The month of September represents many things. These include cooler temperatures, leaves changing colors, and the highly lauded pumpkin flavors and scents. Did you know that September is also Fall Prevention Awareness Month? According to data provided by the CDC, there are approximately 3 million emergency room visits due to older adults falling each year. For every five falls that occur, one will result in a serious injury. In honor of Fall Prevention Awareness Month, Senior Helpers Greater OKC has compiled a list of the top seven rails and bars to install at home to prevent slips and falls.
Continue ReadingSummer is quickly coming to a close, which means Autumn is just around the corner. For many of us, it's a welcomed relief from the heat, not to mention a prelude to some of the best holidays of the year. Shifting into the cooler months can be pretty simple.
Continue ReadingHeart disease causes many deaths and disabilities in the United States. Here are tips to help you reduce your risk factors and prevent heart disease.
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Music has the power to change hearts and moods, lift people out of depression, and help heal scars. Music can also help combat painful memories and improve decision-making abilities in seniors.
Continue ReadingIt can be very hard to deal with your parents and family members aging. This is especially true when you don't live very close to them. Whether you are a few hours (or a few states) away, it can be difficult to stay in touch with them.
Continue ReadingWhat do you know about your heart? Now, Valentine's Day is over. We are talking about your heart health. Which conditions can cause increased risk to your heart? Of course, we all know about being overweight, which can be helped, and aging, which cannot. But there are many, many more. Which of the following impacts heart health?
Continue ReadingWhen the weather turns cold, it becomes more difficult for seniors to stay warm. Seniors are also more likely to have medical conditions that are affected by the cold. These can include heart disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure. Here are some ways you can help seniors stay safe during the winter months.
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One of the greatest concerns among senior adults is having an accidental fall. An unexpected fall can be a life-changing experience, leading to a trip to the emergency room, major surgery, and lengthy rehabs. According to the National Institute on Aging, each year more than one in three seniors have a falling accident. Usually, after a fall, most seniors fear going back to their normal physical routine. They might avoid gardening, socializing with friends, walking, and engaging in other activities they once loved. There are, however, steps that can be taken to prevent these falls.
Continue ReadingThe month of December is filled with traditions, giving, quality time with family, and highlights what is truly important in life. It’s not the packages under the tree, it’s the time spent with family and friends. So with that said, start off by being realistic. Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, or Kwanza, try to focus on the meaning of the holiday and rejoice in the history and the traditions. Forget the tinsel town stuff – that’s where things can get muddled.
Continue ReadingEveryone looks forward to the holiday season. The get-togethers, long hours catching up with extended family, exchanging gifts, and the respite from work all make holidays a time we all love. However, sometimes seniors might need a different approach with a customized plan to best navigate and enjoy their holidays. Whether your loved one lives at home with in-home care or resides in a senior care community, here are some suggestions to help them have an enjoyable holiday season.
Continue ReadingMost seniors have spent their lifetimes making valuable contributions to their families and communities. Although injury, illness, or mobility challenges may require a senior to spend much of their time at home, the older adult may want to continue experiencing the rewards of serving others. Yet, seniors don't have to leave home to provide a meaningful service. Caregivers can help seniors find service opportunities that fit the senior's skill level. Here's a list of service opportunities the senior you're caring for may be interested in.
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