Caregivers of Older Adults Blog | Caregiver Info (5)

Coping with aging, sick or dying parents is difficult even under the best circumstances. Factor in the sibling strife that often arises in families trying to manage care for aging loved ones, and the situation becomes exponentially more challenging. Read on for a roundup of common sibling caregiving scenarios, along with tips aimed at keeping the peace. 

Senior financial abuse is an escalating problem in the US. And while online scammers may be the first threat that comes to mind, the reality is that abusers are often well-known. In fact, according to varying estimates, family members, friends, neighbors and caregivers may account for anywhere between 34 percent and 57.9 percent of perpetrators of financial exploitation of seniors. 

While roughly 30,000 cases of Lyme disease are reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) annually, this number represents only a fraction of the number of people living with the disease. In fact, this tick-borne illness is one of the world’s fastest growing infectious diseases, and has been declared an epidemic. Even more alarming? Children and seniors have the greatest risk of developing Lyme disease. 

In a perfect world, all family members would get along when making care decisions for aging loved ones. In the world we live in, however, familial strife is extremely common. While managing conflicts can be challenging, it’s vital to build consensus—both to ensure that each senior’s wants and needs are met as well as to reduce caregiver stress. The good news? There are some things you can to do help things go as smoothly as possible, including the following six strategies:

As human bodies age, they undergo many changes. While we often think of the appearance of the face, skin and hair as the primary areas demonstrating age-related changes, another body part can also reveal signs of advancing age: fingernails. However, not all of these changes are natural. In fact, some may indicate underlying health concerns. Read on for a closer look at four fingernail characteristics to watch for as a senior caregiver. 

Passing gas is a perfectly normal bodily function. However, this doesn’t mean it’s not potentially problematic for caregivers—especially when it becomes excessive. Here’s a closer look at the issue of seniors and flatulence, along with caregiver tips aimed at helping seniors manage this common condition.

It's natural for seniors to have uneven attitudes about aging. However, research tells us that having a positive outlook can directly impact quality of life and health in older adults. Here’s a closer look at the research, along with tips for caregivers looking to help seniors in their care adopt more positive attitudes. 

We've long known the health and wellness benefits of pet ownership for the elderly. However, recent reports have highlighted benefits of animal companionship beyond that of cats and dogs. The latest animal to take center stage when it comes to supporting senior health? Chickens. Here’s a closer look at the “chicken therapy’ trend, along with why experts are calling chickens and seniors a “match made in heaven.” 

The ability to swallow is something most of us take for granted every day. However, many older people suffer from “dysphagia,” which is the medical term for difficulty swallowing. This can lead to a number of serious health consequences ranging from malnutrition to lack of socialization. Caregivers can help their aging loved ones improve their quality of life by educating themselves about the condition and its treatments. 

Active shooter incidents are so prevalent that the issue has been declared an “epidemic.” And while active shootings in schools may claim the largest share of media attention, long-term care facilities are not immune. In fact, just last summer four people died when a gunman opened fire at a skilled nursing care and rehabilitation center near Columbus, Ohio. Several years before that, seven nursing home residents and one nurse were killed by a gunman in Carthage, North Carolina.