This month we are highlighting our resident, Ellen, at Oaks at Hampton!

Providing care for a parent or relative who is living with any form of dementia has its challenges. It can be frustrating and overwhelming at times if you do not know the best way to handle a situation when he or she is upset and confused. Remembering that the circumstances are not your fault and that you are doing your best can help alleviate these challenges and diffuse a high-tension situation.

Aging is a part of life, and as we age, our lives and bodies go through a multitude of changes. These changes are how we grow and develop into the people that we want to be. What does not change, however, is the importance of nutrition.

There is a lot involved in being a family caregiver. You care for an older parent or relative, while likely juggling responsibilities in your personal life, such as your career and a family of your own. During times of stress, it can be easy to overlook certain tasks and let responsibilities slip.

Respite care is a service that can offer many benefits to individuals and families. For a family caregiver, respite care can provide a short-term break from their caregiving responsibilities while having peace of mind knowing that their family member is receiving the necessary care and attention.

Did you know that spirituality can affect our overall health and wellness? According to The Medical Journal of Australia, “there is mounting scientific evidence of a positive association between religious involvement and multiple indicators of health.” The Medical Journal of Australia also states that “79% of U.S. adults believe that spiritual faith can help people recover from illness, injury, or disease.”

When you are the primary caregiver for a parent or family member, it is essential that you take the time to care for your own health. Neglecting your personal needs can lead to caregiver burnout. Preventing caregiver burnout is important to us at Oaks at Douglasville, an assisted living and memory care community in Douglasville, Georgia. One way to help with the stresses of providing care for your parent or relative is to participate in a caregiver support group.

Alzheimer’s disease, no matter when it makes itself known, is challenging to cope with. Developing a good understanding of the disease and finding the right care is essential in order to delay the progression and manage symptoms.

Throughout our lives, we have all experienced swelling and inflammation. Whether we have broken a bone, twisted an ankle, or cut a finger, the chances are that the injured area became swollen to some degree. This is a typical symptom to experience when an injury happens; however, it can become an issue when inflammation occurs without an apparent injury or cause.

None of us want to think about something happening to our health, the health of an older parent, or even a natural disaster, but, in order to be prepared, it is necessary. Life happens and can quickly impact and change our daily lives. However, the more you plan and prepare, the less frantic you will be should an emergency situation occur.