Though younger adults are more commonly known to develop migraines and approximately 40 percent of people no longer get them by age 65, they can still affect seniors. If your aging loved one has been experiencing these severe headaches, there are a variety of potential reasons. Here are a few of the possible causes of migraines in the elderly as well as some suggestions for treating these causes.
Life Changes
A major life-changing situation like retiring may lead to migraines. Once there’s no job to go to, the joy your loved one had for life could begin to fade, especially if the job was a major part of his or her self-esteem. This could cause your loved one to become depressed and stressed, and these feelings could affect his or her mood, causing a migraine. To reduce the amount of free time your loved one has, encourage him or her to volunteer with a community organization.
Transient Accompaniments
Visual or sensory changes can lead to migraines. These changes include the loss of vision in one eye, transient blindness, and blurred vision. A doctor can monitor the migraine and rule out a transient ischemic attack, also known as a small, short-lasting stroke. It’s important to seek medical treatment for these types of headaches. A doctor might recommend treatments such as verapamil and divalproex sodium to stop them.
Managing pain from migraines can be especially difficult for aging adults who are living with other health conditions. Seniors can face a variety of challenges as they age, many of which can be mitigated with the help of professional in-home caregivers who provide high-quality home care service. Trust Prestige Home Care Orlando to help your elderly loved one age in place safely and comfortably.
Vascular Disease
This disease is caused by reduced blood flow to the brain, and it typically occurs due to a stroke or a series of strokes. These irregularities in the brain’s blood vessel system can also lead to migraines. Your loved one needs to lead a healthy lifestyle to prevent vascular disease. Stress, poor diet, high cholesterol, excessive drinking, and other unhealthy habits can have a negative effect on the brain, which increases the risk of strokes and migraines.
Living with serious health conditions can make it challenging for seniors to age in place. However, they can maintain a higher quality of life with the help of professional live-in care. Windermere seniors can benefit from assistance with meal prep, bathing, transportation to the doctor’s office, medication reminders, and much more.
Limited Mobility
Tension headaches are common among seniors who have lost some of their mobility. The resulting loss of independence can cause anxiety and lead to migraines. Your loved one’s mind may become consumed with what he or she is no longer able to do instead of concentrating on positive things. The tension then builds up and results in a headache. Consider purchasing a motorized wheelchair or another device to help your loved one get around better, especially if physical therapy isn’t an option. You may also want to hire a caregiver to assist with your loved one’s mobility.
Orlando elderly home care experts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently. If your loved one needs professional care, Prestige Home Care Orlando is here to help. Call one of our dedicated Care Managers today at (407) 604-0504 to learn about the high quality of our in-home care services.