How Yoga Can Promote Better Sleep In Senior Care

Yoga, which evolved from South Asia, has spread worldwide due to its vast health benefits. These benefits are not only confined to adolescents but also to elders (aged 60 years & above). They can benefit their sleeping regime- the most common health issue they face due to stress, depression, disturbed mindset, et cetera.

In a study, 55% of yoga practitioners admitted that yoga improved their sleep quality, and 85% said yoga reduced mental disturbances. 

But if we say that yoga directly targets sleep, it's not so! It cures sleep-reducing symptoms such as tension, etc. So, here, in this blog, we shall gain a brief insight into better sleep quality in the elderly care through yoga.

Benefits of Yoga

v  Since deep breathing is involved in this technique, they can relax their minds, resulting in better sleep.

 

v  It boosts their Melatonin hormone- a stress regulator that reduces sleep disturbances.

v  It relaxes the nervous system.

Simple Yoga Asanas (Techniques) For Seniors To Improve Sleep

v  Corpse pose

Lay flat on the mat with your body moving freely, just like a corpse. Focus on inhaling and exhaling. Simple but effective technique!

v  Shishuasana

Sit on your knees with both arms, bending forward while lying flat. This asana calms the nervous system, leading to better sleep!

v  ViparitaKarani (Legs-Up-the-Wall Pose)

Lay down flat with your back facing downwards. Lift your legs at a right angle to your stomach. You can use the wall as support. Do this for five minutes.

v  Lying Butterfly Pose

Lay flat on the ground. Fold your legs and open them wide enough to touch sideways. Keep both toes pressed together. Remain in this position for few minutes. Focus on your breathing. 

Things To Remember Before Practicing Yoga

·       Avoid exercise before and after meals. 

·       Use a sturdy but gentle surface to practice these asanas (techniques), like a typical yoga mat. 

·       Set the scene for sleep before practicing it. Use dim lights and music. 

·       Yoga is nothing without breathing techniques. So keep this in mind when practicing. 

·       Always practice slowly, unlike cardio and other exercises. The slower you go, the better the results are. 

Summary!

We hope you find this senior care blog enlightening.

For professional elder care in the East Bay, visit https://alwaysbestcare.com/walnut-creek/. Our team is dedicated to providing our clients worldwide with compassionate and expert in-home care services. Call now at 925-210-0323.

How Meditation Can Improve The Senior's Health | Always Best Care Senior Services

Centuries ago, meditation was solely restricted to India. Now, it's been spreading globally. Many scientific researches have proven its health benefits to offer peace and tranquility. Moreover, the number of elderly who practice meditation regularly has increased enormously. But what exactly are its health benefits for seniors? Let’s find out in this elderly care blog in East Bay!

·         Promotes Strong Immune System

Meditation boosts cortisol levels to help in the optimum functioning of the immune system, which further treats numerous inflammatory conditions like irritable bowel syndrome and much more. 

 

·         Inhibits Chronic Pain

Chronic pain is often linked to our minds, and meditation can help mindfulness to control pain since it allows you to focus on breathing and make you feel calm and relaxed. 

 

·         Fights Depression

Meditation helps in boosting their mood by preventing depression, especially during loneliness.

 

·         Improve The Sleep Quality

In meditation, we use repetitive sounds that can be an effective relaxing technique to promote healthier sleeping habits. Do it right before bedtime to prevent insomnia, fatigue, and other related symptoms. 

 

·         Regulates Blood Pressure

Meditation also helps in regulating blood pressure, especially during hypertension. Studies say that relaxing techniques and light exercises benefit the cardiovascular system (according to the in-home care in East Bay)

 

Prevents Memory Loss

Meditation also helps in inhibiting memory loss. According to a study, 30 minutes of daily meditation can increase gray matter in the hippocampus, which plays a crucial role in memory and learning. Moreover, they can harness the power of subconscious minds, promoting better information retention ability. 

 

Summary

We hope you have understood the vitality of meditation for elders. If you cannot help your beloved elders in meditating regularly, opt for the home-based professional in-homecare in East Bay, such as Always Best Care to help them meditate periodically through our dedicated caregivers and also assist them in daily life activities from bathing to medication. Contact us now! To know further, visit www.alwaysbestcare.com/ca/walnut-creek. 

 

Seniors Need Compassion Too: A Guide To Elderly Care

With age, every person needs care and support. Seniors often face an array of challenges, including health issues, mobility limitations, and social isolation. Therefore, offering compassionate care support to seniors is crucial to make them feel valued and appreciated. Here are some ways to express compassion to your beloved seniors. 

 

Spend Time with Them: 

Many seniors experience social isolation, which can negatively impact their mental and physical health. Therefore, it is crucial to spend time with them. You can engage in numerous activities, like playing games, reading, or watching a movie together. You can also take them for a walk or a local event. This can indulge a motivation within the seniors. 

 

Be Patient: 

As individuals age, they lose their mobility in doing regular tasks like brushing, bathing, walking, and many others. By being patient and understanding, you can make them comfortable and relaxed. 

 

Listen More: 

Seniors are a wealth of knowledge. Take time to listen to their lifelong experiences, stories, and past happenings (as recommended by the top home care services in East Bay). Ask them questions about their life and their interests. Show that you value their opinions and perspectives. 

 

Express Gratitude: 

Seniors are great contributors to families and society. It's good to express gratitude for their contributions. Acknowledge them for their hard work and dedication, and let them know that their efforts haven't gone unnoticed. 

 

 Show Interest: 

Seniors have peculiar interests and hobbies (different from today's individuals). Show interest in their hobbies to make them feel valued and appreciated. Ask them about the same and encourage them to pursue it. You can even take them to local events or activities concerning their hobbies. 

 

Show Empathy: 

Seniors may face numerous challenges, including health issues, financial struggles, and bereavement losses. Acknowledge their struggles and let them feel motivated. 

 

Offer Assistance: 

Seniors may require assistance with daily tasks, such as cooking, cleaning, and running errands. You should offer help with these tasks by easing their burden and letting them know you actually care. 

 

Final Thoughts!

Showing compassion to seniors is valuable by every means. These simple acts of kindness can help seniors feel more connected to others, more engaged with their passions, and more hopeful for the future.

 

But simply offering compassion isn't enough. You need professionalism as well, which you can get through professional elderly care services like one in the East Bay-Always Best Care. 

 

We are among the leaders in in-home care and delivered thousands of smiles worldwide. You can too avail our facility. Simply visit www.alwaysbestcare.com/walnut-creek today!

 

A Home Care Guide To Spotting Heart Failure Signs For Seniors

Heart disease is a leading cause of death among seniors, and early detection is crucial for effective treatment. It's important to know the signs and symptoms that can help seniors curb the problem at an earlier stage and seek medical help immediately. Here are six signs of heart disease that every senior should watch out for: 

1. Chest pain or discomfort: 

Seniors with heart disease may have chest pain or discomfort, which can feel like pressure, tightness, or a squeezing feeling, and it may spread to the arms, neck, jaw, back, or stomach. Its common causes include physical exercises, mental stress, or overconsumption of food. 

 

2. Shortness of breath: 

Seniors suffering from heart disease may experience shortness of breath, particularly during physical activity or rest (by the In-Home Caregivers in East Bay). Coughing, wheezing, or chest tightness may accompany shortness of breath.

 

3. Fatigue: 

Despite adequate sleep, seniors with heart disease can still feel tired and find difficulty doing regular tasks. Fatigue is a sign of heart failure, which happens when the heart fails to pump enough blood to fulfill the body's demands. 

 

4. Swelling: 

Seniors suffering from heart disease may have swelling in their legs, ankles, feet, or belly, which can develop by fluid accumulation in a concentrated body area. It can be caused by the heart's failure to pump blood in the lungs, which can also cause shortness of breath.

 

5. Palpitations: 

Seniors with heart disease may have palpitations (a fast or irregular heartbeat). They may experience heart palpitations, fluttering, or racing. Its common causes include over-exercising, mental stress, or coffee consumption. 

 

6. Dizziness or lightheadedness: 

Seniors with heart disease may feel dizzy or lightheaded, particularly after standing up or changing positions. They can feel like they are about to die or faint. Reduced blood pressure or a lack of blood supply to the brain can induce dizziness or lightheadedness.

 

Final Verdict!

Every senior should be aware of the signs and symptoms of heart disease and seek medical assistance immediately. 

Early identification and treatment can aid in the prevention of consequences and improve results. 

If you are looking for ways to curb this issue, one solution is in-home care services. There are plenty in East Bay, yet my favorite is Always Best Care in Walnut Creek.

The good thing is they have a vast experience in this field and charge a minimal fee but offer the most compassionate and dedicated caregiving services you would find in this industry. Connect with Always Best Care today! To find out more, visit alwaysbestcare.com/walnut-creek. 

 

What Are Some Heart-Healthy Foods for Seniors: Recommended By Top Elderly Care Services

Our health gets affected by aging. But there are ways to curb this. Just by taking care of the heart, you can maintain appropriate fitness. And the best way to take care is to opt for a proper diet. But exactly, what are those heart-healthy foods? Let's find out!

Leafy Vegetables:

It includes spinach, Kale, Collard green, and many others. These leafy vegetables are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and anti-oxidants to low blood pressure, in case of high and vice-versa, thus reducing the risk of heart failure. Moreover, these vegetables are low in calories, making them a good option for people who are looking to lose weight. 

 

Berries: 

Berries such as blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries are rich in antioxidants and fiber, which help lower blood pressure and reduce body inflammation (by the In-home care in East Bay).

 

Fish:

Some top eatable fishes are Salmon, Mackerel, and Tuna, which are high in Omega-3 Fatty acids to maintain a healthy heart. Dieticians recommend eating fish twice a week for effective results. 

 

Nuts: 

Nuts such as almonds, walnuts, and pistachios are rich in heart-healthy fats, fiber, and protein; thus a great snack option that can be added to salads or oatmeal for better nutrition.

Whole Grains: 

Whole grains (oatmeal, brown rice, and quinoa) are rich in fiber, help to lower cholesterol, and reduce the risk of heart disease. Moreover, they are an excellent source of Vitamins and Minerals. 

 

Avocado: 

Avocados, being a rich source of heart-healthy fats, fiber, and potassium, help lowering blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease. You can add avocado to salads or smoothies for a better taste. 

 

Beans: 

Beans (black beans, kidney beans, and chickpeas) are rich in fiber, protein, and antioxidants, which help to lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease. 

 

Dark Chocolate: 

Dark chocolate is an antioxidant that can reduce inflammation and maintain proper blood flow from the heart to the body. But don't exceed its consumption of more than a small piece of dark chocolate everyday as it can affect your senior's health if taken in excess. 

 

Conclusion

Incorporating heart-healthy foods can be a great asset for the seniors' bodies. But we strongly advise you to consult a doctor prior to making a significant dietary change. 

Looking for professional senior care in Walnut Creek? Then don't look further!

Always Best Care has been in top business for over 20 years. We understand the vitality of health for seniors, and considering this, we offer compassionate and professional services to let your seniors flourish. To learn more, visit alwaysbestcare.com/walnut-creek. 

The Benefits of Music Therapy For Seniors With Dementia: By The Top Elderly Care Services

Music connects people of all ages and backgrounds. It is particularly powerful for seniors with dementia, who often experience emotional and cognitive challenges. Music therapy has been proven to offer numerous benefits for seniors with dementia, from improving mood and reducing anxiety to enhancing cognitive function and quality of life.

 

One of the key benefits of music therapy for seniors suffering from dementia is its ability to enhance mood and reduce agitation. Studies have shown that music can stimulate the release of endorphins- chemicals in the brain that promote feelings of happiness and well-being. When seniors with dementia listen to familiar music or participate in musical activities, they often experience a sense of joy and relaxation that can help to alleviate symptoms of depression, anxiety, and agitation.

 

Another benefit of music therapy for them is its ability to enhance cognitive function. Music engages multiple areas of the brain, including memory, language, and attention. When seniors with dementia listen to familiar songs or participate in music-based activities, it can stimulate these brain areas and help to improve cognitive function (by the top homecare services in East Bay)

 

The next benefit is providing a sense of social connection and engagement for them. Group music activities, like singing or playing instruments together, can foster a sense of community and encourage social interaction, which is particularly important for seniors with dementia, who feel isolated or withdrawn from social activities. This therapy can provide a safe and supportive environment for seniors to connect with others and engage in meaningful activities.

 

In addition to these, it can also provide physical benefits for seniors with dementia. Listening to music or participating in musical activities can improve motor coordination, balance, and gait, which can be particularly important for seniors at risk for falls or other physical challenges.

 

If you are caring for a loved one with dementia, consider incorporating music therapy into their care plan. There are many resources available, including music therapists, community music programs, and online resources. With the right support, this cutting-edge therapy can provide meaningful and effective treatment for seniors with dementia, improving their quality of life and overall well-being.

To learn further about senior care, get in touch with Always Best Care in Walnut Creek. Visit alwaysbestcare.com/walnut-creek to learn more!

 

Six Exercises That Can Benefit The Health Of Your Aging Parents

Healthy living requires exercise and good nourishment throughout one's life, and as we get older, our needs change more and more. An increasing collection of studies shows how seniors should exercise frequently and how more seniors are opting for an active lifestyle over a sedentary one. This piece will outline the six best types of exercise for elders as recommended by the top senior care in Walnut Creek. 

1.      Dancing

Dancing to your favorite music, whether salsa, ballroom, jazz, or another type, is a great way to remain in shape because it incorporates the endurance, cardio, and flexibility workouts into one practice.

Every year, millions of Americans dance as exercise, and our enthusiastic staff and carers are delighted to transform any space into a dance hall for you and your new friends.

2.      Bowling

Bowling is a great upper body and balance activity for elders because it can assist with these things. Are you or a loved one seeking to walk outside and have fun? If so, bowling is a wonderful sport to attempt. Almost every bowling alley has its own leagues.

3.      Water Aerobics

Water yoga has recently gained enormous popularity among people of all ages, but elders specifically. For people with arthritis and other types of joint discomfort, exercising in the water is perfect because the buoyancy of the water reduces the strain on your joints. Water also provides natural pressure, so muscle training doesn't require weights. Your muscle, flexibility, and balance will all improve thanks to water aerobics routines, which put a little strain on your body (advised by the renowned in-home carers worldwide).

4.      Chair Yoga

Chair yoga, like water aerobics, is a low-impact exercise that enhances muscular strength, movement, balance, and flexibility—all essential elements of elder health. A more approachable type of yoga than traditional ones, chair yoga puts less strain on the muscles, joints, and bones.

Additionally, chair yoga has been demonstrated to enhance older individuals' emotional health. Regular chair yoga practitioners report improved slumber, fewer cases of melancholy, and overall well-being feeling. 

5.      Walking

Using a facility or specialized tools to get physically active is not always necessary. Sometimes all it takes is a leisurely stroll through your neighborhood to enhance your physical and emotional health.

Walking is an essential exercise that takes you outside in the fresh air and exposes you to Vitamin D on warm and bright days, whether walking with a group and performing circles at a nearby mall, taking a casual saunter through your neighborhood, or scenting flowers.

6.      Gardening

Planting, pruning, watering, and gathering fruits and veggies from your garden are all significant physical activities, even though gardening may not be the first thing that comes to mind when considering physical activities.

People rarely think about the additional health advantages of gardening, but the increased flexibility can avoid osteoporosis while giving farmers access to fresh, organic food for a balanced diet.

These are just a few of our favorite things to do, but hundreds of other sports and interests can help elders stay active and healthy. Call our Always Best Care in Walnut Creek caregiving specialists at 925-210-0323 right away, or contact us online at alwaysbestcare.com/walnut-creek. 

 

How Seniors Can Improve Their Sleep Quality

With age, every person undergoes several health issues, like cardiac arrest, high blood pressure, joint pain, arthritis, cervical, et cetera.

These issues can somehow be resolved or delayed (to some extent) by getting sufficient sleep (recommended by the top elderly care specialists!

We know it's tough to maintain such a routine talking about the age factor. But yes! There are ways to curb this and maintain a healthy sleeping routine. Follow these steps, and you are all ready to go!

How Much Sleep Is "Sufficient"?

It depends from person to person based on their body composition. On average, 7 to 9 hours is sufficient. But if you are facing frequent awaking or feeling tired in the morning, chances are you aren't getting proper sleep- a sure sign.

v  Switch Off All The Lights While Sleeping

Artificial lights can hinder the production of melatonin- a sleep-enhancing hormone. Switch off all the lights. If not, use low-wattage bulbs. Also, keep all the gadgets away one hour before sleep, which include cellphones, television, tablets, and eBooks.

v  Maintain A Regular Bed Time

Go to bed and wake up all seven days at the right time, including the weekends. Ideally, sleep as soon as you can at night.

v  Develop Bed Time Rituals

Right before bed, get a shower, play your favorite music, or practice meditation, which can relax the mind letting you wind up before sleep. Also, keep a distance away from sleeping pills.

v  Take Sufficient Diet

Diet and exercise are the two sleep-triggering aspects. Eat a sleep-friendly diet during the day. Opt for protein at night and limit alcohol and Caffeine beverages like coffee, tea, and chocolate during the latter half. Top nutritionists and caregiving services recommend a diet high in sugar and refined carbs, like white bread, pasta, and hot milk, for restoring the sleeping stages. Cut down on spicy foods right before going to bed.

v  Exercise Daily

Do some physical activity for a minimum of an hour daily, as it releases chemicals that can trigger sleep. Even if you have a mobility issue, do lighter exercises, but better to consult your physician beforehand. Try swimming, dancing, golfing, cycling, and brisk walking likewise.

v  Reduce Stress-Inducing Elements

Stress issues have been common nowadays due to the intensely competitive environment. Sadly, they can affect sleep, triggering depression, anxiety, and other psychological matters. But there are ways to curb that. Practice reading and planning right before a nap. Or listen to some calming music and get a massage from your partner.

v  If Nothing Else Works, Consult A Medical Specialist

If all else fails, it is advisable to consult a doctor and let him know your daily schedule so that he can prescribe the best medication possible. Maybe it's the case of narcolepsy, insomnia, jet lag, parasomnia, or restless leg syndrome.

Get The Professional Home Care Service

Professional caregivers from the reputed in-home care can accomplish whatever sleep remedies told above in Walnut Creek. Among them is the Always Best Care East Bay. You may have heard of this name before since it's one of the renowned elderly care names in that region. To connect, please dial (925) 210-0323 or visit alwaysbestcare.com/walnut-creek to know further.

Caregiving Burnout: 10 Ways To Deal | Always Best Care Senior Services

In a report by National Alliance for Caregiving and AARP, about 44 million US caregivers provide unpaid care to older adults and people with disability each year.

Very few of them receive the required training. As a result, they develop some kind of fatigue-inducing caregiving burnout. 

From the word you may be familiar with this word (at least the basics). Let's not get in-depth and proceed to the ways to tackle this issue (In a report, 40% to 70% of US family caregivers report clinical symptoms of depression every year). 

1. Consult Your Doctor

The first thing you should always do in this case is to consult a doctor. There can be several symptoms concerning this issue, like blood sugar, blood pressure, low HB, and more. Your doctor can properly prescribe the medicine resulting in faster healing. 

2. Exercise Often

You don't need a hefty gym membership for that. Just a brisk walk or dancing to your favorite music can be good. With each level, you move, a certain amount of oxygen is circulated to your heart, lungs, and brain. This cause the release of endorphin (a feel-good hormone), helping you to rejuvenate quickly. Not just this, you can reap other benefits like weight loss and mood control.

3. Opt For Meditation

Like exercise heals you physically as well as mentally, meditation can heal your soul. The solution is to find a quiet place with zero distractions and then keep your eyes closed with your mind focused on breathing. At first, you will feel uneasy, but with time you will develop this habit. 

4. Celebrate Small Victories

If you ever feel demotivated with yourself caring for others, remind yourself inwardly how your efforts matter to cure their illness. If you got some praise, celebrate that and make yourself comfortable, safer, and loved. 

5. Pamper Yourself

Boost your spirits by indulging in stress-relieving activities like scented candles, body massages, manicures, fresh flowers for your room, or whatever you feel like. 

6. Laugh Often

Laughter is found to be a great antidote against all stresses. Read a funny book, watch a comedy serial, or indulge in some gossip with your loved ones. Try to find humor in your everyday situations. 

7. Talk To Someone

Whenever you feel unappreciated, talk to your friend or family member about this, and they will listen to you and acknowledge your efforts. 

8. Pursue Your Leisure Activities

Indulge in your favorite hobbies like playing outdoor sports, gardening, listening to songs, playing with the dogs, or watching a football match.

9. Eat Healthier

Never underestimate the power of a balanced diet to feed your body with energy. Add fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and nuts daily. Also, take adequate sleep. Health specialists recommend an average of 7 to 9 hours of sleep.

10. Consider a Respite Care

There is a home care service dedicated to caregivers- respite care. They can assist you with tasks like showering, grooming, cooking, medication, and companionship. 

You can take assistance from professional respite care services in Walnut Creek like Always Best Care. They are the most reliable in-home care service you can fully trust, with the combined elements of sympathy, professionalism, dedication, and proven success records. Moreover, you can avail other services as well tailored to your needs. 

Visit alwaysbestcare.com/walnut-creek to know more!

Why Home Care Over Nursing Homes: The Key Benefits

As we grow up, we become professional and self-dependent and live our desirous life. However, we must not forget that our parents are entering their older stages, as well.

So, to get along with them, a well-adopted method is the nursing home, implemented for decades. Through their assistance, you can get the necessary care right at home other than your nursing home counterparts.

So, to attain that level of comfort at your own home at a budget-friendly price tag, In-home or elderly care is the most suited! In this post, we shall discuss their benefits over the nursing home. So, hold back and enjoy this wonderful writing journey!

v  They Promotes Healing Process

In a study, "seniors who live at home heal faster and more comfortably than its counterpart." The reason behind this is their adjustment in this natural environment for a long and moreover their psychology as well. There is no substitute for the homely couch with all the facilities under your belt.

v  They Provide Customized Services

The good thing about these homely services is that you can get your parent's comfort needs as per their health, which is the more customizable option comparable to nursing homes.

v  They Offers Complete Freedom

By availing the senior care services right at home, your loved ones can enjoy versatile freedom, which thereby is not possible in nursing homes. Furthermore, while at home, you can get along with your neighbors and friends nearby. This is not the case with nursing home services.

v  You Get Good Homely Food

Through senior care assistance, you can have good homely food. Talking about nursing homes, the foods are prepared largely for several people. So, more probability is you may not get the desirous food. While at home, you can prepare according to your loved one's preferences and health.

v  You Get Familiar Surroundings

Perhaps, the most evident benefit of in-home care is you get familiar surroundings without necessitating to relocate to a new location. This helps them to manage their daily routine effectively with sympathetic caring services by some top in-home care services like Always Best Care, which can be frustrating and distressing for the patients, especially those with Dementia and Alzheimer's diseases.

v  The Cost

Not to forget the cost-effectiveness they offer. The nursing home works on the one-size-fits-all formula, meaning you are getting the same standard services offered to numerous other patients there. So, actually, you are paying for all those services and equipment which you do not require. So, with in-home care services, these hefty expenses can be saved. And also the transportation cost associated with it.

v  Personalized Attention

Generally, at the nursing home, you see fewer caregivers compared to a large number of patients, they have, which means you have one caregiver for the ten elderly. However, it's not the case with in-home care, where you get personalized attention helping you to recover faster and more effectively.

Our Thoughts!

We hope you liked this blog and found it informative. So, after reading this, one question might pop into your head "where to avail yourself the in-home senior care service?

Well, there is a good news for you! Always Best Care offers the best in-home or elderly caring service right at your home. To connect, please dial (925) 210 - 0323. Visit alwaysbestcare.com/ca/walnut-creek for further details.