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Caregivers of Older Adults Blog | Mental Health

A Beginner’s Guide to Meditation for Caregivers

By mmLearn.org on Wed, Nov 11, 2020 @ 08:00 AM

When you're a family caregiver, stress can feel like a part of daily life. Most caregivers know that exercising, eating right, and spending time with friends can help keep burnout at bay. But there's another form of self‑care that perhaps you haven't tried—one that research shows can literally train your brain to calmly react to stressful situations.

We're talking about meditation.

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Caregiving 101: Understanding the Four Types of Dementia

By mmLearn.org on Wed, Aug 12, 2020 @ 08:00 AM

Today, approximately 5.8 million people in the U.S. have dementia. It’s no wonder so many caregivers are looking for tips on boosting seniors’ quality of life and finding activities for dementia patients 

Only decades ago, people were still writing off dementia‑related behaviors to senility. Now researchers have an ever‑increasing understanding of the brain, which has allowed them to better identify new brain disorders, including the types of dementia.

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How to Help Seniors Cope with the Loss of a Spouse

By mmLearn.org on Tue, Jun 09, 2020 @ 08:00 AM

Losing a loved one is one of the hardest parts of life, and it can lead to depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, and even substance abuse. Seniors face the death of a spouse more than any other age group. Learning to live without their life partners might feel impossible at first. Grief can be overwhelming, even when it is not a surprise. In addition to sadness and crying, aging adults in the midst of bereavement might

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How to Talk to Someone with Dementia, Alzheimer's, or Memory Loss

By mmLearn.org on Tue, May 28, 2019 @ 12:25 PM

Communicating with a person with memory loss can be difficult, but the right strategies can bridge the gap and foster a more fulfilling relationship between you and your patient or loved one. 

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Should Your Aging Loved One Join a Community Chorus or Consider Music Therapy?

By mmLearn.org on Wed, Apr 24, 2019 @ 10:48 AM

Senior loneliness is an epidemic in society today. In fact, more than 40 percent of seniors regularly experience feelings of separation and disconnection from their family and communities — which can have a detrimental impact on both physical and emotional health. Now comes news, however, of a potential loneliness-busting fix: joining a community choir. Here’s a closer look at the research, along with evidence attesting to the many benefits of music therapy.

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Meals on Wheels and Beyond: Services for Seniors

By mmLearn.org on Mon, Jul 30, 2018 @ 10:48 AM

There are nearly 48 million people age 65 and older in the US, according to the most recent figures from the U.S. Census Bureau. By the year 2060, this number is projected to climb to 98.2 million. While seniors are healthier than ever, they still suffer from a number of obstacles pertaining to everything from loneliness and isolation to nutrition and money. 

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Senior Eating Disorders: What All Caregivers Need to Know

By mmLearn.org on Fri, Dec 29, 2017 @ 09:30 AM

Eating disorders aren't just the domain of teenage girls and young women. In fact, many older adults suffer from this life-threatening health concern, as well. Not only that but incidences of eating disorders among seniors—particularly older women—is rising. Here’s a closer look at the phenomenon, along with how caregivers can best support aging loved ones in getting treatment for eating disorders.

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Understanding and Coping with PTSD - 6 Tips for Caregivers

By mmLearn.org on Fri, Mar 03, 2017 @ 11:51 AM

Approximately 60 percent of men and 50 percent of women will go through at least one trauma over the course of their lives, according to the National Center for PTSD. As many as eight percent of these -- eight million during any given year -- will develop PTSD. Caregiving for someone with PTSD comes with its own unique challenges, but increased understanding and awareness can lighten the load while helping them provide the very best care. Here's a closer look at PTSD, along with six tips for caregivers. Read More

The 411 on Psychoactive Medications

By mmLearn.org on Mon, Jul 18, 2016 @ 01:00 PM

As many as 71 percent of nursing home residents who are receiving Medicaid are also taking a psychoactive medication, according to one University of South Florida study. While these drugs can serve a very real purpose in treating certain medical conditions, they can also be misused and/or lead to dangerous interactions with other drugs. Let's take a closer look at psychoactive medications, along with what caregivers need to know to help safeguard the health and wellness of aging loved ones.

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Helping Seniors Embrace "Creative Beginnings Month"

By mmLearn.org on Fri, May 06, 2016 @ 10:34 AM

Did you know that two national observances -- Older Americans Month and Creative Beginnings Month -- converge in May? Combined, they present a unique opportunity for seniors and their caregivers: It's never too late for seniors to adopt new activities and habits aimed at helping them enjoy healthier, fuller lives.

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