COVID-19: Help for Seniors

Amidst the Coronavirus crisis, during a period of time when staying at home and socially distanced is essential, it’s important to keep seniors safe, reassured, active and cared for.

  • One-to-one relationships are important right now. Our caregivers are trained in infection control and senior care, and work in a one-on-one relationship with seniors, reducing the risk of community-wide exposure to COVID-19.
  • Seniors are safest at home, away from the risk of infection. Comfort Keepers focuses on care and supportive services centered around serving seniors in their home, where they are best protected.
  • Our caregivers can pick up prescriptions, grocery shop or provide transportation to medical appointments.
  • Our offices can help with online orders of supplies, meals and other necessities.
  • Our caregivers can provide housekeeping and make sure that surfaces are disinfected to keep seniors clean and prepare meals to make sure they are nourished.
  • Comfort Keepers is all about Elevating the Human Spirit for clients, caregivers and families. That has never been more important than now. During this time of social distancing, seniors may be socially isolated, in addition to being physically isolated. Comfort Keepers works to help seniors fight depression and loneliness, especially while remaining at home. We help keep them active, optimistic and socially engaged during this period. A daily dose of joy is sorely needed.
  • Supporting families is essential. When a senior is in the care of Comfort Keepers, so is their entire family. We are a supportive resource to address questions, concerns, and check on loved ones.
  • Many of our offices provide digital, remote services to extend care (including virtual check-ins). We can enable social connection and augment in-home visits. This includes check-in phone calls.
  • Whenever possible and safe, our caregivers are encouraged to practice Interactive Caregiving™. Instead of doing for the client we do with the client. Participating in daily activities will keep seniors active, engaged, and provide a sense of normalcy in a time of uncertainty.

Contact your local office for a free consultation. Let us be a resource during these difficult
times. Learn more at ComfortKeepers.ca.

Maintaining wellbeing during senior isolation

As we all prepare to keep our homes and families safe during this COVID-19 outbreak, it’s important to consider the needs of the seniors in our lives and in our communities.

Provincial and local health agencies are taking steps to ensure that seniors are physically protected from the virus, including directives for everyone and especially those 65 and older to stay home and the closing of non-essential services. Many families are searching for guidance and solutions to ensure their loved ones are best taken care of.

This isolation can take a toll a senior’s mental and physical health, and it’s important to remember that there are things we can all do to foster connection, hope, purpose, and support for seniors during this difficult time.

Families, caregivers and health professionals should work with seniors to develop a plan that allows them to take part in activities they love, follow the self-isolation recommendations of health agencies, and maintain positive mental health.

This can include:

  • Ensuring basic needs are met. Caregivers, loved ones, and volunteers considered low risk (those under 65 without preexisting medical conditions) can help seniors by running errands, grocery shopping, picking up prescriptions, helping with online orders of delivery of food and supplies, and taking care of other tasks outside of the home. With self-isolation guidelines in place, seniors should remember that there are people willing to help them stay safe.
  • Connecting with others whenever possible. Spending time with loved ones doesn’t have to happen in-person to be meaningful. Video calls, Facetime, texts and emails can help seniors stay in touch with loved ones when they can’t be together. Get the whole family in on connecting with loved ones.
  • Enjoying the things they love. Life doesn’t stop when staying at home, talk to your senior about what they
    enjoy – uncovering old favorites can lead to new memories like an at home spelling bee, a spirited game
    of cards, or a renewed love of art. For any activity and hobby, there’s a virtual version available. For those that
    love art, museums are offering online tours for those that can’t visit. There are a host of music options available on streaming services and singing and dancing is just as fun in the living room! And, podcasts on any topic can be streamed on a phone, website or through a virtual assistant.
  • Get some exercise. It’s important for seniors to continue movement and motion through exercise, even during a period of isolation. Ensuring a senior’s range of motion is still intact through daily stretching or yoga is a great way to keep moving. Keep moving by getting steps in when you can or turn up the tunes and have a dance party in the living room! Lifting light weights at home can help keep muscles strong when getting out of the house may not be an option. Many gyms and fitness professionals are offering free virtual workouts to do at home, for those that have permission from their physician to exercise.
  • Maintain a healthy diet. When we spend a lot time at home it’s often easy to grab a bite anytime we pass the kitchen. It’s important to keep in mind healthy options when snacking – avoid too many salty or sweet snacks.
    And, when meal prepping remember the food pyramid – fruit, veggies, calcium, grain, and proteins.
  • It’s a great time for spring cleaning! Not only is disinfecting surfaces in the home a recommended step to avoiding Coronavirus, it’s also a good time to consider a larger spring-cleaning project. And, a spring refresh doesn’t have to be a chore – seniors can make housework fun by playing upbeat music or using the time to look at photos and mementos with loved ones.
  • Spring serves up holidays that are pure fun. Seniors and their loved ones should make it a point to celebrate occasions like Mother’s Day, Easter, Passover, and the first day of spring. Whether it’s making a special meal, dressing up or sending cards to loved ones, holidays offer lots of opportunities for connection – even when families aren’t together.
  • Find joy in everyday activities. Take time to enjoy the small things – card games, baking projects, a good cup of coffee, a phone call with a friend, eating your favorite food. There are always opportunities for meaningful moments and joyful days with a little planning, conversation, and intentional action.

For those in need of a little extra help at home, Comfort Keepers can help. Our professional caregivers are well-trained and have the right protective equipment to provide loving and safe in-home care. Find out more about our uplifting in-home care services at ComfortKeepers.ca.

Here’s a list to get you started. You can do these activities with the senior in your care or even share in the activity remotely:

  1. Read suspense or romance novels out loud;
  2. Order an herb garden online, and watch it grow;
  3. Order supplies to garden in a pot;
  4. Send your senior a coffee or tea of the week;
  5. Order supplies from an online crafts store for your loved one’s favorite hobby or something fun and new;
  6. Have your senior narrate parts of their life for you. Write down the memories and create a booklet with photos for you all to cherish;
  7. Picnic in the backyard or inside;
  8. Have a fashion show at home;
  9. Watch favorite classic movies;
  10. Watch classic TV shows from childhood together and talk about it;
  11. Have fun with adult coloring books;
  12. Paint by numbers;
  13. Read your horoscope every day;
  14. Try Wii sports;
  15. Make a Sundae bar at home;
  16. Gather items to donate;
  17. Organize a room, a drawer or closet;
  18. Phone or Video calls with family;
  19. Look at old albums and yearbooks;
  20. Try scrap booking;
  21. Watching the Travel Channel or History Channel;
  22. Voice journaling/journaling;
  23. Create a recipe book for the family;
  24. Have fun with Snapchat filters;
  25. Learn a language online;
  26. Watch documentaries;
  27. Have a culture day: Watch a foreign film and cook a meal;
  28. Visit a virtual museum, go to a virtual concert, ballet and opera;
  29. Play online Bingo;
  30. Put together a collage;
  31. Play Charades;
  32. Have a formal tea;
  33. Make origami;
  34. Press flowers;
  35. Make greeting cards;
  36. Order supplies and paint rocks;
  37. Plan a dream vacation;
  38. Try a new food;
  39. Watch old music videos;
  40. Start corresponding with a pen pal;
  41. Listen to music favorites; make a playlist;
  42. Download a new podcast;
  43. Make a family tree;
  44. Make a time capsule;
  45. Have a spelling bee; really challenge yourself.

Let us be a resource during these difficult times. Learn more at ComfortKeepers.ca.

Winter Health Risks for Seniors

Spending time with loved ones, enjoying nature and participating in activities can improve quality of life for seniors. However, cold winter weather can create a barrier to many senior’s regular schedules. And, it’s not just snow and ice that make winter a difficult season for seniors – additional factors include post-holiday isolation, illness, and the physical effect of cold weather.

For an older person, a body temperature of 95°F or lower can cause many health problems, such as a heart attack, kidney problems, liver damage, or worse.

Knowing what to look for, and creating a strategy for combatting winter health risks, can help seniors maintain positive mental health and physical wellness.

Some factors to consider include:

  • Winter blues – Cold air and gloomy skies can make anyone feel less cheerful during the winter months. However, depression can have an outsized effect on seniors and their long-term mental health. Creating opportunities for socialization and finding joyful moments isn’t just for fun – it can help foster critical connection and combat loneliness. There are a variety of uplifting activities that can be enjoyed during the winter months. These include movie nights, reminiscing by the fire, and getting outside on a rare sunny day.
  • Winter illness – There are a variety of ways that seniors can be physically affected by the winter season.
    • Pneumonia: Pneumonia is an infection that can be dangerous for seniors due to lung issues that come with age, weakened immune systems and conditions that make pneumonia more severe. Older adults should talk to their doctor about healthy lifestyle changes and vaccines that can help.
    • Joint pain: Joint pain can be more common for seniors in cold conditions – whether they suffer from arthritis or not. Dressing in layers, regulating temperature inside and stretching exercises can help. A healthcare professional can also suggest exercise, medication or other coping strategies.
    • Heart issues: Heart attacksand high blood pressure are more common in winter because cold snaps increase blood pressure and strain on the heart. The heart must work harder to maintain body heat, while falling temperatures may cause an unhealthy rise in high blood pressure, especially in seniors.
  • Winter safety – Being mindful of winter safety issues is important for seniors and their families. Cold weather can be more dangerous for those with some health conditions, like Parkinson’s disease, diabetes or thyroid problems. Seniors should talk to their doctor to learn more. Other types of accidents or injuries can be avoided through education too. Examples include being mindful about fall risks, monitoring carbon dioxide levels and preventing hypothermia.

Comfort Keepers® Can Help

Our goal is to provide uplifting in-home care that benefits seniors and their families. The individualized care plans we create for our clients consider physical goals as well as non-physical mental health needs. Our caregivers can provide companionship or transportation to community events, and support physician-prescribed exercise regimens, provide companionship and help to families that want to stay connected through technology. We strive to elevate the human spirit through quality, compassionate, joyful care.

To learn more about our in-home care services, contact your local Comfort Keepers location today.

 

References

Medical Alert. “How to Avoid the Winter Blues or Seasonal Affective Disorder.” Web. 2020.

American Lung Association. “Lung Health and Diseases: Learn About Pneumonia.” Web. 2018.

U.S. News. 10 Ways to Avoid Winter Joint Pain. Web. 2015.

American Heart Association. “Cold Weather and Cardiovascular Disease.” Web. 2015.

National Institute on Aging. “Cold Weather Safety for Older Adults.” Web. 2018.

What Does a Heart Attack Look Like?

Most of us have a specific idea of what a heart attack looks like: someone feels an abrupt, strong pain that causes them to stop in their tracks and clutch their chest. While some heart attacks do happen suddenly, many start slowly, with pain or discomfort. A person can have symptoms for hours before they even realize they’re having a heart attack.

More than 150,000 Canadians suffer from a heart attack each year.

Simple lifestyle changes can improve heart health. A number of enjoyable activities, like sharing healthy meals with loved ones, regular exercise and maintaining positive mental health can help those recovering from heart attack or trying to reduce the risk of developing issues.

Knowing what signs to look for can save critical time, and it’s important to be aware of the signs:

  • Chest discomfort – The chest pain associated with a heart attack doesn’t feel the same for everyone. Some people experience squeezing, discomfort or a feeling of fullness.
  • Pain or discomfort throughout the body – Heart attack pain isn’t limited to the chest area. Heart attack symptoms can include soreness in the neck, arms, jaw or back, or a combination of these. Women are more likely than men to experience jaw and back pain when suffering from a heart attack.
  • Shortness of breath – Shortness of breath is a heart attack symptom that is not usually recognized as one. However, those vulnerable to heart problems should be aware of any sudden breathing problems, especially if combined with other symptoms
  • Nausea – Lightheadedness, vomiting, cold sweats and nausea are also symptoms that are not often associated with a heart attack, but can signal the onset of one.

Types of heart attacks:

  • NSTEMI – NSTEMI heart attacks happen when blood flow to the heart through a coronary artery is severely restricted but not entirely blocked.
  • Demand Ischemia: Demand ischemia is another type of heart attack where blockages in the arteries may not be present. It happens when a patient’s heart needs more oxygen than is available in the body’s supply.
  • Silent Heart Attacks:A heart attack does not always have obvious symptoms. In fact, a heart attack can happen without a person knowing it. These are often referred to as silent heart attacks.
  • Coronary Artery Spasm: A coronary artery spasm is when the artery wall tightens and blood flow through the artery is restricted.
  • Cardiac Arrest: Cardiac arrest is not a heart attack, but a term used when a person’s heart stops beating. It can be due to a heart attack or occur as a primary event.

Early detection of a heart attack can help prevent damage to the heart, brain and body. If you witness someone having these symptoms, or you feel them yourself, it’s important to call 911 and seek medical attention immediately.

 

Comfort Keepers® Can Help

Heart health becomes more important as we get older, and the trusted care team at Comfort Keepers can help. Our caregivers can remind clients to take medication, provide transportation to scheduled appointments, and support physician-prescribed exercise regimens and diets. Above all, our goal is to see that clients have the means to find the joy and happiness in each day, regardless of age or acuity.

To learn more about our in-home care services, contact your local Comfort Keepers location today.

 

References

American Heart Association. “About Heart Attacks.” Web. 2016.

WebMD. “Heart Attacks and Heart Disease.” Web.

Unity Point Health. “10 Surprising Facts About Heart Attacks (Infographic).” Web. 2014.

Government of Canada. “Heart disease in Canada: Highlights from the Canadian Chronic Disease Surveillance System” Web. 2017.

Living with Arthritis

One in five adults suffer from arthritis, and the majority of these are seniors.

For those that live with arthritis every day, the symptoms can be a barrier to doing the hobbies they love. But with management strategies and lifestyle changes, many seniors find that they can continue the activities that bring them hope, purpose and joy.

For older adults to understand the stages of living with arthritis, it’s helpful to talk about how the disease is identified, diagnosed and managed.

Arthritis is not a diagnosis – it’s a general term that covers more than 100 diseases and conditions affecting the joints.

Signs and symptoms:

Generally, symptoms of arthritis can include any of the following: joint redness, swelling, pain, stiffness, warmth, or difficulty with movement. Many people are familiar with arthritis of the hands and feet, but they don’t always realize that it can affect any joint in the body. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should visit their physician.

Diagnosis:

When diagnosing arthritis, medical professionals will typically conduct a physical exam, and gather medical history and genetics information to help identify the type of arthritis. Blood tests and imaging may be necessary as well. While arthritis cannot be cured, it can be managed to limit the impact it has on seniors.

Strategies for arthritis management:

A physician can recommend arthritis management strategies and approve all plans to change or increase physical activity.

  • Lifestyle changes: Seniors with arthritis may need to stop performing certain activities, or limit them. Depending on the area of the body affected, some hobbies may become more difficult. However, planning ahead can be helpful – for example, having a stool to sit on in the kitchen can help seniors that want to cook but have difficulty standing for long periods of time due to arthritis pain.
  • Movement: For some types of arthritis, sitting or working in one position for too long can cause the condition to worsen. Moving, walking and stretching every 15 minutes can be helpful. For some, setting an alarm as a reminder to prompt movement can be helpful. A doctor should be consulted before seniors begin any exercise regimen.
  • Weight – Maintaining a healthy weight can be helpful in managing arthritis. Excess weight can cause strain on joints, worsening the condition. Anyone concerned about this should consult their physician for exercise and diet recommendations.

Education and awareness are critical – seniors that may have arthritis, or have already been diagnosed, should engage their care team to develop management strategies.

 

Comfort Keepers® Can Help

A care plan for arthritis can minimize the impact of the disease on a senior’s life, and Comfort Keepers can provide support for a management program. Our caregivers remind clients to take medication, provide transportation to scheduled appointments, and support physician-prescribed exercise regimens and diets. As part of an individualized care plan, caregivers can also help with activities like cooking, cleaning and physical care. Our goal is to see that clients have the means to find the joy and happiness in each day, regardless of age or acuity.

To learn more about our in-home care services, contact your local Comfort Keepers location today.

 

References

Arthritis Foundation. “Understanding Arthritis.” Web.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “5 Proven Ways to Manage Arthritis.” Web. 2019.

Quest Diagnostics. “Helping you focus on patients with arthritis” Web.

Everyday Health. “May is Arthritis Awareness Month – Mark it with the ABCs.” Web. 2018.

Seniors and Post-Holiday Blues: Why it Happens and What to Do

The holidays can be a time of joy, togetherness and connection. For seniors that are isolated from family and friends, these happy feelings can be replaced with anxiety or depression once the festivities end.

Feeling blue after the holidays is not uncommon for older adults – especially for those that are isolated from loved ones, suffering from a physical illness or those with a less busy lifestyle.

Taking a proactive approach to combatting sadness following the holidays is critical. Depression can have long-lasting negative health impacts, and the effect of social isolation is also significant – it can have a negative health effect equivalent to smoking 15 cigarettes a day.

There are many ways to keep the post-holiday blues away. Making plans, being active and continuing to connect with loved ones are some of the top ways to move forward into the new year with positive momentum and intentional action. Some specific ideas include:

  • Plan travel and reunions: Booking a getaway, or making plans to see family and friends, can help those that live far from their loved ones. A trip or reunion doesn’t need to be expensive or elaborate – scheduling an outing or dinner with the family in the coming months can help lift spirits.
  • Learn something new: For some seniors, anxiety and depression can be worse when they are idle. Taking up a hobby or learning a new skill can provide a challenge that is enjoyable, and activity can combat negative thinking.
  • Relive the best moments: Collecting photos and memories from the latest holiday season, and looking at past year’s mementos, can bring back the joy felt while celebrating. And remembering the best times can help seniors feel gratitude and connection – even when the ones they love aren’t right there.
  • Give back: Volunteering is a great way to ease post-holiday sadness. Helping others in need, whether it’s a short- or long-term commitment, can have a positive impact on everyone involved. And, there are volunteer opportunities available for those that are able to get out into the community as well as activities for those that have mobility issues or prefer to volunteer from their own home.
  • Physical activity is good for the body and soul: Fitness centers often have discounts at the beginning of the year, and there are low-impact exercises that can be done at home or outside. And physical activity can improve both the body and the mind. Older adults should always consult with their doctor before starting a new exercise program.
  • Dance and sing into the new year: Turning someone’s mood around can be as simple as listening to happy songs, playing an instrument or dancing the afternoon away. Seniors can ask family and friends for suggestions, make playlists of their favorite tunes or take time to rediscover an album they love.

 

Comfort Keepers® Can Help

Our goal is to provide uplifting in-home care that benefits seniors and their families. The individualized care plans we create for our clients that consider physical goals as well as non-physical mental health needs. Our caregivers can provide transportation to community events, support physician-prescribed exercise regimens, provide companionship and help families stay connected through technology. We strive to elevate the human spirit through quality, compassionate, joyful care.

To learn more about our in-home care services, contact your local Comfort Keepers location today.

 

 

References:

Health Resources & Services Administration. “The Loneliness Epidemic.” Web. 2019.

U.S. News. “Depression in Seniors: Why the Holidays Can Be Hard.” Web. 2018.

HelpGuide. “Depression in Older Adults: Signs, Symptoms, Treatment. Web. 2019.

WebMD. “Holiday Depression and Stress.” Web. 2018.

National Council on Aging. Mental Health this Holiday and Beyond: 4 Steps to Combat Lonliness in Seniors.” Web. 2016.

Post-Hospital Care After Pneumonia

Nothing can put a halt to our daily routines and favorite activities like an illness. Staying well is especially critical for the physical and mental health of seniors, but sometimes illness is unavoidable.

The mortality rate for severe pneumonia is 20%.

Even though pneumonia is a serious illness, it can often be successfully treated at home. Seniors, however, specifically, those with compromised immune systems or other health issues, may require hospitalization.

For those that do need to monitored and treated in a medical facility, being discharged from the hospital does not mean that recovery is complete. Pneumonia is particularly taxing on the body, resulting in a feeling of tiredness. It may take a while for an older adult to regain strength and feel good again.

The home recovery period can be crucial for pneumonia patients. In order to fully recover, it is important to follow the health care provider’s directions. Seniors should be aware of their body and take note of changes they feel so they can contact their doctor at any sign of the illness coming back.

Home recovery can include continuation of an antibiotic, prescription medication, or a nebulizer for breathing treatments. Medicine, including every dose, should be taken for as long as it has been prescribed. Failure to do so may allow levels of bacteria to remain, grow and possibly cause a relapse. Drinking plenty of water can help and eating nutritious food to regain strength has an impact too. Additionally, cool mist humidifiers or vaporizers help keep the air moist inside the home and may make breathing easier and ease lingering coughs.

Seniors can expect a cough and general fatigue to last for some time after pneumonia subsides. It is essential for them to get ample sleep as well as proper nourishment during this time. Rest helps the body’s healing process just as maintaining a healthy diet can boost the immune system. It is important that the senior not smoke and avoid spending time outdoors if there is smoke from a fire. This type of air pollution can hinder the breathing process and cause infection in the lungs. Alcohol consumption should also be avoided as it can inhibit the effectiveness of antibiotics.

Above all, seniors should remember to ask for help. Pneumonia recovery at home can be difficult to manage alone, and a helping hand from family, friends, or a professional caregiver can be critical for a successful recovery. For seniors and their loved ones, the goal is to get them back to good health so they can do the things they love – and sometimes, a helping hand can make all the difference.

 

 

References
Mayo Clinic. Pneumonia. Web. 2018.

National Center for Biotechnology. “Severe pneumonia in the elderly: a multivariate analysis of risk factors.” Web. 2015.

Drugs.com. “Pneumonia.” Web. 2018.

WebMD. “6 Serious Complications of Pneumonia You Should Know.” Web. 2018.

Low Impact Exercises

Maintaining our physical health as we age is an important part of overall wellbeing. Making activity part of our daily routine becomes more vital as we age but can also be more difficult.

Only 35-44% of adults over 75 are physically active.

Seniors should always discuss their physical activity level and ability with their physician. For most, engaging in 30 minutes of moderate activity each day can have numerous long-term benefits.

There are a variety of low-impact exercises and activities that can be beneficial for seniors. Low-impact exercise can elevate the heart rate, which in turn has physical health benefits.

While it is typically easier to participate in these less rigorous types of exercise, older adults should always talk to their doctor before starting a new program.

Types of low-impact exercise can include:

  • Walking: One of the benefits of walking is that, unlike running, it’s easier on the joints. Plus, it doesn’t require any special equipment or a gym membership. With a comfortable pair of tennis shoes and a smooth pathway, someone can start this right away. For the most benefit, keeping a brisk pace for at least 15-20 minutes is important.
  • Swimming: What’s better than minimal stress on the joints? No stress at all. Swimming provides a number of benefits, including strengthened shoulders and increased lung capacity. Seniors can also take part in water aerobics or walk on underwater treadmills.
  • Yoga: From improving flexibility and coordination to strengthening your core, there’s very little that yoga doesn’t do. Additionally, yoga has been shown to improve mood, focus, and overall mental well-being.
  • Pilates: This exercise allows for very slow and concise movements, designed to improve posture and flexibility. Like yoga, Pilates are known to improve mental well-being.
  • Cycling:With the proper safety measure in place (including a helmet, shin pads, and appropriate configurations), cycling can do wonders for not only the cardiovascular system but also the joints and various muscle groups.
  • Weight training: Weight training can be done at home, with small free weights or even moderately heavy objects that you can grip easily, or at a fitness center. Consistent repetition is key, as is advancing to heavier weights over time.
  • Leg Raises: These can be done at home with no equipment. Simply stand behind a chair, and while holding on to the back of the chair, move one leg to the side and then back. Repeating this, with different variations, can help strengthen lower back and thigh muscles.
  • Dancing: In recent years, there has been a rise in the popularity of dance class enrollment – and for good reason. The constant movement in dancing classes can help circulation and flexibility. Attended these classes can also provide great opportunities to socialize and connect with others.

 

Comfort Keepers® Can Help

At Comfort Keepers®, we create individual care plans for every client. These plans include wellness goals that consider physical, mental and emotional health. Our caregivers can help your aging loved one establish a daily routine that promotes a healthy lifestyle. Whether that’s taking daily walks or providing transportation to the local gym, we’ll work to provide care that is unique to your loved one. Our Comfort Keepers® provide the essentials our clients need to live a healthy, active, and independent life.

To find out more about our other in-home care services, call us today.

 

 

References:

Department of Health & Human Services. “Facts and Statistics: Physical Activity.” Web. 2017. NIH Senior Health. “Exercise: Benefits of Exercise.” Web. 2017.
Everyday Health. “10 Surprises About Heart-Healthy Exercise” by Beth W. Orenstein. Web. 2014.
American Senior Communities. “The Best Low Impact Exercises for Seniors.” Web. 2017.
AZ Central. “Low Impact Exercises for Seniors” by Kathryn Rateliff Barr. Web. 2017.

Seniors and Sleep: How Much Sleep Do Older Adults Need?

Many things change as we get older. Something that we don’t necessarily expect to change is how we sleep. In fact, 46% of adults 65 and older have trouble falling asleep and sleeping well through the night on a regular basis.

Insomnia is the most common sleep problem in adults 60 and older.

Adults over the age of 65 should be getting 7-8 hours of sleep per night. But getting quality sleep at night can be difficult for seniors.

  • As we age, our bodies make less of the chemicals and hormones that help us sleep well.
  • Some seniors develop sensitivity to environmental factors affecting sleep, including noise and temperature.
  • The parts of the brain that control sleep are affected by conditions such as Parkinson’s disease or stroke.
  • Arthritis and other conditions can also play a role in sleep quality due to chronic pain.

In addition, seniors may fall asleep earlier than usual, wake up in the middle of the night, or suffer from insomnia – all of which can negatively impact quality of daily life. In addition to affecting mood, lack of sleep can lead to issues with memory and an increased risk of falling

  • Inadequate rest affects mood– Not getting a full night of sleep can cause irritability, stress, problems with concentration, and mood swings. Long-term sleep deprivation can lead to cognitive issues and depression.
  • When seniors don’t sleep, their bodies suffer– Headaches, body aches and weakness can sometimes be attributed to lack of sleep.
  • Being tired can contribute to illness – When tired, an older adult’s immune system doesn’t perform as well, opening the door to illness and infection. Some studies have shown that lack of sleep can lead to heart problems, diabetes and it has even been associated with an increase in risk of breast cancer.

Seniors that are having a hard time sleeping can get help from their doctor. However, there are a few things they can try at home to help ensure a restful night’s sleep:

  • Having a sleep schedule– going to bed at the same time every night, and getting up at the same time every morning, helps a person adjust to a natural sleep rhythm.
  • Being mindful about eating habits– Alcohol, spicy foods, caffeine and a diet high in sugar can all cause sleep issues. Eating and drinking close to bedtime can also be a problem for some – rather than having a full meal before bed, it’s better to have a light snack or warm milk.
  • Creating an individualized sleep plan– Changing nighttime routines, and daily activities, can have an impact on sleep. It’s important for people to find out what works for them and create a schedule that they stick to – consistency is key! Some people find that more physical activity during the day helps them sleep better. Others find that napping during the day makes it harder to sleep at night, while some aren’t affected. Meditation before bed, a warm bath or reading time at night can all be part of a sleep plan, if they help.

Comfort Keepers® Can Help
For seniors that want to change their daily routine and create a schedule for better sleep, the quality caregivers with Comfort Keepers can help. They can assist with scheduling and routine, increased activity during the day, physician-prescribed exercise and diet plans and can provide transportation to scheduled appointments. Better sleep leads to more happiness during the day, and our goal is to help every client live a joyful life, regardless of age or acuity.

To learn more about our in-home care services, contact your local Comfort Keepers location today.

 

 

References
Washington Post. “Sleep patterns can change with aging. Does that mean health troubles ahead?” Web. 2019.
Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. “Get Enough Sleep.” Web.
Health Magazine. “11 Surprising Health Benefits of Sleep.” Web. 2018.

The Respiratory System: Age-Related Changes & COPD

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, more commonly referred to as COPD, is one of the most significant health problems facing adults in the U.S. COPD is a leading cause of death, falling just behind heart disease, cancer, and accidents.

Approximately 500,000 Canadians have  been diagnosed with COPD, and it is estimated that an almost equal number of Canadians may also have COPD, but are not aware of it.

COPD represents a group of lung diseases, with the two most common being emphysema and chronic bronchitis. COPD is a progressive disease that becomes increasingly severe with age.

Symptoms of COPD include:

  • Constant coughing
  • Wheezing
  • Shortness of breath
  • Coughing up mucus
  • Tightness in the chest

Because of its progressive nature and with increased age as a leading factor, there is a greater prevalence of COPD in adults 65 years of age or older. The good news is that many adults can easily reduce their risk of COPD through lifestyle management.

According to the Canadian Lung Association smoking is the number one cause of COPD. Unsurprisingly, secondhand smoke is a significant risk factor as well. Research also suggests that there may be a link between poor air quality and COPD.

Seniors should take the following steps to reduce their risk of COPD:

  • Older adults that smoke should get support from a primary care physician and take steps to quit. There are many programs, services, and products that can help.
  • Seniors should avoid contact with secondhand smoke whenever possible.
  • Reducing exposure to air pollution can help reduce symptoms. Many cities issue poor air quality warnings – when these warnings are in effect, seniors should limit outside activities.
  • Seniors should avoid airborne irritants (chemicals, fumes, etc.) in the home.
  • A healthy diet and exercise plan, with direction from a physician, can improve lung function and overall health.
  • Older adults should understand the impact of aging on their respiratory system and how to reduce their risk of any related diseases, illnesses, or conditions.
  • Doctors may recommend getting vaccinations for both influenza and pneumococcal pneumonia in order to guard against further breathing complications.

Comfort Keepers® Can Help
As part of a healthcare team, an in-home caregiver can assist with activities that slow progression of the disease, or reduce the risk for those with respiratory issues. Comfort Keepers caregivers can help by supporting physician-recommended health programs, preparing meals, encouraging prescribed physical activity, reminding seniors to take medications and providing transportation to scheduled appointments. Call your local office today to discuss our available services.

 

 

References:

Healthline. “Everything You Need to Know About Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).” Web. 2018.
Everyday Health. “5 Best Ways to Prevent COPD” by Chris Iliades, MD. Web. 2018.
Aging Care. “An Overview of COPD” by National Institutes of Health. Web. 2017.
Unity Point Health. “The Top 8 Respiratory Illnesses and Diseases.” Web. 2014.
Canadian Lung Association. “COPD.” Web. 2019.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Chronic Respiratory Disease.” Web. 2017.