It’s impossible,
said pride. It’s risky, said experience. It’s pointless, said reason. Give a try, whispered the heart. Love isn’t what you say. #wisdomfromtheporch
|
When you are setting out
on a journey,
Never seek advice
from those
who have never
left their front
PORCH.
“The Hug”
The hug should be prescribed by doctors
because there is healing power in the embrace that we
still don’t know.
The hug heals resentments, hugs heal misunderstandings, and hugs heal sadness.
When we hug we are more than two, we are family! ( Wisdom from the porch)
A hug is a form of endearment, universal in human communities, in which two or more people put their arms around the neck, back, or waist of one another and hold each other closely. Hugs are known to relieve stress, strengthen our immune systems, and deepen our relationships. Remember to hug those around us that are important, always.



February 7th is “Go Red for Women” day.
Wear red and show your support and awareness of this dangerous killer. Heart Disease is the number one killer of Women over all forms of Cancer combined. Heart Disease affects all ages of men and women; women face a higher risk up to 20% higher if they smoke and or use birth control. Heart Disease is responsible for 1 in 4 deaths. (2019 statistics) 610,000 people die a year of Heart Disease. 735,000 will have a heart attack. Staying active and eating healthy always lower your chances of developing Heart Disease.
Include a diet of whole grains and leafy grains in conjunction with regular activity to decrease your chances.
For those seniors that are adamant about staying at home, here are some tips to make sure that they can do so safely!
- DE-clutter walk ways. Less clutter means less chance of falling.
- Add non slip pads underneath area rugs
- Make sure each room is properly lit. Nightlights, and over head lighting.
- Install grab bars in bathrooms for safety.
- Use non slip rubber mats in the bottom of the shower to prevent slipping.
Certain “Smells”can instigate appetite. The scent of Hot Buttered Popcorn can trigger hunger; especially in those that suffer from Dementia and or Alzheimer’s. Scents associated with salty or sweet foods seem to be the strongest triggers. If your loved one is having difficulty eating, try a heart helping of popcorn! Over 70% of the popcorn sold in the United States is consumed at home. Popcorn, a whole grain also contains plenty of fiber to help the senior feel full after eating; it’s also Gluten free!
Try these natural methods and approach when trying to calm your senior loved one that suffers from Dementia:
- MusicMusic therapy helps seniors calm down and reflect on happier times. According to research from the Alzheimer’s Association, listening to music releases dopamine in the brain and triggers happy feelings throughout the body.
Music also improves memory function and encourages social engagement.
- AromatherapyAccording to a study in BJPsych Advances, using scents like lavender can reduce difficult behaviors in older adults with dementia.
Benefits include improved sleep, decreased agitation, higher concentration and reduced hallucinations.
- TouchA gentle human touch can create a bond between the caregiver and the senior, resulting in a calming effect. It also helps increase trust. A soft back rub or gentle hand pat may be a way to reduce agitation in a senior loved one.
- Pet TherapyAccording to Every Day Health, pet therapy has many benefits for seniors with dementia. They include decreased agitation, increased physical activity, increased appetite and joy.
- A Calm ApproachBehaviors are often determined by the senior’s first interaction with their caregiver.
As a result, caregivers need to use a calm, open approach when they initially approach their loved one. It’s also crucial to smile and use a warm tone during conversations.
Positive first impressions are imperative for handling difficult behaviors.
- Maintain RoutinesOne of the most effective methods for reducing challenging behaviors is by incorporating routine into your senior loved one’s life.
- Provide ReassurancesAccording to the Alzheimer’s Association, using calming phrases such as “You’re safe here” and ”I’m sorry you are upset” allow your loved to feel safe.