We’re all familiar with the phrase “soaking up the sun.” But how much do we know about the effects that taking in too much sun can have on our bodies? The UV rays from the sun tend to cause damage to the elastin in our skin, destroying the body’s collagen. Elastin helps our skin snap back into its normal position. The sun breaks down these fibers in the skin causing sagging, stretching, and bruising. Over time, skin loses its elasticity and wrinkles begin to form. Over exposure to the sun also causes dry skin, freckles, brown spots, and sun burn. The pursuit
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Archives for Senior Care
Core Estate Planning Documents that Everyone Should Have: Power of Attorney
Freedom Home Care recently spoke with Matthew R. Margolis from Margolis Weldon and he was kind enough to provide us with this piece concerning Power of Attorney: A common question that I hear from clients, friends, and family is, “why do I need a power of attorney?” The short answer is because once you turned 18, you became the only person who could make a health care decision on your behalf or sign your own name. It is important to differentiate between a Power of Attorney for Health Care (HCPOA) and a Power of Attorney for Property (PPOA). If a
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Soak Up Some Vitamin D this Summer
Summer is finally here in Chicago, and after months of hibernating indoors it’s the perfect time to get outside and breathe in some fresh air. Here at Freedom Home Care we know it can be difficult to get outside a lot during the winter months, and with many seniors being at a higher risk for vitamin D deficiency, we have a few recommendations to make sure you and your loved ones stay healthy. As the weather warms up, it is a good time to focus on getting outdoors and getting more vitamin D. Seniors over the age of 50 have an
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Seniors Get Better Sleep With Mindful Meditation
This month is national sleep awareness month, and senior adults need just as much sleep as young adults, maybe even more. But here at Freedom Home Care however, we often see that many older adults don’t get nearly as much sleep as they should. That’s often because medication side effects, general anxiety, and other health issues can keep seniors awake or otherwise leave keep them from having restful and rejuvenating night even if they do get to sleep. There are many methods that can be tried to get back to a normal sleep cycle, but one particular method is starting to gain popularity
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A Knock on the Door of a Neighborhood Senior Could Save a Life
In the midst of dark winter weather, many elderly people are isolated at home, and this can be a dangerous situation for those who don’t have caretakers or family members in the area. From slipping and falling inside to getting stuck in bad weather, there are a variety of situations that can be hazardous for older people home alone, which means its important that we take care of those around us! There are several factors to consider with an elderly person in your area. Not only the weather, but their own health issues can make daily activities more dangerous as well.
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Share the Love this Valentine's Day
Romance is in the air as Valentine’s Day approaches, and while many are buying candy and making dinner reservations for a date night with a special someone, there are also many who don’t have a special friend or companion to share in the fun with. As our loved ones grow older, they often suffer from loneliness, especially during the holidays. But Valentine’s Day can be a day for everyone. Here at Freedom Home Care, we encourage you to share your love and friendship with those of all ages, including seniors. Whether it is a parent or even a neighbor living on your
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Fun Activities for Seniors in the Winter
With snow on the ground, there is officially no doubt that winter has arrived. As the days become shorter and frigidly cold temperatures settle in, it can be easy to stay cooped up inside for the long haul. But even though temperatures may be chilly, it’s important for everyone, including seniors, to keep busy and socialize. Here are a few ideas from us here at Freedom Home Care for some activities for seniors in the winter to keep active and have fun too! · Join a club- Be it a book club or a coin collectors club, finding a group of people with
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Helping an Elderly Loved One Fight Off the Winter Blues
As the year comes to an end and winter goes into full effect with dreary days and chilly nights, it can be easy to catch the winter blues. Especially for our aging loved ones, this time of year can bring isolation due to loneliness and frigid temperatures. Here at Freedom Home Care we put together a few tips to help your elderly family member or friend fight off the winter blues. Socialization Keep communication open! The days may be shorter and colder, but connecting on a regular basis helps keep spirits up. Another way to help is by assisting seniors
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Considering the Benefits of Home Care
As our loved ones age, the time comes when we may start to consider a higher level of care. This usually happens when the desire for independence is still very strong, but the practicality and safety of home assistance is starting to make more sense. That’s where we at Freedom Home Care can help. Daily activities can become more and more difficult as we age, and chores like shopping, dressing, driving, or bathing can become obstacles to enjoying everyday life. When this time comes, home care provides seniors with health care, non-medical care, and even companionship while still retaining independence
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Make the Switch to a Heart Healthy Diet: 25 Best Foods for Your Heart
Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the US. According to the CDC, About 600,000 people die of heart disease in the United States every years, equaling 25% of all deaths. On top of that, every year about 720,000 Americans have a heart attack. But there is great news: doctors confirm that eating the right foods every day can reduce your risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Fresh produce is the cornerstone for a heart healthy diet because it helps wipe out free radicals in the bloodstream, protecting blood vessels. The foods listed here are all top-performers in
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