diet, turn to the team at Safe Haven Home Care Inc. These compassionate professionals are proud to offer high-quality, personalized in-home care to seniors throughout all five boroughs of NYC. Give them a call today at (718) 968-6970 to schedule a consultation, and visit their website to learn more about what they do.

A Guide to Soft Food Diets for Seniors

Wed, 30 Mar 2022 19:08:02 GMT

If your senior loved one recently underwent surgery, has digestive problems, or struggles to chew certain foods, their doctor might recommend a soft food diet. This consists of eating foods that are low in fiber, which gives them a soft texture and makes them easy to digest. Here's what to know about these diets and how a home health aid can help with nutrition.

What Foods Are Allowed?

Soft foods typically contain about two grams of fiber per serving . Meat options may include fish, chicken, and turkey along with ground beef or sausage patties and tender cuts of beef and pork. If your loved is a vegetarian or has a sensitivity to meat, eggs, creamy nut butters, and tofu are high in protein and can serve as substitutes. Fruits and juices without pulp, such as bananas, applesauce, and canned peaches, are typically easier to chew and digest. Doctors and nutritionists also usually recommend well-cooked or canned vegetables without seeds or skin.

In terms of carbohydrates, white rice, pasta, and noodles made with white or refined flour are best, as they do not contain whole grains that might be difficult to masticate or cause digestive upset. Most dairy products are permitted as long as they do not contain fruit, seeds, or nuts. Additionally, smooth desserts such as ice cream, pudding, and gelatin are safe to eat on a soft food diet.

Other Considerations

Chewing foods thoroughly can make them easier to digest. A home health aid may monitor your loved one during meals and make sure they macerate thoroughly before swallowing. Additionally, eating smaller meals four to six times per day can help the body process foods. An in-home caregiver may provide your friend or family member with reminders about when to eat and assist with preparing dishes. They can also encourage your loved one to drink plenty of water throughout the day, which may help foods pass smoothly through the digestive system.

Since a soft food diet excludes many nutritious foods, taking a multivitamin can prevent nutrient deficiencies. A home health aid may remind your loved one to take these vitamins along with any other medications. Additionally, eating a wide variety of items from different food groups can help your elderly friend or family member get the nutrients they need to remain healthy. A home health care provider may prepare balanced meals that include a combination of carbohydrates, meats, and dairy along with plenty of fruits and vegetables.

If your senior loved one needs to eat a soft food diet, get in touch with Safe Haven Home Care Inc. They provide in-home health care , including meal prep and nutrition assistance, to clients throughout Queens, Manhattan, Bronx, Staten Island, and Brooklyn. Call (718) 968-6970 to schedule home health care for an elderly friend or family member, and visit the website to learn more about how they can improve quality of life for seniors.

3 Ways Prevent Your Senior Loved One From Falling During the Winter

Wed, 16 Feb 2022 18:58:38 GMT

The drop in temperature during the winter months brings about challenges for everyone. Ice accumulation results in slick surfaces, increasing the risk of slips and falls across every age group. However, this hazard is particularly problematic for older individuals, who may be more likely to sustain a severe injury when falling. If you're concerned about your loved one's safety this winter, here's what you can do to safeguard them against this peril and how an elderly care professional can help.

How to Reduce the Fall Risk for Your Loved One This Winter

1. Exercise Regularly

Regular exercise can strengthen bones, improve muscle mass, and increase the flexibility of joints. All of these activities can reduce your loved one's risk of falls as they enhance balance, strength, and mobility. Instead of hitting the gym, encourage your loved one to try some senior-friendly exercises, such as going for daily walks, doing couch-assisted squats, or lifting light weights.

2. Rest as Needed

While getting exercise is important, so is taking the time to rest. Make sure your family member never overexerts themselves, and advise them to always catch their breath as needed, even during short walks to the mailbox or car. They should always have a safety plan in place during times of movement, such as having an elderly care professional nearby in case they lose their balance.

3. Dress Appropriately

During the winter months, ice and snow can accumulate quickly. Reduce your loved one's risk of falling by ensuring they dress in the appropriate clothing, including boots or shoes with a strong grip. Gloves, hats, and a heavy jacket are also important for avoiding unnecessary exposure to frigid conditions.

If you need extra assistance to keep your loved one safe this winter, Safe Haven Home Care Inc. will help. This service provides reliable and compassionate elderly care for residents throughout the Queens, Manhattan, Bronx, Staten Island, and Brooklyn, NY, areas. Each of their caretakers goes through extensive training and licensing to ensure they're qualified to handle anything your family member needs. Visit them online to learn more about their services, or call (718) 968-6970 to speak with a staff member today.

3 Tips for Disinfecting Your Senior Loved One’s Home

Thu, 20 Jan 2022 18:50:06 GMT

Keeping your older family members healthy is especially important during cold and flu season. As people age, they're more likely to develop pre-existing conditions and a weakened immune system, making them more susceptible to respiratory infections and the associated complications during this period. In addition to securing professional home care to keep your loved one safe during flu season, here's what you can do to prevent the spread of germs in their home.

How to Disinfect Your Senior Loved One's Home

1. Wash Your Hands

Germs are commonly spread through hand contact. Always wash your hands before and after your cleaning regimen, after using the bathroom, whenever you cough or sneeze, and anytime you return home.

When washing, always scrub with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If you have children visiting your family member, explain the importance of handwashing and that they can sing the "Happy Birthday" song twice to ensure they wash for long enough.

2. Create a Schedule

Consistency is essential to eliminating germs and keeping your loved one’s home safe. By creating a disinfecting schedule, you'll maintain clean, germ-free surfaces.

Disinfect high-traffic areas like doorknobs, light switches, remote controls, and cabinet handles daily if possible. Additionally, wash the bedding and sweep the floors at least once a week. You may need to change the linens multiple times in a week if your loved one is sick.

3. Use the Right Cleaning Products

To properly eradicate pathogens, you need to use the correct supplies. When at the store, check for EPA-approved disinfectants like bleach and rubbing alcohol to wipe down surfaces.

Make sure that you allow the solution to air dry instead of wiping it off so that it has time to effectively eliminate the germs. If you're concerned about using a product safely, carefully read the instructions on the packaging first.

If you're looking for professional home care to keep your senior loved one safe during cold and flu season, contact Safe Haven Home Care Inc. They provide reliable in-home services for families throughout Queens, Manhattan, the Bronx, Staten Island, and Brooklyn. Their compassionate home health aides are held to strict qualifications to ensure your loved one receives quality care. Learn more about their services on their website , or call (718) 968-6970 to speak with a staff member today.

4 Tips to Protect Your Senior Loved One From the Flu

Thu, 23 Dec 2021 18:41:11 GMT

The transformation that occurs with each season brings about an excitement and newness for everyone to look forward to. However, along with the changing of the leaves and cooler temperatures, fall and winter are also synonymous with flu season. This time of year is especially precarious for the elderly and their caregivers . Here are ways you can keep your loved one safe from the flu this season.

How to Protect Your Loved One From the Flu

1. Get a Flu Shot

Seniors have particularly delicate immune systems, rendering them susceptible to viruses like the flu. However, getting the flu shot in September or October is the best way you can avoid catching this illness. The vaccine can take about two weeks to take into effect, making it important to get it earlier rather than later. Taking this vaccine is especially important for caregivers or individuals in regular contact with a senior. The fewer people susceptible to the virus, the lower the chances of a loved one getting sick.

2. Practice Good Hygiene

At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, good hygiene was something everyone became especially diligent about. However, as time has passed, some have become less vigilant about keeping up germ-reducing practices.

Covering coughs and sneezes with your elbow or a tissue, along with frequent hand washing with soap and warm water are good habits to begin practicing again. Also, while it's best to avoid using your fingers to touch high contact surfaces, keeping hand sanitizer on you will prevent excessive exposure to germs and thus reduce the spread for all.

3. Minimize Direct Contact

If you are someone who comes in contact with many different people or frequently works in communal workspaces, it's best to avoid handshakes, hugs, and kisses when visiting an elderly loved one. This is also good practice for anyone feeling under the weather. After all, direct contact is how the virus most commonly spreads. To best protect a senior friend or family member, find a safe and creative way to show your affection during the flu season, like sending thoughtful videos and text messages or leaving sanitized gifts on their doorstep.

4. Seek Medical Help Early

It is a common misconception that the flu is an illness you have to simply get through without medical intervention. However, when your physician is contacted early enough, they may prescribe medication that can reduce the severity of the virus, which is especially beneficial for seniors. If an elderly loved one you know is experiencing body aches, chills, fever, cough, stuffy nose or sore throat, call their doctor to see if this medication can be made available before symptoms worsen.

For seniors aging in place, there is no greater asset than Safe Haven Home Care . This home care service provides reliable and compassionate care for elderly residents throughout the Queens, Manhattan, Bronx, Staten Island, and Brooklyn areas. Their caretakers require licensure or certification through the state of New York, as well as a strict list of qualifications in order to be employed. If you or a loved one are interested in seeing a full list of services, visit them online , or call (718) 968-6970 to speak with a caring staff member.

3 Tips for Organizing a Senior Loved One's Medication

Wed, 17 Nov 2021 18:30:25 GMT

Part of caring for an older family member is ensuring they take their medication according to their doctor's instructions. This can be challenging if your loved one must take multiple prescriptions each day, as there's a greater risk of missing a dose. In addition to getting help from a home care professional, here are a few methods to ensure your loved one maintains optimum health and wellness.

How to Organize a Family Member's Medication

1. Use a Pill Organizer

A pill organizer is simple, affordable, and effective. It provides a visual reminder of which pills should be taken each day to prevent confusion. In addition to being organized by day, it can also contain smaller compartments if your loved one takes pills at different hours. Set aside time on Sunday for refilling the pill organizer to ensure it's ready for the coming week.

2. Keep Medications in One Place

It's best to keep all medications, vitamins, and supplements in one location. Excluding medicines that require refrigeration, most pills should be kept in an area of the home that isn't subject to fluctuating temperatures and relatively protected from moisture.

Avoid the kitchen and bathroom in favor of storage in the living room, dining room, or bedroom. If possible, place medication and pill organizers in a highly visible area, such as on a dresser or bookshelf.

3. Schedule Auto-Refills

You should also have a plan in place for monthly refills. While you can pay attention to the number of pills that are left when refilling the organizer, there are other ways to remind yourself.

Some pharmacies offer the option of auto-refills, which can provide an alert to you when a new prescription is ready. Delivery to your loved one's home might also be an option, in which case you can know they'll never miss a dose.

If you need help taking care of your senior loved one, Safe Haven Home Care provides professional and compassionate home care aides to families throughout Queens, Manhattan, the Bronx, Staten Island, and Brooklyn, NY. As a registered nurse, founder Rouandy Pascal knows the importance of quality care. That's why her team includes medical professionals, certified therapists, and personal home care aides to help with tasks like grooming, meal prep, and medication management. Call (718) 968-6970 to discuss your needs, or visit their website to learn more about their home care services.

4 Infection Control Tips for Your Senior Loved One

Tue, 02 Nov 2021 16:50:02 GMT

Infection control is an important home health care task, especially in your senior loved one's residence. Elderly family members have a greater risk of infections like COVID-19, pneumonia, and influenza due to naturally decreasing immunity and other factors, such as pre-existing conditions. Here's how to help your loved one stay healthy and infection-free in their home.

How to Reduce Infection Chances in Older Family Members

1. Emphasize Routine Hand Washing

Encourage hand washing to reduce the spread of disease, especially after using the bathroom, coughing or sneezing, touching garbage, handling animal waste, and before preparing and eating food. Washing for at least 20 seconds with antibacterial soap kills viruses and bacteria that can enter the body when someone touches their eyes, nose, or mouth.

Look for antiseptic soaps without triclosan, an active antimicrobial compound that creates antibiotic-resistant bacteria when it is used over time. Antibiotic-resistant bacteria exposure can compromise your loved one’s health if they need to take antibiotic medication for bacterial pneumonia or another infectious disease.

2. Disinfect Surfaces Regularly

Help your family member maintain a clean, sanitized home by disinfecting frequently touched surfaces, including door knobs, bathroom and kitchen counters, computer keyboards, television remotes, and toilet handles. Any surface used regularly should be cleaned daily. Discuss sanitization practices with others who provide caregiver assistance, if applicable, to reduce bacteria and germs throughout the house.

3. Provide Nutrient-Rich Foods

Prepare meals made with immune-boosting foods such as citrus fruits, red bell peppers, garlic, spinach, broccoli, and ginger to fortify your loved one’s immune system against disease. Reduce their intake of sugary foods that compromise immunity and promote fatigue . A whole food diet combined with regular exercise, such as low-impact walking and swimming, can also boost immunity .

4. Schedule Annual Vaccinations

Create a vaccination schedule to protect your elderly loved one against infectious diseases. Flu, COVID-19, and pneumonia vaccines allow the body to create antibodies that guard against the infections; for example, the flu vaccine reduces the risk by 40% to 60% . Ask about vaccines made specifically for older individuals, as they often invoke a stronger immune system reaction.

Help your beloved senior family member thrive with home health care services from Safe Haven Home Care . They provide residents throughout Queens, Manhattan, Bronx, Staten Island, and Brooklyn, NY, with tailored caregiving services, and employ bilingual staff members to accommodate more people. They'll take measures to keep your loved one infection-free so that they can continue living at home. Call (718) 968-6970 today to discuss your loved one’s needs, or learn more about their home health care services online .

4 Ways to Lower Your Blood Sugar

Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:38:27 GMT

If you've recently been diagnosed with diabetes, it's normal to feel concerned. However, there are many health care strategies for managing the condition, including those for lowering blood sugar. High blood sugar, or hyperglycemia, occurs when the body does not make enough insulin—the hormone that regulates blood sugar levels—or use it efficiently. Here's what you can do to lower your levels and decrease the risk of complications like nerve damage and heart disease.

How to Lower Blood Sugar Levels

1. Avoid High-Sugar Foods

Stick to foods on the low end of the glycemic index, including yogurt, beans, barley, legumes, oats, non-starchy vegetables like carrots and celery, and whole wheat pasta. The glycemic index refers to how well the body digests or absorbs different foods . Beans, non-starchy veggies, and other high-fiber whole foods that take time to process do not spike blood sugar levels, unlike quickly digested fare such as white bread and pasta, white potatoes, milk chocolate, soda, and fast food.

2. Drink More Water

Sip water throughout the day to flush excess sugar from the blood through the kidneys. Dehydration causes infrequent urination that prevents your body from getting rid of blood sugar.

If you take diabetes medication or other prescriptions that cause fluid retention, discuss how much water you should drink daily with your health care provider. Most people require four to six cups per day.

3. Exercise Often

Working out regularly can improve your insulin sensitivity and stabilize blood sugar levels. Incorporate resistance training into your workouts, as muscle contractions cause the body to use blood sugar for energy purposes. This effect occurs even if your insulin levels are low. Create an exercise regimen with your health care provider to reduce your injury risk, such as one that includes bike riding, swimming, walking, or yoga.

4. Manage Your Stress

Be mindful of your stress level. The body releases glucagon and cortisol when you feel anxious. These stress hormones cause blood sugar levels to rise. There are many practices that can reduce stress, including meditation, exercise, quality time with family and friends, deep breathing techniques, and massage.

For home health care services to help you manage your diabetes, contact Safe Haven Home Care . The private care agency provides the Queens, Manhattan, Bronx, Staten Island, and Brooklyn areas of New York with a full suite of services from registered nurses and certified home health care aides. They can help with a wide variety of needs, including nutrition, exercise, and housekeeping tasks. Call (718) 968-6970 or visit their website today to learn about their home care options.

3 Ways to Reduce the Risk of Heat Stroke for Your Older Loved One

Mon, 12 Jul 2021 16:26:48 GMT

Heat stroke is a very real risk for your senior loved one during the warm summer months. Fortunately, all it takes is a few simple steps to monitor their condition and ensure their health. Here’s a closer look at some effective home care techniques to keep them safe during hot days.

How to Protect Your Loved One From Heat Stroke

1. Have Them Drink Water

Encourage your loved one to keep a glass or bottle of water by their side at all times. Staying hydrated throughout the day is essential for maintaining optimal organ function. Plus, it provides the liquid necessary for sweat and serves as a natural coolant.

If your loved one takes water pills or has restrictions on the amount of fluids they should consume, check with their doctor. A medical professional can provide recommendations for reducing the risk of dehydration in this case.

2. Remind Them to Dress Lightly

It’s common for older people to wear multiple layers to stay warm. If it’s an especially hot day, suggest that your loved one swaps out their cardigan for a lighter shirt. For women, summer dresses are popular alternatives that allow a breeze to get through the fabric and prevent the skin from overheating.

3. Invite Them Over

Plan to have your loved one over for a visit whenever the temperatures begin to soar, especially if they don't have adequate air conditioning at home. Adjust your air conditioner to a level where they won't feel the need to put on multiple layers of clothing. Space out a few floor fans to keep the air circulating so that your loved one can stay cool while spending time with the family.

If you want to ensure your loved one remains safe during the hot weather, reach out to the caregivers at Safe Haven Home Care . These professionals have several years of experience in home care and commit to providing quality services to individuals throughout Queens, Manhattan, the Bronx, Staten Island, and Brooklyn, NY. They use a strict list of qualifications to hire staff and require licensure and certifications through the state of New York. Learn more about their home care services by visiting their website , or call (718) 968-6970 to discuss your loved one's needs.

3 Nutrition Tips for Seniors

Fri, 21 May 2021 16:14:34 GMT

As your loved one gets older, you'll need to carefully monitor their diet. Numerous factors can affect their nutrition and wellness, such as a slowed metabolism, tooth sensitivities, reduced sense of taste and smell, and chronic health conditions. However, your loved one can still enjoy a varied, nutrient-dense diet that keeps their energy up and contributes to strong bones and a healthy heart. In addition to securing the help of a professional caregiver for your family member, here are some steps you can take to help them enjoy the proper nutrition.

How to Ensure Your Senior Loved One Gets the Right Diet

1. Flavor Food With Herbs & Spices

As people get older, they may experience a diminished sense of taste and compensate by pouring more salt on their food. However, excessive sodium intake can result in high blood pressure . By adding herbs and spices to meals, you can provide your loved one with flavorful food without the hypertension risks. Many spices and herbs also provide health benefits , such as cinnamon—which reduces blood sugar —and sage, which improves memory and overall brain function .

2. Drink Plenty of Water

Your loved one may also experience a decreased sense of thirst, increasing the likelihood of dehydration. Not drinking enough water can result in electrolyte imbalances and contribute to acute kidney failure , making it important to monitor their daily intake. How much water they need depends on their weight , such as 8.75 cups per day for a 140-pound individual.

3. Stick to Whole Foods

Encourage your loved one to eat mainly whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, grains, and beans packed with vitamins and minerals. Lean protein sources also provide nutritional benefits, such as cold water fish featuring omega-3 fatty acids that improve skin health and reduce oxidative stress.

If your family member has tooth and gum sensitivities, opt for softer foods like bananas and avocados, and use a food purveyor to soften hard fare. Follow recommended menus for seniors to create healthy, balanced meals.

If you need a professional caregiver to ensure your senior loved one maintains a healthy diet, contact Safe Have Home Care . They care for older individuals throughout Queens, Manhattan, Bronx, Staten Island, and Brooklyn, NY. Their staff includes bilingual caregivers, registered nurses, medical social workers, speech pathologists, and occupational therapists. Call (718) 968-6970 today to make an appointment, or visit their website for more about their care services.

3 Benefits of In-Home Physical Therapy

Sat, 17 Apr 2021 16:01:32 GMT

Physical therapy is a common recommendation for people recovering from an injury, surgery, or dealing with a chronic illness that has affected their mobility. It’s an effective way to relieve pain and improve balance, strength, and range of motion. However, it can be challenging for older patients to attend regular treatment sessions at a facility. Here's a closer look at why you should make physical therapy part of your loved one's home health care routine.

What Are the Advantages of In-Home Physical Therapy?

1. Convenience

Having a home health care physical therapist come directly to your loved one's residence eliminates the need for them to travel to another location. Many older adults no longer drive, which means they have to rely on others for transportation.

If there isn’t anyone available to take them, they might miss some appointments. It can also be hard on someone with mobility issues to travel to and from sessions and wait until they’re called in.

2. Comfort

Some physical therapy facilities can be crowded and noisy, creating a stressful environment. As such, your loved one may feel much more at ease getting treatment in the comfort of their own home. This allows them to do their sessions in private, where they don’t have to worry about performing exercises with other people around.

3. Faster Results

In-home physical therapy typically has fewer distractions than sessions conducted at a facility. Your loved one will also receive more one-on-one attention, making it easier to focus on their specific recovery goals.

The private sessions also give therapists a better opportunity to tailor treatment plans according to the patient’s everyday routines and activities. The connection and customization promote quicker progress.

If you have a senior loved one who needs help around the home, trust Safe Haven Home Care to provide high-quality treatment. Serving residents throughout Queens, Manhattan, Brooklyn, Staten Island, and the Bronx, NY, this home health care agency utilizes a wide range of resources to provide each patient with the best possible experience. Their team consists of licensed medical professionals who are dedicated to helping individuals age in place safely. Call (718) 968-6970 to schedule a consultation, or visit them online to learn more about their services.

4 Home Renovations to Help Your Senior Loved One Age in Place

Mon, 15 Mar 2021 15:45:19 GMT

If you have a senior loved one who is receiving home care , it’s important to make their property as comfortable as possible. Certain renovations are perfect for someone who is aging in place, and they can be completed as standalone projects or during other remodeling work. Here are some useful updates to consider.

What Are Some Renovations That Support Home Care?

1. Doorways

Widen doorways around the home to at least 32 inches—ideally 36—to improve accessibility for someone using a wheelchair or walker. This also reduces the risk of your loved one bumping into a frame and losing their balance.

If privacy is not a concern, you could choose to have some doorways removed entirely. Doors that open into confined areas could have the swing reversed to open into a wider space.

2. Flooring

Falling becomes more of a concern as people age. Slip-resistant flooring materials such as carpet, rubber, or cork reduces the risk.

Non-slip vinyl flooring is also available. The material you choose should be soft enough to provide cushioning if a fall does occur.

3. Lighting

If your loved one has difficulty reaching or operating light switches, consider installing smart lighting and teaching them how to operate it with their voice.

Dimmer switches that allow the brightness to be adjusted can be useful for someone with sensitive eyes. Window replacements that let in more natural light could improve sleep .

4. Kitchen Cabinets

Lowering kitchen countertops and cabinets to 30 inches above the floor makes them much easier to reach for someone using a wheelchair. You can also update the cabinet hardware with handles that are easy to operate without much force. For example, round knobs and wide pulls with curved edges won't cause any pain and are easy to grip.

Along with appropriate renovations, high-quality home care is a vital part of aging in place. Safe Haven Home Care in Brooklyn, NY, offers compassionate caretakers that will help your loved one live comfortably at home. They offer care to people throughout the five boroughs of New York. These licensed professionals can assist with tasks like bathing, dressing, and light housekeeping. Call (718) 968-6970 or message them online to discuss your loved one’s needs.

3 Reasons Why Your Senior Loved One Needs Companionship

Tue, 16 Feb 2021 15:31:12 GMT

Seniors are at a higher risk of social isolation since they're more likely to live alone and to have lost family or friends. As a result, your loved one may face an increased risk of mental and physical health issues. Thankfully, with the companionship of a caregiver , they can regain their sense of well-being. Consider the following benefits of prioritizing social interactions for your aging loved one.

Why Does Your Senior Loved One Need Companionship?

1. Promotes Cognitive Health

Research shows that social activity may prevent or delay cognitive decline in older adults. When engaging in conversation, people have to process information and think about how to reply, stimulating the brain. In other words, these interactions help to promote or maintain efficient neural networks.

Regular social engagement is also linked to a decreased risk of Alzheimer’s disease . While a caregiver helps with practical tasks like cooking and cleaning, they’re also there to be a conversation partner.

2. Reduces Risk of Depression

Humans are a social species , thriving on cooperation with peers. Without a social life, your loved one might stop caring about activities that used to bring them joy. Over time, this might increase their risk of depression .

Thanks to companionship, positive interactions will be part of your loved one’s routine. As such, their body will release more feel-good hormones like endorphins.

3. Encourages Regular Exercise

By maintaining an active social life, your loved one is more likely to engage in exercise. For example, a caregiver might be able to drive them to a fitness center or even help them find a walking club.

Regular exercise strengthens immune and digestive functions and reduces the risk of chronic diseases. It may also improve coordination and flexibility and reduce the risk of falling.

Support your senior loved one’s health by hiring a caregiver from Safe Haven Home Care , serving all five boroughs in New York, NY. Rouandy Pascal, the company’s founder, has over 25 years of experience in the home care industry. The staff is qualified, experienced, and dedicated to providing compassionate services. The team includes registered nurses, physical/occupational therapists, certified home health aides, and medical social workers. Call (718) 968-6970 to discuss your loved one's needs, or learn more about their services online .

A Guide to Sundowning

Tue, 26 Jan 2021 15:18:15 GMT

If your loved one has dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, it's common for them to experience changes in behavior. However, if they seem especially different in the evening hours, their actions could be attributed to a condition known as sundowning. It’s important to recognize when your loved one is exhibiting signs of this so that they can receive the right home care . The following guide explains what causes it and provides tips for managing the symptoms.

What Is Sundowning?

Rather than a specific medical diagnosis, sundowning is considered to be a group of symptoms that generally occur as the day transitions into night. People enduring sundowner’s syndrome will go through a behavioral shift that can showcase a wide range of disruptive reactions.

Symptoms may include agitation, confusion, hallucinations, extreme anxiety, disorientation, restlessness, and suspicion. They might also have rapid mood swings, begin shadowing caregivers, hide objects, or wander off.

Sundowning can be triggered by several factors that are hard for someone with dementia or Alzheimer’s to cope with. Examples of these are fatigue, shadows caused by low light, dehydration, depression, boredom, internal imbalance, and caffeine or alcohol consumption before bed.

How Can You Reduce the Effects of Sundowning?

Fortunately, there are techniques that family members and home care professionals can use to limit the severity of sundowning symptoms. Maintaining a consistent routine throughout the day is key, as people with memory loss find this comforting. It’s also helpful for them to go on frequent walks outside with a home care professional and to stay properly fed and hydrated.

As the sun gets ready to set, keep the house well-lit. Lack of sleep tends to exacerbate the challenges of sundowning, so it’s important to encourage healthy sleep habits by avoiding stimulating activity or beverages later in the day.

If you have an elderly loved one who's dealing with sundowner’s syndrome, trust the professionals at Safe Haven Home Care to provide high-quality home care that allows them to safely and comfortably age in place. For over 25 years, this agency has provided families across Queens, Manhattan, Bronx, Staten Island, and Brooklyn, NY, with personalized solutions that address each client’s unique needs. Call (718) 968-6970 to schedule a consultation, or visit their website for more information about what they do.

3 Ways Seniors Can Combat the Mental Health Effects of the Pandemic

Tue, 15 Dec 2020 15:02:27 GMT

Social connections are essential for a senior's health care and well-being. However, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, many have found themselves isolated. For older adults, loneliness is linked to an increased risk of physical and mental conditions , including depression, cognitive decline, and high blood pressure. Here are a few safe ways to expand your social network and combat loneliness during the pandemic.

How to Promote Mental Health During the Pandemic

1. Take Regular Walks

Social distancing has made it challenging for many individuals to get outside, reducing their activity level and exposure to sunshine. But enjoying an afternoon walk offers more than just movement for your health care. It can also provide mental stimulation, reducing your stress levels.

Sunshine is shown to boost serotonin levels , regulating your moods and happiness and reducing anxiety. Walking also improves circulation , strengthens your muscles, and supports your joints.

2. Eat a Healthy Diet

Like physical activity, a healthy diet can have a dramatic impact on your overall well-being. Studies show that eating well can improve mental health , boost energy, and increase resistance to illness.

To reduce the risk of nutritional deficiencies and imbalances, consider more nutrient-dense foods like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Also, include low-fat dairy or alternatives, as well as lean meats or meat alternatives.

3. Enjoy Virtual Visits

Today, it's easier than ever to connect with your friends and loved ones online. With a host of popular video chat applications such as Skype®, FaceTime®, and Zoom®, individuals all over the world can enjoy "face-to-face” conversations in real-time without leaving their house.

With video chat, you can have safe social interactions with relatives or participate in social groups such as your weekly book club. Scheduling regular visits can help you stay entertained and combat feelings of loneliness.

If you need additional help during the pandemic, contact Safe Haven Home Care in Brooklyn, NY. Serving seniors throughout all boroughs of New York City for over 25 years, their team provides a wide range of senior health care services, including certified home health aides, registered nurses, and physical therapists. Call (718) 968-6970 to speak with a member of their staff, or visit them online to learn more about their services.