Brought to you by Melody Heuer, Prestige Homewood Heights - ASSISTED LIVING INSIDER -

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If you have a loved one who has been diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer's disease, you likely are aware that these types of diseases progressively attack the brain, causing confusion and cognitive decline—decline in our ability to think, reason and communicate.

But have you considered how a memory disorder might impact your loved one's physical well-being?

Just because someone is living with a memory disorder doesn't mean their physical health has to suffer. Caregivers can help their loved ones maintain physical wellness, while taking into consideration the unique challenges that seniors with Alzheimer's may be facing.

Here are some examples of these challenges and how you, as a caregiver, can help your loved one continue to live a healthy lifestyle.

Exercise: Encourage your loved one to maintain regular exercise to build muscle strength, improve balance and endurance, and ultimately, decrease the risk of falling and injuring themselves.

Nutrition: Support your loved one by offering juice, water and nutritious snacks throughout the day to keep them nourished.

Emotional health: Seniors with memory disorders are frequently diagnosed with depression and can experience sadness and loneliness. To support emotional health, caregivers can plan activities and outings for their loved ones to help keep them engaged.

By being aware of the key factors above, you will be well-equipped to help your loved one continue healthy living habits.

Prestige Care Senior Living-Homewood Heights

17999 S.E. River Road

Milwaukie, Oregon

503-659-6600

www.prestigecare.com