Scientists at Southampton University have discovered a link between inhibiting brain inflammation and slowing the onset of Alzheimer’s in lab mice. The discovery could pave the way for developments of new treatments and preventative measures against the disease. The researchers have already been able to prevent some of the memory and behavioral problems associated with Alzheimer’s by blocking a particular receptor in the brains of the mice. “These findings are as close to evidence as we can get to show that this particular pathway is active in the development of Alzheimer’s disease,” lead researcher Diego Gomez-Nicola explained. “The next step
Read More
Posts by Freedom Home Care
Seasonal Affective Disorder and Vitamin D deficiencies among top winter dangers for elderly
The first things that come to mind when you think about winter dangers for elders are probably falls and hypothermia. But the reality is that your elderly loved ones are far more at risk for invisible, lesser known hazards. Seasonal affective disorder and vitamin D deficiencies affect thousands of senior citizens every year and can often be quite insidious to their health. The good news is, if recognized and treated in a timely fashion, they can be dealt with quite easily. Seasonal Affective Disorder, often known by the very appropriate acronym SAD, is a form of depression that cycles with
Read More
Tips To Help You Keep Your New Year's Resolutions
New Year’s resolutions. We all make them. But how good are we really at keeping them? Those of us here at Freedom Home Care know how difficult it can be to stick to them. So, we offer a few simple tips from the experts that could make a difference in the planning and successful of your resolutions. Ask Yourself Why You’re Making the Resolution in the First Place Once you ask why you actually want to make the resolution, then you can assess if whether your reasons for doing it are the right ones. When we find ourselves doing something because we think
Read More
Older Americans Face Hunger
Recently, the topic of hunger has come even more into focus here in America, and this time the focus is on the elderly. Even with the numerous programs in place here in the United States, there are millions of people who go without proper nourishment every day. Those who are aging are not excluded from these statistics. It’s estimated that close to 10 million people ages 50 and over and are currently described as “food insecure.” This number has nearly doubled since 2001. Here at Freedom Home Care we know firsthand how important diet and nutrition are, and just how
Read More
Chronic Stress Can Lead to Early Alzheimer’s
Researchers say that frequent stress over time can lead to early Alzheimer’s. In a study reported in the journal Alzheimer’s Disease and Associated Disorders, psychiatrist Richard Lipton and colleagues administered a stress assessment test to just over 500 individuals ages 70 and older. The test rated their level of perceived stress. None of the participants had signs of mild cognitive impairment or dementia at the start of the study, called the Einstein Aging Study. They were followed for an average of 3.5 years with a battery of psychological tests and physical exams. During the study, 71 participants were diagnosed with
Read More
Upcoming Alzheimer’s Events Across the Country
January is a big month for Alzheimer’s awareness events across the country. From learning the basics of the disease to attending a caregiver workshop, there’s so much support for friends and family members of sufferers. Read below to find events in your area that can help you help your loved one. The Basics: Memory Loss, Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease If you or someone you know is affected by Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, it’s time to learn the facts. This program provides information on detection, causes and risk factors, stages of the disease, treatment, and much more. Registration required. Designed for
Read More
Deliciously Healthy Meal Ideas
Celebrating the holidays with our favorite meals is one of the things that makes time spent with family the most enjoyable. And health-conscious dinners and desserts prepared with love add even more joy to the holiday season (and post-holiday season, too).Freedom Home Care has compiled a list low carb, low calorie recipes for the whole family to enjoy, even after the holidays are over, allowing us all to get back on track. These tidbits are so tasty, you probably won’t mind sharing…or reheating the leftovers. Your whole family is sure to gobble up a handful of these Whole Wheat Sugar Cookies! Cookies can be drizzled
Read More
The Best New Year’s Resolutions for Seniors
The dawn of a new year is the perfect time to start building a healthier new you! Making a New Year’s resolution to eat better and exercise more often can boost your health and daily energy for years to come. The American Geriatrics Society’s Health in Aging Foundation recommends these eight healthy changes for older adults to help you achieve your goal of getting — and staying — healthy. Eat more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, low-fat dairy and healthy fats. Just because you’re not a kid any more doesn’t mean you’re excused from consulting the food pyramid. The
Read More
Helping Those with Alzheimer’s this Holiday Season
The Holiday season is full of family parties, crowded malls filled with shoppers, and glimmering lights shinning bright everywhere. While most revel in the merriment of the season for those living with dementia or Alzheimer’s this can be a very difficult and even stressful time. Here at Freedom Home Care we’ve compiled a few ways you can help your loved one feel included in the celebration of the holiday season. When in Doubt, Ask If you are concerned about your loved one or their feelings or reaction in regards to an event or activity, talk to them. Ask what their
Read More
Let Freedom Home Care Help You Get Up to Speed on Preparing for A Cozy (and Safe) Winter Season!
Though the winter season certainly has some undeniable power to create a picturesque wonderland, it’s important for us to remember that with the beauty of cold weather also comes much season-specific danger. When preparation makes all the difference between cozy comfort and a host of imposing winter dangers, there’s no doubt that it’s worth taking some time to plan for the best possible holiday season a bit ahead of the icy curve. In the spirit of preparation and of a truly enjoyable winter season, the folks here at Freedom Home Care have organized some of the most common risks, and
Read More
