Warm sunny days are a delight, especially as we grow older. However, too much sun can be harmful to our health. For seniors, it's crucial to prioritize sun safety in their daily routines. Not only does it protect them from sunburns, but it helps prevent long-term damage and health issues like skin cancer and heatstroke.

Are you a senior struggling with the aches and pains of arthritis? You're not alone! In fact, a lot of seniors are affected by arthritis. This makes it more important than ever to prioritize physical activity to maintain joint health. Engaging in low-impact exercises can help alleviate seniors' pain and increase their mobility.

Say goodbye to the winter season and hello to a fresh start this spring season. For some, the idea of spring cleaning can be a daunting task.

Many seniors are likely to accumulate unnecessary clutter or hold onto things that they no longer need. However, seasonal cleaning can be extremely helpful to physical health and overall well-being.

Physical activity plays a vital role in improving the overall health and well-being of individuals with Parkinson's disease. Regular exercise can help to improve mood, balance, sleep and increase mobility.  

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive nervous system disorder that is characterized by the loss of muscle control. It is caused by the degeneration of dopamine-producing neurons in the brain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in movement control. As the disease progresses, individuals with Parkinson's disease may experience both motor and non-motor symptoms. 

For seniors, their sense of smell, taste, and overall appetite may have changed over time. This change can often lead to a decreased interest in food. However, incorporating herbs and spices into meals can help enhance the flavors of dishes and make mealtimes more enjoyable for seniors.  

Herbs and spices offer a range of health benefits, making them an ideal choice for seniors who may need to reduce their sodium intake or make necessary dietary changes. By incorporating herbs and spices into meals, seniors can add flavor and variety to their diets while also reaping the health benefits of these natural ingredients. 

As people age, there can be a lack of thirst sensation and changes in the water and sodium balance that naturally occur, which puts seniors at a higher risk for dehydration. Dehydration in seniors can lead to negative health consequences such as confusion, fatigue, heat stroke, urinary tract infections (UTIs), and even hospitalization. In fact, dehydration is a leading cause of hospitalization in seniors. According to a UCLA School of Nursing Study, 40% of older adults may be chronically underhydrated, making it a significant issue for this population. To combat this, it's important for seniors to prioritize hydration.  

As people age, their risk of developing heart disease increases. Heart health is especially important for seniors, as it can help them stay active and independent. Regular physical activity and exercise can help reduce the risk of heart disease and other chronic conditions. Therefore, seniors should include heart-healthy activities in their everyday routine. 

There are many activities that seniors can do to improve their heart health. With so many options, it can be easy to overlook the everyday activities that can help improve cardiovascular health.   

Staying active during the winter can feel like a daunting task for some. In comparison to spring or summer, there may not be as many opportunities to take an afternoon stroll in the park or participate in other outdoor activities.  

Everyone knows that exercise is “good for you” but how beneficial is it actually? Consistent physical activity can make a world of difference in your health and wellbeing, especially as you age. Below are five reasons to stay active this winter and beat the winter blues.  

The process of end-of-life care is an emotionally and physically difficult time for all involved. Considering the prospect of death and all its moving parts with an aging loved one can be overwhelming. You may never feel prepared enough to make life-altering decisions regarding the health and wellbeing of a loved one. However, there are several practical steps that may help alleviate some anxiety and frustration as you make challenging end-of-life decisions.  

As the seasons change, many people who live with arthritis may be feeling an increase in pain and stiffness. Arthritis is a leading cause of work disability in the United States, with an estimated 24% of all adults affected. October 12th is world arthritis day; a global awareness day used to inform and educate people of the chronic disease that causes joint inflammation. In addition to consulting your doctor, there are a few general remedies that may help to alleviate the symptoms of arthritis and improve overall well-being. 

The importance of regular exercise and physical activity is no secret. In fact, it is one of the best things you can do for your body. According to the CDC, it promotes weight management, brain health, strengthens bones and muscles, can reduce the risk of disease and improve your ability to do everyday activities.

For seniors, it can be challenging to find an exercise routine that works best for their lifestyle or limitations they may face. It is still possible for seniors to find a routine at any age to begin enjoying the many benefits that come with regular physical activity. Not sure where to start?

It is well known that the basic physiological needs for a human to survive are food, water, air, and shelter. According to Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, the next two levels a human will need to survive are safety/security and love/belonging. Both of which require interpersonal relationships with family, friends, co-workers, etc. The ability to form and maintain healthy relationships with others can have lasting effects on your overall health.  

Sun protection is important at any age. According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. As you grow and age, your skin changes with you. It can become thinner, lost e elasticity and become more sensitive to the sun and other irritants.  

There are many ways to protect yourself from overexposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation and sunburns. Below are the top three ways you can keep yourself and your loved ones protected. 

Having hobbies & doing activities can help decrease stress and engage in things that you genuinely enjoy.  A diagnosis of dementia or other brain related illnesses can affect what your hobbies may be. Although there are many things that change, this should not mean the end to hobbies & activities all together.

Participating in activities that your loved one enjoys can help improve their quality of life and managemange behavior changes that may come as the disease progresses. Not only is it important to keep in mind what they like to do, but what they can do, what they want to do in the moment, and what they are able to do.

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive disease that affects memory, thinking and behavior.  It is a form of dementia with symptoms that grow in severity over time. The risk of Alzheimer’s disease increases with age and is most common in people over the age of 65 years old.

The symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease are commonly referred to as the 5 A’s of Alzheimer’s which include Amnesia, Apraxia, Agnosia, and Aphasia, and Anomia.

The uncertainty that comes with a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease (PD) can leave loved ones feeling powerless, vulnerable, or even frightened. Although you may not be experiencing the toll of the disease yourself, you are experiencing the changes that will impact your loved one firsthand. It is important to recognize that your feelings are normal, as the challenges of PD can affect all aspects of a person's life.

Your loved one may experience changes in how they move, think, interact, sleep, and express emotion as the disease progresses. They will need extra care and support as they navigate through preserving their quality of life and staying active.

A Parkinson’s disease (PD) diagnosis can come with unanswered questions. It can be challenging to decide what may be next for you and/or your loved ones. While there is no standard treatment for PD patients, there are several different options to explore.

Although there is no cure to PD, there are many treatment options to ease the symptoms associated with Parkinson’s. The most common treatments for PD can include a variety of medications prescribed by your doctor, surgical procedures, and lifestyle modifications. It is important to speak with a doctor or medical professional to determine which treatment option(s) may be best for you.

Each year, approximately 60,000 Americans are diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurogenerative disorder that is most recognized by its movement-related (“motor”) symptoms. While the cause remains largely unknown, with no cure, there are many treatment options to assist in subsidingeasing the symptoms of the disease.

It is no secret that women have been known to be the caregivers for their families and communities, but it was not until the Revolutionary War when women could be considered healthcare professionals. Today, more than three-quarters of healthcare jobs in the United States are held by women.

Women have played a key role in healthcare for centuries. March is Women’s History Month and this year’s theme is “Women Providing Healing, Promoting Hope.” In celebration of Women’s History Month, Senior Helpers is acknowledging the dedication and hard work that women have contributed to the healthcare industry. This March, we are highlighting a few trailblazing women in the history of health care.

What’s for dinner? Cue the search for “quick and easy dinner,” “weeknight dinner ideas,” “30-minute meals” and 30 Pinterest ideas later… dinner is still not ready. We get it, meal planning can be challenging, especially when it is not for yourself. While it may seem overwhelming, meal planning is extremely beneficial in reducing stress and making the weekdays easier at any age. Whether you are making plans for yourself or for a loved one, below are a few tips to make meal planning simple.

In honor of Black History Month, Senior Helpers is highlighting noteworthy pioneers in healthcare and medicine. These industry leaders are only a handful of individuals who have made and continue to make a profound impact in the world of medicine and on our society. These men and women have not only changed the face of medicine, but did so while breaking barriers, facing racism and stereotypes.  

Heart disease is one of the most widespread and difficult health challenges in the world. In 2020, heart disease was responsible for more deaths in the United States, than Cancer, Covid-19, Diabetes, and more. According to the World Health Organization, an estimated 17.9 million people (about the population of New York!) died from cardiovascular diseases in 2019, representing 32% of all global deaths. With so many people affected, it’sit is vital that we raise awareness toof the importance of heart health.

It is estimated that over 20 million Americans have a thyroid disorder, yet more than half of them may not even be aware of their condition. January is Thyroid Awareness Month, a time to learn about the importance of thyroid health and the symptoms that may be related to thyroid disease.  

Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood. Many people stop donating blood during this time of year due to holiday season obligations and weather conditions. It is also the time of the year where many people are sick with a cold or the flu. Because of this, January has been known to be a period of critical blood shortages. This January marks the 52nd National Blood Donor Month (NBDM). Throughout the years, the goal for NBDM has been to raise awareness to the importance of donating blood and how you can help save lives.

As we enter 2022, there is a powerful momentum of hope, prosperity, and opportunities. Take time to set healthy expectations for yourself by looking at what is important to you and your loved ones this year. Some healthy goals may include improving your emotional or physical health, and even stimulating your brain with new activities. A significant part of setting resolutions is identifying what goals you want to achieve and ensuring that you are on the right path to achieve them.