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iCare Home Health Wins Oakville Awards For Business Excellence

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iCare Home Health Wins Oakville Awards For Business Excellence

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iCare Home Health is proud to announce that they’ve won the Oakville Awards’ Small Business of the Year award for 2018. iCare Home Health was among 15 finalists for the prestigious award. Call us at (905) 491-6941.

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Oakville, Canada, December 04, 2016 --( PR.com)-- iCare Home Health has a growing number of clients who are part of this demographic. They are aware of the rich content on the website whether it's in the Resources section or the growing number of Blogs that address a variety of topics ranging from Nutrition, Healthy Aging, Safety Tips, Caregiver Tips and more. For 10% of Canadians that classify themselves as Print Disabled or Visually Impaired, increasing the font size is still not a viable solution for a completely Accessible website.

In response, iCare Home Health reached out to its online marketing firm, Measure Marketing Results Inc. for a solution. Powering the website with Text to Speech capability was the answer and next step in keeping iCare Home Health website ahead of its competitors. The bright green button labeled, "Listen," has been added to all pages. The colour and size makes it easy to spot for most clients who need to use the technology.

The Text to Speech works in two ways:

1. Readers can simply click on the green "Listen" button to hear the entire page.
2. Highlighting a portion of a web page will reveal a speaker. Users can click on it to listen to their selected segment.

"We are proud to launch another iCare Home Health industry first! The audio technology is a natural fit on a website in the healthcare space and will best serve our growing client base and specifically, the visually challenged demographic. Our interaction with Measure Marketing continues to payoff and grow from a vendor/ client relationship to a true partnership that delivers in spades for our clients," says, Rick Menassa, President, iCare Home Health.

Another benefit of the Text to Speech solution is for site visitors, visually impaired or able, are now able to listen to blogs while on the move to listen to blogs that highlight topics of interest.

"Working with iCare Home Health over the last 4 years has been a great journey for us and with the recent introduction of text to speech functionality, we feel we have come one more step closer to engaging their audience and creating value for their clients. Undoubtedly, this new enhancement proves how ahead they are of the game and their desire to proactively service their clients, which also aligns with our values as a company. We are happy to be associated with them and look forward to being their channel partners for several years to come."

About Measure Marketing:

Established in 2008, Measure Marketing is dedicated to developing concrete, quantifiable Internet marketing solutions for business of all sizes and types. In short, we help you generate results you can measure. We put our combined experience of few decades to craft innovative digital marketing solutions and outside-the-box creative thinking for our clients. We're committed to growing our clients business through conversion friendly web design, search marketing, social media and inbound marketing techniques with the core purpose to increase our clients revenue, develop qualified leads, and maximize their return on Marketing spend. Measure Marketing serves clients in Toronto, Mississauga, Oakville, Burlington, Milton Scarborough, and Brampton region.

About iCare Home Health - iCare Home Health is a private boutique home health care company operating in the Mississauga, Oakville, Burlington, Milton, Georgetown and Toronto region. iCare Home Health provides a wide range of home health care services including Companion, Personal Support, Nursing, Foot care, and Handyman at Home. In support of the iCare philosophy of "Making a Difference" in our communities, iCare Home Health is active in supporting local hospitals and Alzheimer Societies, among other organizations that support its clients, video direct donations or fundraising events.

For more information about iCare Home Health services, please visit http://www.icarehomehealth.ca/

For media inquiries or to arrange an interview, please contact: iCare Home Health Pubic Relations 905-491-6941 pr@icarehomehealth.ca

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iCare Home Health Website's Audio Feature Now Here to Serve Its Print Disabled and Visually Impaired Clients More Effectively

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Oakville, Canada, December 04, 2016 --( PR.com)-- iCare Home Health has a growing number of clients who are part of this demographic. They are aware of the rich content on the website whether it's in the Resources section or the growing number of Blogs that address a variety of topics ranging from Nutrition, Healthy Aging, Safety Tips, Caregiver Tips and more.

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How Recreational Therapy Can Help With Pain Management

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How Recreational Therapy Can Help With Pain Management

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When you invest in premier home care from iCare Home Health, you should strongly consider recreational therapy to support your other care services. Contact iCare to get started with our recreational therapy and manage your pain. Call now at (905) 491-6941 or Visit our website https://www.icarehomehealth.ca/.

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Few people realize that can help with something as serious pain management. While recreational therapy programs help people find more enjoyment in life, be more active, and socialize, it also offers functional intervention-which means it helps make your everyday functioning easier. One of the many aspects of daily functioning is controlling pain.
Goal Setting in Recreational Therapy
Part of a good recreational therapy program is actively setting goals, discussing how to meet those goals with a caregiver, and assessing whether those goals can be achieved. If one of your goals is to manage pain, recreational therapy is a key tool.
Personalized Exercise
Many of the activities that recreational therapists focus on involve low-impact exercises, like walking or even standing. When enjoying recreational therapy, you'll couple the exercise with something you love, like time in nature, with animals, or whatever appeals to you. While you may not be motivated to exercise for its own sake, recreational therapy makes stretching, moving, and balancing fun again. Research has found that this exercise helps reduce the pain from many chronic pain disorders, including:
Mood Boosting
When you suffer from chronic pain, it can be hard to enjoy the activities you used to, as they now cause you pain. However, recreational therapy finds ways to support your motion or adjust your activities, so that you can enjoy your favourite hobbies without stressing your body. Or, recreational therapists can expose you to new hobbies you'll enjoy, further boosting your mood.

You'll also be happier and more confident because recreational therapy programs offer social opportunities and new experiences. Research has demonstrated that recreational therapy can even reduce symptoms of mental illnesses like anxiety, depression, anger management issues, and bipolar disorder, which can all effect physical pain as well as mental. The mind and the body are connected, and recreational therapy starts a positive feedback loop between the two, where your mood is better because your pain is reduced, and vice versa.
Recreational Therapy Programs For Pain Management From iCare Home Health
When you invest in premier home care from iCare Home Health, you should strongly consider recreational therapy to support your other care services. It's not "just" fun and games, recreational therapy can improve your quality of life just as the more practical aspects of premier home care do-like laundry services and medical care. Contact iCare to get started with our recreational therapy and manage your pain.

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How Recreational Therapy Can Help With Pain Management

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Few people realize that recreational therapy programs can help with something as serious pain management. While recreational therapy programs help people find more enjoyment in life, be more active, and socialize, it also offers functional intervention-which means it helps make ...

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How To Cope When Your Loved One Is Diagnosed With Alzheimer’s

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How To Cope When Your Loved One Is Diagnosed With Alzheimer’s

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Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s can be challenging, but there is professional help available. You can get specific Alzheimer’s care in your own home from a senior home care service, like iCare Home Health. Reach out to iCare Home Health to learn more about our services please visit our website https://www.icarehomehealth.ca/.

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When your loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer's your plan for your future will change, and that is a frightening prospect. What will happen, who will your loved one become, and what will you do? You may not be ready to think about the progression of this disease, but you have many options to support you and your loved one through this, from senior home care and specialized Alzheimer's and dementia support at home, to the support of your doctors. Here are some strategies to help you cope with this difficult time.
1.Take It Slow
There is a lot to learn about Alzheimer's. Take your time researching, thinking, and talking to each other. A good starting point is our Alzheimer's and dementia resource page. You might feel pressed into major decisions, but just wait until you've had time to explore all your options and consider your new reality. And remember, new treatments and support for people with Alzheimer's are being continually developed.
2. Care For The Family
An Alzheimer's diagnosis can instigate tension within the family. Symptoms of the illness can cause confusion, anger, and pain. Each family member will need support. Whether that's extra love and understanding, a family mediator, or individual therapists will depend on your family dynamic. Your local Alzheimer's Society is a good source of support options. You've begun a challenging journey together, but your family can pull through it with help and support.
3. Don't Forget Yourself
Many Alzheimer's caregivers (up to 47 percent according to Alz Info), will experience depression while caregiving. You will feel stress and concern as your partner's condition deteriorates. While you will be focused on caring for them, you need to also focus on caring for yourself. After all, they would not want you to neglect yourself. Reach out for support, from family, friends, doctors, and health professionals.
4. Consider Home Alzheimer's Care
Caring for someone with Alzheimer's can be challenging, but there is professional help available. You can get specific Alzheimer's care in your own home from a senior home care service, like iCare Home Health. We offer comprehensive care, from a consistent, qualified caregiver. They can provide personal care services like bathing and mobility assistance, and can monitor your loved one for safety, redirect their behavior, remind them of their medication, and much more. Reach out to iCare Home Health to learn more about our services and to talk about what kind of Alzheimer's care is right for your loved one.

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How To Cope When Your Loved One Is Diagnosed With Alzheimer's

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When your loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer's your plan for your future will change, and that is a frightening prospect. What will happen, who will your loved one become, and what will you do? You may not be ready ...

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Mental Health Awareness: Symptoms You Should Speak To Your Doctor About

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Mental Health Awareness: Symptoms You Should Speak To Your Doctor About

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iCare’s home care in Oakville can be part of a plan to help your loved one cope with their mental illness. Our premier home care services support the whole individual, mind and body. For more information call our senior care experts now at (905) 491-6941 or Visit our website https://www.icarehomehealth.ca/

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Mental health problems originate in your brain and can affect your whole body. For mental health awareness week, from October 1-7, we want to raise awareness that your doctor can be your first resource when you think you're facing a mental illness. And if you are, home care in Oakville can support you while you learn to cope and recover. Here are some of the symptoms you should talk to your doctor about.
1. Feeling Sad
If you feel down without cause, or with cause but for longer than you think is normal, you may be suffering from a mental illness. In fact, if you feel emotional without reason, or for longer than normal, including feelings of euphoria, anger, or fear, you should see your doctor. It may seem odd to bring up feelings at your doctor's office, but they are symptoms your doctor will want to know about, just like physical aches and pains. Your doctor can help determine the root of your issues and come up with a treatment plan.
2. Feeling Exhausted
It can be hard to sort out what's normal physical exhaustion and what's emotional exhaustion from mental illness. If you've noticed a change in your activity levels, or if it's hard to get out of bed in the morning, you could be suffering from a physical or mental illness.

Especially if this exhaustion is stopping you from seeing friends, going to church, or participating in other social activities, it's something you should bring up with your doctor. Your doctor can help you discover the root of the problem and advise you about how to get back to your normal routine. A premier home care service can help support you while your energy levels are low.
3. Recurring Aches And Pains
iCare's home care in Oakville can be part of a plan to help your loved one cope with their mental illness. Our premier home care services support the whole individual, mind and body. For this mental health awareness week, remember that you don't have to suffer with mental illness alone. Reach out and receive greater support for your well being from iCare's Home Health's premier home care services.

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Mental Health Awareness: Symptoms You Should Speak To Your Doctor About

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Mental health problems originate in your brain and can affect your whole body. For mental health awareness week, from October 1-7, we want to raise awareness that your doctor can be your first resource when you think you're facing a ...

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Seniors and Tobacco: It’s Never Too Late to Quit

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Seniors and Tobacco: It’s Never Too Late to Quit

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If you’re loved one needs at-home care services or a nurse at-home to help them manage their health and remain independent, contact iCare Home Health to learn more about our senior home care in Milton. Call at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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World No Tobacco Day is on May 31st. The day was created to encourage smokers around the globe to quit smoking and improve their health. No matter your age and how long you've been smoking, it's never too late to experience the benefits of quitting smoking on your health and overall wellbeing.

Health Risks For Seniors Who Smoke

Smoking has been linked to many diseases and health issues for seniors, including:

Higher risk of developing dementia.

Increased risk of macular degeneration and cataracts.

Hearing loss and decreased ability to smell and taste.

Decrease in physical strength and ability.

Higher risk of developing osteoporosis, cancer, and cardiovascular disease.

Benefits Of Quitting

Reduce your risk of developing diseases and complications related to smoking: Quitting smoking will help your health at any age. When you quit, your risk of heart disease is cut in half after just one year, and after five years your stroke risk drops to that of a non-smoker.

Improve your current health: If you already have a smoking-related illness, you can help manage your condition and delay its progression by quitting smoking. Some medications are also less effective due to the chemicals inhaled when smoking, and quitting can help your medication to work better so you can stay healthier.

Enhance your senses: Smoking decreases your ability to taste and smell, and you'll notice your senses start to come back just a few days after quitting.

Tips To Help You Quit

Avoid situations that trigger cravings: Certain places, people, and situations can provoke strong cigarette cravings. For example, being around people who are smoking and spending time in places where you used to smoke regularly can be triggers. Create a plan so you know what to do when you encounter these situations to help you avoid temptation. You may need to excuse yourself from a group of smoking friends or find a new place to relax that you don't mentally associate with smoking. If you tell friends and family that you're quitting smoking, they will most likely be supportive and avoid smoking around you.

Keep snacks and gum on hand: Chewing on a piece of hard candy, crunchy snacks, or gum can help reduce cigarette cravings. Long-term smokers are accustomed to keeping their hands and mouths busy by holding or smoking a cigarette, and learning to keep those parts still when quitting is a challenge. Chewing gum can help create a similar feeling of 'busyness' and provide a distraction when cravings occur.

Find support networks: Your family and friends can provide you with the support you need to stop smoking. Your loved ones can encourage you to keep going when you feel tempted, and grandchildren can provide a distraction and reminder as to why you quit in the first place. Quitting smoking at any age will benefit your health, which will give you more time to enjoy with your grandchildren.

Enjoy your hobbies: Hobbies provide a distraction when you feel tempted to reach for a cigarette. This can include hobbies puzzles, knitting, sewing, walking, painting, and clubs. Keeping busy is an important aspect of quitting smoking to alleviate stress and cravings.

iCare Home Health: Senior Home Care In Milton, Mississauga, Oakville, And Burlington

If your loved one needs at-home care services or a nurse at-home to help them manage their health and remain independent, contact iCare Home Health to learn more about our senior home care in Milton, Mississauga, Oakville, and Burlington. Our team of qualified nurse at-home caregivers can provide the compassionate and expert support you need.

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Seniors and Tobacco: It's Never Too Late to Quit

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World No Tobacco Day is on May 31st. The day was created to encourage smokers around the globe to quit smoking and improve their health. No matter your age and how long you've been smoking, it's never too late to ...

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Improve the Wellbeing of Dementia Patients with a Nurse At Home

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Improve the Wellbeing of Dementia Patients with a Nurse At Home

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If you think your loved one dealing with dementia could benefit from senior home care or companion care, contact iCare Home Health. For support in the Milton, Oakville, Burlington and Mississauga area, please reach out to us. Call at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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Dementia is a term used to describe a variety of brain disorders that most typically affect older adults. Symptoms can include loss of memory, judgment and reasoning, and changes in both mood and behaviour. When loved ones notice that a senior's brain function is affected enough to interfere with their ability to safely complete everyday activities, it's time to find out more about senior home care or other care options.

It can certainly feel overwhelming when the times comes to provide your parent or a senior family member with extra support. Did you know that the longer you can provide care and support at home for your loved one, the better their quality of life will be? It is possible to keep someone with dementia safe at home, particularly with the support of those trained in senior home care for patients living with Alzheimer or dementia.

4 Ways Senior Home Care Supports Dementia Patients

It may take some time for you to find the right senior home care program, so be sure to do some research and find out more about options that are available in your area. We're sharing some of the ways that senior home care and companion care can support dementia patients, and we encourage you to use this as a reference to help you find the support you need.
1. Reduces frustrations.
A person suffering from dementia may become agitated when simple tasks become difficult or impossible. In order to replace their feelings of not being able to do things they once could, senior home care can help reduce boredom and loneliness by helping to establish new routines and improve self-esteem.
2. Focuses on individualized care.
Each person with dementia will experience symptoms and progression differently. It's important to find senior home care that can deliver an individualized dementia care plan that takes into account the patient's history, their family, as well as their interests, abilities, and favourite activities.

Arranging companion care services can also help with specific tasks around the house that may now be more challenging like housekeeping, meal preparation or transportation. In addition to those activities, dementia patients can also receive help with:

Mental stimulation.

Expressive Art therapy programs .

Physical stimulation and exercise to help maintain strength and balance.

Medication reminders.

Grocery shopping and errands.

3. A safer home environment.
Proper dementia care at home requires a safe home environment. When you work with trained senior home care providers, they will be able to help set up a safe home environment that can prevent falls or accidents. They may make the following suggestions to support home safety:

Using electrical appliances that shut off on their own.

Having medications organized in a weekly blister pack and delivered on a regular schedule.

Installing hand bars or grab rails in critical areas.

Removing clutter around hallways and stairs.

4. Regular feedback and support.
When your loved one is regularly getting support from a senior home care program, this means that you have a trained professional who can:

Be consistently monitoring for safety concerns.

Be observing, managing and redirecting behaviour.

Be reporting any behaviour changes to family.

By receiving consistent, helpful feedback, you can make decisions, as needed, to continue to provide the best quality of life for your senior loved one. This support will allow you to know if more mental stimulation is needed, whether companion care would be welcomed or whether it may also be time to add personal care services such as dressing or bathing.

Dementia Patients Can Thrive With Senior Home Care

If you think your loved one dealing with dementia could benefit from senior home care or companion care, contact iCare Home Health. We understand that every situation is different and use a unique combination of listening and understanding, family feedback and goals, doctor's recommendations and instructions in order to create a custom care plan. For support in the Milton, Oakville, Burlington and Mississauga area, please reach out to us. iCare Home Health 's team of professional caregivers can help!

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Improve The Wellbeing of Dementia Patients With A Nurse At Home

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Dementia is a term used to describe a variety of brain disorders that most typically affect older adults. Symptoms can include loss of memory, judgment and reasoning, and changes in both mood and behaviour. When loved ones notice that a ...

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Seniors and Hepatitis– What You Need To Know

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Seniors and Hepatitis– What You Need To Know

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iCare Home Health offers premier home care for seniors and can help with everyday tasks such as taking medication, wound care, preparing healthy meals, getting exercise and companion care too.  Contact us to learn more call at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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When it comes to aging, there is a lot to be said for being proactive and for taking an active role in managing and supporting your health. World Hepatitis Day takes place annually on July 28th, and while you may not think that seniors need to be aware or concerned about hepatitis, older adults are actually more likely to have the disease that any other age group. So, even if you've taken the time to ensure your senior loved one is benefiting from companion care or premier home care, have you also made sure they've been tested for hepatitis?

People born between 1945 and 1965, had a higher chance of contracting the disease due to minimal blood testing standards and lack of knowledge about how the disease was spread. Many seniors may be completely unaware that they could carry the virus, and this illness can remain asymptomatic for years. However, without the knowledge that they're infected, many seniors could succumb to the illness before they can get the care they need.

What Is Hepatitis?

Hepatitis causes the liver to become inflamed. However, because the liver is a very versatile and resilient organ, the impact on the liver may only be noticed later in life. Seniors can suddenly be diagnosed with hepatitis and learn that it has progressed to severe liver damage even if they've had no significant prior signs or symptoms.

There are three types of hepatitis, but hepatitis C is the most common version to affect seniors. Symptoms of hepatitis may include:

Stomach pain or abdominal distention

Loss of appetite

Fatigue

Nausea and vomiting

Weight loss

Jaundice affecting the eyes or the skin

Dark urine and pale stools

Breast development in males

Low fever

General itching

Testing And Treating Seniors With Hepatitis C

Testing for hepatitis C is comprised of blood tests and checking liver enzyme levels. It may be necessary to repeat testing after a few months to confirm results. It is important to note that seniors may need to take a proactive approach and ask their doctor to be tested, as it is not a common screening. Even seniors who currently feel healthy should ask for a hepatitis C screening.

Once diagnosed, there are many care options, as treatment and awareness of the disease has greatly advanced over the years. There are medications that can put the disease into remission and even help treat cirrhosis, and other impacts on the liver caused by the virus.

Regardless of the selected treatment plan, seniors living with hepatitis C will need to focus on healthy living choices. Alcohol should not be consumed, and healthy eating and exercising are important to support liver health. In particular, diets rich in iron and protein can be very beneficial, as can maintaining a healthy body weight, since excess body fat can harm the liver as well.

Support For Seniors Living With Hepatitis C

Whether a senior is newly diagnosed or has been living with hepatitis C for a while, it can be overwhelming to successfully manage living with the disease. iCare Home Health offers premier home care for seniors and can help with everyday tasks such as taking medication, wound care, preparing healthy meals, getting exercise and companion care too.

We offer several services that can help you or your loved one continue to live a happy and fulfilling life while managing medical conditions, like hepatitis. Contact us to learn more about how we can help.

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Seniors And Hepatitis- What You Need To Know

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When it comes to aging, there is a lot to be said for being proactive and for taking an active role in managing and supporting your health. World Hepatitis Day takes place annually on July 28th, and while you may ...

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Simple Health and Fitness Advice for Seniors

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Simple Health and Fitness Advice for Seniors

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iCare Home Health provides home health care services to the Mississauga, Milton, Oakville and Burlington areas, and our Personal Support At Home or Friend At Home programs your senior loved one. Contact at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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It's important for seniors to eat a healthy diet and get regular physical activity to maintain good health as they age. Seniors who engage in a healthy and physically active lifestyle can lower their risk of common ailments and diseases that affect the elderly, such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers. In fact, keeping up with your health and fitness as you age may even help ward off depression and help maintain healthy bones.

June 2 is National Health and Fitness Day, and it's worth noting that it's never too late to take steps to live a healthy and active lifestyle. For those seniors who want to improve their overall health and wellness, the following tips offer simple ways to make positive changes.

3 Healthy Living Tips For Seniors

Here are some top tips that can help make healthy living a priority.
1. Maintain a healthy weight.
To prevent weight gain as you age, you may need to eat fewer calories than you did at a younger age. This means that the calories that you consume need to be nutrient dense so your body gets the energy it needs. Being overweight or obese raises your risk level for multiple illnesses and diseases.

On the other hand, being underweight is also a concern, as it may relate to no longer being able to live independently, not having enough to eat, not eating enough foods that are nutrient dense, or battling an illness or disease. If you struggle to maintain a healthy weight, talk to your doctor.
2. Quit smoking.
Not only does smoking put you at risk for certain types of cancer and heart failure, but it also reduces your skin's elasticity. It's never too late to quit smoking and discover the health benefits of a smoke-free life.
3. Stay up to date on dental, vision, and hearing check-ups.
Your teeth and gums will last a lifetime if you care for them properly. That includes getting regular dental checkups. The same care should also be extended to your eyes and ears. Regular hearing and optometrist checkups will not only help you avoid potential issues, but can also help you improve your quality of life by making changes to your vision care or introducing hearing aids, if necessary.

3 Fitness Tips For Seniors

Be sure to consult with your doctor before starting any type of fitness program.
1. Incorporate exercises to promote balance.
The ability to hold balance naturally declines as we age. Doing balance exercises and training can limit your loss of balance and even improve your performance. Maintaining the ability to be steady on your feet will help reduce accidents and falls, which can lead to serious injuries.
2. Find ways to make fitness social.
Group fitness not only makes activities more fun, but it also provides mental stimulation to keep your mind sharp. Exercise is great for your physical health, but when you also incorporate a social aspect, you reduce your risk of depression and isolation. Other fitness options include simple things like walking regularly with a friend or neighbour.
3. Get a customized fitness plan.
Many seniors think that they are too old or too physically compromised to include exercise in their life. But this isn't true at all! With the right support, a fitness plan can be created that will help improve your fitness level. Senior home care in Mississauga or in your local area is a great place to find the support you need. A support worker can help you complete recommended exercises or act as a source of encouragement, which will go a long way towards the success of your fitness program.

It's Never Too Late To Start With Help From Senior Home Care In Mississauga

Whether you are in your 50s, 60s, 70s or beyond, there is always a way to improve your health and fitness. Not sure where to start? Home health care services in Mississauga can offer support to encourage and enable seniors to live a healthy and active life. iCare Home Health provides home health care services to the Mississauga, Milton, Oakville and Burlington areas, and our Personal Support At Home or Friend At Home programs may be the right fit for you or your senior loved one. Contact us to request a free assessment and to learn more about staying healthy and active as you age.

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Simple Health and Fitness Advice for Seniors

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It's important for seniors to eat a healthy diet and get regular physical activity to maintain good health as they age. Seniors who engage in a healthy and physically active lifestyle can lower their risk of common ailments and diseases ...

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iCare Home Health offers a unique and comprehensive array of scheduled at-home and live-in services to benefit clients of all ages and needs. For more information about senior home care services, please visit www.icarehomehealth.com.

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International Self Care Day takes place on July 24th every year. It's a good time to review the efforts you take to maintain your mental, physical, and emotional health. For seniors, essential self care can be a struggle due to physical limitations, isolation, and mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety.

The International Self Care Foundation has established seven key elements of maintaining health and wellbeing:
Seven Pillars Of Good Health
1. Health literacy: Be aware of basic health issues and access accurate information so you can make good health decisions.

2. Self-awareness: Know the state of your health, such as your body mass index, cholesterol, blood sugar level, blood pressure, etc. Get regular checkups and screenings.

3. Physical activity: Exercise your body regularly to maintain cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and flexibility.

4. Healthy diet: Eat a variety of nutritious foods and maintain a balanced diet. If you have a health condition, follow any dietary recommendations from your doctor.

5. Risk avoidance: Stay away from things that could damage your health. This includes not smoking, limiting alcohol, not taking medication regularly, avoiding excessive sun exposure without wearing sunscreen, etc.

6. Good hygiene: Practice good hygiene, such as washing your hands regularly, brushing your teeth twice per day, and washing food before consuming it.

7. Responsible use of medicine and services: Listen to your doctor and take medication and undergo other medical services, as recommended. Discuss what medical options are available to you so you can make informed decisions. Be aware of the dangers of self-medication and treatments that aren't doctor-recommended.

While practicing self care seems easy in theory, it's easy to become overwhelmed when illness, injury, and/or personal issues arise and not provide yourself with the care you need. If you struggle with self-care, companion care or an at-home nurse from premier home care services can help you maintain or improve your health. Here are some simple ways to remember to practice self care everyday:

Achievable Goals: While it's wonderful to make goals like exercising everyday, cutting out caffeine, and not eating meat, these goals might not be realistic for your lifestyle. Make small, achievable goals instead, like exercising 3 times per week, drinking only 2 cups of coffee per day, and incorporating more vegetables into your diet.

Mindfulness: Be aware of your actions, attitudes, and behaviours. Do you procrastinate when faced with certain tasks, like cleaning, errands, or making phone calls and appointments? You probably find that procrastinating just makes your stress and anxiety worse. Make a short checklist of things you need to get done each day and try to get most of the tasks completed in the morning. That way, you can rest easy the rest of the day knowing that everything you needed to do it done.

Companionship: Everything is easier when you have a friend to support you as you reach your physical and emotional wellness goals. Friendship and companionship are a necessary component of good health. If you feel isolated from friends and family, make a point to communicate with your loved ones by scheduling visits and phone calls. You can also join local community groups or recreational therapy programs for seniors to meet new people and socialize in a fun setting.

iCare Home Health: Premier Home Care Services For Your Health And Wellbeing

iCare Home Health offers a unique and comprehensive array of scheduled at-home and live-in services to benefit clients of all ages and needs. Our services include companion care, recreational therapy programs, expressive art therapy, a nurse-at-home, and more. At iCare Home Health, our team of qualified and professional caregivers are committed to providing all clients with compassionate care. Contact us to find out how iCare Home Health's home care services can help your loved one, and to book a consultation.

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International Self Care Day takes place on July 24th every year. It's a good time to review the efforts you take to maintain your mental, physical, and emotional health. For seniors, essential self care can be a struggle due to ...

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Elder Care Home Health | Recreational Therapy Programs

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Elder Care Home Health | Recreational Therapy Programs

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iCare Home Health offers our clients the benefits of recreation therapy by providing services conducted by qualified and compassionate caregivers. Contact iCare Home Health to learn more about our recreational therapy programs. Call at: (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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Recreational therapy programs improve people's quality of life on a physical, emotional, and social level by helping seniors and individuals with illnesses and/or disabilities engage in recreational activities. These activities may include arts and crafts, music, dance, sports, theatre, games, and community outings. The goal of these activities and outings is helping individuals enhance their ability to socialize, be active participants in society, and partake in fun activities that increase their overall enjoyment of life. Recreation therapy is a specialized form of therapy and is offered by professionals who are trained and certified to provide this treatment.

Who Will Benefit From Recreation Therapy

Patients requiring dementia care / Alzheimer's care

Stroke patients

Acquired brain injury survivors

Individuals with mental health issues

Individuals with physical disabilities

"Recreation therapy is a process that utilizes functional intervention, education, and recreational participation. It enables persons with physical, cognitive, emotional, and/or social limitations to acquire and/or maintain the skills, knowledge, and behaviors that will allow them to enjoy their leisure optimally, function independently with the least amount of assistance, and participate as fully as possible in society. Recreation therapy is provided by trained professionals in clinical and/or community settings." - Therapeutic Recreation Ontario

Advantages Of Recreation Therapy

Focused attention on the individual's unique needs, interests, and goals.

Improved cognitive and physical abilities.

Enhanced mood and confidence.

Reduced symptoms of anxiety, depression, anger, and bipolar disorder.

Increased community involvement, interpersonal skills, and ability to form relationships.

Greater quality of life and ability to live life to the fullest.

Recreation Therapy Services From iCare Home Health

iCare Home Health offers our clients the benefits of recreation therapy by providing services conducted by qualified and compassionate caregivers. To begin the process, one of our professional caregivers will conduct a needs assessment to determine the best therapeutic methods and activities for the individual. They'll take the time to understand the client's personal recreational interests and passions, and work to develop a trusting client/caregiver relationship. The caregiver and client will work together to plan therapy sessions while setting achievable goals and outcomes. The caregiver will document all activities engaged and measurable progress made by the client. They'll also regularly review activities and goals to ensure that the client is satisfied with their development and continues to enjoy each therapeutic activity.

Contact iCare Home Health To Get Started

If you or your loved one struggle with physical disabilities, mental health issues, are recovering from an illness / medical event, or require specialized dementia care / Alzheimer's care, contact iCare Home Health to learn more about our recreational therapy programs. All our professional services are provided by qualified and experienced at-home caregivers to improve your physical and emotional wellbeing. Call or email us today to learn more and receive a consultation.

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Recreation Therapy Programs 🔊 Listen to Post Recreational therapy programs improve people's quality of life on a physical, emotional, and social level by helping seniors and individuals with illnesses and/or disabilities engage in recreational activities. These activities may include arts ...

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Bladder Cancer Awareness: What You Need To Know

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Bladder Cancer Awareness: What You Need To Know

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iCare Home Health offers home care in Oakville and the surrounding areas. We can provide support and companionship that leads to a better quality of life. For more information about iCare Home Health, please visit our website www.icarehomehealth.com.

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Bladder cancer is a disease in which cancer cells form in the tissues of the bladder. The fifth most common cancer in Canada, with close to 9,000 new cases every year, bladder cancer ranks as the fourth most common cancer in men and twelfth most common cancer in women*. Because bladder cancer is most frequently diagnosed in the older population, those supporting elder care, such as home care services and live in caregivers, need to ensure that they know what symptoms to watch for.

As with several forms of cancer, early detection is key. When bladder cancer is found in the early stages, the prognosis can be quite positive for patients. Unfortunately, bladder cancer is often unrecognized, so it is very important to create awareness surrounding this particular type of cancer.

Three Things You Might Not Know About Bladder Cancer

How much do you know about bladder cancer? The following information can help you gain understanding and awareness, not only for yourself, but for any elderly loved ones you may be caring for.
1. Types Of Bladder Cancer.
Bladder cancer can be diagnosed as either non-muscle-invasive or muscle-invasive. Non-muscle-invasive is the more common form of the disease and means that the cancer hasn't grown into the surrounding muscles of the bladder.

Muscle-invasive bladder cancer is more aggressive and is considered life threatening. About 25 percent of people are diagnosed with this more aggressive type of bladder cancer.
2. Factors That Put You At Risk For Bladder Cancer
As mentioned above, men are more likely to get bladder cancer than women. However, other risk factors that can increase the likelihood of being diagnosed with this disease are:

* Smoking: Cigarette smokers are two to three times more likely than non-smokers to get bladder cancer.

* Working environment: Workers in the rubber, chemical, and leather industries are more likely to have been exposed to carcinogens in the workplace. Occupations such as hairdressers, machinists, metal workers, printers, painters, textile workers, and truck drivers have also been determined to have higher risk factors.

* Age: The chance of getting bladder cancer increases as people get older. People under the age of 40 rarely get this disease.

* Family history: People with family members who have had bladder cancer are more likely to get the disease.
3. Symptoms Of Bladder Cancer.
Home care services, live in caregivers, and family caregivers should look for these symptoms of bladder cancer in the elderly.

* Finding blood in the urine is the most common symptom in bladder cancer patients and occurs in more than 80 percent of cases. It is possible that some people can have blood in their urine once and then not again for several months. So, it is highly recommended that if you see blood in your urine to seek medical attention immediately.

* Pain during urination which can be caused by bladder spasms or a burning sensation.

* An increased urgency or frequency to urinate.

* Back, pelvic or groin area pain.

Although these symptoms can also be indicative of an infection, bladder stones, or other problems, it is highly advised that those experiencing any of the symptoms listed see a doctor quickly. The faster a diagnosis is made, the faster treatment can begin.

For more information on bladder cancer, visit Bladder Cancer Canada.

How To Support Your Health And Limit Your Risk Factors.

It can be scary to think about being diagnosed with something as serious as bladder cancer. One of the best ways to protect yourself against disease is to live a healthy lifestyle that includes exercise, a healthy diet, and positive mental health. If you are struggling to take care of all of your mental and physical needs, don't be afraid to reach out for help.

As you age, it may be necessary to find additional support to manage health and wellness. iCare Home Health offers home care in Oakville and the surrounding areas. We can provide support and companionship that leads to a better quality of life. iCare team members have specialized knowledge and experience, and will observe, record and report any noticeable changes in your loved one's health and home environment. If home care in Oakville or the surrounding areas sounds like it may be the right option for you and your family, please contact us.

*source: www.bladdercancercanada.org

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Bladder Cancer Awareness: What You Need To Know

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Bladder cancer is a disease in which cancer cells form in the tissues of the bladder. The fifth most common cancer in Canada, with close to 9,000 new cases every year, bladder cancer ranks as the fourth most common cancer ...

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Mental Health Awareness: Signs and Symptoms to Watch For In Seniors

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Mental Health Awareness: Signs and Symptoms to Watch For In Seniors

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If your loved one is struggling with a mental illness and requires at-home premier home care services to manage their condition, the experienced and compassionate caregivers at iCare Home Health can help. For more information about senior home care services, please visit www.icarehomehealth.com.

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The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) reports that "By age 40, about 50% of the population will have or have had a mental illness." The most common mental illnesses in seniors are dementia, Alzheimer's, schizophrenia, and depression. In most cases, an older adult loved one can confuse the signs of mental illness as normal symptoms of old age, resulting in a lack of treatment.

Dementia

Genetic mental illness

High stress

Chronic pain

Death of a loved one

Medical problems

Depression

Decreased income or poverty

Social isolation

Signs of Mental Health Issues in Seniors: What Causes Mental Health Issues in Seniors?

Mood swings

Change in appetite

Thoughts of suicide

Dependency on drugs or alcohol

Inability to sleep

Compulsive behaviour

Lack of attention to hygiene or self-care

Multiple factors can happen at once, causing a person to feel isolated at a time when their children have moved out and are busy. Mental health issues can be left untreated due to isolation, adult children who don't live nearby and can't help, or and sometimes shame over getting treatment. Some common risk factors for the development of mental illness include:
iCare Home Health: Premier Home Care Services For Your Loved One
The warning signs of mental health issues can be confused with irritability or frustration. They can also be seen as a normal symptom of aging. Here is a list of signs to pay attention to if your loved one might have mental health issues:

If these symptoms are noticeable in your elderly parent or family member, contact your family doctor for an evaluation. Your doctor may recommend therapy and/or medication to help manage your loved one's symptoms.

If your loved one is struggling with a mental illness and requires at-home premier home care services to manage their condition, the experienced and compassionate caregivers at iCare Home Health can help. We're a health care agency serving the Mississauga, Burlington, and Oakville areas. Our services include live-in care and scheduled visits, art therapy, recreation therapy, and more. Contact iCare Home Health for more information and for a consultation.

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Mental Health Awareness: Signs And Symptoms To Watch For In Seniors

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The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) reports that "By age 40, about 50% of the population will have or have had a mental illness." The most common mental illnesses in seniors are dementia, Alzheimer's, schizophrenia, and depression. In most cases, ...

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Autism Services From iCare Home Health Care Services

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Autism Services From iCare Home Health Care Services

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iCare Home Health’s expert services will support your child’s development in the comfort and convenience of their home. Contact at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have unique needs and need specialized care to support their development. Autism symptoms range in severity and can cause children with autism to struggle with communication, social, and behavioral challenges.

Symptoms Of Autism In Children Include:

Difficulty playing with their peers and/or relating to others.

Avoiding eye contacting.

Atypical or repetitive physical movements, such as spinning, tapping, or flapping their hands.

Missing milestones in their development or losing their developmental progress.

Trouble learning at school.

Difficulty playing with toys.

Poor muscle tone, physical coordination, and/or spatial awareness.

While there is no cure for autism, symptoms can be improved through childhood intervention. Dedicated care and support from professional caregivers can help children with autism overcome challenges and develop the skills required to reach their full potential. As every child with autism is unique, support services should be tailored to the child's individual needs and focus on the progression of the behavioral, educational, speech, and social skills.

iCare's At-Home Autism Caregiving Services For Children

Children with autism need a structured and safe environment to help them thrive. Daily routines that include scheduled at-home visits from an experienced caregiver can help them cope with behavioral and social issues that affect their development and emotional wellbeing. Children with autism learn and communicate differently, which makes it especially important that they partner with a caregiver qualified to work with autistic children. An expert caregiver from iCare Home Health can help children with autism develop the confidence they need to build their self-esteem and social skills through age-appropriate, play-based activities. Our autism services are customized to support the development and emotional well-being of each child.

How iCare's Caregiving Services Can Help Your Child

iCare's at-home autism support services are guided by clear goals and objectives. Your child's progress is regularly evaluated and communicated to you to ensure that you're always engaged in their development.

Support focuses on key developmental areas affected by autism, such as social skills, language/communication, motor skills, and play skills. Our autism services for children are designed to be fun and entertaining, so they become an enjoyable part of your child's routine.

Our caregivers engage parents to ensure that your family has influence over all decisions and therapeutic processes engaged during support sessions.

Our skilled at-home caregivers respect your child's and family's unique needs, abilities, and values to provide the best care and support possible.

Caregivers can collaborate and communicate with your child's physician, speech-language pathologist, and/or other therapy workers to help provide a holistic treatment that supports your child's development.

Receive Qualified And Compassionate Autism Services From iCare Home Health

iCare Home Health's expert services will support your child's development in the comfort and convenience of their home. If your child would benefit from at-home autism services from a qualified and experienced caregiver, call or email us today to learn more and to receive a consultation.

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Autism Services For Children 🔊 Listen to Post Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have unique needs and need specialized care to support their development. Autism symptoms range in severity and can cause children with autism to struggle with communication, ...

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Home Care in Oakville, Burlington, and Mississauga

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Home Care in Oakville, Burlington, and Mississauga

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If you’re searching for professional at-home IV therapy and home care in Oakville and its surrounding cities, consider partnering with iCare Home Health. For more information about iCare Home Health services, please visit www.icarehomehealth.com or Call at (905) 491-6941.

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At-home IV therapy is a safe and convenient way to receive IV treatments outside of a clinical environment. In the past, patients only had the option of travelling to a hospital to receive IV treatments, which resulted in lost time, energy, and general discomfort. It was also challenging and exhausting for patients with mobility issues. However, medical advancements have made it possible for a growing number of IV therapy patients to be treated by a highly qualified nurse at-home. At-home care is especially helpful for patients who require long-term IV treatment.
What Happens During At-Home IV Therapy?
At-home IV therapy is a practical option for patients dealing with an illness or disease that requires short or long-term IV treatments. A qualified medical provider will visit your home on a scheduled basis to administer the IV treatment. During this time the IV therapist will assess your wellbeing prior to the treatment; sanitize equipment and insert the needle or catheter; monitor the dosage and duration of the treatment; and adjust the needle or catheter, as needed. They will also watch out for reactions during and after the treatment to ensure that there were no complications. In result, you can receive the professional and safe care you need without travelling to a hospital or sitting in a waiting room.
What Should I Look For When Choosing An At-Home IV Therapy Provider?
When looking for a specialized caregiver to provide at-home IV therapy, ask the following questions:

Are they professionally qualified to provide IV treatments?

Do they thoroughly sterilize all equipment prior to use?

Are they trained to handle biohazardous materials?

Do they ask questions about the patient's health and wellbeing before and after treatment?

Are they consciousness about ensuring that the dosage and medication are always correct?

Do they ensure that the patient feels comfortable and safe during the treatment?

iCare Home Health: IV Therapy And Home Care In Oakville, Burlington, And Mississauga

If you're searching for professional at-home IV therapy and home care in Oakville and its surrounding cities, consider partnering with iCare Home Health. We provide convenient, compassionate, and highly-qualified care and nurse at-home services to seniors and people of all ages. Our services list includes scheduled visits and live-in care to ensure that your or your loved one's needs are met. At iCare Home Health, we understand the importance of maintaining your independence for as long as possible and avoiding extended hospital stays. That's why we provide our clients with professional caregivers who are committed to treating their patients with care, respect, and dignity. Contact us to find out more and book a consultation.

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At-home IV therapy is a safe and convenient way to receive IV treatments outside of a clinical environment. In the past, patients only had the option of travelling to a hospital to receive IV treatments, which resulted in lost time, ...

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Home Care Services & Live in Care at iCare Home Health

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Home Care Services & Live in Care at iCare Home Health

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Raising awareness of Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) action! FND is a problem in the nervous system that can’t be described because the structure of the brain appears normal. For more information about iCare Home Health services, please visit www.icarehomehealth.com.

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What Is Functional Neurological Disorder (FND)?
FND is a problem in the nervous system that can't be explained because the structure of the brain appears normal. Essentially, FND refers to the malfunctioning of parts of the brain that control muscles and senses. These parts of the brain send incorrect signals to the nervous system, resulting in its symptoms. Symptoms vary in severity, can be persistent or intermittent, and can manifest in a physical, sensory, and/or cognitive form.

Symptoms of FND often occur after a stressful or traumatic event. Other FND triggers include changes in how the brain functions at a structural, cellular, or metabolic level, although what causes these changes can't always be identified.

While FND is listed as a rare disorder, researchers have found that its functional symptoms are often reported by patients with neurological issues, suggesting that it may be more common than believed. It's the second most common reason for neurological outpatient services, after headaches and migraines.

What Are The Risk Factors?
There is no known cause of FND, although factors that increase the risk of developing FND include:

Having a neurological disease or disorder (i.e. migraines, epilepsy)

Having a mental health condition (i.e. anxiety, dissociative disorder)

Recent physical or emotional trauma

History of childhood abuse

Family history of FND

What Are Some Common Symptoms?
While symptoms vary, they can affect the body's movement and function of the senses.

Movement symptoms include:

Weakness or paralysis

Abnormal movement (i.e. tremors)

Loss of balance

Difficulty swallowing

Seizures or episodes of shaking and loss of consciousness

Incidents of unresponsiveness

Sensory symptoms include:

Numbness or loss of sensation

Speech problems (i.e. loss of speech, slurred speech)

Vision problems (i.e. double vision, blindness)

Hearing problems or impairment

How Is FND Diagnosed And Treated?
FND is diagnosed by a medical professional based on the individual's existing symptoms. The evaluation includes a physical exam and a psychiatric exam to rule out other causes for the symptoms.

Treatment options depend on how the symptoms manifest, but doctors often use a variety of treatments, including:

Physical or occupational therapy

Speech therapy

Stress reduction techniques

Cognitive behavioural therapy

Treating other mental health conditions that may worsen FND's symptoms (i.e. anxiety)

Medication

Find Home Care Services And Live In Care At iCare Home Health

April 13 th is FND Awareness Day and iCare Home Health understands the challenges that accompany living with a life-changing neurological disorder. Whether you need help with self-care, getting things done around the house, recreational therapy, or help managing your symptoms and medications, we provide convenient, compassionate, and highly-qualified home care services and recreational therapy to people of all ages. Our services list includes scheduled visits and live in care to ensure that your needs are met. Contact us to find out more and book a consultation.

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Raising Awareness Of Functional Neurological Disorder

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What Is Functional Neurological Disorder (FND)? FND is a problem in the nervous system that can't be explained because the structure of the brain appears normal. Essentially, FND refers to the malfunctioning of parts of the brain that control muscles and ...

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Visit iCare Home Health to get Alzheimer & Dementia Support services at Home. We provide different types of packages, including one specifically for Alzheimer’s and dementia care. Contact at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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Loving Care for the Client and Peace of Mind for the Family

Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementia can be a challenging journey, not only for the person diagnosed but also for their family members and loved ones. Caring for someone with Alzheimer's or Dementia can seem overwhelming at times, but the more information and support you have, the better you can navigate the demanding road ahead and determine the long-term care options that are best suited to you and your loved one. As you come to grips with an Alzheimer's or other Dementia diagnosis, you may be dealing with a whole range of emotions and anxieties. You will be perplexed with the thought of your loved ones well being and how much your life will change. More often than not, emotions such as anger, grief and sadness will surround you. Repetitive sentences, misplaced items and basic concern for their safety will become your prime concern. Adjusting to this new reality is not easy. The more support you have, the better you will be able to help your loved one. iCare's "Alzheimer & Dementia Support at Home" program is tailored specifically to each client. We understand that every situation is different for every client. Through our unique combination of listening and understanding, family feedback and goals, doctor's recommendations and instructions, and the iCare Home Health no charge assessment - we in harmony combine to create a custom Care Plan for our caregivers to follow. Care Plans can include any combination or all of the following services:

Companionship

Mental Stimulation

Expressive Art program (Optional Service)

Physical Stimulation

Monitoring for Safety

Observing, Managing and Redirecting Behaviour

Reporting Behaviour Change to the Family

Meal Preparation

Medication reminders

Laundry

Light Cleaning.

Light house keeping

Grocery Shopping and Errands

Consistent and matched caregiver

In addition to the above services, our Personal Support at Home personal care services can be also added to include:

Daily Essentials morning and Bedtime care

Bathing

Dressing

Incontinence Care and Toileting

Mobility Assistance

Alzheimer's disease and related Dementia can be an overwhelming journey therefore; we have other support resources available to you, in addition to the iCare Home Health team support. We highly recommend for you to consider some of the resources, Check our resources

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Alzheimer & Dementia Support at Home 🔊 Listen to Post Loving Care for the Client and Peace of Mind for the Family Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementia can be a challenging journey, not only for the person diagnosed ...

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The benefits of recreational therapy have been shown to improve reasoning function, overall physical health, and the ability to socialize. Contact at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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Recreation therapy is a type of therapy that uses engaging activities, such as music, sports, or leisure activities, to enhance a person's physical abilities, independence, and overall well-being. This type of therapy benefits seniors and people of all ages recovering from or living with disease or injury. Recreational therapists customize their recreation therapy program based on the patient's needs, making it a valuable part of the patient's overall rehabilitation and treatment plan. Recreational therapeutic activities can take place in an in-patient medical facility, or at-home with the assistance of a home health care professional.

The benefits of recreational therapy have been shown to improve cognitive function, overall physical health, and the ability to socialize. These benefits have been show to support the patient's recovery and improve their quality of life.

Recreation Therapy Offers A Unique Type Of Support

When a patient engages in recreational therapy, their mood is almost always improved. It also produces other benefits that support improvements their overall well-being, such as:

Increased cooperation.

Return of appetite.

Stronger immune system.

Improved conversational skills.

Increased attention span.

Reduced insomnia or difficulty sleeping.

Better body image perception.

One of the greatest benefits of recreational therapy is that it focuses on activities that people can do, regardless of their age or limitations, and encourages fun and play. As a result, feelings of isolation are reduced, and friendships and supportive bonds are created. Group therapeutic recreational activities also allow patients to develop kinships with those who are in the same stage of life or are dealing with the similar challenges. Individual therapy focuses on activities that spark joy. Both group and individual recreational therapy help improve emotional health and self-worth.

Ready To Learn More About Recreational Therapy?

If you think that adding recreational therapy to your loved one's care is a good idea, begin by researching the options available in your area. For example, you will find that reputable home care in Mississauga, Burlington, and Oakville have services that will work for you.

It's important to know that your loved one will notice the most benefits from recreational therapy when the program is tailored to their unique needs. When considering recreation therapy, find out what process is used to determine which recreation activities will be used as part of therapy. The therapist should work to understand their clients' interests and passions, and include some of those activities as part of their therapy.

As a home care provider in the Mississauga, Milton, Burlington, and Oakville area, iCare Home Health's recreation therapists can support seniors and people of all ages dealing with illness or injury. Find out more about our therapeutic recreation at home program by calling us at 905-491-6941 or by scheduling a free needs assessment.

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What Are The Benefits Of Recreational Therapy?

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Recreation therapy is a type of therapy that uses engaging activities, such as music, sports, or leisure activities, to enhance a person's physical abilities, independence, and overall well-being. This type of therapy benefits seniors and people of all ages recovering ...

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Recognize The Early Warning Signs Of Glaucoma

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Recognize The Early Warning Signs Of Glaucoma

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Glaucoma is currently the second leading cause of blindness. iCare Support of home health care or premier homecare services, you don’t have to face glaucoma alone. Contact at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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Glaucoma refers to damage to the eye's optic nerve, leading to vision loss and possible blindness. Damage to the optic nerve occurs when the valve that regulates our natural eye fluid malfunctions, resulting in increased pressure in the eye. Unfortunately, the onset of glaucoma is painless and gradual, and vision usually seems normal as the damage is occurring. As a result, glaucoma can lead to blindness, as too much irreversible damage is done before a diagnosis is made. Glaucoma is currently the second leading cause of blindness.

While the disease can affect people of any age, including children, seniors are at greater risk for glaucoma and should pay close attention to symptoms and risk factors. Glaucoma tends to be hereditary and most frequently occurs in people over the age of 60.

Glaucoma Risk Factors:

Being over the age of 60.

Family history of glaucoma.

Nearsightedness (myopia).

Having a previous eye injury.

Low blood pressure.

Long-term exposure to steroid medications, like cortisone or prednisone.

Warning Signs To Watch For

Even if you don't have any of the risk factors for glaucoma, all seniors should be aware of the early warning signs and see an optometrist regularly. If you experience any of the following signs or symptoms, make an appointment with your optometrist as soon as possible.

Loss of peripheral or side vision. This is typically the first sign of vision loss due to glaucoma.

Seeing halos or rainbow coloured circles around lights.

Sudden vision loss.

Redness in the eye, accompanied by pain.

Cloudy looking eyes.

Nausea or vomiting as a result of severe eye pain.

Pain in the eye and in the head.

Narrowing of vision (tunnel vision).

The best way to prevent and minimize glaucoma is by knowing whether you or your loved ones are at an increased risk of the disease, and by vigilantly watching for warning signs. If you're at a high risk, you should also get a complete eye exam every year so your optometrist can closely monitor your eye health and look for signs and symptoms.

Common Types Of Glaucoma In Seniors

Here are the types of glaucoma that are more commonly diagnosed among elder adults:

Open-angle glaucoma: The most common type of glaucoma, which results in a slow, painless loss of peripheral vision.

Angle-closure glaucoma: This type causes the field of vision slowly and imperceptibly narrow, causing peripheral vision to deteriorate.

Normal-tension glaucoma: A challenging type to detect as the intraocular pressure is within normal parameters. Scientists are not sure what causes of this type of glaucoma.

Living With Glaucoma

There is currently no cure for glaucoma, however, it can be controlled with medications (usually eye drops) and surgery. It is essential that glaucoma medication be taken exactly as prescribed and that the patient attends an annual follow up exam.

Often, seniors will need help with eye drops because of a tremor or fine motor control issues. They may also struggle to remember to take their medication each day. Additionally, because vision loss caused by glaucoma is permanent, affected seniors will need help physically and emotionally adjusting to their vision loss.

Support From Professional Home Health Care Services

While many seniors have support from a personal network of family and friends, it's okay to reach out for more professional support. With the support of home health care or premier homecare services, you don't have to face glaucoma alone-we're here to help! iCare Home Health's premier homecare services supports seniors in Milton, Burlington, Oakville, and Mississauga. We would be happy to conduct a free assessment and give you more information on how our services can help. Contact us today to get started.

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How To Recognize The Early Warning Signs Of Glaucoma

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Glaucoma refers to damage to the eye's optic nerve, leading to vision loss and possible blindness. Damage to the optic nerve occurs when the valve that regulates our natural eye fluid malfunctions, resulting in increased pressure in the eye. Unfortunately, ...

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Autism is a complex developmental disorder that is typically diagnosed in childhood. iCare offers Home Care Assistance in Oakville of professional support for families with an autistic child. Contact at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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Autism is a complex neurobiological and developmental disorder that is typically diagnosed in childhood, but can be diagnosed at any age. The most commonly recognized characteristics of autism include an impaired ability to communicate and relate to others socially, a restricted range of activities, and repetitive behaviours, such as following very specific routines.

It can be helpful to use activities to help an autistic child create a bridge to their environment and people they interact with. There are many activity options that can increase social skills, while also helping to strengthen the bond between the child and those around him. Since each autistic child is unique, it is a good idea to try a variety of activities and see which ones help your child focus and engage. The help of premier home care services, therapists, and other specialists who work with autistic children can be a great resource when it comes to learning which activities may be most helpful.

Three Types Of Activities To Try With An Autistic Child

It can be challenging to connect with an autistic child, but working on therapy and educational goals doesn't have to be a struggle. With some planning and research, you can create engaging sessions that look and feel like playtime for children of any age.

Try the activities suggested below and see which one resonates most with your child.
Sensory Activities
Sensory play creates open-ended opportunities. These type of activities allow random objects and textures to be included with no set agenda for how they are played with. Sensory activities can change how sensations are processed by the brain, which can make it easier for children with autism to participate in everyday tasks. Filling bins with rice, beans, or sand is a good way to start. Sensory play can also be structured to include things like sorting leaf shapes for counting, lining up twigs in size order, or creating shapes with stones.
Visual Games
Using visual cues is sometimes easier for autistic children. In order to help them improve their focus and ability to following direction, try some visual games such as "I spy". Another effective game to try is to have the child draw a large circle on a piece of paper. Demonstrate a variety of emotions through your facial expressions and then have the child draw the face you are making. Assist them in labeling the emotions, like happy, sad, or angry.
Physical Activities
Physical activities can be more challenging for children with autism due to limited motor function and increased stimuli that often occurs during exercise or sports. However, research has shown that physical activities can improve negative behaviours in autistic children, as well as improve their balance, flexibility and agility - making it easier for them to participate in other life activities. Helpful activities include:

Find The Right Support To Help

Every child with autism is different, so include activities that involve their likes and dislikes in order to make your time together successful. Autistic children often need extra support in order to help them learn and feel comfortable in the world around them. Premier home care services or other forms of professional support can be an excellent option for families with an autistic child. It can be difficult for the parents of autistic children to have the time or expertise to prepare and deliver beneficial activities, so seeking out assistance is recommended.

iCare Home Health is here to help. With services such as recreation therapy, personal support at home, and much more, we'd be pleased to complete a complimentary assessment and let you know how we can support your family. Contact us to find out how we can help you

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Autism is a complex neurobiological and developmental disorder that is typically diagnosed in childhood, but can be diagnosed at any age. The most commonly recognized characteristics of autism include an impaired ability to communicate and relate to others socially, a ...

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Strokes are very common among seniors!  Here are a few things you can do after your loved one suffered a stroke to help with rehabilitation and recovery. Contact at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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iCare Home Health is committed to providing premier home care and give a tips for how to care for seniors’ mental health into your home. Contact at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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Over the last decade, mental health has become a much bigger part of the conversation when it comes to an individual's overall health and wellness. This positive recognition has allowed mental health diagnosis, treatments, and therapies to become more accepted and accessible. While this change is important for people of all ages, caregivers need to be particularly diligent when watching for mental health changes in senior loved ones.

Aging brings new challenges and issues when it comes to mental health. Triggered by isolation, loss, illness, or medical diagnosis, many elderly need assistance and support in coping with major changes that can leave them feeling overwhelmed or depressed. Thankfully, there are many types of support available, and connecting with a local health care agency can help you find resources to address concerns.

Mental Health Signs To Watch For In Seniors

It can be challenging to recognize mental health concerns in seniors due to other medical conditions or disabilities. Some of the most common signs of mental illnesses that your loved one may exhibit are:

Inability to focus on tasks or conversations

Lack of motivation to participate in activities they previously enjoyed

Low energy and difficulty getting out of bed

Feeling overwhelming or continued sadness

Aches and pains that don't seem to get better with rest and recuperation

Sweating or feeling dizzy

Insomnia

Drastic change in personality

Ignoring personal hygiene or cleaning around the home

Noticeable change in appetite

What You Should Do To Support Positive Mental Health

Recognizing that your senior loved one may be dealing with mental illness is hard. While it can be challenging to broach the subject with both your loved one and a doctor, the risks of ignoring their mental health and not seeking proper treatment are far greater. Untreated mental health conditions can lead to deteriorating physical health, as those that are suffering mentally may ignore medication requirements, stop exercising or being active, practice poor nutrition and sleep poorly.

In order to support positive mental health in seniors, caregivers should be prepared to do the following:

It may take quite a while for a senior to accept that they are having mental health issues. Be sure to discuss your concerns when you are both calm and be prepared to encounter resistance. Accepting help may seem like giving up their independence, but in reality, getting professional help usually increases their ability to live a normal life. It may just take some time for them to recognize that.

Even the most devoted caregivers will have a hard time being able to meet a senior's needs all the time. And caregivers need to be able to care for themselves too! Senior home care in Mississauga may be the solution you need. Whether you choose a Friend At Home or a Personal Support At Home program, professional caregivers can help engage seniors and encourage them to build relationships and remain engaged in activities they enjoy.

When dealing with or recovering from mental health challenges, everyday tasks can be too much to handle. In addition to seeking out senior home care, you can also rely on things like grocery or meal delivery services or a cleaning service to help your loved one feel like common tasks are more manageable.

It all comes down to making sure that seniors feel connected and supported as they age. iCare Home Health is committed to providing premier home care and will only bring the most caring and professional people into your home. Watching your parents or other loved ones age can be stressful, but you don't have to handle it alone. Contact iCare Home Health to find out more about our services and support options.

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Over the last decade, mental health has become a much bigger part of the conversation when it comes to an individual's overall health and wellness. This positive recognition has allowed mental health diagnosis, treatments, and therapies to become more accepted ...

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iCare elder home health care is proud to broadcast the public introduction of their Health Espresso app for Android. Our home care assistance can help your loved one lead a healthier and happier lifestyle. Visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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iCare Home Health offer several tips on how to reduce the isolation your Elder Care Home Health loved ones may experience. iCare Home Health provides a wide range of Premier Home Care Services contact at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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As the Canadian population continues to age, so does the number of seniors who experience isolation. Unfortunately, loneliness and social isolation are quite common and can have a very large impact on both physical and mental health. With services designed to provide various levels of support, iCare Home Health works with seniors in Mississauga, Oakville and Milton, and can offer several tips on how to reduce the isolation your elderly loved ones may experience.

Seniors who are able to remain socially active and participate in outings and activities will most likely live healthier and happier lives. Isolation may begin due to several different factors such as retirement, loss of family members or friends, an increased likelihood to live alone, or poor health.

4 Ways to Reduce Senior Isolation

As people age, it is normal to need more assistance with daily tasks. While this change is not uncommon, it can feel overwhelming or depressing to individuals who consider themselves independent. Some seniors may avoid asking for help out of embarrassment or to avoid feeling like a burden, but their avoidance often leads to feelings of isolation. Be sure to check with home health services in Mississauga or your local area to learn more about what options exist to increase social interaction and activity for your senior loved one.

Here are a few ways you can reduce social isolation for seniors.

Lack of options and access to transportation is one of the biggest causes of a social isolation. When seniors reach the milestone where they can no longer drive, they absolutely need help to be able to get around and continue to participate in activities that they enjoy. Ensuring access to public transportation, using an at home health care service like 'friend at home', or having family close by to offer rides will help seniors maintain social connections and a sense of independence.

Encourage Regular Medical Appointments.

Encourage seniors to have their hearing and vision checked regularly. If they are having a hard time hearing or seeing during regular social interactions, they may feel embarrassed and less likely to continue participating in such activities. Similarly, issues like incontinence or mobility issues left unsupported are other common causes of seniors starting to isolate themselves from others.

Adaptive technologies, like walkers and hearing aids, help seniors compensate for age related deficits that can impede social interaction. In addition, tablets and computers can give seniors access to games and books, as well as an easy way to stay in contact with friends and loved ones.

From playing bridge or staying involved in their place of worship, encourage your senior loved ones to keep up with their hobbies and interests. Help them find regularly scheduled activities to participate in, either through community or senior groups or through church. Not only will they get regular opportunities for social interaction, but they will also become part of a community that can help support them and watch for any signs or mental or physical decline.

Finding Support for Seniors

It is so important to ensure that a senior's health is not negatively impacted by isolation. Being a caregiver is a big responsibility and if you need help to ensure that your senior loved one has companionship, outings, and independence, it may be time to find out more about home care assistance in the Oakville or Mississauga area. iCare Home Health provides a wide range of premier health care services that can enrich the lives of seniors and help them continue to thrive. Contact us for a free assessment and to learn more about working together to improve quality of life.

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As the Canadian population continues to age, so does the number of seniors who experience isolation. Unfortunately, loneliness and social isolation are quite common and can have a very large impact on both physical and mental health. With services designed ...

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Home Care Services for Your Aging Parents

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Home Care Services for Your Aging Parents

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Be the Light for a senior this Holiday Season

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Be the Light for a senior this Holiday Season

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Are you looking for premier home care service for your loved one? Visit a seniors centre or hospital, iCare Home Health offer homecare services. Contact at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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As we enter the month leading up to Christmas I am reminded that there are so many people, not just seniors who are without family or a support group. Christmas for many is a time of loneliness and even depression for some.

There is the pressure to be happy, the expense of buying gifts and extra food, the sadness from the loss of loved ones or even the loss of one's health, and memories of days gone by. We can do our part in brightening the life of someone experiencing this darkness during a time when there is so much light.

Carve out time in your busy schedule to spend time with a senior to listen to their stories about days gone by. There is wisdom in those words that we sometimes miss because we aren't fully present.

Encourage activity. It can stimulate the "feel good" hormones, improve sleep, gets the blood flowing and can stimulate appetite. It doesn't have to be anything strenuous. Take a senior friend or loved one to the mall for a walk, a change in routine and scenery is often all it takes to chase the blues away. An evening drive to see the Christmas lights can brighten anyone's spirits. It's my favorite thing to do during the holiday season!

Find events or programs that your friend or loved one would be interested in attending and share that time with them.

Try to help them keep their Christmas traditions such as sending cards or decorating their homes. For some people this brings great joy this time of year. My Mother has had her apartment decorated since the first of November - whatever makes her happy!

Even if you don't have a senior friend or loved one in your circle, visit a seniors centre or hospital. As hard as it is to believe, short of a home care agency personal support worker appointment, many elderly folks don't have regular visitors. Participate in a Christmas gift program at the local seniors centre or hospital.

The hospital near my home encourages the giving of gifts to seniors who are laid up and don't have family to visit them. It's nice for them to know they are thought of. Some organizations also do Senior Santa gifts where you pick a name and there is a wish list attached. What great fun shopping knowing how much joy that gift will bring someone and for them to know they are thought of by a perfect stranger. Every year I am sure to get on these gift lists. This year a lady named Viola will be the recipient of my gifts of chocolates, hand lotion and a hat, gloves and scarf (as per her request)!

As a caregiver, adult child, spouse or friend of an elder, we have an opportunity this Christmas Season to recognize loneliness and do something about it. It's easy to ignore when it doesn't affect you directly, but by being sensitive to someone else you'll receive your own holiday gift of great value!

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Be the Light for a Senior this Holiday Season...

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As we enter the month leading up to Christmas I am reminded that there are so many people, not just seniors who are without family or a support group. Christmas for many is a time of loneliness and even depression ...

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Multiple Sclerosis in the Elderly Patient

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Multiple Sclerosis in the Elderly Patient

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iCare Home Health offers PSW services in Mississauga. The symptoms of mobility can cause depression in some MS patients. Contact iCare Home Health at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disease of the nervous system that affects the spinal cord and brain. To date, there is no definitive cause of MS, but it's commonly accepted by researchers that MS is an autoimmune disease. While the average age of diagnosis is 28, symptoms can start to appear between the ages of 20-48years. Multiple sclerosis is a challenging disease to properly diagnose and treat, and the range of symptoms leads many to seek out help from a caretaker.
Multiple Sclerosis Symptoms

Vision problems

Balance and coordination difficulties

Physical sensations, such as prickling or numbness

Cognitive and memory issues

Speech impediments

Tremors

Hearing loss

Depression

The disease typically begins with episodic attacks that may eventually become chronic. Initial symptoms include blurred or double vision, red/green colour distortion, and sometimes vision loss in one eye. Progressive MS symptoms may make it difficult for patients to stand or walk, and some patients may experience partial paralysis. While around half of MS patients may experience cognitive and memory issues, these problems are often overlooked. MS patients may also suffer from depression, which requires careful monitoring. However, the progression of symptoms often stabilises as patients get older.
Multiple Sclerosis Treatment
Because there is no known cause for MS, there isn't yet a cure for the disease. However, there are medications that can treat its symptoms and reduce the frequency of MS-related health issues. It's recommended that patients undertake the treatment plan designated by their doctor immediately after being diagnosed.
Long-Term Care
In the late stages of the disease, medication doesn't have as much as an impact on helping manage symptoms. At this stage, some MS patients find a long-term care facility or elder care home health services helpful, although some patients may choose to receive private home care services from a personal support worker (PSW) earlier. MS patients have special needs that are different from the rest of the population, and elder care home health caretakers can help MS patients manage and monitor their symptoms. A PSW agency in Mississauga that provides premier home care services can connect patients with caretakers who can help MS patients with day-to-day tasks, such as bathing, getting dressed, cooking, and cleaning.

The symptoms and loss of mobility can cause depression in some MS patients, especially because patients are often completely mentally alert and desire intellectual stimulation. Caretakers can help MS patients get around and socialize by going on trips to shopping centres, movies, parks, and museums, which can help reduce symptoms of depression. As symptoms advance and mobility is lost, a private care agency i that provides PSW services at home can be an excellent resource to MS patients and their families.

Working with premier home care services in Mississauga, Burlington, and Oakville can help make caring for your loved one an easier task, while reducing the amount of time they spend in the hospital. iCare Home Health offers PSW services in Mississauga in addition to other elder care home health services including companionship and live-in care .

iCare Home Health understands that your loved one wants to maintain their independence for as long as possible while avoiding extended hospital stays. Our caregivers in Mississauga, Burlington, and Oakville are committed to treating our patients with care, respect, and dignity.

Visit our website to find out more or contact us to find out how iCare Home Health's premier home care services can help you.

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Multiple Sclerosis in the Elderly Patient

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Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disease of the nervous system that affects the spinal cord and brain. To date, there is no definitive cause of MS, but it's commonly accepted by researchers that MS is an autoimmune disease. While the ...

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Seniors suffering from dementia may not be able to properly communicate their symptoms. If you need Dementia Care in Mississauga contact iCare Home Health at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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While we are busy looking out for the big threats, the little ones can sneak up on us. Sometimes we become so preoccupied with preparing for large problems that we forget about the small, unexpected ones. And those little problems can be more dangerous.

As anyone involved with elder care can tell you, caregivers must be on constant watch. It is important to be vigilant of such threats as cancer, heart disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, arthritis, and dementia. That is only a partial list. It doesn't even account for more external problems for seniors that include depression, poverty, senior abuse, loneliness, and isolation.

Knowledge and awareness has helped society tackle many of these problems and care for the elderly. However, there are still dangers to seniors that have not received as much attention and can be just as deadly and devastating. One of the biggest threats to seniors is infectious diseases.

Taking many different shapes, infectious diseases can be blamed for one third of all deaths of those over the age of 65. Think about that number: 1 of 3 of everyone over the age of 65 you know will die because of an infectious disease.

A few factors make seniors more prone to infectious diseases. Our immune system naturally weakens as we age. Colds and flus that we would have shaken off when we were younger can leave us bedridden for days in our senior years. Seniors spend more time in doctor's offices, hospitals, and medical centres where they are exposed to more people carrying bacteria and infections. Infections can be misdiagnosed or completely missed with seniors.

The symptoms of a gastrointestinal infection could be mistaken for food poisoning or simply an upset stomach. Seniors suffering from dementia may not be able to properly communicate their symptoms, which can lead to the infection going unchecked and untreated.

Seniors are at risk for many different kinds of infections, but here are the most common:
Influenza
The flu is common and attacks the respiratory system of all ages. Symptoms generally include coughing, runny nose, headache, high fever, and sore throat. Some strains are more dangerous than others, but all are deadlier to the very young and the very old. Seniors are at risk of contracting the infection because of weakened lungs or as a complication of other conditions. Seniors do not always develop the same flu symptoms that others do, which means it can be missed. The best way for a senior to avoid the flu is by getting flu shots and avoiding people who are sick.
Gastrointestinal Infections
Like everything else, our digestive system changes as we age. Strong stomachs become weak. What may be taken as an upset stomach or bad reaction to food may be a serious infection. Some antibiotics can cause a gastrointestinal infection called C. difficile. The best way to avoid these infections is not taking unnecessary antibiotics and practicing good hygiene.

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

UTIs are more common amongst elderly patients than most realize. More susceptible to UTIs because of age-related changes in the body, seniors often contract UTIs from catheters. Symptoms can include pain while urinating and constant need to use the washroom. Most UTIs are easily treated, but can become deadly if not detected.
Skin Infections
The skin weakens and grows less resistant to infections as we age. Ulcers, shingles, MRSA, and foot infections are common in seniors, especially those who are not as mobile or bedridden. Once again, the best defense is vigilance, good hygiene, and proper foot care.

These are only a small number of potential infectious diseases that a senior can contract. The full list is much longer. Taking care of an elderly loved one is tough. It requires patience, time, vigilance, and a strong medical knowledge.

Sometimes, a reliable and trustworthy elder care home health worker can make the difference. iCare Home Health Services will provide a qualified and professional premier home caregivers to come to your loved one's home and give them the care they need and deserve. Whether it is a live-in caregiver, a part-time nurse, or just someone to help around the house, you can trust iCare Home Health, the best provider of premier homecare services in the Greater Toronto Area, to care for your loved one as you would. Contact us today!

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While we are busy looking out for the big threats, the little ones can sneak up on us. Sometimes we become so preoccupied with preparing for large problems that we forget about the small, unexpected ones. And those little problems ...

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Do you need to improve your spine health? iCare Home Health is a premier health care service providing Home care assistance stick with changes that support their health. Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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As we age, it is unavoidable to experience some additional aches and pains. We talked before about the importance of oral health as we age as well as taking care of your brain as a senior, but what about your spine? Your aging spine can be affected by various spinal disorders which can be painful and may limit the enjoyment you get out of life. Is there anything you can do? Thankfully, there is!

If you already suffer from back pain, finding the support of a live-in care provider or home care assistance can really help. Having someone to assist you in completing everyday tasks can alleviate strain and pressure on your spine, and leave you feeling better to participate in the things you enjoy.

Spinal Disorders Common In Seniors

If you are feeling pain and discomfort in your back, chances are that one of these spinal disorders is to be blamed. Make the time to see your healthcare provider help diagnose your issues and create a treatment plan.
Degenerative Discs
Over time, the discs in your spine between your vertebrae get worn down, causing your bones to rub against each other. This can lead to stiffness and intermittent back pain.
Spinal Stenosis
As your discs degenerate, they cause narrowing of the spinal canal. This can cause pressure to develop on your spinal cord and "pinch" your nerves. While stenosis may result in low back pain, it can also cause numbness or weakness in your legs.
Deteriorated Joints - Arthritis
Arthritis is a common problem for many older adults and can occur in the bones that make up your spine.
Osteoporosis
As you age, you lose bone density which can result in osteoporosis. This condition is most common in woman. The bones in your back become frail and fractures can happen easily.

Tips For A Healthy Spine

As much as we might like to, we can't stop the aging process. However, there are many things you can do to support your spine and keep it as healthy as possible. It is a good idea to have a bone density tests done as the results can alert you and your doctor to impending problems that may affect the bones in your spine.

If you have live in care or the support of home caregiver, talk to them about your desire to improve your spine health. Home care assistance can make it easier for seniors to implement and stick with changes that support their health and wellbeing.

Here are some tips on how to support a healthy spine as you age:

Maintain a healthy weight by eating a healthy diet.

Practice good posture.

Exercise on a routine basis including exercises to strengthen your core muscles.

Take precautions to protect yourself from accidental slip and fall injuries.

Talk to your doctor about over-the-counter or prescribed medications for controlling pain and inflammation.

Invest in ergonomic furniture that supports back health - chairs, mattresses, etc.

Avoid lifting objects that are heavier than 25% of your own body weight.

Sometimes it can feel overwhelming when it comes to making sure you are doing the best you can to support your health as you age. Seeking help and support can be a very positive change and can create improvements in quality of life. iCare Home Health is a premier health care service providing elderly care in Burlington, Oakville, Mississauga and surrounding areas. We commit to bringing the most caring people into your home and know that our services can help you continue to live happily and independently. Contact us at (905) 491-6941 to book your free assessment.

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As we age, it is unavoidable to experience some additional aches and pains. We talked before about the importance of oral health as we age as well as taking care of your brain as a senior, but what about your ...

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You can’t stop the aging process, but keep ahead of vision problems. iCare Home Health will provide a licensed and qualified home caregiver in Mississauga. Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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Do you wear glasses? If not yet, you might want to start looking at styles. Depending on your age, you will be wearing them soon enough. Take a look at the number of seniors who wear glasses. That should tell you that our vision changes as we get older- and usually not for the better. But, is there anything you can do about it? Loss of vision is just a symptom of getting older, right? Well...yes....and no. Your vision will change, but how dramatically can depend on a few factors.

Minor Changes

Don't be fooled by the title; all vision changes will play a major role in your life. But, some are more serious than others. Presbyopia is the most common cause of failing vision in adults. Usually starting after 40, presbyopia is the hardening of the lens in your eye. This makes it more difficult to focus. This is not a serious condition as it can be easily corrected with reading glasses or contact lenses. There are surgical options for more serious cases. Another common vision issue associated with age are cataracts. Formed by protein that clumps together on the eye, cataracts will cloud your vision. Cataract surgery is very safe and will usually completely restore vision. Other common age-related eye issues include loss of peripheral vision, inability to see in low light, decreased colour perception, and floaters. For the most part, these issues are linked to aging and difficult to completely avoid. The best solution is to visit the eye doctor regularly and correct the issues as they occur.

Vision-Related Diseases

Some conditions are much more serious and can lead to complete vision loss if not treated. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of vision loss in Canada. Currently, 1.4 million Canadians are living with AMD. AMD occurs when the retina is damaged by outside factors. The most common factor is age. It is difficult to avoid AMD, so the best defense is regular eye exams. If detected early, AMD can be treated with lasers. Another serious eye condition that plagues the elderly is glaucoma. A condition that leads to pressure damaging the eye nerves, glaucoma affects more than 40,000 Canadians. The likelihood of glaucoma increases as you grow older. Once again, regular eye exams will detect disease early. Another thing to consider is diseases and conditions that can indirectly lead to blindness. Most notably, those suffering from diabetes are at risk for diabetic retinopathy. The blood vessels in the eyes being starved of oxygen can lead to blindness. Be vigilant of this if your loved has diabetes.

You can't stop the aging process, but you can keep ahead of vision problems. Early detection means that the problems can be addressed early and before they get out of hand. So, make sure you and your loved one are getting regular eye appointments. It can make all the difference.

Caring for an elderly loved one is a challenge. There is so much to remember, so much to do, and so much to consider. You want them to be safe, but you also want them to be comfortable. That is why home health care or live-in care can be a blessing. iCare Home Health will provide a licensed and qualified home caregiver in Mississauga who will come right to your loved one's home. Whether they need a nurse to help with medication and general caregiving, someone to do light housekeeping, a handyman, or a permanent live-in caregiver, iCare Home Health has what they need. Our services cover a variety of needs. Contact us today and see how we can help you and your loved one.

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Do you wear glasses? If not yet, you might want to start looking at styles. Depending on your age, you will be wearing them soon enough. Take a look at the number of seniors who wear glasses. That should tell ...

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Arthritis can make it difficult for seniors to manage simple tasks. iCare Home Health dealing with many seniors arthritis can remain safely at home. Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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Did you know that the word "arthritis" means "inflamed joint"? As people age, decades of wear and tear on your body can result in inflamed joints. Sometimes past injuries can become the sight of arthritis, but it can also simply be because of normal physical activity that occurs in everyday life. World Arthritis Day happens every October in an effort to raise awareness about the importance of early diagnosis as a way to prevent further joint damage.

There are two main types of arthritis, both of which can appear as we age. Once diagnosed, many seniors find great support through home health care services as they offer numerous elderly care services that can make living with arthritis easier and more comfortable.

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis in elderly people and begins when the tissue that pads the bones in a joint becomes ragged and wears away. In severe cases, all of the tissue in a joint wears away, leaving bones that rub against each. In addition to age, osteoarthritis in the hands or hips may be genetic and osteoarthritis in the knees can be linked with being overweight.

Rheumatoid Arthritis is an autoimmune disease where your body attacks the lining of a joint and leads to inflammation in your joints. People of any age can develop rheumatoid arthritis, and it is more common in women.

Stiff joints upon waking in the morning

Difficulty getting out of bed or into and out of vehicles

Constant or frequently reoccurring aching of knees, hands, hips, neck or lower back

Swelling of the joints in your hands and feet

Increased difficulty moving at a normal pace for daily activities like walking or climbing stairs

Joint pain, even when resting

If you notice any of the following issues, make an appointment to speak with your doctor about arthritis:

How To Care For Seniors With Arthritis

Using a cane and/or medically appointed footwear to reduce the stress on joints.

Finding devices specifically for people with arthritis (easy grip) that can make everyday tasks more manageable.

Talking to your doctor about medication that can help with pain and swelling.

Exercise that focuses on endurance, range of motion and strength can make muscles around the joints stronger.

Acupuncture

Physiotherapy

When someone suffers from arthritis, they struggle with mobility and have difficulty being able to do everyday tasks such as open doors, squeeze bottles or cut food using a knife and fork. The following treatments and recommendations can help those living with arthritis:

Arthritis can make it difficult for seniors to manage simple tasks, but with the right home care assistance or live in care, many seniors dealing with arthritis can remain safely at home and continue to enjoy independent living. iCare Home Health provides home care assistance in Oakville, Burlington, and Mississauga and can meet with you and your loved one to discuss the best options that will provide the support you need. Contact us to get a free assessment of your needs.

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Did you know that the word "arthritis" means "inflamed joint"? As people age, decades of wear and tear on your body can result in inflamed joints. Sometimes past injuries can become the sight of arthritis, but it can also simply ...

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Do you suffer lack of physical activity and high blood pressure? iCare Home Health offer homecare services to help keep their “loved ones” young or old, in their homes. Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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Chances are you know someone who has Diabetes. Canadian statistics show 48% of Seniors over 65 have Diabetes.

Those at risk of developing Diabetes are adults over 40 years of age, heredity (a family member having had the disease), ethnic origin, overweight around the mid section, poor diet, lack of physical activity and high blood pressure.

The common symptoms of Diabetes in Seniors are:

Dry eyes,

Excessive thirst and urination,

Irritability,

Confusion (which can often be mistaken for dementia),

Morning headaches, and

Sleep disturbance.

Poor circulation is a risk for those with high glucose levels for prolonged periods of time. High blood sugar causes vessels to become damaged creating plaque formation restricting blood flow. This then becomes a marker for heart disease, one of the many outcomes from being a Diabetic.

Diabetes can be managed with improved diet such as eliminating processed foods, sugars and carbs like white breads & pastas, consuming more fruits and vegetables, reducing salt.

Quit smoking and moderate use of coffee and alcohol. Caffeine and alcohol are dehydrating which is dangerous for diabetics.

Maintain a healthy body weight for your height, age and gender. Excess weight is a marker for Diabetes related symptoms. Aim for 30 minutes of exercise daily. If exercise isn't a habit, work up from 10 minutes daily to 30 minutes. Get the body moving!

Keep blood sugar balanced to eliminate fluctuations - do this by eating regularly to avoid the ups and downs. If you have ever experienced the shakes from not eating, this is your blood sugar being too low. Letting your body do this too often can put your body in the diabetic state.

Chromium is a trace mineral required by the body that helps to keep the blood sugar stable. It is available in a supplement form. I personally take it when I know I won't be able to eat regularly that day as I am susceptible to low blood sugar.

5 Foods to Always Have on Hand in your Kitchen

1. Beans - a good source of soluble fibre*, slows digestion and keeps blood sugar stable, also a good source of protein

2. Avocado - provides heart friendly omega fats and soluble fibre*

3. Oats - good source of soluble fibre*, lowers blood glucose levels, helps to lower cholesterol and blood pressure - use as a breakfast cereal topped with fruit for a delicious healthy breakfast

4. Brightly Colored Vegetables - high in antioxidants to keep cells healthy, low calorie, provides fibre to promote regularity and balance blood sugar. Good source of insoluable fiber** Reach for deep green veggies - broccoli & spinach, leafy greens like swiss chard, sweet peppers, and beets. Buy frozen if fresh is not available to you. Pass on the white potatoes, carrots and corn as they tend to spike blood sugar.

Opt for sweet potatoes as a substitute to white as they are lower in the Glycemix Index which means they digest more slowly and take longer to raise blood sugar levels.

Aim for 7 servings of vegetables daily. 1 serving = ½ cup cooked or 1 cup of raw. Don't limit yourself to veggies at meal times only. Eat them raw as a snack!
Lesson for today:
*Soluable fiber slows digestion of carbs and binds to cholesterol and fat and removes it from the body.

** Insoluable fiber adds roughage in waste to create bulk in stool and keeps us regular

5. Salmon, Trout or Mackerel - great source of Omega 3s, protein, vitamins and minerals. Fresh is best but canned salmon is also good to have on hand.

It is better to live healthy to prevent disease rather than try to manage it later!

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Chances are you know someone who has Diabetes. Canadian statistics show 48% of Seniors over 65 have Diabetes. Those at risk of developing Diabetes are adults over 40 years of age, heredity (a family member having had the disease), ethnic ...

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Please contact us if you have any questions, Feel free to explore our site and learn why Premier Homecare Services is the right choice. Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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Every situation is personal and requires different types of care. As you research and narrow down your options, it is important to find a caregiver program that fits you and your family. Contact us to get a Free Assessment of your needs and we will get back to you at the earliest.

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Contact Us 🔊 Listen to Post Every situation is personal and requires different types of care. As you research and narrow down your options, it is important to find a caregiver program that fits you and your family. Contact us ...

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iCare Home Health provides a wide range of home health care services including Companion, Personal Support, Nursing and Handyman at Home services. Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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Audio feature elevates iCare Home Health website above its competition. Now, fully accessible to the Print Disabled and Visually Impaired clients, powered by Measure Marketing

Navigating through any website can be challenging for some people. Taking its target audience into consideration, iCare Home Health continuously evaluates the user friendliness and ease of navigation to ensure that it is accessible by all ages and skill sets. Read More "

20160715 - MBOT TV Weekly Recap | What is the app Health Espresso?

Health Espresso is an app that leverages technology to promote prevention by virtually monitoring patient's medication adherence and tracking their body readings to reduce critical health events leading to hospital admissions. It is packed with unique features that facilitate ease and comfort to those who use it. Don't miss the health espresso segment in the MBOT TV Weekly Recap.

Navigator Service Launches to Guide Families and Businesses Through the Medical Maze

For many people, their first encounter with the healthcare system is when crisis strikes. A parent has a stroke, someone in the family is diagnosed with a serious illness or a loved-one has an accident. It's a stressful time and a time when all involved need a helping and reassuring hand to navigate the complexities of the healthcare system. Read More "

Here we Grow Again - Now Serving the Georgetown Ontario Community

iCare Home Health team is pleased to expand its non medical home care services to our new community of Georgetown, Ontario. This small community in the town of Halton Hills of the Regional Municipality of Halton, is situated 60 km west of Toronto and is part of the Greater Toronto Area. "The expansion of our care services to Georgetown aligns iCare Home Health with the coverage areas of Halton Health and the Mississauga Halton CCAC positioning us for the potential of future collaborations where opportunities may arise" says, Tom Ahlin, Vice President, iCare Home Health. Read More "

Here we Grow Again - Toronto...Say Hello to iCare Home Health

iCare Home Health is excited to announce our expansion into the City of Toronto. Being a boutique company with focus on exceptional at home health care and customer service, iCare Home Health has been experiencing a phenomenal growth in at-home services to private homes and senior retirement residences. From its initial start in 2012, iCare Home Health has also successfully expanded its Halton Region service delivery into the Milton, Ontario areas, and is now pleased to be into the Toronto area proper. iCare Home Health has been known to support communities where it serves by fundraising for local hospitals and the Alzheimer Society. The team is looking forward to replicate the same values, service and support in the Toronto areas. Read More "

Veterans Independence Program

The Veterans Independence Program (VIP) is a national home care program provided by Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC). The program was put in place by the Government of Canada to help clients remain healthy and independent in their own homes or communities. Depending on your circumstances and health needs you may qualify for financial assistance to obtain services such as grounds maintenance; housekeeping; personal care; access to nutrition; health and support services provided by a health professional. Read More "

Make your Coffee Count

At iCare Home Health, one of our core values is to "Make a Difference" in everything we do. Our team is passionate about investing in activities that allow us to make a positive difference in our communities and the lives of others. Read More "

Elder Abuse Workshop Series

The CANADIAN COPTIC CENTRE, funded by New Horizons for Seniors Programs, is organizing the first program to identify and address Coptic Seniors challenges in Canada. Read More "

Celebrate Seniors Month 2013 with iCare Home Health Services

June is Seniors' Month in Ontario, and it is a time for seniors, friends, families, and your local community to join in and celebrate! This is an opportunity to celebrate the lives of seniors, their contributions, experience, wisdom and to be an inspiration for upcoming generations. iCare Home Health Services is proud to support Seniors' Month 2013 with an exciting event to celebrate! iCare Home Health prides itself in its "Joie de Vivre" or Joy of Life approach to homecare services and caregiver programs. In addition to our wide range of services, we embrace the Ontario's Action Plan for Seniors, to meets the needs of our clients by:

helping seniors stay healthy and get better access to health care

helping seniors stay active and engaged in all aspects of community life

helping seniors live safely, independently and with dignity

"At iCare Home Health, a core company value is to Make a Difference in everything we do," says Rick Menassa President of iCare Home Health Services. "This includes making our communities a better place to live by making a difference and inspiring moments of optimism, fun and happiness." To celebrate Seniors' Month 2013, iCare Home Health, in collaboration with Sheridan College Elder Research Centre (SERC), is pleased to bring the "Chronicles of Future's Past" photo exhibit to a community location near you. This is a must see inspiring exhibit where a picture will indeed speak a 1000 words The Chronicles of Future's Past Exhibit Sheridan College showcased the works of photographer Jerry Friedman in September 2012 for the first time in Canada. Friedman travelled the globe seeking out "Supercentenarians" (people that have reached the age of 110 and older), taking their photos and incorporating little pieces of their lives into those photos. Jerry Friedman, an award winning photographer, was ono of the very first people to interview so many people and in turn providing insights into health and the aging process. This exhibit has been shown in Tokyo, Amsterdam, Washington, Boston, and New York City as the "Earth's Elders" exhibit, and is comprised of headshots complete with personal stories of each Supercentenarian. "The exhibit celebrates lives well lived, and is ready to inspire people of all ages to embrace a Joie de Vivre approach to life in line with the iCare Home Health approach" says Menassa. The Chronicles of Future's Past is a great outing for families and their loved ones in the Mississauga, Oakville, Burlington and the greater Toronto area (GTA) at large during the month of June. We look forward to seeing you at a community location near you.

June Exhibit Event Locations
The exhibit will be shown in part at the following locations and dates:

June 1-2, 2013: Burlington Gardens Seniors Living, Burlington, ON

June 7, 2013: Sunrise Seniors Living, Burlington, ON

June 3 -7, 2013: Trillium Health Partners - Credit Valley Hospital (Atrium),Mississauga, ON

June 10-14, 2013: Trillium Health Partners - Queensway Health Centre (Atrium),Toronto, ON

June 10-11, 2013: Oakville-Trafalgar Memorial Hospital (Auditorium),Oakville, ON

June 11-27, 1013 Queen Elizabeth Park Community & Cultural Centre (QEPCCC),Oakville, ON.

iCare Home Health would like to acknowledge the efforts of the following professionals that helped bring the exhibit to our communities: Pat Spadafora and the Sheridan Elder Research Centre (SERC) team, Trillium Health Partners, Halton Healthcare, Century Gardens, Sunrise Senior Living and the Town of Oakville. ABOUT iCare Home Health - iCare Home Health is a private boutique home health care company operating in the Mississauga, Oakville, Burlington and Milton communities. iCare Home Health is also a member of the Ontario Home Care Association (OHCA) and provides a wide range of home health care services including Companion, Personal Support, Nursing and Handyman at Home services. In support of the iCare philosophy of "Making a Difference" in our communities, iCare Home Health is active in supporting local hospital fundraising events, and most recently was actively involved in sponsoring community awareness events in support of Seniors' Month. For more information about iCare Home Health services, please visit www.icarehomehealth.ca For media inquiries or to arrange an interview, please contact: iCare Home Health Pubic Relations 905-491-6941 pr@icarehomehealth.ca
October 29, 2012
iCare Home Health Services and AIR MILES® Rewards Go the Extra Mile

Billing itself as a community based home health care provider with a "joie de vivre" (joy of living) approach, iCare Home Health Services helps families in need of a variety of home health care services, including care for the elderly. iCare Home Health, based in Oakville, Ontario services clients in Mississauga, Milton, Burlington, and the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) West. Their services range from "Friend at Home" companion care to full-time "Nurse at Home" nursing assistance to basic "Handyman at Home" work around the house.iCare Home Health provides services for private residences as well as senior's complexes and health care facilities. iCare Home Health is proud to announce that it is Ontario's first AIR MILES® promotional sponsor for Home Health Care Services. iCare clients can receive up to 1000 AIR MILES® Rewards. "We wanted to create an all-in-one destination for families in need of home health care, no matter what their unique needs," said Rick Menassa, President of iCare. "Families dealing with medical illness or aging family members can be overwhelmed with choices. Our goal from the beginning has been to make iCare synonymous with 'peace of mind' for our clients." Finding the perfect caregiver can be a difficult and stressful process. Clients and family members often confess that despite the multitude of health care options available, the process of finding the perfect one is tedious and filled with uncertainty. "We're extremely excited to provide an industry-first AIR MILES® Promotional Sponsor program for our clients. Finding the best home health care services for loved ones is extremely taxing so we're also happy to provide a way for family members and clients to unwind. We've always been dedicated to providing first class services, but now with a first class AIR MILES® program" says Menassa. The local communities that iCare Home Health serves can also benefit from Ontario's first AIR MILES® Rewards Promotional program for Home Health Care. While every situation is different, iCare believes that there is a way in which AIR MILES® Rewards can also be used to support local community hospital fund raising projects. As part of its corporate value of "Making a Difference" in its local communities, iCare Home Health is also working to see how their AIR MILES® Rewards program can find its way back into the communities. "We have had an opportunity to learn about some great community heroes at work responsible for fundraising", says Tom Ahlin Vice President of Operations at iCare. "We learned that equipment in a hospital is all purchased as a result of fundraising. That is something we want to be part of and help." ABOUT iCare Home Health - iCare Home Health is a private boutique home health care company operating in the Mississauga, Oakville, Burlington and Milton communities. iCare Home Health is also a member of the Ontario Home Care Association (OHCA) and provides a wide range of home health care services including Companion, Personal Support, Nursing and Handyman at Home services. In support of the iCare philosophy of "Making a Difference" in our communities, iCare Home Health is active in supporting local hospital fundraising events, and most recently was actively involved in sponsoring community awareness events in support of Seniors' Month. For more information about iCare Home Health services, please visit www.icarehomehealth.ca For media inquiries or to arrange an interview, please contact: iCare Home Health Pubic Relations 905-491-6941 pr@icarehomehealth.ca

Oakville, Ontario "Monday, July 9, 2012" Billing itself as a home health care provider with a "joie de vivre" (joy of living) approach, iCare Home Health Services has just announced the launch of their new web presence at www.icarehomehealth.ca. This site will serve as an online destination for families in need of a variety of home health care services, including care for the elderly. Thank you for visiting our News Room Section. Below is our latest Press Release. To Schedule any media enquiries please contact us at pr@icarehomehealth.ca

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News Room 🔊 Listen to Post Audio feature elevates iCare Home Health website above its competition. Now, fully accessible to the Print Disabled and Visually Impaired clients, powered by Measure Marketing Navigating through any website can be challenging for some ...

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10 Things You Need to Know about Alzheimer’s

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10 Things You Need to Know about Alzheimer’s

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iCare premier home health care agency operates in Mississauga, Burlington, and the entire GTA and provide the best health care directly in the home. Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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. You know about it; you are probably even a little afraid of it. You know that it primarily strikes senior citizens. You know that it destroys connections in the brain that breaks down memories and cognitive abilities. You also know that hundreds of thousands of Canadians live with Alzheimer's disease. But what do you REALLY know about Alzheimer's disease beyond that? Here are 10 important facts about Alzheimer's that you might not know:

1. There are currently 564,000 Canadians who suffer from the disease. The number is expected to rise to 937,000 in the next 15 years. Currently, 1.1 million Canadians are directly or indirectly affected by the disease.

2. A common myth about Alzheimer's is that only seniors can get it. Not true. Though the risk is significantly lower, Alzheimer's can hit anyone at any age. Currently, there are 16,000 Canadians under the age of 65 who suffer from dementia.

3. Women are more at risk. Of the current diagnosed Alzheimer's patients, 65% of them are women. There is no consensus on why this is so.

4. Smoking plays a factor. Outside causes can play a role in development of Alzheimer's. Those who smoke are 45% more at risk to dementia.

5. Alzheimer's is a fatal disease and there is no cure. It starts with memory loss and leads to severe brain damage.

6. Other outside factors for Alzheimer's can be repeated head trauma, high blood pressure, cholesterol, and family history.

7. Alzheimer's disease is deadlier than breast cancer and prostate cancer combined.

8. There is a risk that increased mental and emotional stress can lead to Alzheimer's.

9. There are 25,000 new cases of dementia in Canada every year.

10. Canadians spend $10.4 billion on health care annually for those suffering from Alzheimer's.

For those suffering from Alzheimer's, it is a terrifying and frustrating deal. It can also be difficult for those caring for them as they need to provide daily needs while dealing with the heartbreak of watching a loved one suffer.

The Alzheimer Society provides excellent programs including:

1. family caregiver training on understanding the disease,

2. courses on how to cope and deal with the suffering of a spouse or parent, and,

3. Support groups for family caregivers to learn and support each other and themselves.

Family members of Alzheimer sufferers should be aware of their own burnout rate while caring for their loved one. Seeking Respite Care would give them the break they need to recharge and at the same time, provide the mental and/ or physical stimulation for the Alzheimer sufferer to slow down the disease.

If you are currently caring for a family member suffering from Alzheimer's or dementia, it might be time to consider professional help. A progressive and innovative home health care agency, iCare Home Health offers an unrivaled 1:1 Alzheimer & Dementia specific care programs, with the option of leveraging their unique Expressive Art Program to help raise the client self esteem, offer another mode of self expression among its several benefits. Also check out their Resources page for a brief understanding of the disease, its stages and tips on how to deal with it.

iCare Home Health can offer relief to you and your loved one. The premier home health care agency operates in Mississauga, Burlington, and the entire Greater Toronto area, iCare Home Health will provide the best health care directly in the home. A professional and compassionate health worker will come to your home and provide the care your loved one needs. Contact us today and find out more.

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10 Things You Need to Know about Alzheimer's

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Alzheimer's disease. You know about it; you are probably even a little afraid of it. You know that it primarily strikes senior citizens. You know that it destroys connections in the brain that breaks down memories and cognitive abilities. You ...

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Finally celebrate YOU!  Be good to yourself, services available to provide healthy meals to seniors. iCare Home Health can provide the best elder home health care services. Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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October 1 st is a day to recognize those who have gone before us, experienced things we may never get a chance to and to honor those who have sacrificed many things including their lives for us. Today's older population is living longer and healthier and what a great thing to celebrate!

To give yourself or someone in your care the best possible chance of living a long & healthy life follow these guidelines:

Quit smoking (it goes without saying that smoking shortens lives and can cause illness)

Eat as healthy as possible - eliminate processed foods, sugars and fast food meals.

Keep active both mentally & physically (having a healthy mind & body is key to good health)
To keep your brain sharp:

Drink 1 litre of water daily (keeps organs and the brain hydrated)

Challenge your mind with puzzles, reading and learning something new regularly. Seniors are becoming more tech savvy than ever before!

Maintain a regular sleep schedule

Take fish oil to keep your brain healthy and to maintain heart health

It is very important for seniors to eat healthy and to maintain energy levels. Good nutrition can be a challenge as changes can occur in sense of taste and smell, affecting appetite. If you have difficulty shopping for or preparing nutritious meals, there are services available to provide healthy meals to seniors.

While some degree of memory loss is normal with age, significant memory loss or cognitive decline is not an inevitable part of normal aging. Memory problems can be caused by dehydration, malnutrition or sleep deprivation.

Maintain a healthy weight (helps to prevent diabetes and heart disease)

Practice good hygiene to avoid dental problems and disease

Prevent falls (broken bones or fractures can be difficult for seniors to recover from)

Get regular health check ups - physical, dental and eye to prevent problems from developing

Don't spend money recklessly but enjoy your life with the money you have worked hard for. Enlist someone you trust to help you with finances if you must. Seniors are a target for fraud.

Maintain a positive outlook (having a good mental state of mind is useful in coping with depression from loss and loneliness)

Become a member at your local senior center. Try to spend time with at least one person each day, be it a friend or family member. Being social is good for the mind & spirit.

Volunteer in your community (choose something that brings you joy), attend an event, join a club or take up a new hobby. (not only will this give you sense of purpose, it will challenge the brain and introduce you to new people)

Use the good china! Seniors are classic for saving things for "good" or a "special occasion". Today is a special occasion - don't wait for tomorrow.

Exercise is an important part of good health at any age, however, it is especially important for seniors. Physical activity can boost vitality, help maintain strength and flexibility, improve mental function and reduce health risks and possibly help with chronic pain. Choose an activity you enjoy and start off slow. Simple activities like walking, gardening, tai chi, swimming or yoga for seniors are all excellent choices and easy for most people to do.

Finally.....celebrate YOU! Be good to yourself, you have experienced many things over your lifetime that have shaped who you are, you have earned the right to enjoy your life! Do what makes YOU happy, we only get one chance at this thing called life, make every day count!

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October 1st is a day to recognize those who have gone before us, experienced things we may never get a chance to and to honor those who have sacrificed many things including their lives for us. Today's older population is ...

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iCare Home Health offers various type of Home Care Assistant can support seniors with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias. If you search home caregiver in Mississauga call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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Alzheimer's and Dementia in Elderly

As people age, changes in the brain cause some decline in short-term memory and a slowing down in learning ability. This section deals with changes in the older person's brain, which affect their cognitive powers including:

By being knowledgeable about what is normal and what some of the more common neurological conditions, which inflict the elderly are, you will better understand the reasons for their thoughts and actions. You and caregivers will become familiar with confusion and dementia and recognize the impact these conditions have and they will understand that delirium, dementia and severe memory loss are not part of the normal aging process but are, instead, indicative of degenerative brain disorders, such as Alzheimer's Disease. You will also learn that confusion can be attributed to other causes such as infections and fluctuations in glucose levels. This is important, as often people are too easily (and wrongly) categorized as being "senile".

The aging process causes a number of changes in the nervous system:

confusion

memory shortfalls

forgetfulness

dizziness

slower reflexes

loss of brain cells

decreased hearing and vision

decreased blood supply to brain

slower nerve conduction

slower response and reaction times and

reduced sensitivity to pain

Confusion is a state of unstable awareness, which results in disrupted thoughts and affects decision making. Often orientation is affected in terms of person, place and time. Confusion is not a diagnosis in itself, but rather it is a symptom, which is the reason that assistance or intervention is sought in the first place.

Confusion can be divided into two categories:

Acute Confusion (Delirium)

Chronic Confusion (Dementia)

temporary;

has a fast onset; and,

may be recognizable by a combination of inappropriate behaviors.

hospitalization

emotional & social disruptions

loss of hearing

loss of sight

diseases

infections

medication reactions

physical conditions such as:

nutrition

cardiovascular conditions

changes in urinary functions

changes is body temperature

disoriented regarding person, place or time

inaccurate perceptions

delusions

poor judgment

forgetfulness

difficulty communicating

angry

withdrawn

uncooperative

restless

hyperactive or lethargic

control or reverse the cause of the symptoms

make environment pleasant, comfortable & safe

stopping or changing medications

treat physical ailments which are contributing to confusion

provide glasses &/or hearing aid as required

advise of realities frequently

Dementia is characterized as being:

long-term;

progressive; and,

possibly degenerative.

Dementia is a slow, progressive decline in mental function in which memory, thinking, judgment, and the ability to learn are impaired. Dementia is a much more serious decline in mental ability than confusion is. With time, it becomes worse. Seniors who are aging normally may become forgetful or misplace objects, but those with dementia, may forget entire events. Individuals with dementia have problems conducting regular tasks such as driving, cooking, and handling finances. Dementia progresses at different rates, depending on the cause. Generally it takes from two to ten years before death occurs, which is often attributed to an infection, such as pneumonia.

Alzheimer's Disease

Strokes

Parkinson's Disease

Infections such as AIDS

Drug or alcohol abuse

Head injuries

Cardiac arrest

Huntington's Disease

Multiple Sclerosis

Brain tumors

Syphilis

Conditions that worsen dementia are:

forgetfulness

inability to recognize people places & objects perceptions

difficulty finding & using the right word

difficulty working with numbers

fast and severe range in emotions

changes in personality

worriers become more worried

failure to perform routine tasks

withdrawn

less control over behavior

unable to follow conversations

inability to speak

becoming bed ridden

difficulty swallowing food

Encourage the elderly perdon to lead a healthy lifestyle which includes:

Do one thing at a time i.e. Have the senior complete one task before starting another.

Keep instructions simple and try to ensure senior understands what is wanted.

Tell the senior everything that will happen before it happens, regardless of his/her state of alertness.

Avoid startling the senior.

Pay attention to complaints of hunger, thirst or pain.

If a senior seems agitated, distract him/her by asking a question.

Alzheimer's Disease is the commonest form of dementia. It is a progressive and relentless loss of mental function revolving around memory, language and thought.

The cause is not known but theories are:

chemical deficiencies

genetic factors

body attacks its own immunity system

virus

defective blood vessels in the brain

problems remembering conversations

forgetting where objects have been placed

routine tasks, which require thought, become more difficult

difficulty responding to simple problems

becoming lost in familiar surroundings

difficulty finding the appropriate words

problems paying attention

less responsive

There is no cure but it can be managed by:

medications to:

delay the onset

slow the rate of progression

improve memory, language, attention span & orientation

healthy diet

regular exercise

intellectual stimulation

social interactions

stimulating environment

support groups

Alzheimer's Disease has three stages. Signs and symptoms become more severe with each stage and eventually death occurs.

Stage 1

Individuals in Stage 1 can generally manage their daily activities themselves, but they may require some assistance with organization. Traits common to Stage 1 are:

loss of memory

problems finding the right words

problems exercising good judgment;

problems making good decisions;

becoming lost in familiar places;

problems carrying out multi-task activities;

feeling sad, depressed, & anxious;

avoiding social interactions;

problems remembering appointments, names or recent events; and.

misplacing items

Stage 2

Individuals in Stage 2 may have more problems taking care of themselves, but they can still be involved in their daily care and follow a routine.
Traits common to Stage 2 are:

some assistance needed with their activities of daily living

becoming restless, especially during the evening hours

loss of memory increases - they may not know family or friends

failure to recognize dangers and differentiate between hot and cold

becoming angry or easily upset

need to be reminded to eat

having trouble expressing self and understanding others

some bowel and bladder incontinence; and,

loss of impulse control (e.g. uses foul language, poor table manners, sexually aggressive)

Stage 3

Individuals in Stage 3 usually require complete assistance with daily care.
Traits common to Stage 3 are:

unable to communicate - may grunt or scream

does not recognize self or family members

touching or patting things continuously

sleeping more often

disoriented to person, place and time

cannot sit or walk - becomes confined to bed

total bowel and urinary incontinence

unable to swallow

may have seizures

coma; and,

death.

Aggression

Aggression & combativeness often occur because of restlessness or agitation (e.g. hitting, punching, biting).

do not argue with the individual

remain calm & collected

protect yourself

Delusions

Delusions area false beliefs, even when facts say differently. (e.g. An individual may think he/she is going to be murdered.)

reassure individuals that you will protect them & they are safe

use touch to cam them

distract the individual with some type of activity

Sundowning

Sundowning is the appearance of confusion, and other severely disruptive behavior coupled with inability to remain asleep. It occurs in the late afternoon & evening hours.

make sure their basic needs are looked after (e.g. hunger, toileting, warmth)

provide a calm setting at the end of the day

keep a light on, as many individuals with Alzheimer's Disease may be afraid of the dark.

create a supportive environment by:

providing extra security measures such as posting notes to serve as reminders (e.g. turn stove off);

keeping the environment familiar e.g. don't move furniture around;

establish and maintain a regular daily routine; and,

keeping the client oriented. (e.g clock, calendar, radio, night light);

evaluate home for safety and take corrective actions by:

removing scatter rugs;

storing household cleaners and harmful substances in a safe place;

removing sharp & breakable objects from the environment; and,

using plastic eating and drinking utensils;

provide structure and routine;

schedule low stress activities;

speak slowly and clearly to facilitate their understanding of what is being said;

provide simple explanations on everything said;

research community resources which will benefit the client;

encourage them to share their memories, as long as they can recall them;

plan physical activities, as they will offset disruptive behavior;

encourage mental activities (e.g. reading, crafts, keeping abreast with

Summary

As people grow older, changes in the brain cause some decline in short-term memory and a slowing down in learning ability. There is a general decrease in cognitive powers, which affect the individual's memory, thinking, reasoning, judgment and behaviour. These changes, which occur throughout the nervous system, often cause an individual to become confused.

There are two main types of confusion - acute confusion, also known as "delirium", and chronic confusion, also known as "dementia". They each have distinct characteristics which affect cognitive abilities and behavorial patterns.

The most common form of dementia is "Alzheimer's Disease", for which there is no cure. It is a progressive disease and has three main stages. While it can't be cured, it can be managed.

There are various ways a Home Care Assistant can support seniors with Alzheimer's Disease or other dementias. This would include such measures as maintaining a safe and calm environment, making the senior feel secure and providing ongoing and increasing support with their activities of daily living

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Alzheimer's and Dementia in Seniors 🔊 Listen to Post Alzheimer's and Dementia in Elderly As people age, changes in the brain cause some decline in short-term memory and a slowing down in learning ability. This section deals with changes in ...

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iCare home caregiver in Mississauga are available to provide premier home care services with the support of a Caregiver and home care assistance program. Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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Helping Elders Maintain Their Independence - Is it Time to Offer a Little Help?

The baby boomer generation has changed every age segment it grew into.As the early boomers enter their senior years, the consensus is that they feel younger than their age. While their bodies may not support that notion as it is apparent in rising stats of sport injuries, one thing that is very clear, they share at least one thing with their aging parents: the fierce quest to "maintain their independence". Survey upon survey confirms that most seniors would prefer to Age in Home where they are familiar with their surroundings, hold on to sentimental memories and possibly enjoy a walk with their life long neighbor in their familiar neighbourhood, rather than to be sent to a seniors home. Today's seniors will also tell anyone who is willing to listen that they want to maintain a healthy and happy lifestyle, if only someone can commit to help with elderly care and the little things that they can't do any more. As family, work demands and life pressures rise on baby boomers, the ability to manage their affairs and add those of their parent's maybe an impossibility. The time spent doing chores and caring for elderly parents may deliver opposite results with increased tension between the parties. Letting professional home care agencies handle these affairs so that the time spent with the elderly is better spent in pleasant conversations and/ or activities would relieve the children from the pressure of caring for another house hold, maintain the parents independence and help build long lasting happy moments. Concerns for the elderly revolve around issues such as Safety at Home, Food, Medication and General Care. An independent Caregiver other than a family member will help seniors maintain their independence.

Safety

As the aging process takes its toll, failing eye sight, physical instability, handling electrical or gas fixtures can be safety hazards. A Home Health Caregiver could help handle different situations and ensure that smoke alarms, fire extinguishers and fire blankets are properly serviced. Personal safety alarms that are wearable could be a life saver in case of a fall and wireless remote monitoring is becoming widely available.

Food

The right to choose what to eat is one of the few life delights that any person tends to enjoy. Taking that away could be a sign of independence lost. A Caregiver escorting a senior grocery shopping, or arranging for home delivery and helping unpack the items, prepare some cooked meals would help maintain their independence. Ensuring that expiry dates on food in the fridge are monitored and current would prevent unsavoury food events.

Medication

A regular event in the life of the elderly is taking medication. Checking that prescriptions are not causing new symptoms or side effects is important. With the support of a Caregiver and home care assistance program, this would help monitor the elderly take the right pill at the right time.

General Care

Seniors may enjoy going on a cruise, or a light golf game, but grass cutting and snow shoveling and ensuring that their heating system is in good working order is probably better handled by someone else. A handyman at home on demand will ensure that these chores are looked after while the elderly enjoy better things in life. iCare Home Health caregivers are available to provide home health care services, the relief necessary for the children, the support required for caring for elderly parents to maintain their independence and ensure that those autumn years are spent building more happy memories between generations that are cherished for years to come. From few hours a week to 24/7 support, the iCare Home Health team delivers home care services together and individually for your loved one.

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Time for Home Care 🔊 Listen to Post Helping Elders Maintain Their Independence - Is it Time to Offer a Little Help? The baby boomer generation has changed every age segment it grew into.As the early boomers enter their senior ...

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Consume these 6 Super foods Berries, Nuts; Beans, Green Tea, Flaxseeds and Take good quality fish oil supplement with EHA & DPA helps to reduce inflammation in the body. Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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The subject of Prostate Cancer used to be a taboo subject. Fortunately men aren't shy at discussing this subject any longer and are taking their health more seriously. Many events are promoted to raise money for Prostate Health Awareness. The most recent and popular event is called Movember where men grow facial hair for charity.

The prostate is a walnut sized gland located under the bladder and in front of the rectum. Prostate Cancer is one of the most common forms of Cancer in men with 1 in 7 being affected.

Those at greatest risk are African American males, however, no man is exempt. Family history of the disease is a marker along with increased age, poor diet and a sedentary lifestyle.

Symptoms to be aware of include:

Frequent night time urination (this doesn't always signify Cancer but is something to investigate with your Doctor). This simply could be a symptom of BPH (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia) which is an enlargement of the prostate gland however, it is also not to be ignored

Difficulty in starting & stopping urination

Weak or interrupted urine stream

Painful or burning sensation when urinating

Blood in the urine

There are tests that men can take to detect early prostate cancer - one being a PSA blood test, the other is a digital rectal exam. All men over the age of 50 should at least do the PSA when they get their annual checkups.

To make sure you aren't the 1 in 7, follow these tips for prostate health:

Reduce consumption of red meat & high fat dairy - increase fruits & vegetables and reduce animal products. An excess of animal products increases male hormones and creates acidity in the body which can contribute to Cancer

Remove or greatly reduce processed foods, especially processed meats, breads, pastries etc.

Reduce alcohol & caffeine consumption to not more than 1/day

Take a male glandular formula supplement containing zinc & saw palmetto, vitamin E, C, B, glutamic acid as they all work synergistically to maintain prostate health

Consume soy based foods as soy inhibits the enzyme responsible for tissue enlargement. Soy foods are edamame, tempeh, tofu, soy nuts, miso and soymilk.

Foods high in zinc such as mushrooms, pumpkin seeds, seafood, spinach, and sunflower seeds nourishes the prostate gland and is vital for proper immune function.

Consume these 6 Superfoods:

Berries - they are high in antioxidants which prevent free radical cell damage which contributes to Cancer - eat them raw, put them in salads, oatmeal, yogurt or smoothies

Nuts - fibre and omega fats

Beans - add to salads and replace as a meat protein, high in omega fats to help reduce inflammation, good source of fibre

Green Tea - in addition to prostate health, research shows it can also help to reduce cholesterol and improve memory function

Flaxseeds - essential fatty acids which promote prostate health

Take a good quality fish oil supplement with EHA & DPA - this helps to reduce inflammation in the body. Alternatively, consuming salmon, mackerel, sardines or herring are good sources of omega fatty acids that help lower the risk of Cancer.

Fortunately for those who do find themselves dealing with Prostate Cancer there are treatments available both in conventional and alternative medicine that yields effective results. Early detection is key!

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The subject of Prostate Cancer used to be a taboo subject. Fortunately men aren't shy at discussing this subject any longer and are taking their health more seriously. Many events are promoted to raise money for Prostate Health Awareness. The ...

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This power can take care of heart for your elderly parent at home. iCare Home Health the caregiver would be there to supervise your parent. Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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Never underestimate the power, one person can have while caring for an elderly person at home. Daughter, husband, wife, son...no matter which role, one person can make it possible to keep an elderly relative or friend in his or her own home. That one person has to become a team leader, a parade marshal - a general factotum. You will definitely need help - no one can or should do this job alone - but you alone can truly handle all that comes with caring for an elderly parent at home if you create a new role for yourself as the person who runs your elderly parent's household.

Be very clear - your job description may not involve a lot of physical care giving. Ideally you will have professional caregivers, trained at the appropriate level - and found either through CCAC or through private person care agencies.

The gift of keeping your parent's final years at home comes directly from you and your ability to both find help and to problem solve. Some days it will seem like a new problem arises daily. For example, I was forced to spend several hours last Sunday investigating the merit of various incontinence "briefs", as adult diapers are called, because the "ultra absorbent" one I originally bought for Mom's night time use didn't do the job and Mom wet the bed a few times, poor thing. The local drug store didn't have the product I needed; all it sold were the less absorbent briefs. Instead, I had to go to a store that only sold medical aids in order to find the ultra-absorbent briefs Mom needed. And here's the point: without caregivers at home with Mom, I couldn't have spent the necessary time doing this crucial research.

I organized Mom's home in a way that allowed me to act as the leader of the household. She had caregivers - at the companion level - from 9 am until her bedtime at 9 pm and later round the clock. Mom needed constant supervision because her dementia caused her significant confusion. My job was to visit Mom's home - in my case, a condo on the next level from my own - several times a day to provide social visits and to keep an eye on things. The caregivers reported to me (a good thing because Mom's standard comeback when she was refused more wine was to "fire" the caregiver).

I personally made all of Mom's appointments. Mom appointed me as her Power of Attorney for both Property and Personal Care so that I could take over her banking, bill paying and health care. I prepared a budget for Mom and I ensured her bank balance was healthy enough to cover her expenses. I supervised Mom's meals, ensuring they were tasty and portion appropriate. I set the hours of Mom's housekeeping Angel. And when problems arose, as they did on an almost daily basis, I worked with the caregivers to find solutions.

Often the problem was Mom's behaviour. Her dementia had given rise to a "visitor" I called Mom's "evil twin". When this evil twin took Mom over, she was angry, vindictive, downright mean and spiteful. Putting Mom onto a low but regular dose of Risperdone, an anti-psychotic medication - helped curtail the "evil twin". Still, it made an appearance weekly, usually when the caregivers informed Mom that she had reached the limit of her wine intake. Limiting Mom's alcohol intake was essential, because without the limit, Mom would drink herself into a stupor several times a week. Sometimes, the evil twin arrived without any obvious provocation. Mom would demand that the caregiver "edit her book" or "do her account books" or perform other fictitious tasks. Worse, Mom would demand that the caregiver clean the condo, a job that was definitely not in the caregiver's job description, any more than editing an imaginary book was. When the caregivers refused, Mom hit the roof. She expected absolute compliance and assumed she had absolute authority over her staff. The caregivers knew that I was the one who had hired them, just as they understood what their job entailed, so when Mom made her unreasonable demands, they simply walked away from her. I suggested they go sit in the den for a while in the hopes that the evil twin would depart as Mom sat quietly.

Other behaviours that have required my problem solving skills included Mom's resistance to showering. This is a very common symptom of dementia. Mom would pretend to shower. She would turn the shower on, wait a bit, then turn it off without ever applying soap and water to her body. What gave her away was her dry towel, which hung as usual on the towel rack (when she actually showered, Mom left her towel on the bench for someone else to hang up) I talked to Mom about this pretence, and she informed me that she could no longer hold the hand-held shower nozzle in her badly arthritic hands. I called in the plumber to install a fixed shower head. Problem solved? Nope. Mom became fairly regular about showering, but for a long time refused to wash her hair. I became the chief Nag about her hair washing. Finally, I opted out of my nagging role and I hired a professional in-home hair stylist to wash and set Mom's hair once a week. I wish I had thought of this sooner!

It seemed that problems like these arose weekly - sometimes even daily. I installed a plastic mattress cover to protect Mom's mattress when she wets the bed. I ensured Mom's meat was cut into small pieces to protect her from choking. Choking was an ever present hazard because Mom's throat was so narrow. Once, when Mom bit off a big piece of toast, her caregiver had to perform 15 Heimlich manoeuvre before the toast was dislodged. Mom's legs showed large blood clots, the result of a blocked artery further up her leg. I asked the caregivers to begin to massage both lower legs every night and the clotting problem improved.

I could go on and on, listing the problems I faced. If nothing more, these problems revealed how important it was to have someone in the role of "supervisor" or "team leader" while caring for an elderly parent at home. It was not my job to provide the hands on care Mom needed daily. Those tasks fell to Mom's caregivers.

Someone has to run the household. Someone has to be in charge. And let me tell you: that someone is NOT the elderly parent. Giving this authority to the parent won't work. Unbeknownst to her, Mom was actually declared incompetent to run her affairs last November. How could she run her household when she sometimes didn't even know which house she was in? No, the authority had to rest with an outsider, someone able to look at the whole cloth, rather than having a narrow focus. And this is the "Power of One" I am talking about.

In a nutshell, a family member can certainly care for an elderly parent at home. S/he will need help, and a great deal of it. But it's essential to have just one person in charge. This person had to problem solve, and to carry the necessary authority to oversee a team of caregivers. Ideally, this person should also have a Power of Attorney in order to oversee the parent's financial affairs. In turn, the family member in charge would have to drive the parent to various appointments. In my case, I took Mom on social outings, or to her manicures and pedicures and to medical appointments. Moreover, I made those appointments myself now. I oversaw the grocery shopping, meal preparation, the clothes Mom wears, and even the flowers Mom had planted every Spring. We had a wonderful housekeeping- Angel who needed no supervision as she performed all the housekeeping tasks. But I made sure this Angel was paid regularly, that the caregivers were paid, and that Mom's credit card was paid off monthly... The list went on. I recently organized all Mom's receipts so her accountant could prepare her tax return. I did all Mom's filing too. And yes, I edited Mom's books, but that was in another life, even though Mom sometimes thought she still needed an editor!

As the Team Leader, you will need to remember to take care of yourself along the way. In my case, it was difficult to take a day off, because Mom lived just one floor above me in our condo building. I visited her several times a day, and then noticed that a month or so had gone by without my taking any time off. Caregivers: go for coffee with a friend - the caregiver would be there to supervise your parent. Go to church. Join an interest group. Take a vacation. In short, have a life for yourself outside your caregiving. And for heaven's sake take regular days off! You are no good to your parent if you are a burned out shell of your former self.

The most priceless gift I could give to my mother was the gift of myself. My visits were the highlight of her day. Mom refused most other social intercourse, making my visits doubly important. Mom couldn't follow a conversation on the telephone very well any more, something her regular callers failed to understand. Her arthritic hands had trouble holding a pen, so mail correspondence was out (although I occasionally dictated a letter for Mom. I bought her an iPad so she could follow her email, but she has yet to do this by herself). Outside of the monthly visits by her other daughters, I was it.

This is the Power of One. Take heart in this power. Exercise it wisely, without becoming overbearing or tyrannical. But know that you CAN take care of your elderly parent at home. You are NOT alone. You will have good days and bad days as you run your elderly parent's household. Know - and know this deeply - that you are giving a priceless gift to your parent by fulfilling his or her wish to remain at home. You are the Power of One.

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Never underestimate the power, one person can have while caring for an elderly person at home. Daughter, husband, wife, son...no matter which role, one person can make it possible to keep an elderly relative or friend in his or her ...

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Polycystic Kidney Disease is a genetic disease. If you or your loved one is struggling with any chronic kidney disease iCare Home Health can help you manage your health. Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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September is known for Polycystic Kidney Disease Awareness Day. In September of each year, people in and all across Ontario, are encouraged to learn more about these chronic kidney diseases and to support the challenges faced by people living with them.

While the risk of illness increases with age, research suggests that one of the biggest health concerns for seniors is chronic kidney disease. Chronic kidney disease is a very common clinical problem in elderly patients and is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. As life expectancy continues to improve worldwide, there is a rising prevalence of chronic illness and risk factors, such as hypertension and diabetes, predisposing a high burden of kidney disease in this population.

What causes Polycystic Kidney Disease?

Polycystic Kidney Disease is a genetic disease, caused by an abnormality with one's genes, less commonly develops in people with serious kidney issues. Polycystic Kidney Disease causes cysts to grow inside the kidneys, which basically enlarges the kidney, damaging the tissue that the kidneys are made of.

If you or your loved one is struggling with any chronic kidney disease, a local health care agency in Mississauga, Oakville or Burlington, like iCare Home Health, can help you manage your health from the comfort of your home.

What are the symptoms of polycystic kidney disease?

Though, most people do not develop symptoms associated with this disease, but the first noticeable signs and symptoms may include:

The most common symptom of polycystic kidney disease is high blood pressure, occasionally patients with PKD can experience severe headaches and fatigue as a symptom.

Pain or tenderness in the abdomen

Blood in the urine or frequent urination

Pain or heaviness in the back or sides

Frequent bladder or kidney infections

Urinary tract infection (UTI)

Treatment for polycystic kidney disease

For now, there hasn't been any particular cure for polycystic kidney disease. The treatment simply one can have is, to manage symptoms and avoid complications. As High Blood Pressure is the most common symptom found in the patients, controlling blood pressure is a must. If you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure, you can connect with a premiere health care service, and find out how they can help you manage your diagnosis.

Some of the basic treatment options may include:

Antibiotics to treat UTI

Follow a low-salt, low-fat diet.

Prompt treatment with antibiotics for a bladder or kidney infection

Drinking lots of plain water throughout the day

Avoiding caffeine

Polycystic kidney disease is an inherited disease and is generally passed from parents to children. A genetic disease can happen if one or both parents pass abnormal genes to a child. If any of your family members have been diagnosed with PKD, the best thing you can do for your loved one is to connect with a Mississauga health care agencies.

Agencies that provide Personal Support workers (PSW) like iCare Home Health can provide the best elder home health care and regular visits to ensure you or your loved one receives the highest quality of care. Our caregivers in Mississauga, Burlington, and Oakville are committed to treating our patients with care, respect, and dignity. iCare Home Health is the friendly support you've been searching for. Contact us to learn how we can assist you, and visit our website to find out more.

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September is known for Polycystic Kidney Disease Awareness Day. In September of each year, people in and all across Ontario, are encouraged to learn more about these chronic kidney diseases and to support the challenges faced by people living with ...

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Communication Strategies for Dementia Patients

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Communication Strategies for Dementia Patients

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Do you need premier homecare services for someone who suffers from dementia? iCare provides premier homecare service to support your loved one dealing with dementia. Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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Everyone has been in a situation where they feel misunderstood. It's frustrating! If you are caring for someone who suffers from dementia, remembering a time when you felt that you couldn't express yourself or no one understood you, can be helpful. Patients who suffer from dementia feel that frustration every single day and need your help to make it easier on them. There are many resources in Mississauga and Halton for caregivers providing dementia care. Having live in care or a premier homecare service are other ways to support your loved one dealing with dementia.

However, if you are looking for specific tips on making it easier to communicate with your loved one, there are some simple things you can do to help.

Tips for Improving Communication with Dementia Patients

1. Communication is more than just words. Obviously your words do matter, but it is important to note that your body language, your tone and your pitch actually account for a greater percentage of the message you are trying to relay than your words do. Negative body language that denotes irritation or annoyance can set the communication up to fail right from the start. Be mindful of the way you present yourself.

Use your body to help convey the message. A gentle touch can help the patient feel at ease and help them pay attention to your words and simple gestures like pointing can help a great deal as well. You can also rely on photos or special items to help with communication. A live in care giver has the ability to build a bond with the patient and will have good insight into what gets the patient communicating.

2. Simplify Your Message. These may seem like really obvious things to do, but most people tend to rush conversation and don't take the time to choose their words more carefully. Part of dementia care is taking the time to understand how the patient is being affected by dementia and knowing how to handle them as best you can.

Be specific - instead of using 'he', 'she', refer to people by name.

Don't be condescending but be direct. Use simple words and short sentences.

Break things down. Concentrate on one step or one question at a time, leaving lots of time for the person to answer.

Bring up topics or memories that you know they will connect with and that will make them happy.

3. Environment matters. Limit distractions during communication. That goes for both you and the dementia patient. Turn off any background noise like radios or televisions and try to choose a quiet space to have your interaction. You need to be focused on the conversation so put your phone or any other distractions away. This will lead to more eye contact which can really help keep everyone focused. Engaging a premier homecare service is often the right choice, as it keeps the patient comfortable in their home which can make it easier for them to open up and talk.

4. Be Realistic. In patients suffering from dementia, their ability to speak and engage in conversation will diminish. There will be good days and bad days. You need to remain realistic about their condition and about what you can expect from your interactions. It can be very difficult to deal with dementia patients, so reaching out to resources in the Mississauga area that can support dementia care can really help.

You don't have to handle it all on your own. iCare Home Health is a premier homecare service offering a variety of services that can be customized to support elder care home health needs. Our professional staff would be happy to speak with you and explore support options that will work for you and your loved ones. If you are located in the Mississauga, Oakville, Burlington, Milton or Toronto area and feel like you could use some extra support, give us a call at (905) 491-6941 to find out more.

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Communication Strategies for Dementia Patients

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Everyone has been in a situation where they feel misunderstood. It's frustrating! If you are caring for someone who suffers from dementia, remembering a time when you felt that you couldn't express yourself or no one understood you, can be ...

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iCare Home Health is best care and provides home caregiver in Mississauga to your loved one. If you suspect your loved one might be suffering from hepatitiscall us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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It may be in you right now and you don't even know it. As you read this, a strain of hepatitis may be attacking your liver and breaking down its functions. If left unchecked, hepatitis can lead to health issues, cancer, cirrhosis, and death. We have all heard of hepatitis and some of us have probably even received vaccinations for it before going abroad. But, how much do you really know about the different strains of hepatitis? Time to get educated. Knowledge is power and an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

Hepatitis is a disease that attacks and causes inflammation to the liver. Acute hepatitis is considered a short-term flare-up while chronic hepatitis is prolonged inflammation. Chronic hepatitis can lead to cancer, liver failure, and cirrhosis. The most common forms of hepatitis are:

Hepatitis A: This form of hepatitis is contracted through contaminated food and water. There is no treatment, but it rarely moves past the acute stage and will usually clear up on its own. There is a vaccination for Hepatitis A.

Hepatitis B: This is a sexually -transmitted disease. It is usually chronic and, if left untreated, can lead to cancer. It is usually treated with bed rest, a diet high in protein and carbohydrates, and possibly anti-viral agents. There is a vaccination for Hepatitis C.

Hepatitis C: This form of hepatitis is contracted through direct contact with infected blood. It is chronic and must be treated with anti-viral agents. There is no vaccination. In Canada, Hepatitis C is the leading cause of liver transplants. It is estimated that 220,000 to 245,000 Canadians are living with chronic hepatitis C. Of those infected, 44% are unaware that they have the disease. Hepatitis C is most common in those born from 1955 to 1974.

Symptoms of acute hepatitis are similar to the flu and can include fever, diarrhea, fever, muscle pain, nausea, loss of appetite, and weight loss. If it progresses to chronic hepatitis, symptoms can include circulation problems, dark urine, dizziness, hives, drowsiness, and a yellowing of the skin, tongue, and whites of eyes. Aside from vaccinations, the best way to avoid hepatitis is through cleanliness, safe sex, not sharing needles or razors, careful consumption of alcohol, and vigilance.

If you suspect your loved one might be suffering from hepatitis, get them tested immediately. If they are already living with the disease, it is time to consider home care. Caring for an elderly loved one is already a challenging task. But, when they are suffering from hepatitis, a professional home caregiver can relieve you of the pressure and offer your loved one the care that they really need. iCare Home Health provides premier home care services to Toronto, Mississauga, and the Greater Toronto Area. Offering a variety of services including our Nurse at Home, Personal Support at Home, and Friend at Home packages. iCare Home Health will bring the best care to where your loved one is most comfortable- in their own home. Contact us today to find out how we can help you.

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It may be in you right now and you don't even know it. As you read this, a strain of hepatitis may be attacking your liver and breaking down its functions. If left unchecked, hepatitis can lead to health issues, ...

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iCare Home Health services can support you or your loved one that provides a dementia care in Oakville virtual care giver equipped with voice reminders of medication timings. . Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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I usually use these pages to write about elder care. Today, however, I am appropriating this space to catalogue some of the unhelpful things people have said to me concerning my mother's death. Oh, I realize that no one was deliberately cruel or thoughtless. Death makes many of us pretty uncomfortable.

Please don't tell me that my mother is "in a better place now." There is only one place I want my mom to be and that is with me. I'm grateful she is in heaven, but heaven is far too far away. I miss Mom. I long for her company. For all that heaven is wonderful, I selfishly want her back.

And what's with asking me my mother's age? She was 86 and frankly, attaining that age didn't suddenly make her eligible or qualified for death. My mother could have been 96 and still been far too young to die. Of course I agree that someone dying at the age of 26 is a tragedy. But death is still terribly sad, even when the person is deemed by others to be "old enough" to die. Yes, I'm glad my mother had a long life. I just wish it could have been longer.

Don't tell me "you know I feel". You don't. You might be able to imagine my response to my mother's death. You might even remember how you felt when your own mother died. But in this day and age of enlightened pop psychology, you should know better than to tell me you KNOW all about my feelings in this matter.

For the love of heaven, please don't tell me to "keep my chin up, dear." I'm being just as brave as I can be. But there are days when I wonder if I'll get the gumption to get out of bed in the morning. Telling me to be brave means you think I'm somehow failing if I cry. And here is nothing at all shameful about my tears. Tell me: how long am I permitted to be sad in your opinion? Not long, to be sure, given that I was told this the day after my mother died.

I don't want to give the impression that no one has helped me, because I've been extraordinarily blessed with wonderful support. The number of my friends who came to the memorial service astounded me. I saw face after face I knew in the congregation, and my friends' presence brought me tremendous comfort. I've received cards and gifts of food. I was given a sweet glass angel holding a butterfly. People have asked me to go for coffee (or wine) and made it very clear I could talk about Mom and her death all I wanted. One friend volunteered to do some photocopying for me, to help me with a training class I'm soon to give. Another offered to bring a snack to a home church session I was leading so I didn't have to do both. A dear friend who lives a distance away from me has been sending me regular emails. There have been phone calls from my sisters and from friends. And I was given a wonderful book on grief that has helped me tremendously. Thoughtful and kind, these people are helping me.

The people who have said the unhelpful things are thoughtful and kind too. They are simply repeating things that people usually say when a death occurs. I'd like to stop such utterances, or at least explain why they rub me the wrong way. But I worry that this particular train is way down the track.

There is a simple guideline that can determine whether or not you are saying something helpful to the bereaved person: does what you say make YOU feel better or does it make the bereaved person feel better? All the difficult phrases seem to represent quick fixes to the dark problem of grief. They all shorten - or end - the conversation about how the bereaved person feels. And they all hint at the person's strong desire to change the subject. "Stop whining," they in reality are saying! "She's in a better place." Don't argue with "God's will". "Your mother was 86! That's plenty old enough to die. What did you expect?" Yes, they are very effective at ending an uncomfortable conversation.

The rest of the world allocates only a very brief time for grief; two, three days, tops. After someone dies we necessarily sidestep the world for a time. The only trouble with this is that the world soon picks up its pace again, and it expects us to follow. We struggle to resume speed, long before we are ready to do so.

I am learning that grief is a circle we have to follow around and around, locked in grooves whose edges seem like walls hemming us in. I've been uncharacteristically absent minded - no, dough brained - forgetting some appointments or showing up way too early for others. Tears hit me out of left field. I was numb for a long time. I haven't had a decent night's sleep since Mom died. All of these are perfectly normal responses to death. What helps me more than anything is to remember my beloved mother as she was - a strong, spunky, determined woman who is now discovering the tremendous love of her heavenly Father. I imagine her joy and I feel a tender happiness welling up in me.

But, oh God, how I miss her. And the missing still carries a sense of unbelief that someone so important to me can possibly be gone. The careless comments are sharp barbs whose sting is lessened when I remember that the people who said them were genuinely trying to be helpful. I understand that. It's much more important to remember the sacrificial giving and the sweet, tender care of my friends and sisters.

And so I do....

"When bad things happen, people don't need platitudes and cliches. They need to be able to lean on each other and support one another." - Kenneth C. Haugk, "Don't Sing Songs To A Heavy Heart".

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I usually use these pages to write about elder care. Today, however, I am appropriating this space to catalogue some of the unhelpful things people have said to me concerning my mother's death. Oh, I realize that no one was ...

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Remote Patient Monitoring Could Improve Quality of Life for Patients

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Remote Patient Monitoring Could Improve Quality of Life for Patients

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iCare Home Health offers a wide variety of premier homecare services and  support services for elder care home health in Milton, Mississauga, Oakville and Burlington. Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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While there are elements in the Canadian health care system that still require improvement, there has been considerable innovation and technology advancements that are making a positive impact on quality of life and overall patient care. The increase in health care technology is allowing more seniors to remain comfortably and safely in their homes. Premier Home Care Services or live in care services are able to offer even more support to seniors living at home as they can increasingly access the right information to support and provide guidance for medical conditions.

One of the innovative technologies receiving a lot of attention is remote patient monitoring. This technology has the ability to offer multiple benefits to patients, doctors and nurses in addition to the entire health care system.

Top Benefits Of Remote Patient Monitoring Technology

Remote patient monitoring devices can deliver high quality care with lower risk. The most commonly used application of patient monitoring devices include managing diabetes, monitoring blood pressure, reducing risk of heart failure and managing chronic disease. Some of the most impressive benefits derived from remote patient monitoring include:

Accessible medical information at the touch of a tablet or specialized device allowing health care providers to monitor changes and coach patients on how to manage them before it requires a trip to the emergency room or hospital readmission.

Reduction in hospital admissions resulting in an average savings per-participant, $1,100/ day.

The ability to have multiple doctors quickly evaluate a condition from various remote locations.

Reduced travel and wait time, which is especially beneficial for elder care

Very high positive patient feedback due to patients being able to remain in the care of an at home nurse who helped them manage and understand their condition using the information received from remote patient monitoring devices.

Using Remote Patient Monitoring To Support Home Care Assistance

In the last decade, there has been an increase in seniors choosing to remain at home and seek out either live in care or home care assistance as opposed to moving into a nursing or retirement home. It is with the continued development of tools such as remote patient monitoring that it will become even easier for seniors to keep their independence - a factor that has a huge impact on their overall happiness and quality of life.

iCare Home Health is an innovative, boutique home healthcare agency that offers a wide variety of support services for seniors living in Milton, Mississauga, Oakville and the Burlington area. We support the use of technology to empower and engage seniors in their care. To find out more about how iCare Home Health services can support you or your loved one, contact us for a free assessment of your needs. You can also visit our website to learn more about Health Espresso, our digital tool that provides a virtual care giver equipped with voice reminders of medication timings, doctor's appointments, and health related notification.

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Remote Patient Monitoring Could Improve Quality of Life for Patients

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While there are elements in the Canadian health care system that still require improvement, there has been considerable innovation and technology advancements that are making a positive impact on quality of life and overall patient care. The increase in health ...

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iCare Home Health will provide premier home care services to your loved one serving Oakville, Burlington, Mississauga, and Toronto. Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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Sometimes we need to talk about the things in the dark we would rather ignore. As June recognizes World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD), it is important to take the time to address a problem in our society that does not often receive the attention it deserves: elder abuse.

In Canada, one third of all people accused of violent crimes against people 65 and over was related to the victim. The actual number is higher as victims will not always report the crime. Some seniors are not fully aware of the abuse taking place; others might not report for cultural reasons; others do not want their loved ones going to jail; finally, some seniors are just scared.

Forms of abuse that are common against seniors include: physical, sexual, and emotional. Financial abuse, the stealing or misappropriation of money or property is another form of elder abuse. This can often be committed by the person acting with the power of attorney. Neglect, the denial of basic human needs, is also a form of abuse. Finally, seniors can sometimes be denied life choices which would be a violation of their rights and freedoms.
Warning Signs of Abuse
If the victims aren't sounding an alarm, it can be difficult to know abuse is taking place. But, there can be some tell-tale signs if you are looking closely.

Physical abuse can usually be the easiest kind to spot. Any lacerations, marks, or bruising that cannot be properly explained may be an indicator especially if they are in an unusually place like the face, chest, or extremities. Seniors are prone to falling down, but if the injuries are consistent then there may be another factor. Unexplained and constant "accidents" that result in broken bones and bleeding can also be a sign.

Emotional abuse can be revealed by the way someone speaks to a senior. If an individual is verbally cruel or insulting to a loved one in the company of others, then how do think they might act if no one is watching. Pay attention to how the senior reacts to the person. Are they frightened? Does their behaviour change when this person is around? If so, abuse may be taking place.

Neglect is another form of abuse that can be easy to spot. Is the senior inexplicably losing weight? Do they look like they are being fed enough? Are they receiving medicine that is necessary for them? Are they attending regular doctor appointments?

What To Do
Unless the victim is in immediate danger, do NOT confront the abuser. It could make things much worse and allow the accused time to cover their tracks. If possible, speak to the senior to get a better understanding of the situation. If this cannot happen, contact the proper authorities. Trust your instincts; if something feels wrong, it usually is.

It is important to care for our loved ones and give them the help they may need. They should feel comfortable in their own homes. That's why you should consider iCare Home Health. Serving Oakville, Burlington, Mississauga, and Toronto, iCare Home Health will provide premier home care to your loved one. Our packages include meal preparation, medicine maintenance, general care needs, dementia and Alzheimer care, and live-in caregivers. Contact us today to find how we can provide service for your loved one.

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Sometimes we need to talk about the things in the dark we would rather ignore. As June recognizes World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD), it is important to take the time to address a problem in our society that does ...

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Increasing your heart rate through exercise will help to control blood pressure.iCare Personal Support at Home caregiver services may be provided on an hourly basis. Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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As we age, staying active typically becomes less of a priority, however that's when it is more important than ever. Research shows that regular exercise can ward off strokes, prevent falls, and improve your memory! The National Institute on Aging found that even moderate exercise increased the size of the hippocampus which is the part of the brain that plays a role in memory.

Staying fit comes down to you and your comfort level. If you were a champion tennis player in your earlier years you may still be able to play just not at the level you once did. There is no such thing as being too old to exercise!

Being sedentary is unhealthy at any age but more so for the senior population. To make sure you can stay active and remain safe while doing so, follow these tips:

Pay attention to your body: Be aware of pain or stiffness in joints or muscles and move accordingly, do what you can and don't risk injury

Always warm up before exercise: it is important at any age to warm up before any exercise to get the blood flowing to muscles to avoid injury. Warming up can be a brisk walk, gentle stretching or walking on a treadmill. Also cool down at the end of exercise to slowly decrease your heart rate.

Drink plenty of water: Staying hydrated is always important and especially on hot days. Seniors didn't grow up with a water bottle attached to their bodies like we do today, but it is vital to keep the body hydrated.

Use proper equipment: Always wear a helmet when cycling and comfortable, lace up or Velcro fastening shoes when doing anything else. Avoid injury.

If at first you don't succeed: Try again! If you discover that bowling hurts your back for instance, don't give up, find something else that keeps your body moving and is less strenuous. Maybe walking is more suited to your ability.

A good rule to follow to measure intensity: If you can comfortably carry on a conversation during exercise you aren't working hard enough, if you are gasping for air, you are working too hard.

Some ideas of exercises to help keep your body mobile:

Yoga or Pilates: Senior centres, local gyms and community centres offer these types of classes, they are beneficial for stretching and staying flexible. However, you don't need to go out to do simple stretches every day. The safest way to stretch is to sit or lay down, especially if your balance tends to be unstable.

Strength exercises: strong muscles are important for daily living - even for the simplest of tasks like getting out of bed, or carrying groceries. Try to perform strength exercises on all of your major muscle groups at least twice a week for 30-60 minutes each time. Start with light weights and move up as you gain strength. Simple exercises such as a push up against a wall with the weight of your body is enough to build strength in your arms if done on a regular basis. For legs, try sitting in a chair or lay flat then lift your leg up and down in a series of repetition to build the muscles. Be sure to do what is comfortable for you and avoid injury.

Aerobic Exercises: getting your heart rate up can benefit your entire body and make it easier to perform every day activities. Increasing your heart rate through exercise will help to control blood pressure, increase stamina and energy and contributes to bone strength. Simple cardio exercises such as walking, swimming (also helps to ease joint strain), cycling and more ambitious seniors may enjoy hiking (always wear proper footwear!) and jogging.

Exercising with a friend or in a group can increase motivation and build a social network. Always consult with your Doctor when planning a new exercise regimen if you have a medical condition.

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As we age, staying active typically becomes less of a priority, however that's when it is more important than ever. Research shows that regular exercise can ward off strokes, prevent falls, and improve your memory! The National Institute on Aging ...

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iCare Home Health Services offer home health care in Mississauga to help keep their “loved ones” in their homes while they recuperate from injury. Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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Last month, I wrote about travelling with elderly parents. Today I'm going to tell you how I managed to take my Mom to a cottage for two weeks when she was 86.

You may remember that Mom had dementia. She was bladder incontinent and used a walker. She couldn't walk far before becoming out of breath. So there were lots of medical issues to consider when choosing a cottage.

I did my research and found a cottage on level ground, with a driveway that went right up to the front door. A washing machine was also a "must have". A clothesline would do for drying the laundry. And there would be no outhouse for these ladies! An indoor shower and toilet were essential.

Next, Mom and I had a good chat so that we both had the same expectations of our time together up north. Mom always loved being at a cottage. She was once a strong swimmer, but there would be no swimming this time. I knew I wasn't strong enough to haul my mother out of the water. Nor had she the leg power to climb the ladder from the water onto the dock. (I used a spray bottle filled with lake water to mist over Mom to cool her off on the hotter days). Boating was also out. But, there was still a lot that Mom could enjoy. There was a lovely deck she could get to easily. It was the perfect place to enjoy the sunshine, the cooling breezes and the gorgeous scenery. We would have each other for company, and could enjoy BBQ dinners, delicious lunches and leisurely breakfasts. Talking books, conversation and lovely music filled the bill for entertainment.

I booked the cottage and began planning my packing for our holiday. I brought along a waterproof mattress protector, and large absorbent sheets with plastic backing that we could stick onto Mom's bottom sheet. Originally made for children who are being toilet trained, these bed mats are a real blessing. Extra bed sheets and a couple of packages of Depends rounded out Mom's incontinence kit.

I made sure Mom's walker could fit through every doorway (the cottage owners measured them). I packed Mom's shower chair too, to give her stability while bathing. I also planned our meals with care, knowing that my shopping ability would be restricted. And I packed lots of warm clothing for Mom, because she usually felt chilly! Admittedly, by the time I had packed the car there was barely room for its passengers, but we somehow fit ourselves in.

We were off!

I won't kid you. With just the two of us at the cottage all the work fell onto my shoulders. But I gladly accepted the extra effort. Mom was excellent company and I had long since become accustomed to listening to Mom ask the same question (or tell the same story) repeatedly. We ate well, spent lots of time talking and listening to music. Mom loved to sit on the deck and enjoy the view. The scampering chipmunks amused her and she loved to watch the hummingbirds feed. It wasn't long before Mom had a golden suntan. She even enjoyed watching me as I went about my business of caring for her and feeding the two of us. Oh, we had some great feasts!

We spent our final night at the cottage by the campfire. The stars were brilliant and the glow from the fire was cheerful and comforting. We sang all the old songs, sipped wine and sat by the fire for a couple of happy hours.

Mom was quiet during the first part of our drive home the next day. I was happy with my own thoughts and enjoyed the drive. Then she told me,"thank you darling, for a marvelous time at the cottage. It was our best holiday ever!"

All the planning and organizing was worth it. Giving Mom the gift of those two weeks still warms my memory. The time was a gift to me too.

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Last month, I wrote about travelling with elderly parents. Today I'm going to tell you how I managed to take my Mom to a cottage for two weeks when she was 86. You may remember that Mom had dementia. She ...

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Do you have a loved one has a high risk of a stroke? iCare Home Health offers premier home care services and senior care to families in Toronto. Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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Strokes. Everyone knows about them; strokes are often referred to when discussing the health of older adults. But, how much do you really know about them? Have you actually been paying attention when the topic of strokes comes up or do you just tune out? To commemorate Stroke Awareness Month , we are going to share some important facts about a health issue that everyone knows about, but don't really know:

A stroke is caused by a blood vessel blockage or rupture in the brain resulting in a sudden loss of brain function. The most common type of stroke is the blood vessel blockage or ischemic stroke. Strokes most likely strike people over the age of 55. However, young people are not immune as 25% of Canadian who have had strokes are under the age of 65. Currently, more than 740,000 are living with the effects of a stroke. Strokes are a leading cause of death in adults in North America. If not death, strokes will cause impairment including loss of physical functions, memory loss, slurred speech, and other disabilities.
Risks
Strokes can occur indiscriminately, but some are more at risk than others. Obviously, seniors are most at risk, but African-Canadians and First Nations are at a higher risk of stroke. Family history also plays a role. High blood pressure is usually main risk factor. Heart disease, diabetes, and obesity can lead to strokes. Other potential risk factors include: overconsumption of alcohol and drugs, stress, depression, an unhealthy diet, tobacco use, and high cholesterol.
How To Avoid a Stroke
Even with a family history, you can lessen your chances of having a stroke with some lifestyle changes. Becoming more active and getting regular exercise is a start. Revamping your diet to include lean meats and high-grain fruits and vegetables will also help. Quit smoking and cut down on your drinking. If you have a family history, make sure you are regularly being monitored by your family doctor.
Signs of a Stroke
After suffering a stroke, the faster you receive medical attention, the more likely it is that you will survive and avoid major brain damage. That being said, many people suffer from minor strokes and don't even realize it. It is important to be aware of the signs of a stroke. These signs can include paralysis of the face, slurred speech, problems with walking, numbness, and a drooping face.

Do you have a loved one who lives alone and has a high risk of a stroke? Or maybe your loved one has already suffered a stroke and needs extra care? It might be time to consider a home health care service. iCare Home Health offers premier homecare service and senior care to families in Toronto, Burlington, and the entire Greater Toronto Area. We will send an efficient, professional, and compassionate caregiver directly to the home of your loved one where they will receive premier service. Our packages can include meal preparation, medicine maintenance, watching for warning signs, and live-in caregivers. Contact iCare Home Health today and find out how we can care for your loved one.

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Strokes. Everyone knows about them; strokes are often referred to when discussing the health of older adults. But, how much do you really know about them? Have you actually been paying attention when the topic of strokes comes up or ...

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Seniors and Injury: National Injury Prevention Day

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Seniors and Injury: National Injury Prevention Day

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iCare Home Health offer elder care home health and premier homecare services programs to help support the desire to stay at home as you age. Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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iCare Navigator to provide Mississauga health care agencies  to our clients the tools to help meet your varied elder home health care needs. Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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Community Support Groups

iCare Home Health and iCare Navigator endeavour to provide our clients the tools to help meet your varied health care needs. The resources below are offered by community (private or non-profit), provincial or national agencies and could be accessed separately or in different combinations based on patient and family needs. However we also know that every situations is different, and you may require iCare Navigator services to assess your personal situation! iCare Home Health is pleased to collaborate with other agencies to further enhance the resources offering for the optimum health and wellness of our clients. Nominal service fees maybe applicable for iCare Navigator support services. For more information, please complete and submit the "Contact an Advocate" form on this page.

Telehealth: Free, Confidential advice and information from registered nurses. 24 hrs./ day x 7 days/ week 1.866.797.0007

ConnexOntario provides free and confidential health services information for people experiencing problems with alcohol and drugs, mental illness or gambling. They are funded by the Government of Ontario.

Drug and Alcohol Helpline 1-800-565-8603

Mental Health Helpline 1-866-531-2600

Ontario Problem Gambling Helpline 1-888-230-3505

Helplines are live answer 24/7, confidential and free.

Community Care Access Centre (CCAC): Free, Provides at-home health services for children and adults. Tel. 310-CCAC (2222)

Hospice Services:

Hospice Care for Children: (Apply through CCAC) The Darling Home for Kids provides paediatric hospice care and respite services to families within communities in Ontario who have children with life-limiting or life-threatening illnesses requiring complex care and/or technology-dependent care.

Bereavement Services:

Elderly Persons Centres & Active Living Fairs: serve approximately 250,000 older adults at more than 270 Elderly Persons Centres throughout Ontario. These centres provide a range of services and programs that include recreation. Helth promotion, wellness, active living and social activities. Contact your local municipality or call 211 to find an Elderly Person Centre near you.

Ontario Health Service Navigation:

Understand the Healthcare System in Ontario:

Provincial Health Guides: Ontario Seniors' Secretariat

Find a Healthcare Provider or Healthcare Facility:

Family Health Teams: FHTs are primary health care organizations that include a team of family physicians, nurse practitioners, registered nurses, social workers, dietitians, and other professionals who work together to provide primary health care for their community. Locations: http://www.health.gov.on.ca/en/pro/programs/fht/fht_progress.aspx

HealthCare Connect: helps people who are without a family health care provider to find one 1.800.445.1822

Ontario Drug Benefit program (ODB): 1.866.668.6641 If you qualify, Ontario's drug programs will pay most of the cost of some of your prescription drugs. These programs are separate from the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). OHIP pays doctors and other health care providers to provide certain health services.

Ontario Assistive Devices Program (ADP): provides support and funding for assistive devices, oxygen and other related equipment for seniors with long-term physical disabilities 1.866.267.8097

Financial Programs and Benefits (Ontario):

Ontario Seniors Homeowners' Property Tax Grant: A payment of up to $500 to help low to moderate income seniors with the cost of property taxes 1.866.ONT-TAXS (668.8297)

Ontario Home Owners Renovation Tax Credit: is a permanent, refundable tax credit of up to $1,500 per year to help with the cost of making seniors' homes safer and more accessible 1.800.ONT-TAXS (668-8297)

Ontario Trillium Benefit: Ensures that low to moderate-income Ontarians get money every month to help as the bills come in. It combines Ontario Sales Tax Credit, Ontario Energy and Property Tax Credit, and the Northern Ontario Energy Credit. 1.866.ONT-TAXS (668.8297)

Financial Programs and Benefits (Canada):

Federal Public Health Programs (Canada):

Legal Advice and Forms:

Find a Doctor in your area:

Coming Soon.

Health Care Navigation for Business:

Coming Soon.

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iCare Navigator Resources 🔊 Listen to Post Community Support Groups iCare Home Health and iCare Navigator endeavour to provide our clients the tools to help meet your varied health care needs. The resources below are offered by community (private or ...

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Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus Awareness Month

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Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus Awareness Month

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Do you need your loved extra support treatment of hydrocephalus? iCare Home Health can provide elder home health care support that is professional and treats patients with kindness. Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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June is Spina Bifida & Hydrocephalus awareness month. In June of each year, people in Mississauga, Oakville, Burlington and all across Ontario, are encouraged to learn more about these serious disabling conditions and to appreciate the challenges faced by people living with them. Some of the challenges that individuals with spina bifida and hydrocephalus, and their families face each and every day include physical and social barriers, medical complications and learning disabilities. Using support systems such as premier homecare services or health care agencies are one of the ways that families can help their loved ones diagnosed with these conditions live a better life.

Facts About Spina Bifida And Hydrocephalus

Spina Bifida is a neural tube defect that occurs within the first four weeks of pregnancy and is the most permanently disabling birth defect in Canada.

More than 85% of children born with spina bifida also have hydrocephalus.

Hydrocephalus is an excessive accumulation of fluid in the brain.

Hydrocephalus can be present at birth or it can develop as a result of a congenital condition.

There is no single known cause of spina bifida.

There is no known cure for either of these conditions.

Living With Spina Bifida

Thanks to medical advancements and research, people who are now born with spina bifida have a much longer life span and a better quality of life. However, living with spina bifida is difficult and requires a lot of care and medical support.

Treatment involves surgery and therapy to minimize further neurological damage and as well as to treat current effects of the condition. Treatment can also include medication, physiotherapy and the use of assistive devices. Many people with spina bifida will need mobility supports such as braces, crutches, or wheelchairs. Almost all will have some form of bladder or bowel dysfunction and require assistance to manage these challenges properly.

Living with Hydrocephalus

While hydrocephalus is very common for those diagnosed with spina bifida, the condition can affect any one at any age, and is not just something that presents at birth or as a result of another condition. Acquired hydrocephalus may occur at any time during a person's life as a result of intraventricular hemorrhage, meningitis, head injury, brain tumours, or an unknown cause. Hydrocephalus cannot be cured but is treated by surgically implanting a flexible tube into the brain ventricles to drain away excess cerebrospinal fluid.

People who live with hydrocephalus may experience difficulty with memory loss and motor skills in addition to visual impairment, seizures, constipation and incontinence.

How Home Health Care Support Can Help

If you or your loved one could use some extra support to manage the treatment and effects of spina bifida or hydrocephalus, a premier homecare service or home health care agency can be the answer. iCare Home Health is a home health care provider serving Burlington, Oakville and the Mississauga area. We offer many services that can support those living with medical conditions such as:

Whatever your needs, iCare Home Health can provide support that is professional and treats patients with kindness and respect. Contact us today to find out more about our premier home care services that will help ease your worries and provide the support and assistance required to thrive.

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Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus Awareness Month

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June is Spina Bifida & Hydrocephalus awareness month. In June of each year, people in Mississauga, Oakville, Burlington and all across Ontario, are encouraged to learn more about these serious disabling conditions and to appreciate the challenges faced by people ...

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iCare Home Health offer premier care homecare service for your loved ones. iCare home health care in Burlington and operates in the Toronto, Mississauga, and Oakville areas. Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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" Don't pay attention when Nana talks like that; she is just a little funny in the head; she is old "- Since time immemorial, this is how people would speak of those living with mental health issues. The lucky ones with loving families were treated with mild amusement and reluctant tolerance; the unlucky ones were ignored, marginalized, or institutionalized. Thankfully, society's view of mental health has progressed by leaps and bounds, particularly in the last decade. Public awareness and education has made it easier for people to open about their condition and to seek help. But, work still needs to be done as many still suffer in silence. This is especially true for seniors. Because of the myriad of other challenges that face seniors, mental health is often overlooked. It is just considered in relation to Alzheimer's or dementia, or not considered at all. This needs to change; one in four seniors already suffers from mental illness and it is estimated that within 25 years, seniors will have the highest mental illness rate in the country.

Mental health issues are something that we are born with; it is the result of something that is happening with our body, but outside influences will exacerbate pre-existing conditions. Given the challenges that seniors already face, it is easy to understand why mental health issues are so predominant in this age group. Alzheimer's and dementia will usually strike at older adults. But, depression can be worsened if someone is isolated from loved ones or lonely. Financial issues and other health problems will bring on anxiety attacks. Being cognizant of your loved one's personal challenges will help you to be vigilant about mental health issues that may arise.

Here are a few mental health issues that older adults often face:

Alzheimer's & Dementia - The biggest mental health challenge facing seniors continues to be Alzheimer's and dementia. Currently, there are approximately 548,000 older Canadians living with dementia. That number is expected to rise to 937,000 in the next 15 years . Dementia is often characterized by memory loss, confusion, inability to do complex tasks, and difficulty communicating.

Depression - Between 5-10% of seniors will experience depression serious enough to warrant treatment, but only 10% will seek it . Many older adults dismiss depression as just "feeling blue" or feel that they are making something out of nothing. Often, financial issues, loneliness, and the loss of a mate will compound the feelings of depression.

Anxiety Disorders - Outside factors can also intensify or even cause anxiety disorders. This can be marked by panic attacks, phobias, general anxiety, paranoia, and obsessive-compulsive disorders. If left untreated, anxiety disorders will also lead to depression.

Schizophrenia - Although rare in older adults, schizophrenia is a concern. Most cases develop in young adulthood, though some people go for decades without being properly diagnosed. Symptoms include hallucinations, delusions, and chaotic behaviour.

Despite the increased awareness, there are still many wrong assumptions made about mental illness. People living with it do not need to be institutionalized. Many people living with mental health issues comfortably in their own home. But, this is only possible with treatment and care. If your loved one has been diagnosed with a mental illness, it might be time to seek help. Home care assistance is your answer. At iCare Home Health, we offer premier home care for your loved ones. Our special Alzheimer & Dementia Support at Home package is built around the idea that each client is unique and has their own set of needs. The custom care plan can include companionship, mental stimulation, safety monitoring, meal preparation, and more. Our other packages offer different services that may fit other needs. iCare Home Health operates in the Toronto, Mississauga, and Oakville areas. We will bring care to your loved ones and peace of mind to you. Contact us today.

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"Don't pay attention when Nana talks like that; she is just a little funny in the head; she is old"- Since time immemorial, this is how people would speak of those living with mental health issues. The lucky ones with ...

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Do you need senior home care in Burlington? iCare Home Health help seniors become more in tune with the environment serves in Mississauga, Oakville and Milton. Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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In the last few decades, much more attention has been paid to our environment - how we treat it, how it's changing, and how we can preserve it for generations to come. World Environment Day will be celebrated on June 5 this year and on this day, the United Nations encourages everyone to increase their awareness and their action to support our environment.

While everyone on the planet makes use of our environment, the relationship between the environment and the aging population is an important topic that warrants discussion. In less than 35 years, nearly 25 percent of the global population will be 55 years of age or older.* Not only will there be an increase in the use of home caregivers and health care agencies in the Mississauga area and around the globe, but how will this aging population affect the environment and vice versa?

Environmental Risks And Changes Affecting Seniors

1. The aging population is at greater risk to environmental threats.

Unfortunately, as we age, we become more vulnerable to injury or death from flooding, heatwaves, cold snaps, blackouts, air pollution and any extreme weather related event. Organizations that aim to help people during these difficult times have to create more plans and resources for how to meet the needs of older people during natural disasters and emergencies.

If seniors are living alone and do not have the support of a home caregiver, they are at greater risk of not being able to manage if an environmental threat occur.

2. Educating the aging population on green initiatives.

As mentioned, a very large part of our population will soon be over the age of 55. It is important that this large cohort understand what they can do to help battle negative environmental change and where they can make a positive difference. It can be hard to take on new initiatives at an older age, so community resources such as Personal Support Worker (PSW) Agencies, home caregiver programs and health care agencies have the opportunity to assist seniors with some small, but effective green initiatives such as:

Making sure seniors recycle and use their compost bin

Helping seniors recycle batteries and electronics by taking them to a drop off location or collecting the items so friends or family can do a drop off

Reminding and helping seniors to use bins and reusable bags instead of plastic bags

When going out together, encouraging seniors to use the bus, if possible, instead of a car

Reducing paper waste by going paperless for bills, books or newspapers

In order to reduce the environmental footprint of the ageing population, efforts need to be made with regard to promoting greener behaviour and individual lifestyle choices. Larger initiatives could include things like ensuring senior homes are well-insulated or have low flush toilets and fuel efficient appliances installed. Targeted engagement of the aging population, which could include things like providing appropriate infrastructure and incentives, are other ideas that could help.

Fortunately, if health care agencies and home caregivers in Mississauga want to help seniors become more in tune with the environment, they can check in with the City of Mississauga to find out more about green initiatives happening locally. iCare Home Health serves the Mississauga, Oakville and Milton area and has a wide range of services, like our Friend at Home program, that can help seniors through changes related to our environment and the impact it can have on them. Contact us today and find out how we can help you or your loved one be ready for environmental threats and contribute to positive environmental change.

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World Environment Day: Environmental Factors and Elder Health

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In the last few decades, much more attention has been paid to our environment - how we treat it, how it's changing, and how we can preserve it for generations to come. World Environment Day will be celebrated on June ...

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iCare Home health care agencies in Mississauga offer a wide variety of packages including live-in care serve elder home health care service in Toronto and Mississauga areas. Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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How often do you change the tires on your car? Most mechanics will recommend that you change them after 6 years or 30,000 miles. Anything longer than that and it becomes a safety risk. How about your feet? By old age, the average person has walked over 100,000 miles with their feet. Obviously, you can't change your feet like you can change your tires, but you can take better care of them. If you take care of your feet, they will take care of you and last a lifetime (unlike tires!) Here are a few foot-related issues that seniors should watch out for:

Poorly-Fitting Shoes - Shoes that are too tight or too loose can cause severe pain or discomfort. If your shoes don't fit properly, it can cause pain with every step.

Changing Shape - Years of use and natural changes to the body mean that your foot will change shape over the years. Your foot will look different when you are 75 than it did when you were 25. Take this into account when shopping. As well, joints and padding will wear out which can cause additional pain.

Arthritis - Various forms of arthritis (including rheumatoid and gout) can settle in your feet as you age.

Dry and Cracked Skin - The skin on our lower extremities tends to dry out faster than on the rest of our body. This can lead to itchy, cracked, and bleeding feet.

Toenail Issues - Toenails can thicken as we age; ingrown toenails can be serious enough to warrant surgery.

Diabetes - Those who suffer from diabetes are especially prone to foot problems including numbness and loss of circulation.

Fortunately, just like your tires, you can improve the health of your loved one's feet with some basic maintenance:

Wear Good Shoes - Don't just grab the first pair that fit. Bring your loved one shoe-shopping and take your time. Try out different pairs and make sure they fit properly. Get special shoes if your loved one walks or runs on a regular basis.

Treat Your Feet - Bring your loved one to a pedicurist. Remember- a pedicure is not just painting the nails; they will clip, moisturize, and scrap off dry skin. It can be for men or women! However, if your family member is not comfortable with this, a gentle soak in some Epsom salts will work.

Elevate Your Feet - When sitting, try and keep the elevated as it promotes good circulation. Gently exercising by moving the feet in a circular motion will also help.

Insoles - Even if not prescribed by a doctor, an insole to compensate for the loss of foot padding will make walking more comfortable for the elderly.

Be Vigilant - Keep on eye on your loved one's foot health. This is especially true if they suffer from Diabetes.

See a Professional - As much as you want to help, some services are best left to the professionals. At iCare Home Health, we provided compassionate, experienced, and capable health care professionals directly to the home of your loved one. Our Nurse at Home package includes foot care services. Our caregiver will clips nails, treat corns and calluses, and do preventative care. iCare Home Health services offer a wide variety of packages including live-in care. We serve the Toronto and Mississauga areas. Contact us today for more information.

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How often do you change the tires on your car? Most mechanics will recommend that you change them after 6 years or 30,000 miles. Anything longer than that and it becomes a safety risk. How about your feet? By old ...

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It’s Not a Service – It’s a Friend at Home!

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It’s Not a Service – It’s a Friend at Home!

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iCare Friend At Home service offers home care assistance in Milton and the Mississauga area and provided on an hourly basis or on as-needed basis. Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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Having a friend come over and visit is always a welcomed occasion. Whether you are young or old, companionship - someone to talk to, someone to play a game with or to go on an outing with, is a part of life that helps people feel connected and cared about. As we age, it can get harder and harder to get out or to manage excursions or activities on our own. iCare Home Health provides home care assistance in Milton and the Mississauga area and is happy to share more information about how our Friend At Home Service can benefit you or your loved one.

Both care givers and the elders they care for can be skeptical about having a health care agency set up a Friend At Home program. Friendships need to feel genuine and those that may require the program don't want to feel like they are a burden.

Here's what makes the iCare Home Health Friend At Home program worth exploring:

Our program matches an iCare companion with your loved one based on personality preferences. Having things in common and some common interests are a great way to build a fulfilling relationship that help seniors really come to enjoy the visits.

Our iCare companions also have the training to fill home support service needs in addition to become a friend.

iCare's Friend at Home caregiver services can be provided on an hourly basis or on as-needed basis.

Seniors who use a home care assistance program like a Friend At Home program quickly come to realize that they really are getting a friend and it doesn't feel like a service at all. Some of the common activities that seniors like to do with their Friend At Home companion are:

Conversation - reading the same book so they can discuss it, watching a TV program together and talking about characters and plots, keeping up to date on world news and events, telling stories about favourite memories.

In Home Recreation - playing board games, cards or working on crafting projects.

Outings & Trips - trying out a new restaurant, visiting a museum, doing some shopping or going to see a movie.

Meal Preparation & Housekeeping - working together to help maintain order and routine in the household.

Building Connections - computer help to email or use social media, write letters or make phone calls.

Just about everyone could use another friend in their life and the iCare Friend At Home service offers so much to seniors who could use some help and companionship. Building social bonds can prevent depression and dementia and helps seniors continue to thrive as they age. Please give us a call to discuss your care needs or visit the iCare Home Health website for more information on our services.

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It's Not a Service - It's a Friend at Home!

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Having a friend come over and visit is always a welcomed occasion. Whether you are young or old, companionship - someone to talk to, someone to play a game with or to go on an outing with, is a part ...

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Eight Tips for Taking Care of Your Brain

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Eight Tips for Taking Care of Your Brain

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iCare Home Health premier provider offers Elder Care Home Health and elderly care in Burlington, Milton and all across the Greater Toronto Area. Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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You've heard the common phrase 'use it or lose it'? This holds true for brain function! Your brain changes as you age. This fact shouldn't be a surprise to anyone. Not only does cognitive activity slow down but your brain actually starts to shrink in size when you enter your sixties. You may know that as you age, you should make changes to your lifestyle to support your physical health, but did you know that there are things you can do to support your brain health too?

Enhancing your brain health can really make a difference in the quality of life you have, so take a look at some tips we've compiled to help keep your brain in shape!

1. Be social. Social connections help preserve mental function and memory and can help ward off depression. If it is hard for you or your loved one to get out, elder home health care can be a great resource for providing regular mental and social stimulation.

2. Crossword puzzles, reading, Sudoku, card games, music - there are many types of activities that help keep the brain in shape. Pick your favorite or take up something new! If you or your loved one has senior home care, be sure to ask them to incorporate games and play into their visits.

3. Keep Moving. Physical activity can also help protect against the loss of mental Daily walks, taking the stairs or doing light yoga, swimming or Pilates are good options.

4. Watch Your Cholesterol. Poor cholesterol levels increase your risk of dementia.

5. Fuel Your Brain. Talk to your doctor about adding more B vitamins into your diet as they have been shown to decrease the risk of dementia. Eating less saturated fats and more whole foods will help keep your brain sharp too.

6. Get Your Rest. If you have trouble getting to or staying asleep, you will see reduced cognitive function. Make sure you get the rest you need by establishing positive sleep hygiene habits.

7. Manage Your Blood Pressure. High blood pressure in your 40s and 50s increases the risk of cognitive decline in old age.

8. Wear A Helmet. Even if you grew up never wearing one, get yourself a helmet for biking, skiing or other relevant activities. Head injuries increase the risk of cognitive impairment as you age.

No matter what your age, there are some simple things you can do to help remember things that are important. Try to always place items you use frequently (keys, glasses, remotes) in the same spot and make daily to do lists to help you manage tasks and responsibilities.

iCare Home Health is a premier provider offering senior home care and elderly care in Burlington, Milton and all across the Greater Toronto Area. Our programs can support both physical and mental health and help seniors enjoy a great quality of life while still living at home. You can learn more about our services by contacting us at (905) 491-6941 or send us an email at info@icarehomehealth.ca.

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Eight Tips for Taking Care of Your Brain

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You've heard the common phrase 'use it or lose it'? This holds true for brain function! Your brain changes as you age. This fact shouldn't be a surprise to anyone. Not only does cognitive activity slow down but your brain ...

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iCare Home Health offer Nurse At Home support that can be customized for needs while still maintaining. Provide homecare services in Mississauga, Oakville, Burlington, Milton and Toronto. Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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You are never old enough to stop seeing your dentist! As you age, you may think that taking care of your oral health becomes less and less important. The reality is that your oral health can provide insight into your overall health and keeping your mouth, teeth and gums healthy can help improve how you feel. As you age, being able to take care of your own oral health needs and getting to dental appointments can become more challenging. Using a homecare agency like iCare Home Health Services can help ensure that daily oral health needs are taken care of and even help schedule and take clients to required appointments.
Oral Health Issues To Watch For
With age, there are some oral health issues that become more prevalent. If you experience any of these symptoms or issues, be sure to book an appointment with a dental professional.

Dry mouth. A side effect of many medications that treat high blood pressure, high cholesterol, Parkinson's and Alzheimer's is dry mouth which can lead to cavities. It is important to let your dentist know of any medications that you are taking so that they can provide with recommendations to help relieve dry mouth symptoms and prevent cavities.

Gum disease. Years of bacteria on your teeth can lead to gum disease. Gums will become swollen and red and bleed easily. Many adults don't notice the effects of gum disease until it reaches the advanced stages, and if left untreated, can destroy gums, bone and ligaments which results in tooth loss. Those with diabetes are at greater risk for gum disease.

Mouth cancer. Diagnosis for mouth cancers tends to occur for those in their early sixties. Symptoms may include open sores, white or reddish patches, and changes in your lips, tongue and lining of the mouth lasting for more than two weeks.

Decaying or broken past dental work. If you've had past fillings, crowns or dentures, they will need to be replaced at some point. Bacteria can grow underneath fillings and over time, the hardware may become cracked or no longer fit properly.

Tips For Caring For Your Oral Health As You Age
As you can see, keeping up with oral health habits as you age is important. Keep your mouth healthy by adhering to these tips.

Brush and floss daily. If you need to, write yourself a reminder note and post it in the bathroom, set an alarm or have a loved one call as a daily reminder.

Make sure to visit a dentist regularly. An appointment every 6-9 months is recommended. Even if you wear dentures, getting your gums checked is still important.

Change out your toothbrush every few months. If you notice the bristles being worn or become faded, it is time to replace the toothbrush.

Maintain a healthy diet that supports your oral and overall health and limits sugars.

Refrain from smoking or using chewing tobacco.

If you or your loved one could use some assistance with oral health care, there are several options to explore. Mississauga homecare agencies, like iCare Home Health, offer in home support that can be customized for your needs while still maintaining some independence. You can read more about available options when you visit the iCare Home Health website. When you are ready, give us a call! We'd be happy to speak with you and explore support options that will work for you. iCare Home Health provides non-medical homecare services in Mississauga, Oakville, Burlington, Milton and Toronto.

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You are never old enough to stop seeing your dentist! As you age, you may think that taking care of your oral health becomes less and less important. The reality is that your oral health can provide insight into your ...

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iCare Home Health offer Home Health Mississauga, Health Espresso app that can track your blood pressure for you and will even remind you to take your medications. Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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Hypertension aka High Blood Pressure is determined by a pressure reading of 140/90 or higher. Both of these numbers are important. "Normal" pressure readings are 120/80, with lower numbers being better, but bordering on too low can be a cause for other concerns such as dizziness and falling. For seniors with frail bones this can be very dangerous.

Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of the arteries. Pressure is at its highest when the heart beats, pumping blood (known as systolic pressure - the first # in your reading). When the heart is at rest, between beats, the blood pressure falls (known as diastolic pressure - the second # in your reading).

High blood pressure results in the heart working harder, arteries are challenged and become thicker not allowing the blood to flow and your chances of stroke or heart attack increase and possible kidney problems arise.
Risk factors for high blood pressure are as follows:
Over weight - poor diets such as those consisting of processed foods, high in trans fats, sodium and sugar, low in fruits & vegetables and high in animal fats all contribute to heart disease. If you consume anything with a label on it, aim for a sodium intake of not more than 2000mg/daily (which is approximately a teaspoon) and beware of labels claiming low fat as they are typically higher in sugar.

Diet: Opt for fresh fruits, a variety of vegetables, cold water fish and avoid trans fats such as baked goods and fast foods.

Lack of activity/living a sedentary lifestyle: Aim for 30 - 60 minutes, 4-5 days/week of walking, jogging, cycling, swimming - these activities are more effective vs weight training exercises at keeping the heart healthy. Keep the body active to allow the blood to flow freely.

Smoking & regular alcohol consumption: it goes without saying that smoking should be eliminated and keep alcohol consumption in the moderate range being no more than 1 beer or 5 oz of wine or 1.5oz of spirits daily. I knew a man who loved his alcohol and he would save up the daily limit and consume it all on the weekend! ...guess what, between the alcohol and poor diet, he eventually passed away from a heart attack. Be cautious also as medications and alcohol often do not mix well!

Family history - unfortunately you cannot change this, however, you can do everything possible to change your lifestyle to include the suggestions above. Persons with diabetes may require medication to keep blood pressure at a normal level.

- do what it takes to eliminate as much stress as possible from your life. Talk to a trusted friend or church member if your mind is dealing with troublesome issues, be sure to exercise the body to keep the blood flowing, practice deep breathing techniques (you would be surprised how we hold our breath when we are stressed).

Hypertension is the silent killer without specific symptoms, so it is important to have your pressure checked at regular intervals.

Drug stores have blood pressure monitors at the pharmacy area to check readings without having to book an appointment to see a Doctor. For those tech savvy seniors, to avoid white coat syndrome when pressure is taken at a Doctor's office, check out our Health Espresso app that can track your blood pressure for you and will even remind you to take your medications!

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Hypertension aka High Blood Pressure is determined by a pressure reading of 140/90 or higher. Both of these numbers are important. "Normal" pressure readings are 120/80, with lower numbers being better, but bordering on too low can be a cause ...

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iCare Home Health offer Premier Care Homecare and caregiver programs to help Senior home care in Mississauga recover from a medical condition or just enjoy life. Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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Caregivers have to make a special effort to care for themselves. I once went four months without taking a break from caring for my mother. I had to leave town to ensure I took time off. Since I lived in the same building as my mother, it was only all too easy to pop in for visits several times a day. It wasn't until I woke up on a Saturday morning and DIDN'T go directly to Mom's that I felt the relief of holiday bliss. Oh, what a feeling!

I just had my first weekend off from caring for Mom in four months. I had to leave town to achieve this. It wasn't until I actually woke up on Saturday morning and DIDN'T go directly to Mom's that I felt the relief of holiday bliss. Oh, what a feeling.

My sisters insisted that I take regular time off. And they were correct to be so adamant. It is so important to take regular breaks from caring for elderly parents. You are no good to your parent if you are burned out, and burn out is a huge problem for caregivers. People caring for their elderly parents at home tend to isolate themselves as they plod from home to the parent's abode and back home again. While you are running your parent's home like a well-ordered ship, your own home has piles of laundry on the dining room table, just waiting to be put away. Or your Christmas tree is still up and it is April. The other night you gave in and washed all the piles of dirty dishes in the sink, and the only reason you did that was because you were totally out of plates. You haven't even dug out your receipts or prepared your own tax return, but your parent's taxes were done well on time. Do you recognize yourself any of this?

I'm taking my own advice and planning a holiday for myself. I can hardly wait. Preparing to leave means getting Mom all squared away - writing down contact numbers, notifying the care-giving agency that I'll be away, ordering Mom's wine (it would make the caregiver's lives hell if Mom ran out of wine!) and, oddly, buying a new dishwasher and arranging for it to be installed while I'm away. Details, details. All those details were buzzing in my head like crazy bees in a hive, along with all the things I had to do to get ready myself for my trip. I woke up at 4 am this morning and that's way too early to start the day!

I recognize that it is not always possible to hare off on holiday in order to take a break from caring for your elderly parent. Here are a few of the survival tricks I've discovered. Some Saturdays, I "take the morning off" and only appear at Mom's around lunch time. That gave me the feeling I had taken a small break from my care routine. To ease my isolation, I also regularly scheduled coffee dates with friends ( leaving Mom in the capable hands of her caregivers). Last but not least, I made certain to end my last visit of the day with Mom around supper time. She always asked me to eat dinner with her, but by 6 pm, I was pretty much done. I would have seen Mom six or seven times already each day, and each time I would have solved a problem or helped Mom out of her confusion. I'm a chronic pain patient, too, and I have to take care of my back. By 6 pm, I'm in a great deal of pain. So I usually declined Mom's invitation to eat dinner with her, except on Sundays when I often cooked dinner for Mom and ate it with her. Sundays aside, I was back in my own condo by 6 pm. I cooked my own dinner and then I usually reclined in my special chair in the living room and watched Netflicks or TV. It was all I could do by that time, I'd be so bagged out. I'd be in bed by 9 every night, too exhausted to stay up to watch the news.

It is essential to take regular breaks, and once I get back from my trip I will take my own - and my sisters' - advice. I believe that taking one weekend off a month will do the trick, as long as I keep up with my other survival tricks. I will probably have to leave town in order to achieve my purpose, but that's all right. I can go visit a friend or throw myself on my daughter's mercy. Or perhaps I'll take myself off to Stratford and see a play, or even go to Niagara-on-the-Lake to see something at the Shaw Festival. I'd like to discover the St. Jacobs Market in Kitchener, and I had a friend in Stratford I could go and visit. Once I started thinking about some options, I realized there were many to pursue. It might be fun to be a tourist in my own province.

If you cannot get away for a weekend, I still urge you to take a weekend off here and there. And really take it off! No visits! No problem-solving! Lounge around in your PJs until noon, read the paper and drink coffee til your nerves buzz. Go for a long walk and have tea in a cafe. Or put on a TV series on Netflicks and indulge yourself in some great television. Just take the time off, I beg you. I'll repeat something here: you will be absolutely no good to your elderly parent if you burn out.

Let's look at this idea of burn out for a minute. Have you become critical of your elderly parent? Are you short-tempered with him or her at times? Has your store of tremendous patience worn out? Do you find yourself feeling reluctant to go and visit Mom or Dad? Those are some of the signs of burn out, my friend, and you had better act quickly to restore yourself.

We don't value true rest in our society. Most people use weekends as time to catch up on shopping errands or household chores. Sundays are as busy as Saturdays. But we humans were designed to require real rest. To recreate. We need to restore our reserves of patience and empathy, kindness and tolerance. We are only human, after all. Turning into robotic caricatures of ourselves won't help anyone, least of all your elderly parent. So please be kind to yourself at least once every day. Have a long bubble bath. Call a friend. Go for a long walk. Have coffee in that new cafe down the street. See a movie. It matters, and it matters a great deal, that you care for yourself as tenderly as you care for your elderly parent. Otherwise, you are not going to make it.
That's a promise.

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Caregivers have to make a special effort to care for themselves. I once went four months without taking a break from caring for my mother. I had to leave town to ensure I took time off. Since I lived in ...

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Helping When Mom or Dad Is In the Hospital

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Helping When Mom or Dad Is In the Hospital

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Do you need Premier Homecare Services for your mom and dad? iCare Home Care in Oakville ensure the patient gets the best possible care from the doctors and nurses. Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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You Are What You Eat – Maintaining Nutrition into Old Age

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You Are What You Eat – Maintaining Nutrition into Old Age

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Do you want to professionalHome Care Assistance in Milton for your loved once? iCare Home Health provides At Home Health Care Services for seniors and about their nutritional intake. Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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iCare Home Health provide the best Home Caregiver in Mississauga to your loved one in their own home. If you needPremier Home Care Services call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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Benefit of yoga Getting Active, Strength, Balance, and Flexibility, Reduces Anxiety and Stress, Reduces Blood Pressure. iCare provides Home Care Assistance in Milton call at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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Looking forPremier Homecare Services?iCare provides a qualified Nurse at Home to provide the best health care or Elder Home Health Care services. Call at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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iCare Home Health offers world class home health care & Home Care Assistance in Milton, Oakville, Georgetown, Burlington and Mississauga. Contact at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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A Caring Primer: Does Mom (or Dad) Have Dementia?

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A Caring Primer: Does Mom (or Dad) Have Dementia?

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Do you need Dementia Care Oakville for your loved one? iCare Home Health provides tips to deal with Alzheimer and Dementia for more detail contact at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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iCare Home Health provides Home Care Assistance in Oakville and professional health care worker to help making a positive change and offers Elder Care Home Health concerns to take care. Contact at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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Glaucoma is a degenerative damage the optic nerve causing loss of vision if left untreated and is the cause of blindness. iCare Home Health provides Some tips to maintaining good health Contact at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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The Importance of Being Ready for a Hospital Discharge

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The Importance of Being Ready for a Hospital Discharge

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Do you need to require a Nurse At Home?iCare Home Health provide the premier home care assistance and health services in Burlington. Contact at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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iCare Home Health is one of the best healthcare agencies in Mississauga that offers premier homecare services.If you are looking for home healthcare services then contact at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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Isn't it so soothing to hear good voices and hear them sing when it takes you in another world where everything seems fine? Singing has healing properties; powerful enough to enable people with life threatening diseases live a balanced life like any one of us. Music therapists have discovered various techniques to help others heal....

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iCare Home Health provides possible solutions with Home Care in Mississauga and supports healthy lifestyles. We are busting the myths of work-life balance! To learn more, call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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Looking to hire a Health Care Agency in Mississauga?iCare Home Health is a good supplier of the PwC Epic Tour ride in Halton. PwC Epic Tour has donated and/or helped raise a total of more than $400,000 for charity in 3 years. Visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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iCare Home Health supports Live In Care, healthy lifestyles and provides Art Program for Seniors in Mississauga. If you are interested in Art Programs, join iCare Home Health by calling us at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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iCare Home Health offer Premier Home Care services and caregiver programs to help keep your loved ones safe by making trust a key component in the caring relationship. Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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iCare Home Health provides elder home health care and premier home care services in Burlington, Oakville, Mississauga, Milton and Toronto.If you need home healthcare, call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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iCare home health offers elder home health care and Expressive Art Program (iCEAP),Expressive art making can have a positive effect on your health.Call an iCare (905) 491-6941 find out more about iCEAP visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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Are you often depressed from the lack of sunlight and shorter days in winters? iCare Home Health Care agency in Mississauga gives 5 tips for winter wellness. Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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A Breath of Fresh Air – Tips for Taking Care of Your Lungs

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A Breath of Fresh Air – Tips for Taking Care of Your Lungs

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Do you needpremier homecare services for loved ones with lungs issues? iCare Home Health care gives tips for taking care of your lungs. Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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Getting an Artistic License – How Art Can Improve Health

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Getting an Artistic License – How Art Can Improve Health

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Have you considered art therapy for your loved one and need premier home care services? iCare offers Expressive Art Program (ICEAP) by working with an artist through live in care. Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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iCare Home Health provides elder home health care and premier home care services in Burlington, Oakville, Mississauga, Milton and Toronto.If you need home healthcare, call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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iCare Navigator Set to Change Patient Experience

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iCare Navigator Set to Change Patient Experience

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iCare Navigator is a service that provides clients with tools to help navigate and assess their personal situation. For elder care in Oakville, call iCare today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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Fears for seniors and How to Address Them

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Fears for seniors and How to Address Them

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iCare provides Premier Homecare Services for Seniors  in Mississauga and offers the best senior home healthcare assistance in Oakville. If your loved once suffers from fears, call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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iCare, a health care agency in Mississauga provides care in a safe, sensitive environment for those who are living with a positive diagnoses. If you need live in-care services, call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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Do you need tips for a healthful holiday season? Premier Home Care Services provided at iCare Home Health can help you with the best services for a healthy holiday season.Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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Do you need elder home health care services? If your loved one suffers from asthma, iCare Home Health can help you with the best quality of elderly and premier homecare services. Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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iCare Home Health Services provides premier senior care in mississuaga. call iCare today and find out more about their elder care home health services. They also offer services like Nurse at Home, Personal Support at Home, and Care Package at Home. Get in touch today Call us today at (905) 491-6941

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We find ourselves being more indoors during this time of the year, with the holidays and the winter coming; and now that we are spending more time inside our homes, the question is, whether we are really safe at our own houses? There is so much that we don't realize and sometimes ignore when it...

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Do you look Home Care Assistance in Milton? iCare Home Health Services provides supportive home health care in the Burlington and Oakville areas. Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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iCare provides Premier Home Care Services, individualized care plan and Senior Home Care in Burlington, Milton, Oakville and Mississauga. Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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Digital Health Trends – Where It Is Taking Us

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Digital Health Trends – Where It Is Taking Us

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At iCare Home Healthcare Services, offers the best in-home senior care and help lead the way in chronic disease management.Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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Crohn’s & Colitis! Left untreated may lead to
Cancer

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Crohn’s & Colitis! Left untreated may lead to
Cancer

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iCare Home Healthcare offer some nutritional tips for those who suffer from this debilitating disease Supplement your diet with Vitamin C, Diets high in refined crabs call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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iCare Home Healthcare Services provides live-in Home Care In Oakville, Mississauga, and the Greater Toronto Area and Nurse At Home package will provide a caregiver in the home. Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca %

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Do you need to reduce your stress? Include meditation in your health care plans provided by iCare Home Health Care in Burlington. Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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Breakfast of Champions – The ONLY Way to Start the
Day

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Breakfast of Champions – The ONLY Way to Start the
Day

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iCare Home Health stresses on the importance of breakfast for seniors as it is the most important meal of the day and skipping breakfast can mean developing heart disease and diabetes. Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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Looking for safety of a senior in Milton? At iCare you can find home care services along with a wide variety of packages for your loved one. Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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The Challenges of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

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The Challenges of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

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Do you need a nurse at home for your loved one who has an Obsessive Compulsive Disorder? iCare Home Health provides elder home health care services with a wide range of packages. Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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iCare Home Health Services is a healthcare agency that provides home healthcare

assistance to seniors. Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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iCare Home Health Services is a healthcare agency that provides home healthcare assistance to seniors. It was created with an approach that is fresh and regards the joy of life. They can provide high quality Senior Care in Brampton & Milton to you or your loved ones while they recover from a medical condition or...

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5 Reasons Why Senior Citizens Should Meditate

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5 Reasons Why Senior Citizens Should Meditate

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I Care Home Health offer Dementia Care in Milton, Oakville, Burlington, Mississauga and the surrounding areas if you are interested in learning more about meditation into your life.Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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I Care Home Health Services providers are Live in Care of elderly patients suffering from addition to other age related issues like dementia. Home Care Assistance in Oakville Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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Do you need senior home care in Burlington and secured slipping? I Care provide Personal Support at Home, PSW Agency in Mississauga, and Dementia Care in Burlington. Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca

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4 Simple Ways to Improve the Health of Your Heart

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4 Simple Ways to Improve the Health of Your Heart

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I-Care Home Health is Elder Home Health Care agency in Mississauga, Oakville and Burlington and offers Senior Home Care services in Milton. Call us today at (905) 491-6941 or visit: www.icarehomehealth.ca