Seniors today are more health conscious than ever. They know that staying active and flexible can keep them moving much longer. But sometimes they don’t know how to begin a safe exercise regimen. Of course, personal training or fitness classes are always an option to get started, but some seniors prefer exercising on their own schedule. If this is you, consider taking up yoga. Yoga doesn’t have to be contorting yourself into crazy one-legged positions. There are simple poses that seniors can use to reap all of the health benefits. And the benefits are numerous. In fact, not only does
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Posts by Freedom Home Care
Tips to Help Seniors Quit Smoking
A recent 2013 Senior Report found that 7.6% of Illinois seniors, age 65 and above, smoke on a regular basis. We all know that smoking is bad for our health. We also know that it is incredibly difficult to quit, especially when you have been doing it for several years. Did you know that it takes someone on average nine times of trying to quit before they finally do? No wonder it’s so easy to get discouraged. But, don’t give up. Here are some tips to help you finally kick the habit. 1. Plan ahead. Those who quit without a plan are much more likely
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What Caregivers Should Know About Medical Devices
Caregivers help people with all kinds of health challenges. Many of them end up caring for seniors who develop mobility issues as they age and may require joint replacement. Obesity and arthritis are common ailments that lead to these mobility issues, which limit seniors’ ability to complete everyday tasks. Arthritis is the leading cause of disability in the United States, and mobility issues are very common in people over the age of 65. Caregivers who see people struggle with these conditions may also see the mental toll they take. When these ailments begin to seriously compromise a person’s quality of
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Benefits of Hiring a Geriatric Care Manager: Interview with Julie Fohrman, Founder and Director of North Shore Geriatric Care Management
It’s no secret that deciding on quality care for an elderly loved one can be an overwhelming prospect for any family or individual. Whether its rehabilitative care, long term, or short term care, you have many components to consider like social stimulation, medical care, legal support, and financial matters. On top of it all, there are a plethora of agencies on the north shore competing for your business. So how do you know if they will deliver on their promises? How do you know your elderly loved ones will receive the very best? If you feel overwhelmed trying to handle
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Freedom Home Care Brings a Holistic Approach to New Wellness Center at the Lodge of Northbrook
Freedom Home Care is pleased to announce their partnership with the Lodge of Northbrook, a new upscale independent living facility that opened its doors in late August, 2013. The Wellness Center at the Lodge will be run by Freedom Home Care, one of the leading home care organizations in northern Illinois. Freedom Home Care is highly revered for their holistic and individualized approach to private care, and will certainly bring that same high quality care to the residents at the Lodge of Northbrook. “Our staff is thrilled to be teaming up with Freedom Home Care to bring the best quality
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Why Cats Improve Health in Seniors
Although many seniors think of dogs as the ideal pet, perhaps getting a cat would be a better idea. As stated in an earlier article, dogs require quite a bit of space and daily exercise to remain healthy. They must go outside regularly and be allowed to play. While cats also love to play, they don’t require the same amount of space or exercise that most dogs do. Cats may be a better suited option for a senior who is looking for a companion. There are numerous health benefits that individuals can receive by adopting a feline friend. For example,
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When Should Seniors Give Up the Keys?
Balancing independence and safety can be difficult, especially when it comes to a senior’s driving ability. Illinois is one of the few states that have fairly strict laws regarding seniors renewing their driver’s licenses; Persons over 80 years of age must renew annually and retake the road test. It is arguably the most stringent state as far as senior driving laws. But some are able to pass these exams even though they may not be safe on the road. What should a family member do in that case? If you suspect that your elderly family member may be a danger
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Modern Times Give Seniors More Choices
Years ago, a senior would live at home until she was unable to care for herself or her house became unmanageable. She would then move into a nursing home. Often the senior would miss her home and her independence, but there was not much to be done. But today, seniors have many more options. Many seniors, an estimated 89%, would prefer to remain at home. And with some changes, it is not only a possibility but often a reality. That’s where Freedom Home Care comes in. We offer exceptional services for seniors allowing them to stay safely in their home.
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Illinois Senior Health Ranks Surprisingly Well After Evaluation
The results are in! The United Health Foundation has evaluated each state for how it fares with senior health. So how does Illinois measure up with the rest of the nation? The good news is that our state ranks well for non-smoking, as more than 92% of those over 65 are non-smokers. Also, we have the lowest prevalence of under-weight seniors at only 1.1%. We also do very well with senior pain management and hospice care. However, there are some things that our state needs to work on. Illinois has a high rate of obesity and a high-percentage of low-care
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The Dangers of Acetaminophen for Seniors
What’s the most widely used medication in the United States? I’ll give you a hint: it’s a pain killer for everything from headaches to arthritis, and it’s safe enough that even children take it. If you said acetaminophen, you would be correct. Acetaminophen is in many medications, the most common being Tylenol. But it can also be in prescriptions and over the counter medications alike. It is considered one of the safest ways to alleviate pain and control fevers. But it does have some risks too, especially for seniors. If a person takes too much, it can result in liver
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