Is your parent or senior loved one experiencing chronic pain? If they’re suffering from discomfort on a daily basis that has persisted for several months, then it’s considered chronic. There can be a number of reasons that cause pain to flare up and continue for a prolonged period of time. And anyone who is experiencing it will tell you just how exhausting it can be. Though it’s not always possible to stop the pain from persisting, there are some effective ways to reduce and manage it to improve their quality of life. If you’re looking for ways to help seniors manage chronic pain, here are some of the best approaches.

Improve Their Diet

What we eat defines how the body and mind will function, so be mindful of a senior loved one’s diet. If they are eating unhealthy and/or primarily processed foods, this will contribute to inflammation in their body, which is the main contributing factor to chronic disease and pain. Try to focus on including as many inflammation-reducing foods in their daily diet as possible, such as fatty fish, nuts, fruits and leafy greens. Avoid fried foods, sugar, processed meat and refined carbs.

Encourage Them to Stay Active

Even though exercise might seem counterintuitive to reducing pain, it can actually be extremely beneficial when it comes to managing it. Of course, the type of exercise that makes the most sense will depend on your loved one’s condition, but anything gentle like walking, swimming, or even chair yoga can be excellent options to consider that are easy and not intensive.

Manage and Reduce Stress

Stress can spike inflammation as well, which exacerbates pain. This is why it’s important to help seniors cope with and reduce their stress levels as much as possible. Practicing meditation, listening to soothing music, alleviating anxiety by limiting negative triggers, and spending time out in nature are all very effective ways to achieve this.

Avoid Toxic Habits and Ensure All Medications are Taken Appropriately

Smoking and drinking, even moderately, are two of the most common bad habits that increase pain, a risk that only increases with the level of consumption. Of course, heavier use also drastically increases the risk of developing an addiction or dependency, which can interfere with the senior’s ability to take crucial prescription medicines as they typically cannot mix. Medications should always be taken carefully and as instructed by a doctor or pharmacist.

Do you need help with improving your senior loved one’s quality of life and wellness? We’re here for you. At C-Care Health Services, we’re proud to offer in-home caregiving services that cover all the essentials and thensome. If you’re interested in learning more about our capabilities and how we can help, contact us today.

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When a loved one suffers a stroke, it can be life-altering. Due to the complications that typically follow this, patients can often be functionally disabled, requiring an extensive amount of care for their recovery. In addition to the challenges they will face, it can also be incredibly difficult for family members who need to step in and provide round-the-clock care, all while juggling their day-to-day responsibilities at the same time. 

The combination of change and emotional trauma can be overwhelming, to say the least. Thankfully, there are stroke recovery and rehabilitation options for ageing adults that can help ease this process. Let’s examine some of the disabilities that can arise from a stroke and explore these recovery options below.

Disabilities that Can Arise from a Stroke

It’s important to note that, like all medical events, the severity of complications that follow can vary based on each individual. With that said, strokes can lead to a wide range of disabilities that can be broken down into these main categories:

Problems with Motor Control

Partial paralysis and/or problems controlling movement or weakness on one side of the body are most common for severe cases. This can lead to difficulties with walking, balance, and even swallowing.

Chronic Pain or Numbness

Chronic pain in the joints, numbness, or tingling sensations in the limbs can also occur. In some situations, the lack of feeling and mobility could lead to incontinence.

Impaired Communication

Many stroke victims can experience impaired verbal communication, preventing them from being able to speak. Some may not be able to write or understand spoken language at all.

Problems with Memory and Emotions

Since a stroke damages parts of the brain, it can affect memory and/or awareness. It may also create emotional disturbances.

In-Home Stroke Recovery and Rehabilitation Options 

Next, here are the two in-home options that could be possible depending on the patient’s circumstances. These will of course depend on how severe the complications are after the stroke.

In-Home Rehabilitation Programs

For those with mild effects following a stroke, in-home rehabilitation could be a viable option. Patients can sometimes perform designated exercises offered by their doctor and physical therapist to help them regain control and strength. Home-based rehabilitation programs can be tailored to different patients based on their needs.

In-Home Nursing Care

In-home caregiving with regular visits from a qualified nurse is another good option for those who require additional services for daily care. Experienced nurses can provide a more thorough and professional rehabilitation regime, complete with guided therapy.

If your ageing loved one has experienced a stroke and you need assistance for their daily care and rehabilitation, we can help at C-Care Health Services. We have dedicated, caring nurses who can provide the support that’s needed to help them on the road to recovery. Get in touch with us today for assistance!

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It’s officially flu season, which means we’re more vulnerable to germs and of course, COVID-19. To keep you and your loved ones protected this winter, here are some tips to minimize the spread and stay safe.

Wash Hands Frequently and Properly

With the combination of COVID-19 and the flu season, it’s more important than ever to wash your hands frequently and properly. Use soap that foams up well, lather onto your hands and scrubs them thoroughly, including the nail beds, on top of the hands and in between the fingers. Do this for at least 20 seconds before rinsing. This helps to minimize potential bacteria or germs on your hands. 

Avoid Touching Your Face

Though it can be a hard habit to break, make a point to stop touching your face as much as you can. A good way to help remember is to get your family to remind each other. When someone notices that you’re about to touch your face, get them to remind you, and vice versa. This can be especially challenging for those who wear glasses, so try to develop a routine as a reminder.

Clean and Disinfect Your Phone Frequently

One item that often contains lots of germs but gets neglected the most, is our phones. These go everywhere with us, and we often put them down on any surface without thinking about it. So it’s an easy way to transfer germs. Give your phone a thorough wipe with a disinfectant a few times each day.

Clean and Disinfect Surfaces at Home

Doorknobs, cupboard handles, switches, faucets and any surfaces that get touched most frequently should be cleaned and disinfected a few times each day as well. The frequency of cleaning will depend on the number of people in your household and whether they are going to and from other locations, such as work. 

Wear a Mask When Heading Outside

Since the winter makes us more prone to the flu and other germs, this year it’s a good idea to simply put on a mask any time you head outside. Even if you’re not in close quarters with others, it’s an extra layer of precaution (and warmth) that will keep you, your loved ones and others safer.

Keep Your Distance

It can be challenging to remember to keep your distance from others. But it’s an important one to remember. Move aside as much as you can to maintain 6 feet of distance between others. And be respectful so that you’re not always waiting for them to move for you. Be courteous and take the initiative to politely move over.

Get the Flu Shot

The flu shot is a simple way to help protect yourself and others from getting and spreading the virus. Plus, it’s free!

If you need home care or nursing services for a loved one this winter in the GTA, reach out to C-Care Health Services today to learn more about how we can help.

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Seniors are especially vulnerable to illness during the winter. If you want to boost your immune system for the winter weather, here are 7 tips to try.

Do a Quick Cleanse

Start the winter season off right with a quick gut cleanse. Removing heavy foods and replacing them with gut-friendly, nutrient-rich ingredients can help detox the body and boost the immune system. Eating vegetable soups filled with vitamin-dense foods like carrots, kale, celery, cabbage, and chard is recommended. Dinner options that feature omega-3 rich fish and dark leafy greens can also give you the healthy-kick you need when entering into the cold and flu season.

Cut Back on Sugar and Salt

Excess sugar and salt put our systems into overdrive. They can also cause insulin resistance, high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity. Cutting out sugar and salt can greatly improve your health and fight illness and disease. 

Wash Hands Often

Bacteria can really put a damper on your health. Even if you live alone, it’s essential to wash your hands frequently. The spread of germs and foodborne bacteria can result in more than just colds and flu if your immune system is low – it can also lead to emergency room visits. 

Use Herbal Supplements

Taking immune supporting herbal supplements and everyday vitamins can give you the building blocks to ward off illness and disease. It’s important to note that not all pills you find in a store are right for everyone. So it’s best to talk to your doctor before taking any herbal supplements as part of your health regime.

Get 15 Minutes of Light Exercise a Day

Remaining sedentary throughout the day is just as bad for your health as smoking cigarettes. Getting even 15 minutes per day of light exercise can improve your body and mind. Consider taking a walk around the block, joining in an aqua-fit class or even doing some basic stretches to improve your circulation and blood flow.

Drink Lots of Water

Did you know that seniors tend to drink less water than younger generations? This is especially concerning considering elderly people need at least 8 ounces of water a day to keep enough fluid in the body to carry blood to the organs. Dehydration can cause fatigue, muscle cramps, headaches and even become life-threatening for seniors. The more water, the better, especially in the winter months. 

Socialize More

Social interaction can give your overall health a big boost. Participating in networking activities and having strong relationships with others can also strengthen your immune system and mental health. Meaningful connections with people can give you the armor you need when facing the long, cold winter months.

At C-Care, we work with seniors on a daily basis. We know how vulnerable they can be without the proper nutrition, exercise, and social interaction they need. Our high-quality home care services can provide you or your loved one with the assistance needed to stay healthy and secure no matter if its winter or summer. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help.

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Did you know that seniors are among the most at risk when it comes to dehydration? Medications, decreased thirst, reduced kidney function, and chronic illness are all typical reasons why the elderly can become dehydrated quickly. Due to this fact, it’s important to watch for the tell-tale signs that can point out the issue early and help avoid problems like infections, pneumonia, and even death in extreme cases. Here are some of the more common dehydration symptoms you should always look out for.

Absent Urine

If your loved one has complained about having low urine output or difficulty passing urine, it may be a sign that they are dehydrated. The body loses fluid through urination, sweating, and other bodily functions. And because older adults have reduced thirst signals, it’s common for older adults to lose more fluids than are kept in.

Muscle Cramps

Severe cramping and muscle contractions in the limbs, stomach, and the back area could be an indication that dehydration is taking effect. When there’s a loss of fluids and electrolytes such as sodium and potassium, it causes the muscles to contract and spasm involuntarily.

Dizziness

Dizziness and overall weakness are also telling signs that can be caused by even mild dehydration. When your body becomes dehydrated, it leads to a temporary drop in the blood volume and oxygen in the body. This causes the brain to receive less blood which can lead to dizziness.

Confusion

Dehydration can cause a change in the electrolyte balance in the blood, which can directly affect the parts of the mind associated with reasoning. Therefore, any abnormal periods of confusion may also indicate a lack of fluids. For people suffering from Alzheimer’s or dementia, dehydration can lead to further problems with their coordination and thinking skills (confusion can also be harder to detect in these people).

Rapid Breathing

Without enough water, your body cannot function properly. So, if you notice your loved one breathing faster than normal, check their pulse. If they have a rapid but weak pulse, this may indicate dehydration. If you’re not sure, try the skin test — use two fingers to pinch the skin at the back of the hand, and then let go. If the skin takes more than a few seconds to return to normal, it’s likely they are dehydrated.

In cases where seniors are experiencing consistent symptoms of dehydration, it is recommended to have a health care practitioner check in on them regularly to keep up their fluid levels. At C-Care Health Services, we offer exceptional healthcare staffing services. Whether you need around the clock care for your loved one or just an hour a day, we can help.

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C-Care has a number of trained professionals including Personal Support Workers (PSWs) and in-home nurses available to assist in post-surgery recovery. Our rehabilitative techniques help you ease your way back to full recovery with a specific routine that involves daily physical activity and exercise. Not only can this help improve your mobility while recovering, but it can speed up your recovery time and increase the likelihood of a full recovery. Although the relief of a successful surgery is great news, there is still a significant amount of work involved. It takes discipline and commitment to follow a recovery plan, and our post-surgery support nurses can help you every step of the way.

Knee Surgery in Canada

The demand for knee surgery in Canada is growing every year and wait times are increasing at a similar rate. According to CBC, only 69% of knee-surgery patients in Canada in 2017 actually received their surgery within the recommended six-month wait time, down from 82% in 2015. Although some clinics are trying to combat the stress of long wait times and staying many nights in the hospital with six-our knee replacement surgeries, wait times continue to rise. Longer wait times increase the risk of further injury, decreased mobility, and longer recovery times.

Beyond that, they also contribute to increased stress before the surgery, which is an overwhelming burden for many Canadian patients. Because of this, it is essential that you plan a detailed pre-surgery and post-surgery plan. Our C-Care nurses are available 24/7 for assistance with post-surgery recovery, and we are flexible enough to work around your schedule to provide you with the care you need. As a guide, here are four tips for knee surgery recovery:

1. Avoid squats and leg workoutsKnee replacement surgery is designed to drastically reduce the pain of injured knees while also improving your overall mobility. With a full recovery, it will also increase your stamina. Some people are so thrilled with the positive results of their surgery, they overestimate their abilities and forget to ease themselves into the recovery process. Intense physical activity, especially for the lower body, is not recommended after your surgery, which includes hiking, running, squatting, and other lower body workouts. Although most recovery plans include these activities (eventually), it is important to pace yourself and make sure you are completely confident in your ability before you move on to higher weights and more strenuous workouts.
2. Get walkingRather than jump right into a demanding workout plan or spending the days following your surgery in bed, it is important to follow a walking plan. For the first few weeks after your surgery, it can be very difficult to complete everyday tasks. Walking will be your primary exercise. It is important to work towards walking a kilometre on a regular basis, and slowly increasing this distance until you are comfortable with everyday activities again.

   Once you have achieved this, you can begin a more strenuous workout. Walking will help improve your mobility and allow your new knee to get used to the natural movement of your body. By ensuring you walk regularly, you can jumpstart your recovery and ensure full-mobility after the completion of your recovery plan. Our C-Care nurses and PSWs are trained in recovery techniques to help create a plan tailored specifically to your needs, and we can help you work through the entire recovery process to ensure a return to full mobility.

3. Be aware of stairsOne of the most common causes of knee surgery relapse is from recovering patients walking up stairs. The strain of walking up stairs is very damaging to new knees, and you must ensure you are prepared to go at a slow pace with your cane or walker. To walk up stairs, it is recommended that you step up with your non-operated leg first, then move your operated leg to the same step while supporting it with your cane. Conversely, to go down the stairs, you should lead with your cane and operated leg first, then bring your other leg down each step. Always consult your doctor to ensure this process is right for you. Our trained professionals can help with your rehabilitation plan, but we are also here to assist your everyday tasks such as climbing the stairs and going to bed.
4. Patience is keyThe most crucial aspect of your recovery is your ability to remain patient. You must go at your own pace and make sure you are prepared before you move on to the next step of your recovery. It is much better to be patient and make sure you recover properly than to rush your exercises and injure yourself. At C-Care, we work with you to make sure your workout plan is designed for your ideal pace, and we will be able to track your improvement until you make a full recovery. For more information about our post-recovery services, explore our website here.

   Knee surgery can be a stressful and scary process, but with the proper preparation and the right recovery plan, you will likely make a full recovery. In fact, your mobility and quality of life will increase once your knee is pain-free. Our post-surgery support nurses will help you through the entire process, from your first step after surgery to the last step of your recovery plan.

   For more information about post-surgery care in the GTA, or to book an experienced, professional caregiver to assist with you or your loved one, call C-Care at 1-866-433-1085 or check out our website here.

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Get proper amounts of potassium as it is a vital mineral that assists in lowering blood pressure, and prevent strokes. To boost cardiac health, consume the following potassium-rich foods: beans and legumes, yogurt, milk (1% or fat-free), vegetable juice, bananas (both green and ripe) and potatoes. Moreover, other food items containing potassium can be incorporated into your diet and snacks.

An elderly should consume the right amount of healthy fats, while staying away from saturated and unhealthy fats. Making food items rich in Omega 3 fatty acids should be a regular dietary routine. Fish such as salmon, mackerel, or sardines are an excellent source of such fats.

Lowering cholesterol which is necessary only in small amounts and is produced by the liver is crucial to cardiac health. When you eat saturated fats and food with high cholesterol such as eggs, dairy, and red meat, unhealthy cholesterol accumulates in the body. The cholesterol then builds up in the arteries, raising one’s risk of heart disease and stroke. To counter such effects and decrease cholesterol levels, consume foods containing healthy fats or soluble fiber. The following foods can replace high-cholesterol foods: turkey, chicken, or salmon burgers instead of beef; quinoa instead of rice; nuts and nut butter instead of cheese; plain yogurt instead of sour cream.

C-Care has more than ten years of practice in providing care services to homes and healthcare facilities. Services are charged hourly to avoid complications from long-term contracts. They offer flexible services at any day and time that can be tailored to suit the client’s time or budgetary preferences. C-Care provides comprehensive and superior services to relax loved ones and family, allowing them a peace of mind and security on behalf of C-Care’s committed team of support professionals.

Their expert staff provides a wide range of care services such as:

• Personal hygiene and care, such as bathing and grooming
• Physical activity exercises in and around the home or healthcare facility
• Help feeding patients
• Ensuring a safe environment avoiding injuries due to falls and other accidents
• Regular communication with fellow staff members on any changes in patients’ condition
• Updating family members on the daily health activities and status of their loved ones
• Shifting the client in bed for comfort and safety

All C-Care caregivers are insured, first aid and CPR trained and certified with authorization from the Toronto Police, and they provide health services, company, and domestic assistance to enhance the quality of life.

C-Care specializes in providing the following services: home care, hospital private duty care, facility staffing, retirement home care, palliative care, post-surgery & wound care, foot care, Alzheimer’s care, acquired brain injury care, ALS care, dementia, muscular dystrophy, Parkinson’s disease care, and stroke recovery care.

For more information, call C-Care at 1-416-724-2273 or contact us here.

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Choose Proper Nutrition and Exercise

Seniors should eat a diet rich in antioxidants like Vitamin A and C. Leafy green vegetables should be high on the list, along with essential Omega 3 fatty acids that promote good eye health. Fish like salmon, tuna, and halibut assist with promoting good central vision. Seniors should avoid too much alcohol and saturated fats.

Exercise plays a part in eye health too. Not only is moderate exercise good for the heart, it stimulates blood flow providing oxygen to the eyes. 15 to 30 minutes of mild to moderate exercise several times a week can help improve eye health for seniors.

See An Ophthalmologist At Least Once A Year

This may be the most beneficial vision care tip of all.

We know it’s important to see a dentist at regular intervals to maintain oral health, and the same is true with vision care. A comprehensive eye exam with an ophthalmologist can detect eye diseases or other issues that could inhibit everyday activities. Seniors can develop sight-threatening eye diseases while experiencing absolutely no symptoms. Regular visits to an eye doctor can diagnose and treat Age Related Macular Degeneration, (AMD) before it’s too late.

The same is true with Glaucoma, this condition is also hereditary. There is no pain, no noticeable symptoms, and no cure. Unless it is diagnosed early it can result in vision loss.

An annual eye exam can assist with a number of eye issues and diseases that might normally be overlooked, and allow them to be treated in a timely manner:

• Needing frequent changes to eye prescriptions
• Trouble driving at night
• Blurry or hazy vision
• Judging distance and depth perception
• Low vision problems
• Cataracts

Many simple and more serious eye issues can be handled with “an ounce of prevention.”

Take Steps To Avoid Eye Injuries

As we age, both vision and balance can be a problem. Take special precautions to eliminate the possibility of falls in the home. Be sure rugs and bath mats are backed with a non-slip material. Hand bars are helpful, along with good lighting throughout the home. Secure railings and move obstacles that could cause falls.

Walk Away From The Computer

Many of today’s seniors are computer savvy. However, sitting in front of one for too long a period can lead to dry eyes, headaches, and eye fatigue. Getting up, walking away for a few minutes, staring into the distance, and blinking are all good practices. Keep over the counter moisture drops handy.

Sleep And Sunglasses

These two eye tips for seniors work together. Getting adequate restful sleep keeps eyes lubricated for better vision. A little natural light during the day can help with better sleep at night.

Getting some sunlight is also helpful for good sleep patterns, but wear sunglasses when outside. Seniors who like to work in the garden should not only wear sunglasses, but also a hat with a brim to provide extra protection for those precious eyes.

If you are a senior caregiver, or a senior yourself, don’t overlook the need for annual eye exams.. There is no reason visual problems should compromise a senior’s lifestyle.

Contact C-Care Health Services with questions or if you would like a quote.

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The truth is every day should be Thanksgiving, all the days before, the days after, and every day in between. Is this year any different than other years? Well, maybe. Let’s take a look at why you and all who do senior care in Toronto should create a gratitude list this Thanksgiving.

You Are Really Blessed

If you are paying attention even a little, you will have noticed that there have been multiple natural disasters of late—thousands of people have lost everything. Many have lost their homes, all their possessions and even members of their family. Hundred of residents of Houston, Texas, had only the shoes left on their feet after record flooding. People in Puerto Rico are still suffering without adequate drinking water or electricity.

Consider all the things you take for granted. If you have food on the table, a roof over your head, and loved ones around, you are indeed blessed.

A Gratitude List Will Help You Stay Positive

It’s easy to focus on the all the negative issues in life. This could be called “Poor Me Syndrome.” Keeping a list of what you are grateful for will gradually change your attitude and those of the people around you.

Instead of focusing on the rainy weather causing you to be late, be grateful you have a car and you got from point A to point B safely.

Instead of focusing on how senior care in Toronto can be frustrating and thankless, think about the smile on your parent’s face when they first see you. Sometimes that’s all the thanks you need.

Give up those “woe is me” thoughts and pay attention to every little positive thing that occurred during the day, no matter how small. Then write them down each night.

It Will Make It Easier To Concentrate On What Really Matters

Keeping a gratitude list and adding to it on a daily basis forces you to pay attention to the good things in your life. It can keep you healthy both physically and emotionally. Don’t forget to read it both to yourself and to your senior loved one.

Being Grateful Will Attract More Good Into Your Life

It’s true. The more you are grateful, the more you will attract good things and good people into your life. That contagious phenomena acts like a gift you give to others and vice versa. Surrounding yourself with grateful people will rub off on you. Don’t forget to share this gift of gratefulness as you engage in senior care in Toronto.

Pick up a copy of Simple Abundance by Sarah Ban Breathnach to help you get started on a grateful life.

If you are looking for some additional support with senior care in Toronto, contact C-Care Health Services,

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Let’s look at how to practise gratitude every day in your own life and maybe even pass it on to your senior loved one. Gratitude can be contagious.

It’s A State Of Mind

We all know that person who is perpetually happy and upbeat. Nothing gets them down. If you would ask them why, they would most likely say, “I have so much in my life: good friends, my health, my family and I’m grateful for it all.” There it is: the secret to happiness. Well, maybe not, but you get the point.

Gratitude becomes a state of mind. But be aware that it doesn’t just happen. One must be proactive. One must focus on the good things in life. Like any skill in life, it requires practice.

Specific Ways To Practise Gratitude Every Day

• Buy a pretty journal and begin to write down one thing each day. Elder care in Toronto can be frustrating and of course time consuming. It may seem you have no time for yourself or your immediate family. So don’t make it a chore. Simply write down a simple thing each day. You can re-read them each night or morning (whichever time is better for you), but try not to be grateful for the exact same thing twice. This makes you pay attention to what’s happening around you.

• Focus on simple but positive things every day. For example, “The weather was beautiful, so we were able to enjoy…” or “My children cleaned up the kitchen tonight without being asked because they noticed I was tired.”

• Write a note to someone and tell them why you are grateful they are in your life. Or tell them in person.

• Concentrate on smiling more.

• Always give affirmation for a job well done.

• Avoid watching movies or shows with a negative plot. Remove these from your life.

• Post a positive thought on social media at least twice a week.

• Notice the beauty in nature, music that you love, or a pet who makes you laugh.

• Share your journal entry every day with your senior loved one, especially if they tend to get depressed. Encourage them to tell you something they are grateful for. Then begin a gratitude collage, looking together for photos to cut out and paste on the collage.

Gratitude activities are ways to share your practices with others: your family, your children, your co-workers. Elder care in Toronto may not get easier, but it will help you through the toughest days.

Let C-Care Health Services provide the professional assistance you may need—24 hours a day or whatever you require. Contact us to request a quote.

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