Dietary Changes As We Age

Senior Health & WellbeingSeniors and Nutrition

Dietary needs evolve as people age, and seniors need to know how to manage those changes to maintain physical health and wellness. Older adults need to take an active role in shaping their diet and nutrition habits to ensure more energy, better disease prevention and quality of life.

One in three hospital patients is malnourished upon admission and 45% of Canadians admitted to hospital for more than 2 days suffer from malnutrition.

Seniors should consult their physician to discuss their individual needs. Healthcare professionals can also help seniors and their families create and implement healthy eating plans.

These plans often include:

  • Increased protein and fiber intake. Protein and fiber are important nutrients for seniors. Foods high in fiber can help maintain healthy digestive systems as we age, and increasing protein intake can help seniors increase or maintain energy and strength.
  • Whole grains have multiple benefits. Whole grains are also fiber-rich foods that not only aid the digestive process but promote healthy hearts for seniors. Cereal, rice and bread made with whole grains can easily be found at any grocery store and provide several serving choices to meet recommended daily requirements.
  • Calcium is a key component in maintaining bone strength. Calcium can help prevent osteoporosis, especially when calcium intake is consistent. Preventing osteoporosis is critical for seniors – especially those that are at risk for falls.
  • Hydration is critical at any age. Physical changes that occur with age make hydration even more important for older adults. For those that are less inclined to drink water, there are alternatives – milk, juice and broth are all hydrating liquids, and there are hydrating foods including watermelon, cucumbers and grapes.

If engaging in good eating habits is a struggle, there are steps seniors can take to ensure that they are getting proper nutrition. In addition to consulting a physician about diet or health concerns they might have, they can also try the following tactics to get back on the right track:

  • Make meals a social occasion– Sharing a meal is one of the most enjoyable ways to ensure that someone is eating well. This can include making something healthy and delicious for others, or reaching out to people that love to cook healthy food and offering them some company at meal times.
  • Make healthy eating fit your budget– Good food doesn’t have to be expensive. A doctor or nutritionist can point patients to budget friendly, nutritious food options. And, maintaining a healthy lifestyle saves money on medical care in the future.
  • Shop for healthy foods– Having a kitchen stocked with healthy snacks and meal options is one of the most important steps to maintaining a balanced diet.
  • Encourage people to ask for help– If someone has concerns about their ability to plan healthy meals, shop for the groceries or if they just aren’t getting the nutrition they need, tell them to ask for help! In-home caregivers, delivery services, family, friends and medical professionals can all help older adults reach their nutrition goals.

Comfort Keepers®Can Help

If someone is struggling to maintain healthy eating habits, consider getting support from the trusted care team at Comfort Keepers®. Our caregivers can help with grocery shopping, meal preparation, and can help support physician-prescribed exercise regimens and diets. 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

Canadian Malnutrition Task Force.  “Nutrition Care in Canadian Hospitals Study.”   Web 2019.

Mayo Clinic. “Senior health: How to prevent and detect malnutrition.” Web. 2017.

Next Avenue, “Malnutrition is Affecting Too Many Older Adults.” Web. 2016.

Public Health Post. “Malnutrition in Older Adults.” Web. 2017
Healthline. “How Your Nutritional Needs Change as you Age.” Web. 2017.

 

What Seniors Can Do to Protect Themselves from Foodborne Illness

Senior Health & WellbeingSeniors and Nutrition

A Growing Problem

It seems that there is a new recall on produce, poultry, dairy, or fish almost every week – not to mention reports of illness or hospitalization from contaminated food in restaurants. The threat of bacteria and parasites contaminating our food remains constant, even in a world of increased safety and regulation. And with that threat comes the possibility of foodborne illness, which, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), affects nearly 48 million people across North America every year.

A new report from the CDC shows the foods most often implicated in outbreaks are:

  • Fish (17%)
  • Dairy (11%)
  • Chicken (10%)

Although foodborne illness is concerning at any age, seniors are often at greater risk of contracting it, and it can take them much longer to recover. Let’s look at why the effects of foodborne illness are more drastic for seniors.

 

Why Seniors Are More Vulnerable

There are numerous changes that occur in the body as we age, but one of the most significant is the weakening of our immune system. The body’s natural defense system simply is no longer able to fight illness as efficiently as before. To make matters worse, the liver and kidneys have a harder time ridding the body of toxins. Additionally, the stomach secretes less of the acid needed to help break down pathogens ingested with food and water.

Prescription medication also plays a role. Most medications used to help treat chronic conditions such as diabetes or heart disease have side effects that further weaken the immune system. Because of these factors, bouncing back from any kind of food poisoning becomes increasingly difficult the older we get. For seniors, that often means an increased risk of hospitalization or death.

 

Tips for Protecting Against Foodborne Illness
It’s vital that seniors are armed with the right information so that they don’t risk their health and wellbeing. Below are a few of the recommended tips from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration that senior clients can begin to incorporate into their daily lives.

  • At the Grocery Store
    • Don’t purchase any dented cans or cracked jars. If the packaging looks as if it’s been damaged in any way, or if it’s leaking, find and purchase a non-damaged one instead.
    • Similarly, don’t purchase produce that looks bruised or damaged.
    • Place any raw meat, seafood, or poultry in a separate plastic bag so that juices don’t drip onto other food in the cart.
    • Pay particularly close attention to the product dating (e.g., sell-by, use-by, and best if used by).
  • Food Handling and Preparation
    • Wash hands thoroughly with warm, soapy water for at least 20 seconds prior to handling food.
    • Sanitize any surfaces that may come into contact with food during preparation.
    • Thoroughly wash any produce (fruits and vegetables) with tap water.
    • Avoid cross-contamination (bacteria spreading from one food to another) by separating raw meat, poultry, and seafood from other foods being prepared. Consider having a separate cutting board for any raw foods and another for vegetables, bread, or cooked meats.
    • Check the internal temperature of cooked food with a food thermometer to ensure that it is cooked safely – and do not rely solely on the color of the food. Most meats have a specific safe temperature associated with them. For instance, ground beef is considered safe when cooked to 160 degrees Fahrenheit, while chicken’s safe temperature is 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
    • While on the subject of temperature, be sure that your refrigerator temperature is always at or below 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
    • Refrigerate all perishable foods within two hours of cooking.
    • Food should only be thawed in the refrigerator, cold water, or microwave. Never leave it out on the countertop to thaw.
  • When Eating Out
    • Whenever possible, avoid foods that have any uncooked ingredients. These are usually marked as such on the menu, but when in doubt, ask the waiter or waitress.
    • If the food looks like it hasn’t been properly cooked, ask to have it sent back.
    • Refrigerate any leftovers within two hours of leaving the restaurant – or one hour if the air temperature is at or above 90 degrees Fahrenheit.

 

Comfort Keepers® Can Help

Nutrition is a key component of senior health and wellbeing, and the last thing both seniors and family caregivers want to worry about is that food has been compromised somehow. At Comfort Keepers®, we understand the impact that foodborne illness can have on older adults and the importance of safe food handling and preparation. Our caregivers can provide extra support for family caregivers and ensure that their loved ones’ food is as safe to eat as possible. Contact a local Comfort Keepers office near you to learn more about what else we can do to enhance quality of life for seniors and other adult clients.

 

 

 

References:

U.S. Food and Drug Administration. “Food Safety for Older Adults.” Web. 2018.

FoodSafety.gov. “Older Adults and Food Safety” by Howard Seltzer (FDA). Web. 2015.

Self.com. “These are the Foods that Cause the Most Illnesses, the CDC says” by Korin Miller. Web. 2018.

Managing Urinary Incontinence

Senior Health & Wellbeing

Urinary incontinence is an issue that more than half of seniors deal with, and it can affect a senior’s health, social connections, and self-esteem. Managing incontinence is critical for seniors that want to maintain their independence and quality of life while remaining in their home.

New guidelines released in 2018 recommend that women be screened for issues that cause incontinence on a yearly basis.

While incontinence is a highly prevalent issue, it’s important to remember that incontinence is treatable, and a physician can make recommendations based on the type of incontinence they diagnose.

Why Does Incontinence Happen?

During urination, muscles in the bladder tighten to move urine into a tube called the urethra, while the muscles around the urethra relax and let the urine pass out of the body. When the muscles in and around the bladder don’t work properly, urine can leak. Incontinence can occur for short periods of time due to urinary tract infections, constipation, or as a side effect of a medication.

How is Incontinence Diagnosed and Treated?

Depending on the severity of the problem, a doctor may recommend any or all of the following:

  • A urinalysis to rule out infection or blood in the urine
  • Blood tests to check on kidney function, calcium and glucose levels
  • A complete physical exam and thorough discussion of one’s medical history
  • Medicine that calms muscles and nerves to treat an overactive bladder.
  • Exercises to strengthen the pelvic muscles
  • If other treatments fail, surgery may be suggested to improve bladder control.

How Can Incontinence be Managed at Home?

There are a few lifestyle changes that can help manage incontinence:

  • Pelvic muscle exercises: Working the muscles that can stop urination can have a positive effect in reducing incontinence.
  • Timed bathroom breaks: Going to the restroom on a schedule can help those with urge and overflow incontinence.
  • Fluid and diet management: Avoid food and drinks that irritate the bladder. It’s important for seniors to discuss their diet and fluid intake with the doctor before making any changes.
  • Behavioral changes: There are some habits that can make incontinence worse. These include smoking, drinking alcohol, lifting objects that are too heavy and consuming caffeine, among others.

 

Comfort Keepers® Can Help

If your loved one has specific care needs related to a health issue, like incontinence, we can help. Our caregivers can provide transportation to appointments, medication reminders, support for physician-recommended diet and exercise programs, and help monitor physical changes and symptoms. And, 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

Mayo Clinic. “Urinary Incontinence: Diagnosis.” Web. 2019.

National Institute on Aging. “Urinary Incontinence in Older Adults.” Web. 2017.

WebMD. “Urinary Incontinence: Foods and Drinks that Make you Gotta Go.” Web. 2017.

Diabetes Prevention and Care

Senior Health & Wellbeing

Diabetes is a condition that prevents someone’s body from properly processing sugars, leading to elevated blood sugar levels and negative health effects as a result. While diabetes has its own signs and symptoms, it can also make other conditions worse – conditions like heart and kidney disease. Seniors represent almost 48% of the total number of people with the disease, and this number is expected to rise as Canada’s population continues to age.

Having diabetes almost doubles someone’s chance of having a heart attack.

Diabetes can be effectively managed, but it’s often important for older adults to seek help from their care team, including their family, physician, nutritionist and caregiver. Here are some strategies for people dealing with diabetes:

  • Education – It is important for seniors to understand their Diabetes diagnosis and treatment regimen Depending on the physician’s recommendation, changes may need to be made to a senior’s diet, exercise, medication and treatment plan. There are also new symptoms, risk factors and medical needs that a person may have. It’s important for older adults to learn everything they can about their diabetes and how to treat it.
  • Diet– Diet plays a huge part in diabetes management. A nutritious diet that is low in sugar is important for reducing symptoms and complications from the disease. Sugar from fruit needs to be considered too, along with saturated fats. Diabetes educators can help seniors plan meals that will successfully help them maintain their health.
  • Exercise and activity– Seeking advice from a health care professional is the best first step for seniors that want to create an activity or exercise plan. While the American Diabetes Association recommends 30 minutes of exercise per day, five days per week, that level of activity isn’t always possible for some. However, shorter periods of activity, done throughout the day, can be just as helpful when managing diabetes. Seniors should always speak to their physician before starting any exercise program.
  • Prescribed medication is critical– Missing a dose of medication can have negative effects on diabetes sufferers. Seniors that have a hard time keeping track can set up a system of reminders, whether that’s a pill box, an alarm, a checklist, or a caregiver that can prompt them to take medications. In addition to prescribed medications, vaccines can also be a useful tool in diabetes management – for example, complications that are caused by the flu can be more severe for those with diabetes.
  • Checking glucose and other levels– Most seniors with diabetes will need to keep an eye on their glucose levels. A physician will provide instructions on how often someone should be checking, and what to watch out for. Blood pressure and cholesterol levels can also indicate a problem – those should also be checked on a regular basis by a healthcare professional.

 

Comfort Keepers Can Help
Diabetes can be difficult to manage, 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
Endocrine Web. “9 Ways Older People Can Manage Their Diabetes to Stay Healthier.” Web. 2015.
National Council for Aging Care. “Seniors and Diabetes: A Complete Guide.” Web.
Diabetes Forecast. “5 Ways to Help Seniors With Diabetes.” Web. 2014.
American Diabetes Association. “Older Adults.” Web.

Six Ways to Help Seniors Prevent Dehydration

Senior Health & Wellbeing

Staying hydrated is important for maintaining health and keeping critical bodily functions working properly. This can be a challenge for some seniors because of changes that happen with age. Seniors may have a diminished ability to sense thirst, notice changes in body temperature and may be taking medications that have a dehydrating effect.

Being dehydrated can cause confusion, headaches, elevated heart rate, muscle weakness and fatigue. Because the effects of dehydration are so great, seniors need to be especially vigilant about getting enough water through the day. Seniors that think they may be dehydrated should discuss their symptoms with their doctor before making any changes to their fluid intake.

 

Older adults looking for ways to stay hydrated through the day should try these six tips to get started:

 

  1. Talk to a doctor – not only can a healthcare professional provide a recommendation about how much water someone needs, they can also provide guidance and tips on managing water intake.
  2. Create a schedule – it can be difficult to drink a lot of water in one sitting. However, creating a schedule that accounts for daily activity, physician-recommended intake levels and the preferences of the senior can help keep hydration on track.
  3. Eat water rich foods – Eating cucumbers, watermelon, apples and other water rich produce can help seniors get more fluids at meal times. Broth is also a good option.
  4. Make water more interesting – For those that don’t enjoy drinking water, adding small amounts of juice or flavoring to water can make it less boring. Popsicles are also a great option…especially on warm days!
  5. Reduce water loss – excessive sweating can contribute to dehydration – keeping inside temperatures at a reasonable level, and being mindful of fluid loss during outside activities, can help seniors stay hydrated.
  6. Don’t wait for thirst – often, by the time seniors feel thirsty, they may already be

 

 

Comfort Keepers® Can Help

Comfort Keepers can provide support for seniors that are concerned about the issue of hydration. Our caregivers can provide transportation to healthcare appointments, assist with meal preparation and planning, and provide support for physician-prescribed hydration regimens. Our goal is to support physical and emotional care goals, and to elevate the spirits of our clients and their families every day. A

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

 

References

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Get the Facts: Drinking Water and Intake.” Web. 2016.

FamilyDoctor.org. “Hydration: Why It’s So Important.” Web. 2017.

Mayo Clinic. “Dehydration.” Web. 2018.

WebMD. “What is Dehydration? What Causes It?” Web. 2019

Hernias and Seniors

Senior Health & Wellbeing

It’s estimated that at least 10% of the population will have a hernia in their lifetime. A hernia is described as a bulging of an organ or tissue through an abnormal opening. The causes and types of hernias vary depending on the location in the body, severity and symptoms. One thing holds true, no matter the circumstances – any hernia can turn into a medical emergency. Seniors that suspect they have a hernia, whether it is painful or not, should discuss this with their doctor as soon as possible.

Seniors that have a hernia will often notice a lump in the abdomen, groin, leg or other area of the body. These lumps can be painful or painless, soft or firm, and will vary in size. Other hernia symptoms include pain, a heavy sensation in the area of the hernia, and swelling.

The trapped tissue causing the hernia can lose blood supply, becoming a strangulated hernia. A strangulated hernia can be a life-threatening condition and requires immediate surgery. Hernias that have become strangulated can cause fever, sudden intense pain, nausea and vomiting. Strangulated hernias can also change appearance, with the lump becoming larger or turning red or purple.

Medical professionals evaluating a hernia will typically do a physical exam and may order an ultrasound or CT scan as well. Seniors that want to discuss their hernia with their doctor can use the following list of questions as a guide for starting this conversation:

  • What type of hernia is this?
  • Does my hernia require surgery?
  • How can I know if my hernia is getting worse?
  • How can I care for my hernia?
  • What should I do if my hernia starts to hurt, or changes in appearance?
  • How can I take care of my hernia?
  • What does surgery and recovery look like for a hernia?

 

Comfort Keepers® Can Help

If your loved one has specific care needs related to a health issue, like a hernia, we can help. Our caregivers can provide transportation to appointments, assist with meal preparation and light housework, provide companionship and help monitor physical changes and symptoms. 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

eMedicine Health. “Hernia FAQ.” Web. 2018.

Mayo Clinic. “Inguinal hernia.” Web. 2019.

Web MD. “What are the Types of Hernias.” Web. 2018.

Reducing the Risk of Skin Cancer

Senior Health & Wellbeing

Being out in the sunshine is a summertime tradition. Research shows that a majority of seniors rank being outside as one of the activities that bring them the most joy. But it’s important to practice sun safety when it comes to protecting our skin and enjoying the long summer days safely. Skin cancer is the most common cancer.  One in every three cancers diagnosed worldwide is a skin cancer, 80-90% of which are caused by ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

For seniors, these prevention strategies are even more important than at any other age. For most people, skin cancer is a result of a series of sun damage events that occur throughout one’s life. It makes sense that someone with more years of living would be exposed to more sun damage over time.

Over 80,000 cases of skin cancer are diagnosed in Canada each year

Every suntan and sunburn has the potential to contribute to future skin cancer. Factor in the increase in outdoor activity that some seniors embrace in retirement, and the fact that older adults have more sensitive skin, and it’s easy to see why skin cancer may be a concern for older adults.

Taking a few precautions to prevent skin damage can allow seniors to continue to enjoy the sunshine without worry:

  • Avoiding the hottest time of the day – From 10am-4pm, the sun’s rays are the most intense. To avoid too much sun exposure, seniors should plan outdoor activities for the morning or evening. Seniors worried about dehydration, which can be made worse by excessive sweating, should also avoid being outside during the hottest part of the day.
  • Having the appropriate cover – Planning ahead to ensure that there will be shade available is an important step to avoiding sun damage. For outside activities that don’t take place in areas with accessible shade, a hat or parasol can provide some protection. Sun-safe clothing can also help – this can include long sleeve shirts and/or long pants. And, it’s important for seniors to build the habit of always wearing sunglasses when they are outside.
  • Remembering to use sunblock – For seniors that will be spending any time exposed to the sun, sunblock that is at least SPF 30 is a necessity. Sunblock should be re-applied every two hours and immediately after water activities.
  • Practicing medication safety – Seniors should talk to their physician about medications before participating in outdoor activities. Some prescriptions can cause increased sun sensitivity, and additional precautions may be necessary.
  • Knowing the signs of skin cancer – Seniors should ask their doctor to conduct an annual skin cancer assessment. Early detection is critical for treating skin cancer quickly and effectively.

 

Comfort Keepers® Can Help

For seniors that want to get outside and enjoy the summer safely, the trusted care team at Comfort Keepers® can help. Our caregivers can assist with transportation to appointments and events, can ensure warm weather safety inside and outside of the home, and can support physician-prescribed exercise and activity regimens. 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

 

Canadian Skin Cancer Foundation.  “Skin Care.”  Web, 2019.

Skin Cancer Foundation. “The Sun Keeps Rising: Why Seniors Can’t Skip UV Protection.” Web. 2015.

Aging and Disease. “Skin Cancer Epidemics in the Elderly as an Emerging Issue in Geriatric Oncology.” Web. 2017.

Cancer.Net. “Skin Cancer (Non-Melanoma): Risk Factors and Prevention.” Web. 2018.

American Academy of Dermatology. “Skin Cancer.” Web. 2018.

Living with Arthritis

Senior Health & Wellbeing

One in five adults suffer from arthritis, and the majority of these are seniors. 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. The type and severity of the arthritis will determine the ongoing treatment plan. While arthritis cannot be cured, it can be managed to limit the impact it has on seniors.

Strategies for arthritis management:

The treating physician can recommend arthritis management strategies and should approve all plans to change or increase physical activity that may impact the condition.

  • 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. Some seniors with arthritis get into the habit of using non-affected parts of the body more often. As an example, someone suffering from arthritis pain in their wrist may open doors by using their shoulder or elbow to push.
  • 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.
  • 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. Physical activity, if possible, can also help reduce arthritis symptoms in many cases.

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.

A Closer Look at Strokes

Senior Health & Wellbeing

Stroke is the third largest killer of Canadian adults, after heart disease and cancer. It’s also the primary cause of physical disabilities and is second only to Alzheimer’s disease as a cause of mental disability. While people at any age can be susceptible to suffering from a stroke, nearly three-quarters of strokes occur in people over the age of 65.

Women are disproportionately affected by stroke: 45% more women die of stroke than men in Canada, and because they live longer, more women are living with the effects of stroke

Risk factors for a stroke include high blood pressure, genetics, gender, tobacco use, heart disease, diabetes, weight, age and the use of some medications.

There are three main types of stroke that can occur:

Ischemic stroke – Most strokes fall into this category. In an ischemic stroke, arteries narrow or are blocked, reducing blood flow to the brain.

Hemorrhagic stroke – During a hemorrhagic stroke, a blood vessel leaks or bursts, causing damage.

Transient ischemic attack – Sometimes referred to as “mini-strokes,” this is a condition that is also caused by a narrowing of the arteries, but only causes temporary symptoms.

It’s important to note that medical attention after a stroke is critical, and time is of the essence. Anyone suffering from the symptoms of a stroke should not wait for the effects to go away or get worse. They should call 9-1-1 or visit their physician as soon as possible. Quick treatment can minimize damage and potentially save someone’s life.

Symptoms can include:

  • Trouble speaking
  • Confusion or trouble understanding
  • Paralysis of the face, arms or legs
  • Trouble seeing
  • Headache
  • Trouble walking
  • Headache
  • Vomiting
  • Neck stiffness
  • Dizziness

 

Comfort Keepers® Can Help

Whether the goal is healthy living to prevent strokes, or recovery after, Comfort Keepers can help. Our caregivers can provide wellness support, 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 let a senior’s care team know if there are changes in behavior or physical characteristics. 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

WebMD. “Top Causes of Stroke.” Web. 2017.

Mayo Clinic. “Stoke” Web.2019.

Healthline. “Massive Stroke” Web. 2018.

Center for Disease Control and Prevention. “Stroke.” Web.

Canada.com.  “Stroke”. Web 2018.

Heart and Stroke Foundation.  “Stroke Report 2019.”  Web. 2019.

Signs of Alcohol Abuse in Seniors

Senior Health & Wellbeing

Many of us enjoy having a cocktail with friends or drinking a glass of wine with dinner. For seniors, with a doctor’s approval, this doesn’t have to change. However, it’s important to be aware of the ways that alcohol can physically affect older adults, and how the signs of alcohol abuse look different for seniors that suffer from the negative effects.

10-15% of people don’t start to drink heavily until they are older in age

As we age:

  • How we process alcohol changes – Slower metabolism can cause alcohol to stay in the body for longer periods of time. Also, having less muscle mass means alcohol stays in the blood for a longer period, prolonging the effects.
  • Being intoxicated feels different – Seniors have a lower tolerance to the effects of alcohol. Intoxication typically happens more swiftly and lasts longer than in someone younger.
  • Older adults are more likely to have other conditions made worse with alcohol consumption – Health conditions more common in seniors can be made worse with alcohol use. Seniors are also more likely to be using medications that should not be mixed with alcohol.

Some seniors may discuss their personal situation with their physician, and find they are able to consume alcohol without any health issues. However, those that may have a problem with alcohol can exhibit the following signs and symptoms:

  • Feeling ill-tempered when not drinking
  • Sleep difficulties
  • Sustaining injuries while intoxicated
  • Drinking to fight depression or anxiety
  • Loss of appetite
  • Developing social or financial problems related to drinking
  • Lying about drinking habits
  • Poor hygiene
  • Drinking against the advice of their physician or healthcare provider

 

There are many programs in place that can help seniors that are abusing alcohol, and research shows that programs are more effective when they are targeted to people in this age group. If you think someone may have a drinking problem, encourage them to reach out for help.

 

Comfort Keepers® Can Help

It’s hard to stay connected to loved ones that live far away, and the trusted care team at Comfort Keepers can help. Our caregivers can provide companionship and wellness support, 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 let a senior’s care team know if there are changes in behavior or physical characteristics. 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

Aging.com. “Alcohol Abuse Amongst the Elderly: A Complete Guide.” Web. 2018.

National Institute on Aging. “Facts about Aging and Alcohol” Web.2017.

U.S. News and World Report. “The Do’s and Don’ts of Alcohol Intervention for Seniors” Web. 2018.