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Treating Hypoglycemia in Seniors

Hypoglycemia means a low blood glucose level of 70 mg or lower. It can produce a vast variety of symptoms and problems, but the main complications come from an insufficient supply of glucose to the brain, causing an impairment of body function. Each person that has hypoglycemia or diabetes may have different symptoms, but common symptoms can range from mild dysphoria, which is an emotional state characterized by anxiety, depression, or unease; to hunger, weakness, and more serious issues such as seizures, heart palpitations, and, rarely, permanent brain damage or...

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COPD in Seniors

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is the occurrence of chronic bronchitis or emphysema. This condition makes the bronchial tubes or airways of the lungs narrow over time, which does not let enough oxygen enter or leave the lungs. It is a progressive disease that will make it difficult to breathe. It is more commonly known by the abbreviation COPD. The symptoms include a chronic cough that produces mucus, wheezing, fatigue, shortness of breath, chest tightness, muscle weakness, and weight loss. Not everyone who has COPD has these symptoms, but if you...

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Types of Dementia (Part 2)

This post cotinues the review of the differetn types of dementia. Dementia with Lewy Bodies Dementia with Lewy Bodies is a type of dementia associated with Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. It is characterized anatomically by the presence of Lewy bodies, which are round clumps of proteins in the neurons. The sufferer will have visual hallucinations, like seeing colors, shapes, animals or people that are not there or having conversations with deceased loved ones. Many people with Parkinson's disease eventually develop problems with reasoning and thinking. Also, people with this form...

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Types of Dementia (Part 1)

Dementia is often referred to as a disease, however, it is not actually a singular disease, but a degenerative syndrome that will cause the sufferer to withdraw from family and society, have long-term memory loss, and, gradually, lose bodily functions. “Dementia will affect 8 percent of Canadians over the age of 65 years. The risk increases with age, with 35 percent of seniors 85 years and older meeting the criteria for dementia,” says the Canadian Study of Health and Aging Working Group. The symptoms come on slowly and are usually...

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Tips to Treat the Cold and Flu the Natural Way

Winter is the time of colds and flu and seniors are particularly susceptible with a reduced immune system and other health issues that can complicate matters.  It is important that they do everything possible to prevent the cold or flu and treat it right away if they do get sick.  If you have a senior parent or other senior family member, you should make sure they are aware of these tips to get through a cold or flu with less misery and shorten the duration. Get Plenty of Rest Rest...

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Tips to Beat the Winter Blues for Seniors

Winter blues is a real phenomenon that strikes people of all ages; it can cause depression and lack of energy and interest that lasts all winter long.  This problem is especially difficult for seniors since they are often homebound much of the time during bad weather and the cold winter months.  Family members may not even realize that their senior loved one is suffering from the winter blues if they do not see them regularly.  However, it can become quite serious and even dangerous for the elderly if they do...

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The Benefits of Massage Therapy for Seniors

Several researches has been done on the benefits of massage therapy for seniors and it has been determined that this type of therapy can help with numerous issues either by providing temporary relief or by allowing the body to heal itself.  Here are some ways that massage therapy can help ailing seniors. Osteoarthritis Massage therapy is often used in the treatment of older adults who have been diagnosed with osteoarthritis.   Different research studies show that it is possible that regular massage may decrease pain, lessen stiffness, and improve functional capabilities. ...

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Fun Winter Activities for Seniors

As the days get shorter and the evenings get colder, many seniors become homebound until the temperatures will start to rise in the spring.  However, it is important for seniors to get fresh air and exercise even in cold winter weather, and to find indoor activities to occupy their time.  Here are a few suggestions to provide fun winter activity ideas for seniors. When You Cannot Be Outside Whether the temperatures are too cold, the roads are too slippery, or you do not feel safe to get out, there are...

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Fun Activities for Loved Ones with Alzheimer’s

Alzheimer’s is a serious disease that no one should take lightly.  However, that does not mean you cannot find fun activities to enjoy with your loved one who has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s.  In fact, it is essential that you help them feel like they are still a part of your life and can still enjoy what goes on around them Here are some fun activities that may be enjoyable and at the same time beneficial to people with Alzheimer’s. Activities for Exercise It is important to help your senior...

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How to Deal with the Hospitalization of a Senior Loved One

It can be a difficult time for the family when an aging parent is sick.  When they must go to the hospital because of that illness, it can feel even more ominous.  Here are a few tips to help you deal with the emotions and decisions that must be made when your loved one goes to the hospital. Help the Senior Pack for the Stay Assist your loved one with packing items for their hospital visit.  Make sure they pack comfortable nightwear and clothing for their trip home.  They should...

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