Posts in category: Senior Health & Wellbeing

Where Falls Stand

One of the greatest threats to senior wellbeing and quality of life is falling. In fact, falls represent the leading cause of both fatal and non-fatal injuries of Canadian seniors. Here are a few key facts to highlight not only how pervasive falls are in this age group, but the toll they take:

• Falls account for more than half of all injuries among seniors.
• Every 13 seconds, an older adult is treated in the emergency room for a fall; every 20 minutes, an older adult dies from a fall.
• 87 percent of all fractures in the elderly are due to falls. Two-thirds of those who fall will do so again within six months

In addition to the physical and financial impact, the dread associated with falling can be enough to immobilize some older adults, making them afraid to do much of anything. And for those who already experience feelings of loneliness and isolation, fear of falling can often make matters worse. But fear should never get in the way of quality of life, even when it comes to falls in the home.

The most common place for older adults to fall is in the home.

Although there are several factors involved in senior falls, one of the most significant is the hazardous nature of their living environment. Obstacles such as loose rugs, poor lighting, and the absence of handrails all pose a serious threat. Fortunately, these factors can be controlled. With a few alterations and additions, seniors can manage their living environment, thus reducing their risk of falling.

Adjustments to Make in the Home

• In the Bedroom
  • Ensure that night lights are installed so that there is adequate illumination.
  • Keep an easy-to-use light source, such as a touch lamp, within reach of the bed.
• In the Bathroom
  • Install grab bars on the inside/outside of the shower, as well as next to the toilet.
  • Place a non-slip mat in the shower and on all surfaces that may become wet.
  • Install a shower chair or bath bench to reduce standing.
• In the Kitchen
  • Keep frequently used cooking utensils or appliances visible and on the counter or on nearby shelves, to reduce having to get them out of the cupboards.
  • Install non-slip rubber mats to allow for secure footing.
• In the Hallways
  • Eliminate any form of clutter (boxes, newspapers, shoes, etc.) so that pathways are clear.
  • Remove small throw rugs that may cause tripping.
  • Ensure carpeting is firmly secured to the floor.
  • Install nightlights to provide ample illumination.
• Other Considerations
  • Move any electrical cords away from walking paths.
  • Install a second handrail on staircases to allow for additional balance support.

Other Ways to Reduce the Risk of Falling

In addition to safety precautions in the home, there are lifestyle changes that seniors can make to reduce their risk of falling. First and foremost, it’s important to stay physically active. While this may seem counterintuitive and likely to result in a fall, frequently engaging in a safe, structured regimen will increase strength, flexibility, coordination, and balance. Always check with your physician before embarking on an exercise program.

Seniors should also receive regular eye examinations. Since even the smallest change in eyesight can change visibility, it’s crucial that they have the correct prescription for eyeglasses or contact lenses. Finally, medications should be reviewed with a physician to evaluate side effects and their chances of contributing to falls.

Comfort Keepers^® Can Help

Even the idea of falling is frightening to older adults and family caregivers alike. But as mentioned, this fear should not stop seniors from leading fulfilling, independent lives. Observing safety precautions in the home and making the necessary changes are important first steps in getting back on track, but there may come a time when seniors need additional support. That’s where Comfort Keepers^® comes in. We can assess the home and recommend changes conducive to fall risk reduction. In addition, our compassionate, professional caregivers can assist with everything from light housekeeping to incidental transportation.

Call your local Comfort Keepers location today to learn about how our services can benefit seniors in the community.

References:

Veteran Affairs Canada. ”Fall Fact Sheet”.  Web 2018.

National Institute on Aging. “Fall-Proofing Your Home.” Web. 2018.

National Council on Aging. “18 Steps to Fall Proofing Your Home” by Scott A. Trudeau. Web. 2016.

National Council on Aging. “Fall Prevention Statistics.” Web. 2018.

WebMD. “Aging Well: Making Your Home Fall-Proof” by Healthwise Staff (Reviewed by Anne C. Poinier, MD and
Elizabeth A. Phelan, MD, MS. Web. 2015.

AgingCare. “How to Prevent a Senior from Falling” Web. 2018.

A Good Day Gone Bad
Ticks. These small arachnids get to us through a behavior known as questing, in which they perch themselves on tall blades of grass or plant stems and wait for something – or someone – to brush past. And that’s when they strike, biting down on the skin and attaching themselves to feed on the blood they crave. Research shows that, over the last few decades, the tick population in Canada has grown rapidly, and as a result, the number of cases related to the diseases they carry has also risen. Lyme disease, in particular, is of growing concern. While Lyme disease can be dangerous to those of all ages, it poses a much greater risk for seniors, whose immune systems are generally less effective.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that approximately 300,000 cases of Lyme disease are diagnosed in North America each year.

The Importance of Early Detection
Tick bites are extraordinarily common from April through September and are found throughout Canada. Given their commonality, there’s a good chance that most people may remove the tick and simply move on, viewing them more as a nuisance and not thinking of what may be happening under the skin. What’s more, because of the natural anesthetic that ticks secrete when they bite, some may not even be aware that they’ve even been bitten (assuming the tick fell off on its own accord). That’s why it’s imperative for seniors to understand the early signs of Lyme disease. The sooner they begin treatment, the greater their chances of overcoming the illness.

Here’s what seniors should be on the lookout for:
• Fever, chills, and joint aches
• A rash with a bull’s eye-like appearance (a small red bump just after a tick bite is common and not always indicative of Lyme disease)
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Intense migraines
• Dizziness and shortness of breath
• Problems with short term memory

One of the difficulties in diagnosing Lyme disease in seniors is that many of the symptoms mimic those found in other conditions and diseases commonly found in older adults. In fact, songwriter and actor Kris Kristofferson was misdiagnosed for years as having Alzheimer’s, when in fact the source of his memory loss was caused by Lyme disease. Detailed information, in this case, is paramount to diagnosis and treatment. If seniors report symptoms such as those listed above to their physician, it’s important to also let them know if there was time spent outside. If Lyme disease is detected, an antibiotic will be prescribed and the infection will resolve within two-to-three weeks.

But as mentioned, time is of the essence when it comes to Lyme disease, and seniors should never shrug off the symptoms. The longer Lyme disease goes untreated in seniors, the harder it becomes to cure. And even if late-stage Lyme disease is treated, the lingering effects, such as fatigue and nausea, may never fully go away.

Reducing the Risk of Lyme Disease
Lyme disease is undoubtedly a great risk for seniors, but it should not deter them from enjoying the outdoors. Taking a few precautionary steps can help seniors avoid these bloodsuckers almost entirely. Before embarking on a walk or hike, it’s important to put on clothing that covers up the arms and legs, as ticks are more likely to attach themselves there. If it’s warmer out and longer clothing isn’t a sensible option, applying tick repellent product is recommended. Sticking to the center of trails or walking paths can also help, as can avoiding areas of high or thick vegetation, if possible. Upon returning from outside, seniors should also check themselves thoroughly for the presence of ticks or indications of a tick bite.

Comfort Keepers® Can Help
Getting to spend time outside can be a key component of our physical and emotional well-being, and at Comfort Keepers®, we want to ensure that seniors have the means to do so. Our caregivers can help clients dress appropriately for a hike or walk – with clothing that will reduce the risk of tick bites – and accompany them every step of the way. Call a local Comfort Keepers location to learn more about our caregiving services.

References:
Government of Canada. “Lyme Disease”. Web 2018.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Signs and Symptoms of Untreated Lyme Disease.” Web. 2018.
ThoughtCo. “How Do Ticks Get On You?” by Debbie Hadley. Web. 2017.
Interim Healthcare. “Are ticks dangerous for the elderly?” Web. 2018.
Next Avenue. “Kris Kristofferson’s ‘Dementia’ Was Lyme Disease” by Emily Gurnon. Web. 2016.

Quality, Not Quantity

The older we get, the harder it becomes to get a good night’s sleep. Beginning in our late 20s, there’s a steep decline in the amount of deep sleep we get each night – and by the time we reach 50, that amount is reduced by more than half. For older adults (65 years of age and older), getting adequate sleep can be an even greater challenge. Even if they reach the recommended 7-9 hours each night (a metric that, despite popular belief, remains constant throughout all stages of adulthood), it may not exactly be quality sleep.

Consequently, 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 the quality of life. In addition to making them tired and irritable, lack of sleep can lead to issues with memory and an increased risk of falling. But what makes sleep deprivation so prevalent in the senior population?

The average person will spend nearly 230,000 hours asleep throughout their life, which equates to about 26 years.

Factors that Impact Sleep Quality

We know that sleep plays a significant role in the regeneration of cells, but there is much about the process that remains a mystery. What is known, however, is that sleep occurs in stages and patterns – what sleep experts refer to as “sleep architecture” – which includes light sleep, deep sleep, and REM sleep. The natural process of aging shifts this architecture so that there is more time in light sleep and less in deep, which is what causes older adults to wake up frequently throughout the night. This is also why they may find themselves napping more during the day. Adding to this, as we age our body tends to manufacture less of the hormones needed to regulate sleep, such as melatonin.

This light sleep is only made worse by the increased incidence of medical conditions such as diabetes, asthma, and arthritis – just to name a few. The pain associated with these conditions can easily disrupt sleep, as can the medications needed to help manage them. Seniors may also develop sleep disorders, chief among them being Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). This occurs when there’s an obstruction in the upper airway that momentarily stops the breathing process and lowers the level of oxygen in the blood. This then causes the brain to wake the body, pulling out of the sleep state. Those with OSA experience this multiple times throughout the night.

Ways to Improve Sleep

Although there are a number of factors that can influence a senior’s sleep quality, it’s important to remember that poor sleep is not a normal part of aging. Seniors who experience the symptoms of sleep apnea or severe insomnia should consult a physician or sleep specialist. However, seniors can also take steps on their own to regulate their sleep-wake cycle and get better rest at night.

• Set a strict schedule and go to bed at the same time every day (including weekends)
• Avoid napping throughout the day, if possible
• Follow a daily exercise regimen, with approval from a physician
• Spend time outside each day (at least 10-15 minutes) to receive some natural sunlight
• Avoid caffeine and smoking 8 hours before
• Avoid eating large meals or snacks before bed
• Limit alcoholic beverages throughout the day, but avoid completely in the hours before bed
• Make the bedroom a place exclusively for sleep, and ensure that the conditions are ideal for promoting quality sleep

Comfort Keepers^® Can Help

At Comfort Keepers^®, we want to help preserve all areas of senior wellbeing. Our caregivers can help seniors follow the recommended steps that promote quality sleep and let the family know of any dramatic changes in sleep behavior. Contact a local Comfort Keepers office today to learn more about our in-home care services.

References:

FamilyDoctor.org. “Sleep Changes in Older Adults.” Web. 2017.

AgingCare.com. “Do People Need Less Sleep As They Age?” by National Institutes of Health. Web. 2018.

National Sleep Foundation. “Aging and Sleep” Reviewed by Michael V. Vitiello, PhD. Web. 2009.

Falling Down

Think back to when you were a child and all the times you fell down, whether from roughhousing with siblings or playing outside with friends. It could be said that falling down is an essential part of growing up. As we develop, our bodies adapt and we tend to stay upright a majority of the time, without having to think much about it. It’s not until we reach an older age that the odds of falling become greater, and the injuries, in turn, become much more severe. In fact, falls are continuously noted as the leading cause of traumatic brain injury (TBI) hospitalization and death for older adults.

It’s estimated that two-thirds of older adults who have fallen will experience another fall within six months.

Traumatic Brain Injuries

Although TBI’s are serious at any age, they are much more likely to threaten the cognitive health of seniors. Some of the effects include everything from lack of coordination to a state of general confusion. Additionally, numerous studies within the last few decades show that there is a correlation between brain injuries (moderate and severe) and the risk of developing Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia.

Treatment of mild TBI’s may require occupational, physical, and/or speech therapy to help a senior restore their ability to function, while more severe cases require prolonged hospitalization and careful observation. Whether mild or severe, TBI’s are often detrimental to a senior’s wellbeing and can interfere greatly with quality of life.

As mentioned, falls represent the leading cause of TBI’s – as well as a number of other debilitating injuries such as hip fractures and broken bones – so it’s important that seniors do what they can to reduce their risk of falls. Doing so can be the key to maintaining their health and independence. Here are some tips that they can follow:

Fall Prevention Tips

• Have your vision checked often, and wear lenses if prescribed by an optometrist. It’s not uncommon for certain age-related eye conditions and lack of depth perception to cause a senior to fall.
• Ensure that the house is free of hazards. Remove loose rugs, stacks of newspapers/magazines, as well as any cords that may be lying out.
• Install assistive devices wherever possible. This can include everything from grab bars in the bathroom to a raised toilet seat with armrests.
• Keep the home bright. Keep night lights in all rooms and hallways to ensure that there is illumination of some kind at every turn. Also be sure to keep flashlights easily accessible in the event of a power outage.
• With a physician’s approval, incorporate an exercise regimen into your daily routine. Moderate physical activity can go a long way to improving one’s balance, strength and coordination – all of which can help reduce the risk of falling.
• Talk with your physician to understand how any prescription or over-the-counter medications may impact the odds of falling. Similarly, he or she may be able to identify other issues that can increase the overall probability, and then determine what lifestyle changes to make.

Most importantly, it’s important for seniors to know that falling is not something that just normally happens as you get older, but conversely, they should also be aware that it’s not something that just happens to other people. Anyone can fall, but a majority of falls are preventable with the right precautions in place.

Comfort Keepers^® Can Help

If we could, many of us would probably choose to be with our loved ones all the time, to help ensure their safety. But there inevitably comes a time when our loved ones need additional support. Comfort Keepers^® can provide that assistance. Our compassionate and professionally trained caregivers can help ensure that a senior’s living environment is safe and that they’re taking the necessary steps to reduce their risk of falling. We can also help them get to any scheduled appointments with a physician or optometrist. Simply put, our goal is to see that aging adults have what they need to live happy, safe, and independent lives. Call your local Comfort Keepers office today to learn more.

References:

Mayo Clinic. “Health Aging: Fall Prevention.” Web. 2018.

National Council on Aging. “Debunking the Myths of Older Adult and Falls.” Web. 2018.

Alzheimer’s Association. “Alzheimer’s and Dementia: Traumatic Brain Injury.” Web. 2018.

Brain Injury Guide & Resources. “The Elderly and Traumatic Brain Injury.” Web. 2018.

Skating By

In the midst of our daily lives, it’s not uncommon for us to push our body’s nutritional needs to the backburner. Think, for instance, of all the times you’ve settled for a bagel and a cup of coffee for breakfast, when you know full well that you really should have a more well-rounded meal to start your day.

When it comes to nourishment, we can get away with the bare minimum for a while, but of course, one of life’s greatest inconveniences is that, what we need to function never stays quite the same. This is especially true as we reach older age. But what exactly changes in our body that makes paying closer attention to nutrition so important?

A recent study found that, of the millions of older adults admitted to the hospital every year, one in three is malnourished.

What Changes?

For starters, we experience a gradual loss in muscle mass (something that actually starts in our 30s) and develop a slower metabolism. Bone density also decreases, and organ tissue begins to thin. We don’t often think about these changes because the focus is largely on aging’s effect on physical appearance – but they are still just as real. But despite these changes, our body still requires the same essential nutrients (protein, vitamins and minerals), and sometimes in larger number. The challenge is that, because of our slowed metabolism, we don’t need as many calories, making it vital that we choose foods that are nutrient-rich.

In addition to the physiological changes that take place, seniors may also begin to find less pleasure in eating. On one hand, simply acquiring healthy food may become more difficult, especially if driving is no longer possible. What’s more, many seniors find themselves experiencing a loss of appetite or motivation to eat because of their loneliness. Throughout our lives, meals are often accompanied by social interaction with friends and family. For a senior living alone, the thought of eating may further emphasize his or her lack of companionship.

All of these changes can culminate in malnutrition, a condition that can lead to a rapid decline in health or exacerbate pre-existing health issues. And while it’s estimated that nearly five million seniors are at risk of malnutrition, it’s a condition that is often missed or not properly diagnosed. Fortunately, there are ways for family caregivers to help their loved ones reduce the risk of malnutrition.

Reducing the Risk of Malnutrition

• Make meals more social. Schedule days of the week to go over to a loved one’s home to help prepare meals and provide company. If you can’t physically be there, you can always do a video call with them during dinner time.
• Educate seniors on the importance of nutrient-rich foods. While seniors may know that they need to eat nutritious foods, there may be some confusion on how to go about doing it. Plan a shopping trip with them to identify what to get each week, with consideration of the major food groups.
• Consider meal delivery. Whether it’s through Meals on Wheels or subscription services like Blue Apron or HelloFresh, there are a number of alternatives that aging adults can rely on to get nutritious, well-rounded meals.
• Keep communication open. When in doubt, pay close attention to any changes in a senior’s behavior and be sure to express any concerns you have about their eating habits. As mentioned earlier, emotion can play a significant role in the nourishment we provide for ourselves, so it’s important for aging adults to know that they can about how they’re feeling.
• Consult his or her physician. If you notice that a senior isn’t eating properly (or at all), make sure to work with his or her physician to see what the root cause may be. For instance, a loss of appetite may be caused by a certain mediation, which will then need to be adjusted accordingly. Physician input is especially important if there’s any pre-existing conditions, in which case more specific dietary guidance will be given.

Comfort Keepers^® Can Help

Being there for our aging loved ones and helping to personally identify when there’s a problem with their nutrition is important, but we can’t do it all. That’s where we come in. At Comfort Keepers^®, we help seniors live healthy, independent lives in their own homes. We understand just how important nutrition is to senior wellbeing, which is why our caregivers provide assistance in preparing healthy, nutritious meals. They can also offer companionship care so that seniors have company while they eat. Additionally, we can help them get to the grocery store and find foods that follow the diet prescribed by their physician. Contact your local Comfort Keepers office to learn more about our services.

References:

MayoClinic. “How to Spot Malnutrition.” Web. 2017.

Food and Nutrition. “How Dietary Needs Change with Age” by Timi Gustafson. Web. 2014.

Tufts Now. “Nutrition Challenges As We Age” by Julie Flaherty. Web. 2017.

An Alarming Trend

It’s not uncommon to associate alcohol consumption with younger age groups, but studies show that drinking among older adults is on the rise. Some attribute this to pervasive anxiety caused by the recession, while others note that baby boomers have gone through life without the aversion to alcohol experienced by older generations. Both theories are valid, but a factor that should not be underestimated is that, for many, life simply becomes harder with age.

Seniors may turn to alcohol in order to alleviate the pain, loss, isolation, loneliness, or despair that they’re feeling, due to events such as the death of a spouse, children moving away, retirement, or physical ailment. Or if they have an existing affinity to alcohol, the challenges of aging may increase dependence. A drink or two a day may quickly become four or five. And though the body may have tolerated this years ago, it becomes increasingly sensitive to alcohol over time. In fact, drinking in excess can eventually exacerbate existing health conditions or result in liver damage, cancer, immune system disorders. It can also increase the risk of accidents – in or outside the home – and can be lethal if combined with certain medications.

The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD) estimates that nearly half of all nursing home residents face alcohol-related problems.

Knowing the Signs

Again, many seniors may not understand that they are abusing alcohol. To them it may just be as if they are continuing to consume as they always have. Being proactive and providing education to seniors on the dangers of even moderate alcohol consumption is extraordinarily important. Additionally, family members, caregivers, and friends should also know exactly how to identify a loved one’s drinking problem.

Here’s what to look for:

• Drinking in private or in a hidden, solitary way
• Loss of interest in hobbies or activities that were once pleasurable
• Increasingly hostile or angry
• Ritual of drinking before, during, or after meals
• Memory loss or confusion
• Slurred speech
• Change in appearance
• Empty liquor bottles or beer bottles

Some of the signs listed above can be mistaken for other conditions experienced by seniors, such as depression or dementia. This results in alcohol abuse often being overlooked in the senior population. Coupled with the fact that many seniors are reluctant or embarrassed to seek help, it’s no surprise that this is becoming a bigger problem.

Adult children and family caregivers should not dismiss any of the signs of alcohol abuse, but they should also approach the topic delicately and with respect for their loved ones. As mentioned previously, they may view alcohol as their only form of solace, so proposing that they be without it may not go over well, at least initially. Keeping communication open is key, as is letting seniors know that there are healthy alternatives and support systems available to help them begin to live safer, happier lives.

Comfort Keepers^® Can Help

Safety, happiness, and positive wellbeing. These are all qualities we want for the seniors in our lives – and we want to know that they have what they need to live independently. Comfort Keepers^® makes that a reality by providing quality care for seniors and peace of mind for families. In doing so, our compassionate, professional caregivers can let families know of any changes in their loved one’s behavior that may indicate a drinking problem. Our goal, above all, is to maintain the physical and emotional wellbeing of seniors everywhere. Contact Comfort Keepers today to learn more about our unique style of caregiving.

References:

The New York Times. “Alcohol Abuse is Rising among Older Adults” by Paula Span. Web. 2017.

Alcohol Rehab Guide. “Alcoholism in seniors” Web. 2018.

NCADD. “Alcohol, Drug Dependence and seniors.” Web. 2018.

National Institute on Aging. “Facts about Aging and Alcohol.” Web. 2018.