Senior Care Scoop

Get Moving! 8 Great Tips for Senior Fitness

Seniors who exercise regularly, either in organized fitness programs or informally at home, have fewer hospital stays and lower overall health care costs than seniors who do not. Plus, seniors who are active are less likely to become depressed. It pays to stay fit -- physically, emotionally, and financially! Post a comment to share what you do to keep your senior fit.

1. Start slowly, one step at a time. If your senior plans to participate in a fitness program of any kind, have her meet with her doctor before she signs up so she knows if there are certain exercises she should avoid. She may need a permission form from her physician. Even if she is doing less strenuous exercising, such as walking on a regular basis, your senior should start slowly and gradually increase the level of activity. Slow and steady is the best approach to senior fitness, at least in the beginning stages!

2. Combine cardio with strength training. Seniors benefit the most when they combine cardio/aerobic exercise, such as taking a brisk walk or going for a swim, with muscle-strengthening activities, like lifting light weights or doing push-ups and sit-ups. According to recent studies, seniors need two and a half hours a week of aerobic physical activity and strength-training exercises 2 or 3 times a week. Don't let your senior become a couch potato!

3. Focus on balancing skills. Falls are the leading cause of death from injury among seniors. Loss of balance makes seniors more prone to catastrophic falls. Encourage your senior to practice simple balance-enhancing exercises on a regular basis, such as walking heel to toe, standing on one leg, or standing up slowly from a sitting position. Practicing Tai Chi or yoga are other great ways to improve balance while reducing the fear of falling.

4. Stop the pain. Here's another good reason to keep moving. Seniors who have joint pain from osteoarthritis or other forms of arthritis often assume that they cannot or should not exercise. They couldn't be more wrong--physical activity can make seniors with arthritic pain feel better! Exercise is a natural pain reliever for arthritis. Have your senior check out www.arthritis.org for details on safe and effective exercise programs for reducing pain and joint stiffness.

5. Boost energy levels. Exercising -- whether walking around the block or ballroom dancing -- can help restore energy and a sense of well being. Encourage whatever form of movement your senior seems to enjoy, and then join her in the activity. Moving is grooving, even when that means doing light housework, working in the garden, or walking the dog. Motivate your senior to get off the couch! Keep your senior company and you too will replenish your energy level too.

6. Reduce stroke damage and improve memory. A new study shows that seniors who have been physically active before suffering a stroke have less severe problems and recover better than those who did not exercise before having the stroke. The most active seniors -- average age 68 -- had a better chance of long-term recovery. Exercise is one risk factor for stroke that actually be controlled! Another benefit of staying fit is that seniors with memory problems who participate in physical activity programs experience modest but noticeable improvement in cognitive function.

7. Point out the benefits. If your senior tells you she would rather watch TV than walk to the park, remind her that staying active is important because it will make her feel both healthier and happier. Regular exercise reduces disabilities and health-related problems by:

• Increasing cardiovascular fitness
• Improving aerobic capacity
• Increasing bone mass
• lowering level of inflammatory markers
• improving response to vaccinations
• improving thinking, learning, and memory functions

8. Enjoy the results. "Seniors will begin feeling the positive effects of physical activity almost immediately," says Tricia Grayson of Healthways SilverSneakers national fitness program for seniors. What should you expect if your senior is exercising on a regular basis? Increased flexibility and strength, lower blood pressure, and a stronger immune system. You might also notice that your senior is less anxious and depressed and has more energy! What a natural way to feel better.

It is important to be physically active your whole life, not just when you are young. There are long-lasting, dramatic benefits from exercising, and a little exercise (more is better, but anything is a lot better than nothing) goes a long way! Tell us how you get your senior to stay fit as a fiddle and what exercises she likes or dislikes by posting a comment.

 

 

 

Never Too Old: 8 Tips for Dealing with Senior Sex

You may be surprised to learn that many seniors enjoy a satisfying sex life! Recent studies show that the majority of women and men between the ages of 60 and 80 are enthusiastic about sex, despite potentially bothersome physical problems. Here are 8 tips to help ensure that your senior experiences safe, fulfilling sex, should she become involved in an intimate relationship. Share your own suggestions for managing senior sexuality issues by posting a comment!

1.  Starting the discussion.Your senior may be too embarrassed to talk about sex. After all, sexuality in later life is often a taboo subject. It's up to you to initiate the conversation if you think your senior is having -- or wishes to have -- a sexual relationship. Reassure your senior that it is perfectly normal for her to have sexual needs and desires. Point out that while sex at 70 or 80 may not be the same as when your senior was younger, with a little extra attention and effort is can be just as satisfying. Encourage your senior to share her feelings, misgivings, or questions.

2. Accepting a different sex life. According to Stanford Medical School Professor Dr. Walter M. Bortz, a seniors' sexuality expert, seniors can expect normal physiological changes as they age that may affect the way they experience sex. These age-related changes are not usually a barrier to experiencing a healthy sex life, but "seniors may have take more time for arousal," Dr. Bortz explains. Share these findings with your senior!

3. Seeing a doctor for advice. Postmenopausal women (that includes your senior) have lower levels of the hormone estrogen, which can lead to discomfort during sex. Your senior's doctor can suggest  remedies that will help. If your senior's physician seems uncomfortable talking about sex-related issues, find another doctor.

4. Keeping sex safe. Sexually-active seniors need to understand the risk factors and prevention of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). You senior may believe that she doesn't have to worry about STDs because of her age. But about 15 percent of newly diagnosed HIV infections are contracted by Americans over age 50. The number of seniors with HIV/AIDS is growing! Ask your senior if her partner (especially a new one) uses a condom during sex and if he's been HIV tested. There are no age limits on STDs!

5. Being honest about sexual desire. Based on a survey conducted by the National Council on the Aging, nearly half of all Americans age 60 or over have sex at least once a month and nearly half wanted to have sex more frequently. Your senior may need to hear it's okay for her to encourage her partner to engage in more sex. Another interesting result from the survey: People find their mates more physically attractive over time!

6. Adjusting medication. Some sedatives, antidepressants, and prescription drugs have side effects that can interfere with sex. If your senior's sex life is affected adversely by the medicines she takes, have her speak to a doctor about adjusting them. Certain surgeries and illnesses, such as diabetes and heart disease, can also contribute to sexual problems. Your senior should discuss her medical history (and her partner's) with a physician who is knowledgeable about senior sexuality. 

7. Watching out for sex abuse. There is a darker side to senior sex. Although uncommon, some elderly people suffering from dementia or Alzheimer's disease exhibit inappropriate sexually aggressive behavior toward other seniors. The flip-side of this is that seniors with dementia or Alzheimer's may not be able to tell you if they are being abused.  Understand that sexual abuse of seniors is not restricted to the senior community alone.  You need to be on watch. Recognize warning signs of sexual abuse of the elderly, so your senior can stay safe:

• Bruising on inner thighs
• bleeding
• Sexually transmitted diseases
• Difficulty walking or standing
• Pain and/or itching
• Emotional signs such as fear, depression, or withdrawn behavior

8. Supporting a healthy sex life. Physical closeness and intimate companionship are just as important to seniors as they are to younger people. Too often seniors who express interest in having sex are not taken seriously, or -- worse -- ridiculed. Your senior may feel ashamed of her sexual feelings and desires. Reassure her that having a good sex life -- at any age -- is normal!

A new University of Chicago study points out that more Americans are having and enjoying sex well into their 70s, 80s, and beyond! A key point is that "older people do not give up sexuality by virtue of their age." Tell us if you have had to talk to your senior about sex. Share your reactions to this hot topic by posting a comment!

"Say what?" 10 Tips for Dealing with Senior Hearing Loss

Does your senior have trouble understanding what you say? Does she continually ask you to repeat things? Your senior may be suffering from hearing loss, which afflicts about 1 out of every 3 Americans between the ages of 65 and 75! Check out these 10 tips for dealing with age-related hearing loss. Post a comment to share how you handle your senior's hearing-related problems!

1. Recognize the signs. Untreated hearing loss can lead to serious consequences. Your senior could be struggling with some degree of hearing loss if she displays any of these symptoms:

• Finds it difficult to follow conversations when 2 or more people are talking
• Needs to turn up the TV volume so loud that others complain
• Has a problem hearing because of background noise
• Thinks other people are mumbling when they're not
• Doesn't respond when being addressed indirectly

Note: If you senior experiences SUDDEN loss of hearing in one or both ears, consult her physician immediately to avoid irreversible auditory damage.

2. Have your senior tested. Hearing loss is the third most common chronic condition among the elderly. Yet many seniors who show signs are hearing loss are never tested or treated, and 80 percent of elderly people who might benefit from hearing aids don't wear them! If you notice hearing-loss symptoms in your senior, make an appointment with her doctor. He will probably refer your senior to an audiologist -- a certified clinician trained to test for and evaluate hearing problems, and to prescribe hearing aids and help seniors adjust to their use. Note: Medicare covers a hearing evaluation if it is ordered by a doctor.

3. Encourage your senior to use a hearing aid. When properly fitted and used correctly, hearing aids can dramatically improve the quality of life for the hearing impaired. Explain to your senior that the old-style hearing aids -- unattractive clunkers with dangling cords and harsh whistling sounds -- have been replaced by smaller, discreet, easier-to-use hearing aids that are customized with volume adjustments for fine tuning.

4. Get the right fit.  An audiologist (or a licensed hearing aid dispenser) will assess your senior's hearing loss, prescribe a hearing aid, and provide proper fitting and follow-up care. There are several options, including hearing aids that fit behind the ear, fill the bowl of the ear, or are small enough to fit completely in the canal. Another option, for those with severe hearing loss, is cochlear implant surgery. The audiologist will show your senior how to use the aid (initially it can be difficult to maneuver), and will service and tweak it when necessary. Note: Beware of mail order or on-line hearing aid sales! Stick with an audiologist.

5. Use assistive hearing devices. New technology enables hearing-impaired seniors to adapt more easily to their environment. There are state-of-the-art, built-in listening devices to assist with TV, radio, telephones (your senior should not have to take off her hearing aid to use the phone!), doorbells, and alarm clocks. The Americans with Disabilities Act mandates that televisions with screens over 13 inches contain built-in captioning decoding capability for the hearing impaired.

6. Quiet, please. Ouch! Excessive noise can literally hurt your hearing-impaired senior's ears. Turn off the TV or radio to eliminate background noise while speaking with your senior. When you take her out to a restaurant, do not sit near the kitchen, a band, or a group celebrating a special occasion -- loudly. There is no way to reverse age-related hearing loss, but you can insure that the atmosphere is quieter and therefore more pleasant for your senior.

7. Go natural. Recent studies show that people with insufficient levels of Vitamin B12 and folic acid have more hearing loss than those with normal levels of those nutrients. Vitamin D deficiency can also promote hearing loss. In other studies, antioxidants and Vitamin E have proven helpful. Ask your senior's health care provider about these and other noninvasive ways to help combat hearing loss!

8. Talk to your senior. If your senior has a hearing problem, you can help by:

• Facing her and talking clearly
• Speaking at a reasonable speed; do not hide your mouth, eat, or chew gum.
• Standing in good good lighting
• Using facial expressions or gestures to give useful clues
• Talking to her, not about her, when you're with non-hearing impaired people
• Being patient! Ask your senior if she needs you to repeat what you or someone else has said.

9. Promote social interaction. Hearing loss can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation. Your senior may refuse to engage in social events or activities she once enjoyed because she is embarrassed by her hearing condition. She may also be afraid that she might miss something safety-related, such as not hearing an approaching car, and avoid going outdoors. Be sensitive to your senior's sense of loss and independence. Encourage her to use her hearing aid and auditory devices, and to stay socially active.

10. Make a difference. As her caregiver, you can help your hearing-impaired senior. You can set a good example by speaking clearly and loudly with your senior, but not shouting at her! You can also:

• Keep your senior healthy: Hypertension, diabetes, and arteriosclerosis decrease blood flow to hair cells in the inner ear, and injury to those cells is a leading cause of hearing loss.
• Explain to others that your senior is not confused, uncaring, or difficult. She simply cannot hear well -- a disability that can impact on other aspects of her behavior.
• Remind your senior's friends and family members that your senior needs them to speak face to face with her, not indirectly.
• Get your senior out! Check in your local paper for programs for the hearing impaired, such as movies or plays in theaters that have sound-enhancing equipment like special headphones with volume control, or close captioning, compatible with certain hearing aids.

Presbycusis (a fancy word for age-related hearing loss) rarely leads to total deafness. But it does make life more frustrating and challenging for seniors and much more difficult for them to communicate. Tell us how you deal with hearing loss and your senior. We want to hear from you!

Warning Signs: When to Act Fast to Keep Your Senior Safe

How do you know if your senior is headed for (or already in) a medical disaster? Check out these warning signs so you can recognize when she might be in serious trouble. Then, by acting quickly and decisively to get her back on track (we provide tips to help you do that), you can keep your senior safe and healthy! Post a comment to let us know "red flags" that have helped you avoid disasters.

1. Your senior could have a drinking problem. The incidence of alcoholism among the elderly is on the rise. It is estimated that between 1.1 and 2.3 million senior citizens use alcohol to deal with grief and loneliness.

Warning signs include

• Self-neglect and poor hygiene; dirty or unusually cluttered living quarters
• Repeated falls or accidents, bumping into objects; sudden bruises or abrasions
• Drinking alone, (look for signs such as empty liquor bottles), rather than at social occasions
• Slurred speech; inability to answer simple questions

What you can do

• Replace dependency on alcohol with something that provides gratification for your senior, such as gardening, a crafts project, or taking care of a pet. Since loneliness may be a factor in her drinking, encourage more visits and interaction from your senior's friends and family members.
• Your senior may be too ashamed to admit she has a drinking problem. In a non-judgmental, positive way, explain that she's developed a disease and that there are cures for it. Encourage your senior to attend a support group of alcoholics her own age, where she'll feel more comfortable. Note:  Al-Anon www.al-anon.alateen.org provides information for caregivers to help them cope with seniors addicted to alcohol.

2. Your senior could have dangerously high blood pressure. High blood pressure is the leading cause of heart attacks and strokes. Also known as hypertension (defined as a blood pressure over 140/90 mm Hg), it affects more than 2 out of 3 people over the age of 75. But only a fraction of them know they have high blood pressure and are actively treating it!

Warning signs include

• High blood pressure doesn't usually cause symptoms. That's why it is called "the silent killer," and why it is crucial to have you senior's blood pressure (BP) taken regularly! Sometimes high BP can cause dizziness, nosebleeds, headaches, sweating, blurred vision, or nausea.
• In about 10% of the population, high blood pressure is caused by another ailment, such as kidney disease or thyroid dysfunction. It is important to check out why your senior has high BP.

What you can do

• If your senior is doggoned with hypertension, have her monitor and record her blood pressure at home, under your supervision or with your assistance. Make sure she uses a reputable (automated arm-cuff devices are recommended) BP monitor. By recording the results of home monitoring regularly, your senior can provide her physician with valuable information. Home monitoring can also empower your senior, giving a some sense of control.
• Researchers recently found that listening to relaxation tapes or Mozart on a regular basis can help reduce high blood pressure. So stock up on soothing classical or New Age CDs, in addition to encouraging your senior to eat healthily (cut down on salt, cholesterol, and calories), exercise, and take the proper type and dosage of BP-reducing medication.

3. Your senior could be having a stroke. The incidence of strokes, which are considered medical emergencies, increases with age. The good news is that current treatments can greatly reduce the damage caused by a stroke. But you need to recognize the symptoms and get your senior to the hospital quickly. Immediate treatment can save your senior's life and greatly improve the chances of a successful recovery.

Warning signs include

• Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm, or leg (especially one side of the body)
• Sudden confusion; trouble speaking or understanding speech
• Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
• Sudden difficulty walking; dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
• Sudden severe headache with no known cause

What you can do

• Call 9-1-1 immediately! Explain that you think your senior is having a stroke. Insist on going with her to the ER, especially if she's unable to speak clearly. Bring along a list of your senior's medications and a copy of her medical record, if easily accessible.
• The best treatment for stroke is prevention. Risk factors that will increase your senior's chances of having a stroke are high blood pressure, heart disease, smoking, diabetes, high cholesterol, and excessive daytime dozing.

4. Your senior could be dehydrated. Seniors are more likely to become dehydrated than others. If left unchecked, dehydration can become a very serious condition. That's why it is important to heed the warming signs!

Warning signs include

• Weakness or muscle cramps
• Headache, dizziness, or lightheadedness
• Confusion or passing out
• Fever can contribute to dehydration (and can be a consequence as well as a cause)
• Poor skin elasticity
• Few or no tears when crying
• Certain medications can lead to dehydration

What you can do

• Encourage your senior to drink plenty of clear fluids, even if she says that she is not thirsty. (Thirst isn't a reliable Gage of the body's need for water.) To make drinking more appealing, use easy-to-handle cups of glasses and supplement water with refreshing fruit ices or popsicles.
• If your senior's urine is light  yellow or clear, she is well hydrated. If it is dark yellow or amber, she needs to drink more.

5. Your senior could be having a heart attack. More than a million people suffer heart attacks each year. While in some instances there are no symptoms, especially for seniors, usually there are warning signs. Sometimes the symptoms appear, go away, and return. Even if that's the case, you need to get help quickly.

Warning signs include

• Chest discomfort, most often in the center of the chest, that lasts more than a few minutes, or that goes away and comes back. The chest discomfort can be mild or severe,  and can present itself as uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, or fullness.
• Pain or discomfort in one of both arms, the back, neck, jaw, or stomach
• Shortness of breath
• Other warning signs may include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea, or lightheadedness. Note: Compared with men, women report having less (sometimes no) chest pain prior to their heart attacks. Instead, more often they experience unusual fatigue, sleep disturbance, neck or jaw pain, abnormal stomach discomfort or heartburn, and shortness of breath.

What you can do

• If you suspect that your senior is having a hear attack (even if you're not sure), call 9-1-1. Minutes matter! Getting your senior to a hospital quickly, where she can receive specialized cardiac care, greatly improves her chances of survival and recovery.
• If your senior can swallow and she's not allergic to aspirin, have her chew a tablet. This thins the blood and can help prevent the clot that is blocking the coronary artery from spreading.
• Encourage your senior to become more heart-healthy by lowering her cholesterol, blood pressure, and weight. And it's another good reason for her to exercise!

By paying attention to the warning signs, your can help assure that your senior remains healthy and vital! Aging doesn't inevitably lead to medical disasters, especially with seniors taking more preventative measures. But when trouble knocks on your senior's door, as a caregiver you want to be prepared! Let us know warning signs that have alerted you to potential medical mishaps by posting a comment.

8 Major Gripes from Seniors...and what to do about them!

What do seniors complain about? What really ticks them off? Here are the 8 most common complains from seniors, along with tips for dealing with their grievances. Post a comment to tell us what your senior gripes about and what you do to put a smile back on her face!

1. We're tired. Seniors often complain about not getting enough sleep, but that may not be the case.

• Explain to your senior that she needs less sleep now: according to studies, about 1.5 hours less. Then she may stop worrying about not sleeping and actually sleep more! Note: A lack of energy can also be a red flag for serious health problems...so be sure to check it out if the complaints continue.

2. We're exploited. Seniors sense they are being taken advantage of but feel too ashamed or confused to do anything about it.

• Remind your senior that she has legal recourse if she thinks she's been scammed, for example, by a credit card company. Five million seniors a year are victimized by financial abuse and fraud.

3. We miss our old life.  Seniors deal with a lot of loss, from people who are no longer in their lives to homes they once lived in but had to leave.

• Make sure your senior is surrounded by meaningful possessions, heirlooms, and knick knacks from homes or apartments where she spent much of her life.

4. We don't want to rushed. Seniors hate being told to "hurry up." They may move slowly because they are in pain or afraid of falling.

• Move at your senior's pace, not yours. If you get impatient, imagine what it feels like to be yelled at or prodded for walking too slowly!

5. We don't like being dependent. Seniors want to remain independent -- especially when it comes to driving. They say they resent having their driver's licenses taken away, no matter what circumstances made it necessary.

• Tell your senior you understand how hard it is for her to give up her car, but her license was taken away because she might accidentally harm other drivers and pedestrians, or herself.

6. We don't like feeling stupid. Seniors say that people talk "down to them," as if they were children.

• Sometimes people think that if a senior is hard of hearing, visually impaired, or in a wheelchair, that their capacity to think is somehow diminished. Don't let people get away with this! Treat your senior with dignity and respect, and remind her friends and family to do likewise.

7. We get lonely. Seniors complain that no one cares about them anymore.

• This is especially true of seniors who live in nursing homes or by themselves. People have busy lives and for a variety of reasons don't always visit their elderly relatives as much as they could. Encourage your senior's friends and family to call more often, send a note or drop by for a visit. Suggest that visitors take your senior out for a walk or for a bite to eat. If that doesn't work, and family members are local, try sending them an invitation to join you and your senior for coffee or lunch, or bring grandchildren (or great-grandchildren) to meet you at a local park or playground. Something special goes a long way to brightening your senior's day.

8. We don't want to be defined solely by our age. Aging is not a disease -- it's a natural part of life. Seniors, like everyone else, have many sides to their personalities. They're not one-dimensional.

• Your senior may feel young at heart and may not really identify with her age or age-limits at all! Find out what interests her and help her pursue those interests. After all, she's earned it! Don't forget the saying, "We are only as old as we feel." Your senior knows how true it it.

Seniors have justifiable complaints. By paying attention to what angers or depresses your senior, and then doing something about it, you can make your senior much happier. And your job as caregiver will be a lot more pleasant! Tell us what rubs your senior the wrong way by posting a comment!

10 Terrific Tips for Preventing Falls

Falls are the leading cause of death from injury among seniors. About one-third of Americans 65 and older fall each year, and only a quarter of those fully recover. Check out these 10 sure-fire ways to prevent potentially fatal falls and keep your senior safe and secure! Share your own fall-reducing tips by posting a comment.

1. Sharpen balancing skills. Loss of balance makes seniors more prone to catastrophic falls. Encourage your senior to practice simple balance-enhancing exercises on a regular basis, such as walking heel to toe, standing on one leg, or standing up slowly from a sitting position. Practicing Tai Chi is another great way to improve balance while reducing the fear of falling.

2. Let there be light.  Seniors need more than a bathroom night light, though they need that too! Make sure there are night lights in dark hallways, at the top and bottom of stairways, and at all entrances and exits. Your senior needs to see where she's going -- night or day-- to prevent falls.

3. Get grounded to eliminate falls. Rugs and carpets can be danger zones. They should be securely anchored to the floor -- no frayed edges, not bunched up, and not too thick. Check that loose area rugs have slip-resistant, non-skid backing. If they don't, have them removed. Loose rugs or slippery floors are often cause falls that result in deadly hip fractures.

4. Switch to safe shoes.  Make sure the soles on your senior's shoes are non skid so she doesn't trip while walking -- another major reason for falls. Your senior should avoid wearing slippers that do not have secured rubber grips. Replace worn-out bedroom slippers with sturdy shoes, a much safer option.

5. Hold on!  Are grab bars placed strategically in your senior's bathroom, near the toilet and the bathing area? Are there non-slip ribbers mats in the bathtub and on the shower floor? If not, recommend that your employer install these safety measures. Also, make sure handrails on staircases and outdoor walkways are sturdy and secure.

6. Eliminate the junk. Remove clutter, boxes, knick knacks, and other household items or furniture your senior might bump into. Make sure passageways are unobstructed, and place contrasting strips at the edge of each step so your senior can see where the step ends. Tape securely all cords -- from phones, fans, TVs, etc. -- to the wall.

7. Don't count on sunshine. The higher a senior's Vitamin D intake, the lower her risk for life-threatening, fall-induced hip fractures. Low levels of Vitamin D can boost that risk by more than 70 percent! Housebound seniors often don't get enough natural Vitamin D from sunlight, so they need to take Vitamin D supplements. Check your senior's vitamin pill to see how much D she is taking. For those over 65, the recommendation is at least 600 i.u. daily. Vitamin D is also essential for absorbing calcium, which your senior needs to preserve bone strength.

8. Consider side effects of meds. Certain combinations of medicines -- or taking too many of them at one time -- can cause seniors be become unsteady. Does your senior complain about dizziness? Does she appear to be off-balance? If so, she could be reacting to her medication, or she may be ingesting too many pills. Some anti-depressants, painkillers, blood pressure pills, and sleep aids can put your senior at increased risk of falling. If you think there's a problem, contact her doctor.

9. Look down, look around. If you go out for the day with your senior, check out your surroundings. Be aware of uneven sidewalks, grassy hills, stony or sandy surfaces, and even escalators at shopping malls. These can be  hazardous"trip and fall" areas. Should your senior fall but not injure herself, don't think she's out of danger. Non-serious falls often foreshadow harmful ones!

10. Fall-proof for peace of mind. By helping to minimize dangerous falls, you are helping your senior feel more confident, secure, and less afraid to be alone. Ensure her that everything is being done to keep her safe and on her feet!

Falls can be deadly but they don't have to part of getting old. By making your senior's living space fall-proof, you are improving the quality of her life. That makes your job as a caregiver a lot more enjoyable! Post a comment to let us know what you do to prevent or reduce falls.

Top 10 Best and Worst Senior Care Moments

What turns you on about your work? What really bugs you? Check out our "Best and Worst" list and see if you agree with what other senior caregivers said. Post a comment to tell us about your best and worst senior care moments!

Best

1. Making a difference. It's gratifying to know that you help improve the quality of someone's life. Thanks to your caregiving work, your senior has a better chance of staying independent, happier, and healthier for a longer period of time....Bravo!

2. Learning from your senior. You have the unique opportunity of listening to and benefiting from your senior's lifelong experiences and observations. Many are eager to share their personal and generational stories with you.

3. Appreciating what you have.  Seeing what your senior endures on a daily basis, whether physically or mentally, can put your own problems in perspective. Because of your job, you are in a better position than most to enjoy and savor life one day at a time.

4. Accepting the challenge.  Taking care of seniors is not easy. But many of you enjoy the challenge of finding new and creative ways to cheer up your senior, keep her busy, and enhance her life. If you put a smile on your senior's face -- in spite of her limitations -- you're ready to move on to the next challenge.

5. Reaping the rewards.  Studies show that, perhaps surprisingly, caregivers have a high level of self-esteem. When your senior lets you know -- through words or gestures -- how much she appreciates you and what you do for her, it makes your day!

Worst

1. Feeling stressed. When senior caregivers do not have enough time to themselves, their stress levels go up. Call "time out" when you need a break -- if only to walk around the block (exercise helps alleviate stress) or talk to a friend about something other than caregiving!

2. Feeling unappreciated. Senior caregivers provide invaluable services. Unfortunately, many people don't know what they are. Let your friends, family, and even your boss know what you do. There's nothing wrong with bragging about your multi-tasking accomplishments.

3. Feeling like a failure. Your senior may not have the ability to let you know you're doing a good job. She may not even be capable of offering you a simple "thank you." Set reasonable goals so you won't be disappointed. Pat yourself o the back when you do something well, even if your senior can't.

4. Feeling socially isolated. Spending days (or nights) with seniors means you are not spending time with people your own age. You may miss being in a work environment where you can share social or professional concerns with your peers. Go out with friends on weekends or days off, even if you're tired. Be silly, have fun -- you need it!

5. Feeling you are burned out. According to a study, nearly 70 percent of senior caregivers have a sleep disturbance. Taking care of seniors can be exhausting and depleting -- eventually leading to burn out. Taking care of yourself is as important as taking care of your senior. It keeps you going. So is having a sense of humor. Laughter is healing!

Focusing on the "best" of being a senior caregiver, while acknowledging the "worst," will help you feel better about your work and yourself. Let us know the best and worst things about your job by posting a comment. What makes a great day and how do you get through a really bad one? We want to know!

8 Hot Tips for Keeping Seniors Cool This Summer

When the temperature goes up, seniors are more likely than others to suffer. Even healthy seniors are at risk during a heat wave. Check out these 8 great ways to keep your senior safe and comfortable! Share your own heat-busting tips with other caregivers by posting a comment.

    1. Spend the day in an air-conditioned venue, such as a public library, senior center, or movie theatre. Fans won't help cool down your senior during extreme heat.

    2. If you must go outdoors, take along plenty of water, plus a spray bottle for a spritzy cool-down. Seniors are at high risk of becoming dehydrated -- a serious health problem. Watch out for dark urine, which may mean your senior needs more water.

    3. If your senior is not using her air conditioner because she's worried about her utility bill, or she doesn't know hot it works, explain that for safety's sake she must use her a.c., at least for several hours at a time, and show her how.

    4. Encourage your senior to take a cool (not cold) bath or give her a sponge bath. If outdoors, apply a cold wet towel compress to her face and neck.

    5. Make sure your senior wears loose-fitting clothing made from lightweight fabrics such as cotton, plus a hat. But bring along a sweater if you're going somewhere air conditioned.

    6. Prepare light and healthy meals that don't require cooking, such as refreshing, protein-packed salad.

    7. Cover windows that are exposed to direct sun light  and keep curtains, shades, and blinds down during the hottest part of the day.

    8. Know the warning signs of heat stress or stroke: Instead of sweating, your senior may not sweat at all. Her skin is more likely to be dry, hot, and clammy. Other symptoms may include confusion, nausea, rapid pulse, and high body temperature. If you're concerned, don't hesitate to call 9-1-1!

By taking minimal precautions and planning ahead, you and your senior can stay cool as cucumbers, no matter how hot it gets. Post a comment to let us know how you help your senior beat the heat!

9 Ways NOT To Get Fired!

Want to know what seriously bums out employers about their senior caregivers? Check out the key factors used in hiring and firing decisions. These are need-to-know items for keeping or landing a job! Post a comment to tell us how you seal the deal and keep your clients loyal.

1. Be Available -- If you're going to be hired as a senior caregiver, make sure you have plenty of free dates and flexible hours (including, if possible, overnight shifts) in your calendar.

2. Be There  -- Show up at your appointments! If you think no one will notice if you blow-off an interview or scheduled start time, think again. Keep being a no-show and you won't get work in your community -- people talk and bad news travels fast! Got a real conflict? Pick up the phone and say so.

3. Be Clear -- If you can only take care of a senior for two-hour shifts because you have other obligations, let the employer know when you schedule the time. Don't drop a bomb on them the day you're scheduled to work, when they're expecting you to stay as long as they need!

4. Be Responsible -- If you must cancel a caregiving job, give your employer as much notice as possible and suggest a colleague who might be interested in substituting for you. Why would you cancel? You might be sick -- really sick, or have a scheduling conflict with another job, or made plans ahead of time for a family vacation. Running late or in traffic? Call, call, call. Employers who are informed of the situation will trust you.

5. Be Interested -- Be friendly, professional, and interested in the seniors you're being hired to take care of. It's a true bummer for employers if they can tell your heart isn't in it. When you're with them, they want to be highest on your list of priorities.

6. Be Honest -- Employers appreciate senior caregivers who are honest and upfront. Let them know if you had to use their phone, if you broke something, or if the senior you are caring for had a particularly difficult day.

7. Be Creative -- Employers love senior caregivers who plan ahead and bring books and magazine articles, board games and other activities, craft supplies, or just some great ideas to keep seniors entertained while promoting independence and general well-being. Be sure anything you bring or use is safe for seniors.

8. Be Calm -- You MUST be able to handle an emergency -- even if it means just staying calm and dialing 911! Let your employer know you're ready for anything by asking them to leave contact numbers (physicians and closest hospital) and the senior's medical information and history -- including a list of medications --which you might need in an emergency. See our Emergency Checklist for Seniors!

9. Be Prepared  -- Let employers know if you have certification from a senior caregiving course or CPR training. Ask about equipment that will be available to you, such as a walker, cane, oxygen, or wheelchair. Also ask about allergies and special dietary restrictions. They will love that you're thinking ahead!

10. BONUS TIP: Be Appropriate -- You would DIE if we told you what employers have seen in this department. Long story very short -- don't swear and don't dress for a sexy night out at a club when you're interviewing to take care of a senior!

Keep your clients loyal and satisfied with your great skills and professional style. Let us know how you go the extra mile to keep clients happy by posting a comment and sharing your tips!

10 Tips for Nightmare-Free Doctor Visits for Seniors

Medical visits can trigger real worry over possible illness, anticipation of a painful procedure, and even anxiety attacks. Check out these 10 tips to reduce seniors' fears and ensure your medical visit won't be a total nightmare! Got great tips for soothing seniors before a trip to the doctor? Post a comment to let other caregivers know!

1. Schedule the appointment at a suitable time for your senior's needs. Is the a morning person? Does she need to nap in the afternoon?

2. Do not mention the visit too far in advance. Otherwise she will worry needlessly.

3. Call beforehand to find out if the doctor is running late. Plan to arrive shortly before your senior will actually be seen.

4. Get advance permission to go with your senior into the examination room.

5. Have a list of prepared questions. Encourage  your senior to add her own questions to the list.

6. Bring a copy of medications (over-the-counter and prescriptions), vitamins, and supplements. Include dosages.

7. One-third of those who qualify for Medicare can get prescription drugs for next to nothing. Visit www.socialsecurity.gov/ for details. Reminding your senior of this can help reduce fears about financial strain that often accompany medical care.

8. Discuss problems with the doctor that affect physical well-being, such as insomnia and stress -- not just symptoms of a diagnosed illness.

9. Take notes during the visit. Request a copy of the doctor's report, including lab work results, for your own personal file. It's extremely difficult to remember everything said during a medical exam -- taking notes can help you keep the facts straight -- especially important if your senior is seeing several doctors for a variety of issues.

10. Was the health care provider a good listener? Did he make eye contact with your senior? Did he respect your opinions as a caregiver? If not, consider switching to a more compatible doctor. Remember, you and the senior in your care represent half of the doctor-patient relationship -- so don't be afraid to speak up and advocate for your senior.

Be in control of your trips to the doctor and both you and your senior will leave feeling better. Post a comment to tell us your strategies for keeping your senior calm at the doctor's office!