Posts in category: Senior Health & Wellbeing

Oral cancer screening is an important test for older adults. Estimates show that more than 5,000 people will be diagnosed with oral cancer this year, and seniors are more at risk.

65% of those diagnosed with oral cancer will live past five years. That jumps to 85% with early diagnosis and treatment.

Seniors may have questions about oral cancer screenings because they are experiencing symptoms or because the test is suggested by a health care provider. Below are some common questions and answers for anyone that would like more information on the disease and the screening process.

What is oral cancer?

Oral cancer can refer to cancers occurring in the oral cavity (floor and roof of the mouth, teeth, gums, lips and cheeks, and the front of the tongue) as well as those occurring in the middle region of the throat and the back of the mouth.

Are there early signs of oral cancer?

If you experience any of the following symptoms or any noticeable changes to your mouth or teeth, have a dentist or physician complete a screening.

• Soreness
• Irritation that lasts for a long period of time
• Difficulty moving your mouth or jaw
• A lump or a thick patch of skin that doesn’t go away
• Tenderness or numbness
• Trouble swallowing or chewing

What does an oral cancer screening look like?

A typical screening will take less than 10 minutes and will involve a doctor or dentist looking at and feeling various parts of the mouth and jaw. Typically, the signs of oral cancer can be seen. If a health professional feels that a more thorough screening is required, they can ask the patient to rinse their mouth with dye to better highlight any potential patches, lumps or anomalies. A biopsy may be necessary if the doctor or dentist feels that there are cancerous cells that need to be tested.

What are treatment options for oral cancer?

Surgery, radiation treatment, chemotherapy, and medication can all be part of a treatment plan for oral cancer.

If someone suspects they may have oral cancer, or mentions any of the symptoms listed above, encourage them to visit their healthcare professional to schedule a screening.

Comfort Keepers^® Can Help

Oral health becomes more important as we get older, and the trusted care team at Comfort Keepers can help with scheduling and providing transportation for dentist appointments. Our caregivers can remind clients to take medication 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

Mayo Clinic. “Oral Cancer Screening.” Web. 2018.

WebMD. “How Your Dentist Helps Spot Oral Cancer.” Web.

Oral Cancer Foundation. “Health Promotion in Oral Cancer Prevention and Early Detection.” Web.

Cancer.net. “Oral and Oropharyngeal Cancer.” Web. 2017

Canadian Cancer Statistics 2013. Toronto: Canadian Cancer Society.

No matter what age we are, living a life of purpose, connection and joy is critical for our physical and mental wellbeing. For older adults, a variety of obstacles like vision loss, social isolation, mobility problems and memory issues can make enjoying life more difficult.

Late-life depression affects about 15% of Canadians age 65 and older.

Why is it important for seniors to focus on their mental health?

• Socially isolated seniors have a 59% greater risk of mental and physical decline than those who do not experience social isolation (Forbes).
• The health effects of social isolation and loneliness on seniors is equivalent to smoking 15 cigarettes per day (AARP.org).
• Depression in the elderly is associated with increased risk of cardiac diseases and risk of death from illness (WebMD).

For older adults that want to improve their quality of life through enhanced mental health, there are a few things they can do to kick off their healthy habits.

• Exercise – Seniors should always consult with a physician before starting any physical activity or fitness program. Seniors that are able, and approved, to exercise may see increased physical and mental wellness. Exercise has been proven to have a positive effect on the brain.
• Connection – At any age, many people find joy in spending time with family and friends. Social isolation can be a problem for seniors that have mobility issues or aren’t able to drive, or who have loved ones that live far away. However, there are services that can help overcome these issues, including transportation help, in-home care assistance, technology that fosters connection and other outside sources of help.
• Volunteering – Sharing time and talents doing volunteer work can bring a sense or purpose and fulfillment. Many organizations have programs and volunteer opportunities specifically geared to older adults.
• Spending time on joyful activities – Everyone has a different interest or hobby that brings joy, whether that’s music, art, dance, gardening or games. Seniors should try to spend time doing something that brings them happiness on a daily basis to improve their quality of life.

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 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

Science Daily/McMaster University. “Working it Out: Researchers find exercise may help fight depression in seniors.” Web. 2019.

WebMD. “Depression in the Elderly.” Web.

Healthline. “Geriatric Depression (Depression in Older Adults).” Web.

Mood Disorders Association of Ontario.  “Frequently Asked Questions – Seniors and Depression.”  Web.

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 on a regular basis.

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

Studies show that older adults can have less deep sleep, inconsistent sleep cycles and negative health effects if they don’t get a full night of rest. Why is sleep so important?

• Bad sleep affects mood – Not getting a full night of sleep can cause irritability, stress, problems paying attention, 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 all be attributed to lack of sleep.
• Bad sleep can affect weight– According to Health Magazine, researchers at the University of Chicago found that dieters who weren’t well rested lost more muscle mass.
• Being tired can make a person sick – 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.
• Getting seven to nine hours of sleep per night – everyone requires a different amount of sleep to feel rested. However, between seven and nine hours is recommended for most adults.
• 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.

Seniors represent almost 48% of the total number of people with diabetes, and that number is expected to increase as the population of adults 60 and over grows.

It is estimated that 3.52 million Canadians have diabetes and of these, one third are undiagnosed

As you know, 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.

Diabetes can be effectively managed by seniors, 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 – There is a lot for someone to learn when they receive a diabetes diagnosis. 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 should typically be avoided 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 or helper 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.
• Check glucose and other levels – Most seniors with diabetes will need to keep an eye on their glucose levels. A physician will typically let someone know how often they 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

Diabetes Canada.  “Diabetes Statistics in Canada”. Web 2019.

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.

Eating a well-balanced, nutritious diet is a challenge that many of us struggle with. However, the health risks associated with malnutrition can be especially concerning for older adults.

One out of every two older adults are at risk of becoming malnourished.

Here are some signs to watch for if you’re concerned that someone may be suffering from malnutrition:

• Weakened immune system
• Poor wound healing
• Muscle weakness
• Weight loss
• Dental issues

If engaging in good eating habits is a struggle, there are steps anyone 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 look like making something healthy and delicious for others, or reaching out to people that love to cook healthy food and offering them your company.
• 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 you know 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.

If you think someone you know is malnourished, watch for the symptoms listed above and share meals if you can so you can ensure that your loved one is getting proper nutrition.

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

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

Public Health Post. “Malnutrition in Older Adults.” Web. 2017

Feeding America. “Facts about Senior Hunger in America.” Web.

Being diagnosed with cancer later in life can be scary and overwhelming. A cancer diagnosis can make a person feel like their world is out of control. People often say they feel helpless and powerless after they find out they have cancer. Making a personal plan for dealing with a cancer diagnosis can help older adults make treatment decisions and feel in control of their lives again.

60% of people who have cancer are 65 or older.

Here are some strategies for coping with a cancer diagnosis:

• Absorb the information – People need to give themselves as much time as they need to take in the news. Processing a diagnosis can be difficult, and the person should feel comfortable taking the time and space they need to come to terms with the next steps in their treatment plans.
• Encourage education– As the saying goes, “Knowledge is power.” Encourage them to learn as much as they can about their type of cancer and the treatment options available. Health care professionals are more than willing to provide resources to help someone understand their diagnosis.
• Express feelings – It’s normal to feel depressed, angry, sad or overwhelmed after being diagnosed with cancer. There are many opportunities to talk about their feelings, whether it’s with someone in their life that they trust, a mental health professional or a local support group.
• Maintain healthy habits – Continuing healthy habits is important following a cancer diagnosis. Those with a cancer diagnosis should follow a doctor’s advice regarding nutrition and exercise, and make an effort to take care of themselves mentally and physically.
• Evaluate financial needs –Reviewing insurance and having a plan for how they will pay for their treatment will help relieve stress down the road.
• Focus on other parts of life –Focusing on the things in life that can be controlled will help people remember that they have the power to decide how they live life.

Comfort Keepers^® Can Help

If you need help during your battle with cancer, Comfort Keepers provides services for clients with a range of needs and physical abilities. Whether it is a ride to the doctor or help around the house, our goal is to provide compassionate care that helps clients find the joy and happiness in each day.

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

References

Cancer.net. “Aging and Cancer.” Web. 2018.

American Cancer Society. “Coping with Cancer.” Web.

American Society of Clinical Oncology. “Geriatric Oncology.” Web.

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.

About 1 in 12 (or 2.4 million) Canadian adults age 20 and over live with diagnosed heart disease;

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.

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

Government of Canada. “Heart Disease in Canada”.  Web. 2017.

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.

What Changes with Age?

Henry David Thoreau once wrote, “An early-morning walk is a blessing for the whole day.” From sunup to sundown, we rely on our feet constantly to get us wherever we need to go. They are undoubtedly the unsung heroes of the human body, but over time, age-related changes – not to mention normal wear and tear – can take their toll. And for some older adults, being able to walk at all is a blessing in and of itself. So, what exactly changes with our feet as we get older?

The American Podiatric Association estimates that the average person will have walked 75,000 miles by the time he or she is 50 years of age.

To start with, there’s a decrease in collagen production which causes the natural cushioning of the feet to diminish. Without this padding, the feet lose their ability to absorb shocks, often leading to severe soreness and pain when walking. Blood circulation can also begin to slow as we age, especially for those dealing with diabetes, vein disease, or other conditions. Proper circulation is crucial in keeping the human body healthy, and when the feet don’t get the blood supply they need, several problems can arise – severe swelling being chief among them. Arthritis, particularly in the big toe or top of the foot, can lead to stiffness, dull aches, and decreased range of motion.

While all of these changes are certainly common, seniors should not assume that foot pain is to be simply tolerated. Seniors can take steps to care for their feet, reduce their risk of the aforementioned problems, and maintain their independence. With these tips, seniors can embrace Thoreau’s words and enjoy all that the day has to offer.

Foot Care Tips for Seniors

• Invest in proper footwear that conforms to the foot (not the other way around). Comfort is certainly key, but flexibility is also important. It’s highly recommended that seniors buy shoes that have a half-inch gap between the tip and the longest toe.
• Take regular walks, paying particular attention to proper posture (head erect, back straight, and arms swinging).
• Have feet checked frequently by a podiatrist, especially if diagnosed with diabetes.
• Wash feet thoroughly with soap and water, especially between the toes. It’s also imperative that they are dried thoroughly to help prevent fungal infections.
• Use lotion after washing/drying to reduce the risk of the skin becoming dry and cracked.
• Avoid walking while barefoot, to help avoid cuts and scrapes.
• Ensure proper toenail maintenance by cutting across the nail and avoiding trimming the corners.
• Promote proper circulation by stretching daily, keeping the feet propped up, and wiggling toes after sitting for long periods of time.
• For any acute foot pain, apply the RICE treatment: rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Seniors should get off their feet, put ice on the injury for 20 minutes every hour, wrap it with a bandage, and keep the foot above the knee.

How Comfort Keepers^® Can Help

It’s easy to take our feet for granted, but there’s no denying that they play an essential role in maintaining our overall independence. At Comfort Keepers^®, our goal is to help seniors and other adults live happier, healthier lives and enjoy the things that give them joy. Our caregivers can help clients care for their feet by reinforcing the best practices listed above. And if walking is difficult, we can provide mobility assistance as well as transportation to and from places around town.

For more information about how we can elevate the human spirit for senior clients, contact your local Comfort Keepers location today.

References

Prevention. “7 Weird Things That Happen To Your Feet As You Get Older,” by Cindy Kuzma. Web. 2018.

Emory Healthcare. “Advancing Your Health Blog: Foot Care for Seniors: 10 Important Tips.” Web. 2017.

Philips Lifeline. “The Importance of Foot Care for Senior Citizens.” Web. 2014.

Family Foot & Ankle Center. “Senior Foot Care Tips” by Dr. Cynthia Miller. Web. 2018.

Healing Feet. “5 Changes That Happen to the Feet With Age” by Jenn F. Web. 2015.