Home Health Care Phoenix

Nutritional Information for Seniors

Carebuzz — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 19:50:42 +0000

Phoenix Senior Care enables seniors to live happy, healthy, and independent lives in their own homes.

Daily nutrition is important to seniors. Many seniors are on a restrictive diet. Usually these diets are low in sodium and high in fiber. Not all seniors have the same nutritional needs. It is important to discuss nutrition with a doctor to ensure that the foods that are being eaten are the right foods and that seniors are getting necessary nutrients each day. Below is a list containing facts about senior nutrition.

1. Poor nutrition is a health risk for all seniors. There are many things that can increase the chances of poor nutrition. They include illness, taking multiple medications, poor dental health, poor eating habits and loneliness or the lack of socialization.

2. Since the need for calories is reduced with age, seniors need to choose foods that are rich in nutrients. Try to opt for foods that are high in fiber and low in fat. Reduce the intake of foods with high calories or high amounts of sugar.

3. Seniors may need more calcium, Vitamin D and Vitamin C. If you cannot increase your intake by adjusting what foods are eating, you may want to take a daily supplement to ensure you are getting enough of these important nutrients.

4. Seniors with heart disease or high blood pressure need to watch how much sodium is consumed daily. Processed foods contain high amounts of sodium. It is best for seniors to eat freshly prepared meals including vegetables and meats that are not processed. Seniors who do not have a health condition should not consume more than 3000mg of sodium each day. This number will be lower for those with heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure.

Source: gicare.com

Home Health in Greater Phoenix & Home Health in Central Phoenix helps elders and seniors in Phoenix remain at home safely and independently. Call us today at 623.583.5868, 602.265.8228 or 480.991.3959.

Activities Benefit Caregivers and Seniors

Carebuzz — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 20:49:26 +0000

Staying fit can be fun. It is even possible for the caregiver to involve seniors in various activities. Seniors also need to keep in shape and stay healthy. Below is a list of resources and some tips that can be beneficial to Phoenix caregivers . It is important to stay fit and if possible, include seniors in your programs and exercises.

1. There are many programs available through AARP that will be helpful when trying to get in shape or stay fit. These programs offer some great ideas on starting points and can also provide structure for those who are already active and wish to follow a schedule or set a regimen each day. Seniors can also join in with many of the activities provided, allowing another opportunity for the caregiver and senior to have special time together.

2. The benefits of exercise far exceed just toning the body and staying fit. There is a mental and emotional component to it as well. The Fat 2 Fit journey is a great program for seniors and caregivers to do together. This program will walk you through the steps to losing weight and keeping it off. It also provides some daily exercise that will benefit seniors and caregivers.

3. Make sure to take time for mental breaks. If you have a negative thought about the way you are exercising or your weight at the current time, it may be time to take a break. There are links on the source page that contain useful information for keeping your mind as healthy as the rest of your body.

Source: aarp.org

Seniors Should Know Type 2 Diabetes Risk Factors

Carebuzz — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 23:05:15 +0000

Phoenix Home Health enables seniors to live happy, healthy, and independent lives in their own homes.

There are various types of diabetes. Type 2 is common. This is why seniors should know what to look for. The following list provides risk factors that could increase the chances of developing Type 2 diabetes. If you have any of these factors, you may want to discuss the risks with your doctor. There are some things that can be done to avoid developing diabetes.

1. If you are over the age of 45, you are at a higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Family history also plays a large role in the risk factor.

2. If you are over-weight, you will be at a risk. Individuals who are not physically active will be at risk. Try to exercise daily and maintain a healthy weight.

3. Females who have had babies weighing more than 9 pounds, or who have had diabetes during a pregnancy will be at a higher risk.

4. High blood pressure is a risk factor for Type 2 diabetes. If your HDL cholesterol level is below 35 mg/dL, your risk factor is increased.

5. Previous diagnoses of metabolic syndrome and an impaired glucose tolerance both play a role in the development of Type 2 diabetes.

6. Polycystic ovarian syndrome and acanthosis can affect Type 2 diabetes. If you have been diagnosed with either of these conditions, you will be at a high risk of developing the disease.

Do you have a parent with diabetes? The American Diabetes Association offers these tips on how to help your parent manage their diabetes.

Source: www.nlm.nih.gov

Caregivers Should Remain Healthy

Carebuzz — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 20:03:56 +0000

Home Health Phoenix enables seniors to live happy, healthy, and independent lives in their own homes.

No matter what kind of services you provide as a caregiver, you need to make sure that your health comes first. Many caregivers have a hectic schedule which can cause fatigue. This could lead to a weakened immune system, allowing room for illness. Below are a few tips that can help you remain healthy so that you can continue your role as a caregiver to a senior.

1. Daily vitamin supplements can make a huge difference. The vitamins can be very useful for those who are tired and listless.

2. Exercise is the key to a healthy lifestyle. Even if it is just a short walk each day, exercise can be very beneficial in maintaining health.

3. Respite time is very important. Since many caregivers do experience stress and the feeling of being burnt out, respite time can provide for rest and relaxation. These are needed to remain healthy so you can continue to provide for a senior in need.

4. Flu shots can help caregivers stay healthy. Not only will this help avoid the flu, but it will also remove the chances of spreading the virus to a senior.

5. Do not make work your entire life. Being a caregiver is very demanding. It is important to have a well-balanced life. This includes having hobbies and spending quality time with family and friends.

6. Make sure to visit the doctor regularly. Routine check-ups can prevent illness and will help with over-all health maintenance.

Source: thefamilycaregiver.org

Type 1 Diabetes and Seniors

Carebuzz — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 21:51:55 +0000

Home Health Phoenix enables seniors to live happy, healthy, and independent lives in their own homes.

Seniors are often affected by diabetes. Millions of seniors have the condition, and many more develop it as they age. Type 1 diabetes is serious and requires daily injections of insulin. This is because the pancreas is no longer functioning properly and is not producing insulin for the body. Type 1 diabetes can be managed and patients usually enjoy a normal and long life. Below is a list that provides some useful facts about Type 1 diabetes.

1. Those with Type 1 diabetes must take insulin every day. Without insulin, the patient will not survive. It is important to find out exactly how much insulin is needed to control blood sugar levels.

2. The onset of Type 1 happens rapidly. The warning signs of the development of type 1 diabetes include increased blood sugar levels, increased urination and thirst, weight loss, blurred vision and fatigue. If any of these symptoms are noticed, contact a doctor as soon as possible.

3. It is important to test blood sugar levels regularly. These levels allow patients to monitor their diabetes and can tell them how much insulin they need to control the levels. It is best to test before meals, a few hours after meals and before bedtime.

4. A regular diet is important, but so is the time meals are eaten. Many diabetics have to eat at the same time every day to keep their blood sugar levels under control.

5. A healthy life style will help the battle with Type 1 diabetes. Work with doctors to find a regime that works best and stick to it. Once your diabetes is under control, you will lead a normal life.

Source: diabetes.about.com

Image: diabetic-forum.net

Valentine’s Fun for All Ages

Carebuzz — Fri, 12 Feb 2010 15:26:53 +0000

Home Health Phoenix enables seniors to live happy, healthy, and independent lives in their own homes.

Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be about romance, but it can be about love and caring. Seniors shouldn’t be excluded from any events that the family participates in; they will appreciate that they’re being thought about even with simple activities like the following:

• Attend a community event – visit a senior’s center or community center hosting Valentine’s Day celebrations. Performances like concerts by choirs, plays and poetry readings can be fun to attend and great for the whole family

• Try doing some crafts – seniors who are already part of craft groups are likely to be beginning themed activities for Valentine’s Day, but do them at home as well. Seniors can also make cards and decorations with their family members

• Do some baking – Valentine’s Day is often associated with treats. Chocolate and goodies are usually a feature of the holiday. For seniors that can eat these items without any health repercussions, they can do some baking with family members. Otherwise healthier recipes can be tried incorporating food coloring of heart shapes to get into the spirit!

Via: Suite101

Image: daylife.com

Home Health in Greater Phoenix & Home Health in Central Phoenix helps elders and seniors in Phoenix remain at home safely and independently. Call us today at 623.583.5868, 602.265.8228 or 480.991.3959.

Seniors Benefit from Higher Statin Doses

Carebuzz — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 17:39:01 +0000

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

Each year more and more seniors are affected with heart disease. While it is not possible to completely avoid developing heart issues, there are some things that can be done to reduce risks. Increasing the intake of statin is one way to accomplish this. In addition to reducing heart risk, there are other health benefits as well. Below is a list that provides facts about statin and how it can reduce risks.

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.

Source: reuters.com

Image Source: sxc.hu

Seniors Should Know Symptoms of High Blood Pressure

Carebuzz — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 21:15:59 +0000

High blood pressure is a serious disorder that can be the cause of other health problems. At Home Health Phoenix we care for a number of seniors and know the importance being aware of all symptoms that are associated with high blood pressure. Below is a list that provides symptoms that may signify that high blood pressure has affected other parts of the body.

1. High blood pressure is the primary risk factor for heart attack and stroke. It can also cause kidney damage, blindness and heart disease.

2. The symptoms of high blood pressure can be different for each person. Some seniors will never experience any symptoms. Symptoms include dizziness, blurred vision, headaches and fatigue.

3. If the heart has been affected, the following symptoms may be present: chest pain, heart palpitations, shortness of breath and dizzy spells.

4. If the kidneys are affected by high blood pressure, patients may experience frequent urination, urinary tract infections, pain in the lower abdomen, increased glucose and protein in the urine or blood.

5. Should high blood pressure affect your eyes, you will experience loss of vision, blurred vision, headaches or double vision.

6. Malignant hypertension is caused by the rapid onset of high blood pressure and may cause shortness of breath, severe headaches, nausea, chest pain, confusion or seizures.

7. Talk to your doctor if any symptoms are present. Then work on a solution to lower your blood pressure, either by diet changes, medications, exercise or a combination of all three.

Source: hearthealthyonline.com

Image Source: sxc.hu

A Healthy Heart Inspired by the Mediterranean Diet

Carebuzz — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 23:24:43 +0000

Restrictive diets don’t work for anyone, and they can be especially dangerous for older adults who need to focus on nutrition that benefits the health of the heart. A way of eating inspired by the Mediterranean diet can keep seniors heart healthy well into their later years!

• Produce and grains – forget the Atkins diet, with the Mediterranean diet, whole grains are encouraged but with some moderation. Nuts, fruits and vegetables are also essential and should make up approximately ¾ of the food consumed during any meal

• Limit fatty foods – with the Mediterranean diet there is a focus upon fish and lean meats for protein, as well as nuts as mentioned above. Red meat is consumed only in moderation

• Spice instead of salt – this diet is low in sodium because instead of using salt for flavor, the Mediterranean use other spices

• Indulge in healthy luxuries – canola oil and olive oil which are healthy fats make up a portion of this way of eating, and red wine can be consumed in moderation regularly!

Via: Mayo Clinic

Image Source: sxc.hu

Steps for Seniors to Prevent Heart Disease

Carebuzz — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 22:02:18 +0000

Home Health Phoenix cares for many older adults with heart issues. Heart disease affects millions of seniors each year. It may be difficult for many seniors to make major changes to their diets. However, this is one of the ways to reduce the risk of developing heart disease. By following some simple steps, seniors can make the necessary diet changes needed to avoid the disease. Below is a list of steps that can be taken.

1. Reduce the intake of cholesterol and unhealthy fats. This is one of the most important steps to lower cholesterol as well as the risk of heart disease.

2. Eat foods with low-fat protein. This can include fish, poultry and egg whites. Flaxseed, walnuts, beans and peas are high in protein and low in fat.

3. Increase the intake of fruits and vegetables. These foods are rich in fiber and low in calories. They also contain substances that can reduce the risk of heart disease.

4. Eat whole grains instead of bread with refined flour and cereals with sugar.

5. Reduce salt intake. Don’t forget that processed foods contain high amounts of salt. Reduce the intake of processed foods and avoid the addition of salt while cooking and eating at the table.

6. Eat in moderation and avoid filling your plate. Keep portions of food balanced.

7. Create daily menus to help you plan ahead.

Source: mayoclinic.com

Image Source: sxc.hu