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Home Care Services in Sun City AZ: Senior Eye Exams

Why are Eye Exams Important for Older Adults?

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When was the last time your aging relative had an eye exam?
If you’re not sure or if it has been a while, there are plenty of good reasons you should schedule an appointment soon. In fact, since August is National Eye Exam Month, this is the perfect time to focus (pun intended!) on good vision health for your older family member. Older adults are at higher risk for developing several eye problems. Below are some of the common ones—all of which are good reasons for your aging relative to have their eyes checked.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

AMD affects the retina, which is an area at the back of the eye. Specifically, it affects the macula, the part of the retina that is responsible for clear central vision. In addition, the macula allows people to see colors vividly and fine details. Without good central vision, your aging relative may be unable to read, drive, or recognize faces.

Dry Eye

Sometimes the tear glands fail to make enough tears or don’t produce good quality tears. This can cause the eyes to burn, turn red, and feel itchy. If dry eye isn’t treated, it can result in vision loss.

Cataracts

Usually, the lens of the eye is clear and it will allow adequate light to come in. When a person gets cataracts, the lens becomes cloudy. Cataracts aren’t painful, but they can cause vision loss. Cataracts can make your aging relative’s vision blurry or cause colors to seem duller than usual.

Problems with Eyelids

Sometimes older adults have problems with their eyelids, such as drooping or twitching. Sometimes eyelids get inflamed, too. Eyelid problems can cause the eyes to tear, itch, or hurt. These problems are often treated with medications or surgery.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma affects the optic nerve. Usually, it is linked to pressure in the eye. People with glaucoma may lose their peripheral, or side vision. Glaucoma can also lead to blindness.

Elder care can assist your aging relative to get to their eye appointment by driving them there. If the older adult suffers from low vision, there are many ways an elder care provider can help them to stay safe and have a better quality of life. Elder care providers can monitor older adults while they take their medications, ensuring they take the correct ones and in the proper dosages. Elder care providers can walk with your aging relative to make sure they do not fall and injure themselves. And, elder care providers can assist with things that require good vision, like reading, paying bills, and cooking.

 

If you or an aging loved-one are considering Home Care Services in Sun City, AZ, please contact the caring staff at Endeavor Home Care today. Call  (480) 535-6800.

Sources:
Aoa.org
Nih.gov
Webmd.com

 

 

 

Home Health Care in Sun City AZ: Dining Out With Dementia

Dining Out With Dementia – Four Ways to Make Sure the Evening Out is a Success

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When a parent has dementia, dining out poses a challenge.

It’s not always avoidable, however. Your mom really wants to attend her granddaughter’s wedding dinner. Her best friend is having a birthday gathering at a local restaurant. You’re not sure it’s a good idea.

 

It could be a baby shower, graduation dinner, or family reunion. If she is eager to attend, forcing your mom to stay home may upset her. Here are four ways to make sure the evening is a success.

 

Talk to the Host in Advance

Make sure the host knows your mom has dementia. Going to a crowded restaurant can be stressful when you have dementia. That doesn’t mean it’s impossible for your mom to have a good time. If the host knows in advance, it’s easier to make arrangements that will ease your mom’s stress during the event.

 

Carefully Pick Seating and Leave Room for an Escape

See if it can be arranged that your mom has a corner table away from noisier attendees. Noise can make for a very stressful evening out. A corner table nearer a door may work best.

By being near a door, if your mom needs to leave for a few minutes, her escape route is right there. In inclement weather, she may need a quiet indoor space to go to. Talk to the restaurant’s event planner to see if there is a sitting area that will work for her. If the weather’s good, she can head outside to regroup. A bench outside that’s away from crowds will work.

 

Do a Trial Run

Take your mom to the restaurant beforehand. Take her at a quieter time of day when she’s at her best. Enjoy a meal, if possible, or simply have the host give a tour. Take a video if it’s allowed and replay it often. The more familiar the setting is, the easier the event will be for your mom.

 

Be Prepared to Leave Early

Your mom may start out strong and become agitated after an hour or two. Arrive as close to the time the meal will be served as possible. Once the meal’s over, your mom is free to leave. Make sure she knows that she can leave when she wants to once you’ve had your dinner.

If you cannot leave, have an elder care provider available to bring your mom back home and spend time with her. Caregivers can drive your mom to and from events and businesses. They are companions who can take your mom for a ride or play games with her at home. She gains a friend while you can stay out and enjoy the evening.

Discuss your family’s needs with an elder care agency. They can walk you through the range of services and pricing information. Call now to get started.

If you or an aging loved-one are considering Home Health Care in Sun City, AZ, please contact the caring staff at Endeavor Home Care today. Call  (480) 535-6800.