Vertigo – that feeling of the environment spinning around you. Everyone experiences it from time to time. If your aging relative experiences episodes of vertigo, it can make their life miserable. In addition, vertigo could lead to a dangerous fall. While it’s important that the older adult sees a doctor to determine what is causing vertigo, once they’ve been diagnosed there are ways to deal with episodes at home. Below are 4 of them.

#1: Learn Maneuvers

There are several movements older adults can try at home that may alleviate vertigo symptoms. Some of them are called:

  • Epley Maneuver.
  • Semont Maneuver.
  • Foster Maneuver.
  • Brandt-Daroff Exercise.

You can find instructions for these moves on the Internet, but it may be better to ask a doctor or physical therapist to show the senior how to do them.

Home care can remind your aging relative to use one of these maneuvers when vertigo strikes. They can also monitor the senior while they do them to ensure they do not injure themselves.

#2: Drink Ginger Tea

Some research suggests that drinking ginger tea can also help reduce vertigo symptoms, especially when used in conjunction with one of the maneuvers listed above. To make it, simply steep some ginger root in boiling water for 5 minutes. If the older adult doesn’t care for the flavor, try adding some honey to sweeten it. Experts suggest drinking a cup twice per day.
A home care provider can prepare ginger tea for your loved one and keep them company while they sip it.

#3: Avoid Dehydration

Even being slightly dehydrated can bring on the symptoms of vertigo. Make sure your aging relative drinks plenty of water throughout the day. It can also help to eat foods that have a high liquid content, like soups of fruit.

One way to ensure seniors drink plenty of water is to keep a bottle of water near them at all times. This can be an excellent reminder that they need to drink more. A home care provider can make sure the bottle stays filled and fresh throughout the day. Home care providers can also encourage and remind the senior to drink from it frequently.

#4: Follow the Doctor’s Advice

Finally, the best way to deal with vertigo is to follow the doctors advice. If the doctor prescribes medication to keep symptoms at bay or to treat them when they appear, it is important that the older adult takes them as directed.

Home care can remind your older family member to take medications when it is time. A home careprovider can also keep an eye on the adult when they take medications to see that they take the correct amount.
Sources
https://www.webmd.com/brain/home-remedies-vertigo#1
https://www.everydayhealth.com/neurology/coping-with-vertigo-symptoms/
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320492.php

If you or an aging loved one are considering home care services in Plymouth, MN, and the surrounding areas, please contact the friendly staff at CareBuilders at Home Minnesota. Call today 612-260-2273.