Topic: Caregivers: Your Mental Health Merits Care! Photo by Marcel Strauß on Unsplash Every year in May, mental health is the topic of discussion. Mental health challenges come from an array of circumstances. Considering the mental health of a caregiver is often a second thought until they experience burnout, a health challenge, or even an early death. Yes, the caregiver has died due to the lack of caring for themselves. Let’s talk about it! Let’s make it make sense. When taking on the role of a caregiver, losing your identity follows close behind. Many do not even see it coming ..read more

Topic: Outings For Loved Ones Is Always Good Medicine Photo by Dave Adamson on Unsplash CAREGIVING is recognized as an action role. It also includes social interactions. These are two essential functions in the caregiving space. The individual(s), often a part of a family’s network, assists with helping loved ones navigate their world. The role has many functions, including finding enjoyable outings for loved ones. Wouldn’t you agree? Social engagement is essential for elderly well-being and critical during the older years because loved ones are sometimes more susceptible to social i ..read more

Topic: Caregivers: Ignoring Swollen Extremities Can Be Costly Photo Credit: Mayo Clinic Caregivers are truly remarkable souls. They take on the task of caring for loved ones without knowing the many unknowns and surprises that will occur along the journey. However, some symptoms should alert every caregiver, and action is required! Swollen legs and feet, also known as peripheral edema, are abnormal and can signify a more significant problem. Swelling can be gradual, but extra fluid in the body can create difficulties in breathing and walking. What are some situations that cause swell ..read more

Topic: Does Your Loved One Have Dementia? Author Unknown Does your loved one have dementia, not to be confused with Alzheimer’s? Having intermittent trouble finding the right word or remembering where you put things is not unusual. However, persistent difficulty with memory, thinking, or the capacity to complete everyday responsibilities might be signs of something more significant. Dementia is a term for changes in the brain that cause a loss of functioning that interferes with daily life. Dementia is a syndrome that can be caused by many factors that, in time, destroy nerve cells and harm th ..read more

Topic: Where Do You Find Balance As A Caregiver? Photo by Aziz Acharki on Unsplash Family caregivers will always seek the best care for their loved ones. Many will fight lions, tigers, and bears to make it happen. While that thought may be a true sign of love, we probably would not win against lions, tigers, and bears! Yes, a sense of humor is necessary for all caregivers. Recognizing what’s beneficial for our loved ones is often easier than attaining it in some situations. The health and well-being of those in our care may sometimes overshadow the desires or demands of our elderly loved ..read more

Your Proactive Caregiver Advocate: Dr. Cynthia Speaks! Topic: Autism in Eldercare Author unknown April is autism care month. Many communities can have positive outcomes where knowledge and advocacy dwell. Are you caring for an elderly loved one with autism? Autism has often been misunderstood by those without knowledge of the condition. While many consider the condition attached to children, many grow old with autism. How should we think about autism? Let’s define the condition. Autism (also known as autism spectrum disorder) is a neurodevelopmental disorder. It has variations of severity ..read more

Topic: Older Loved Ones And Thyroid Disease A topic rarely discussed as it relates to eldercare is thyroid disease. Older loved ones and thyroid disease are a real thing! The thyroid gland has a vital role in the body. Let’s start with where it is, what it looks like, and what it does. The thyroid is a small butterfly-like shaped gland in the front of the neck. The thyroid makes and releases hormones that control many functions in the body. It is linked to breathing problems, heart rates and rhythms, digestion, dry, itchy skin, and body temperature. Body temperature control is an enormou ..read more

Dr .Cynthia J Hickman Title: YOUR PROACTIVE CAREGIVER ADVOCATE IS HAVING A BIRTHDAY ! Be well! Be safe ..read more

Topic: Eldercare and Hiring In-Home Caregivers Photo by Rémi Walle on Unsplash Elders living in their own homes is a high priority for most seniors. The benefit is indisputable as it relates to being in a familiar setting. The realization of living alone can become a concern as aging introduces many struggles, especially as it relates to managing household tasks and managing daily hygiene obligations. Hiring a professional caregiver is an excellent option for our loved ones to age in place safely. Professional caregivers not only manage the daily chores but can also be companions to help ..read more

Topic: Does Your Loved One Have Dementia? Does your loved one have dementia, not to be confused with Alzheimer’s? Having intermittent trouble finding the right word or remembering where you put things is not unusual. However, persistent difficulty with memory, thinking, or the capacity to complete everyday responsibilities might be signs of something more significant. Dementia is a term for changes in the brain that cause a loss of functioning that interferes with daily life. Dementia is a syndrome that can be caused by many factors that, in time, destroy nerve cells and harm the brain, leadi ..read more