As we age our nervous system begins to change. For example, our number of brain cells decreases and our reflexes get slower. This can make some activities difficult or even dangerous…driving a car for example.
Sleep patterns also change as people get older. Many seniors find they have trouble getting to sleep or staying asleep. The good news is that generally, older people need fewer hours of sleep than younger people do.
Some memory loss is normal as we get older, especially short-term memory. It’s common for elderly people to forget information like names, dates and telephone numbers. To ensure that your senior and elderly loved ones can recall important names, dates, and phone numbers post notes around the home or maintain a list of this important information for them to reference.
One fact that many seniors and elderly overlook is that nerves all over the body may not send or receive messages from the brain as well as before. As a result, elderly people may not feel heat when they touch something hot. This puts them at risk for serious burns.
To Help Your Elderly and Senior Loved Ones Prevent Problems with Their Nerves and Brains, You Should:
- Encourage them to use their brains. Recent studies have shown that just like muscles, the brain needs to be exercised to stay strong. Use it or you lose it! Find out what your clients enjoy…crossword puzzles, reading, playing Scrabble, or learning a new hobby. (And remember that watching TV does not exercise the brain!)
- Avoid caffeine (coffee, tea, chocolate) after an evening meal. It might keep you or your loved ones from sleeping well. Remember, too, that alcoholic beverages can cause sleeping problems. And just as your mom used to prepare when you were a child, warm milk at bedtime may help with sleep.
- Keep your or your loved ones personal items in the same place all the time. This helps forgetful people remember where their things are. And, always try to be patient …even if they just cannot remember!
Remember…Watch For & Report:
- Unsteadiness
- Anxiety
- Forgetfulness and confusion
- Insomnia
At Comfort Keepers we seek to be a resource to you because we are Comfort Keepers caregivers and we are here to help! Comfort Keepers provides in-home care to seniors and the elderly living in Ocala, Gainesville, and The Villages Florida. We provide superior in-home care to seniors and the elderly throughout Central Florida so they can live enriched independent lifestyles! Call us today at 855-592-0013.
