Caregiver Training Blog

From much anticipated seasonal favorites to the warm feeling of conviviality that come from sharing a meal with loved ones, food is an integral part of the holiday season for many people. However, when it comes to seniors and food during the holidays, there are also a few important things to keep in mind. Let's take a closer look at what caregivers need to know to ensure that their loved ones enjoy happy, healthy eating this season.

When discussions turn to Christmas gifts for seniors, Wiis, Xboxes, and other video gaming systems typically don't make the list. However, the truth is that people of all ages and abilities not only enjoy video games, but can also derive many benefits from using them. Let's count down five reasons to consider gifting your aging loved one with a Wii or other home video game console this year.

While Baby Boomers, Millennials, and Generation Xers may be the first words that come to mind when you think of "generations," another contender is rapidly emerging: the Sandwich Generation. While the name may be cute, the reality can be anything but for the millions of Americans caring for their aging parents and not-yet-grown children at the same time. There is hope, however, for those in this growing group.

The subject of intimacy can be an uncomfortable one for individuals with dementia and their caregivers alike. Factor in ongoing changes to sexual feelings and behaviors caused by Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia, and the challenges become even greater. Let's take a closer look at common intimacy-related dilemmas faced by caregivers (including spouses) along with highlighting coping and management techniques.

Being a caregiver is one of life's most difficult jobs. And while some are called to the path, others are surprised to end up in the role. Regardless of how you came to be an the one responsible for the care of another, these six qualities will serve you well in terms of navigating the challenges and finding personal and professional fulfillment.

These qualities help caregivers make even more of a difference.

Social isolation and poor nutrition unfortunately go hand in hand for many seniors. There's no better time to shine the spotlight on this subject than on "National Eat With a Friend Day," celebrated every November 25th. Let's take a closer look at why it's particularly important for seniors to have opportunities for social eating, along with ways to help your aging loved one find more joy in eating -- and in life! -- through shared meals with friends, family, and fellow community members.

The words "making friends" usually bring to mind thoughts of elementary school, playground games, and other childhood-related elements. However, friendship is not the sole domain of children. In fact, friends are more important than ever for people in their golden years, and yet much more challenging to come by. Wondering why close relationships matter so much, and how to help cultivate them among the seniors in your life? Let's take a closer look.

Photo via Pixabay by Geralt

Caring for a loved one who suffers from chronic pain can be overwhelming at times even for the most patient individuals. It’s important to remember, however, that there are certain things to take into consideration when caring for someone who is in pain for most of their day, including the fact that believing in their suffering is imperative.

Nearly a third of the U.S. population will develop shingles, and almost half of all cases occur in people over the age of 60, according to the CDC. Let's take a closer look at this common disease, from signs and symptoms to prevention and treatment.

What is Shingles?

Also called zoster or herpes zoster, shingles is caused by the chickenpox virus. When you recover from chickenpox, the virus does not leave your body but instead becomes dormant. Years later -- for reasons unknown -- it can reactivate in the form of shingles.

There are approximately 2.5 million older adults in the U.S. with alcohol or drug problems, according to the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, Inc. Despite its prevalence among seniors, however, substance abuse has been dubbed "an invisible epidemic" by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).