Elder Care in Loudonville OH
You’ve noticed your parent becoming increasingly forgetful. Perhaps they lose the thread of conversations, become easily frustrated, or seem disoriented in familiar places. It can be difficult determining the difference between the normal processes of aging and the beginning stage of mild cognitive impairment (MCI).
MCI is the stage between expected cognitive decline from aging and the onset of dementia. Not all those individuals diagnosed with MCI go on to receive the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or one of the other forms of dementia. In fact, only 50 percent show further decline. Some people even get better.
Like dementia, MCI is not a disease but a combination of symptoms which include:
- Loss of memory
- Difficulty tracking a conversation
- Forgetting appointments
- Getting lost in familiar locations
- Feeling overwhelmed
These changes can then result in feelings of sadness, irritability and depression.
Other Causes of Memory Loss
There are other issues that contribute to memory loss among the elderly. These, in many cases, are reversible and include:
- Medications or interactions between multiple medications
- Infections
- Malnutrition
- Alcohol or drug abuse
- Depression
How to Help
Physical exercise and mental stimulation have been shown to improve or at least stop the progression of MCI. Walking just five to six miles per week has been shown to slow down the development of MCI. Mental stimulation can consist of puzzles, games, and crosswords. Even better, get your parent excited about learning something new. They could pick up a new musical instrument, learn a foreign language, become involved in pottery or painting. Whatever gets them excited so that they’ll stick with it is a good starting point. Many senior community centers offer instruction in those areas.
In addition to mental and physical exercise, maintaining a healthy diet filled with fruits and vegetables is important to halt cognitive decline. If they smoke, they need to stop. Minimize certain foods and drinks such as alcohol and processed foods high in sugar, white flour and unhealthy fats. Getting them engaged and socially active will help keep their mind sharp as well.
Elder Care Provider
Elder care providers can assist with the daily activities of living. At times, an even more important part they play is helping your loved one stay happy and fit as they age. They can provide transportation to classes and events and accompany them on special outings. They can take daily walks with them. They can prepare meals filled with life-giving fruits and vegetables, as well as shop for the ingredients. They can provide that all-important camaraderie so important to the elderly and their mental and physical health.
If you are considering hiring elder care in Loudonville, Ohio, call the caring staff at Central Star Home Health at (419) 610-2161. Providing services for families in Mansfield, Lexington, Bellville, Mt. Gilead, Loudonville, Crestline, Galion, Shelby, Ashland, Wooster, and the surrounding areas.
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