Are You Aware of These Subtle Differences Between Depression and Alzheimer’s?

 September 17, 2015 by Dean Bellefeuille

Senior Woman Comforting Depressed Husband Sitting On Bench

In our last blog, we shared some of the warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease; but what you may not realize is that depression and Alzheimer’s can present very similar symptoms. For example, memory, concentration, and even motor skills can be affected by both conditions. It’s important to understand and pay close attention to the differences, and then share what you’re seeing in your senior loved one with his or her doctor.

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The Surprising Link Between Socialization and Memory

 May 27, 2015 by Dean Bellefeuille

Staying social with in-home care

We’ve been sharing a plethora of benefits, both emotional and physical, to seniors remaining social, but here’s one that may surprise you: socialization may actually reduce cognitive decline. Since some of the top concerns of aging include the risk of Alzheimer’s and other dementias, memory loss, and other cognitive problems, it’s certainly worth looking into the potential benefits of socialization in these areas. For example: (more…)


Top Benefits of Social Media for Seniors

 May 11, 2015 by Dean Bellefeuille

Social media for seniors

Thanks to the Internet and the recent boom of social media use, people of all ages and backgrounds are now easily and instantly connected at the touch of a button, and seniors are no exception! In fact, more than half of all online seniors over age 65 are using Facebook, accounting for over 30% of all seniors. As we discussed in our last blog, staying social is crucial for the health and wellbeing of seniors, and social media provides a great platform to stave off isolation. Just a few of social media’s many benefits include: (more…)


5 Ways Home Care Helps Seniors Stay Social

 May 7, 2015 by Dean Bellefeuille

senior isolation - eldercare Syracuse NY

Perhaps one of the most disturbing images we conjure up when thinking of the elderly is one of utter loneliness, spending long hours remembering the “good old days” or simply staring off into space as depression sinks in. While it’s true that aging can involve a great deal of loss – friends, loved ones, the ability to drive, perhaps some degree of mobility – it can also be a season of new relationships and discoveries. The key is in staying social and avoiding senior isolation. (more…)


Top Questions to Ask Home Care Agencies BEFORE Hiring One

 January 27, 2015 by Dean Bellefeuille

Now that we’ve shared with you the many reasons it’s prudent to hire a caregiver or companion for your senior loved one through an experienced, trustworthy home care agency, the next step is to compare options. At Home Independent Living offers the following list of questions you can have in front of you when calling home care agencies, to make sure you’re making an informed decision: (more…)