An individual can expect to go through many age-related changes. While natural, these changes have the potential to create shifts in a person’s typical routine. One of these common changes comes in the form of sleeping habits. So, do older people need less sleep, and how does the circadian rhythm change over time?

Parkinson’s disease is a degenerative condition that develops over time in different stages. Known most for its association with motor skills, which can lead to tremors and slowed movement, many people don’t realize there is a strong link between Parkinson’s and dementia that can affect cognitive abilities.

About half of those with Parkinson’s will be affected by some form of cognitive impairment. As the disease progresses, people living with Parkinson’s will develop more severe memory and thinking problems. This is where Parkinson’s relation with dementia begins. 

Unfortunately, one risk factor for Parkinson's disease is age. Although most people with Parkinson’s first develop the disease around 60 years old, about 5 to 10 percent of those with Parkinson's have "early-onset" disease, which can begin before the age of 50. 

While Parkinson’s disease and memory loss may not be commonly associated with each other, recent studies have shown that anywhere from 50 to 80 percent of those with Parkinson’s may develop a form of dementia.

Activities of Daily Living, otherwise known as ADLs, are the essential and routine tasks that a person must complete every day to maintain a safe and independent lifestyle. ADLs are typically made up of personal care tasks, like grooming and bathing, and when a person is no longer able to handle these routines, it can lead to unsafe living conditions and health concerns. 

However, did you know there’s another form of ADLs? These are known as Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (iADLs), and they measure a person’s ability to complete various planning tasks. While these aren’t necessarily required to be done every day, they are still vital to healthy and safe living. 

Brickmont Assisted Living proudly offers exceptional senior living in Atlanta and its surrounding areas, and we know Georgia has never been a stranger to the heat. In fact, from January to July 2022, the state saw some of the highest summer temperatures in almost 93 years. 

As we get older, various age-related changes occur in our bodies. So how does age affect hydration, and how can you prevent yourself or someone you love from becoming dehydrated?

The brain sends signals to the body constantly; for instance, when we’re happy, when we’re sad, and when we’re stressed. When the brain senses some form of danger or uncertainty, signals are sent throughout the muscles, directing them to tense up, and our adrenal glands begin to release stress hormones. 

Humans spend about a third of their day sleeping; it’s no wonder sleeping is significant for our health. Researchers at the University of Cambridge’s department of psychiatry and the Institute of Science and Technology for Brain-Inspired Intelligence at Fudan University in Shanghai conducted a study to determine the ideal amount of sleep adults over the age of 40 need every night. The results? Seven hours is the optimal time for a good night’s sleep. 

But how do sleeping positions affect our health? Everybody has a preferred sleeping position that helps them fall asleep or makes them more comfortable. Whether you prefer sleeping on your side or your back, experts say various sleeping positions can improve or prevent certain health concerns. 

Whether your favorite summer activity is tending to your garden, relaxing by the pool or on a beach, or having a picnic in the park or backyard with loved ones, it’s essential to always practice summer safety habits.

Providing care for an older adult, especially if they are a parent or family member, can be a rewarding mission. However, it also requires a great deal of time and energy to ensure that the person you care for receives everything they need to thrive in life.

It can be easy to dismiss the early signs of memory impairment in an older family member as part of the natural aging process. While aging can affect memory, such as forgetfulness, Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia exhibit more distinguished signs. Essential to the health of your older family members is your ability to differentiate between forgetfulness and something more severe.

When caring for someone you love, it can feel like everything rests on your shoulders. Driving to appointments and errands, helping with daily tasks and activities, managing their personal and financial responsibilities, and being a constant source of companionship and love – these duties can take their toll on even the most dedicated caregivers.