Being dizzy can be problematic, particularly for seniors. It may result in accidents, falls, and a general loss of self-assurance and movement. Understanding the reasons for dizziness and implementing management techniques can greatly impact maintaining an active and independent lifestyle. The good news is that companion care at home can help seniors gain the information and support they need.
Understanding Reasons for Dizziness in Seniors
There are many reasons for dizziness, and the key to managing it effectively is determining what is causing it. Typical reasons include:
- Inner Ear Problems: Meniere’s disease, labyrinthitis, and benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) are among the illnesses that can induce dizziness.
- Medication: Dizziness is a side effect of several medications, including sedatives, certain antibiotics, and blood pressure medicines.
- Dehydration: Drinking insufficient water can cause dehydration, which makes seniors feel lightheaded. This can be easily remedied with companion care at home, reminding seniors to drink throughout the day.
- Low Glycemia: Random eating patterns or missing meals can lower blood sugar levels, which might result in dizziness.
- Blood Pressure Fluctuations: Abrupt fluctuations in blood pressure can cause dizziness, particularly when standing up too quickly.
Useful Advice for Treating Dizziness
As mentioned, dehydration can be quickly remedied, which is a good place to start when seniors start to feel dizzy. Companion care at home caregivers can remind them to drink throughout the day or suggest foods with a high water content if they have a hard time drinking enough water.
Additionally, since medications can make seniors dizzy, they should go over their prescriptions carefully and talk with physicians if dizziness disrupts their daily schedule. It’s possible the physician might be able to seniors on a different medication or suggest tips to reduce the side effects.
Seniors should also be mindful of their diet. This means ensuring they eat regularly and don’t skip meals. The best idea might be for them to have small, frequent meals rather than three big meals only. This ensures they will have nutrients in their system throughout the day.
Finally, seniors should be encouraged to move slowly when getting out of bed or standing up from a chair. At the same time, they will need to find a way to stay active, as this can help them gain the strength they need. Even better? Yoga or tai chi could help them with balance, which might counterbalance their dizziness. Seniors who aren’t used to working out may need to start slowly and increase how long they’re active as they progress.
Controlling dizziness is crucial for maintaining independence and a high standard of living as a senior. Companion care at home can help them lessen the frequency and intensity of dizzy episodes by helping them understand the causes and implement useful measures. However, seniors should be encouraged and supported to talk with their medical team about their concerns, especially if the dizziness isn’t decreased or stopped.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Companion Care at Home in Apache Junction, AZ, please contact the caring staff at Legacy Home Care today. Call (480) 777-0070
Legacy Home Care is a top provider of home care services in Mesa, Tempe, Scottsdale, Sun Lakes, Chandler, Gilbert, Apache Junction, Queen Creek, Phoenix, and surrounding areas.
Sources:
- https://www.dispatchhealth.com/blog/reducing-dizziness-in-older-adults-with-vertigo
- https://www.healthline.com/health/causes-of-dizziness-in-older-adults
- https://www.prevention.com/health/a20492063/6-ways-to-treat-dizziness-and-3-ways-to-prevent-it
Legacy Home Care has been serving the valley since 2007. We are family owned and operated with over 75 caregivers. We offer a customized care plan that includes services such as: Hourly Senior Home Care, 24-Hour Home Care, Dementia Care, Personal Care and Companion Care. Also ask us about our Veterans' Home Care program.
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