Florida Elder Care & Senior Health

What is Florida's Ombudsman Program for Elders?

First, what is an Ombudsman?

In short, an ombudsman is an advocate for someone in need.

Florida's Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program provides ombudsmen who advocate for people who live in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and adult family care homes. All services are confidential and free of charge. There are 17 councils across Florida that provide this service to elderly individuals living in long-term care facilities. An ombudsman with Florida's program is trained and certified to assist residents with complaints and concerns and to ensure that elderly residents of long-term care facilities are treated with dignity and respect.

To find a local council visit the the program's website (click here) then click on the Florida map for a location near you.

Beverly Napoli
Visiting Angels of Clearwater
www.homehealthclearwater.com

http://www.fox4morningblend.com/tabid/3530/story/38348/Default.aspx

Selecting Home Care Services

Selecting Home Care Services can seem complicated and leave you feeling very confused. We thought you might like the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions:
When would I use services provided by a Home Health Agency?

Personal care may be required or desired after a hospital stay or illness when a little more personal care like bathing or dressing is required to keep you independent. When you need little extra housekeeping or meal assistance, or just help with personal errands and shopping.

What is the difference between Companion Services and a Home Health Agency like A Preferred Nursing Service?

Home Health Agencies provide a full range of “hands on care”, such as bathing dressing and transfer assistance are licensed by the state and are subject to thorough state audits. Agencies require that a Registered Nurse supervise all staff. Companion services are not required to be supervised by a Registered Nurse, however provide valuable services of a less personal nature, like cleaning, meal preparation, running errands, etc. No personal care is permitted by a companion service.

What is the difference between a Nurse Registry and a Home Health Agency?

A Home Health Care Agency is licensed by the state. Its employees are insured with workman’s compensation, and are bonded to protect your possessions. As the employer an agency pays all social security, withholding and unemployment taxes. An agency is required to have a Registered Nurse supervise the staff. A nurse registry hires independent contractors to perform home health services, is not required to provide workmen’s compensation or liability insurance. A nurse registry is not required to have Registered Nurse Supervisor.

Who pays for private duty nursing services?

Private duty Agencies provide care through direct pay from clients, as well as Long Term Care policies. If you have questions please call our office and we will be happy to answer them for you.

How do I begin service with A Preferred Nursing Service, Inc.?

Simply contact our office, and we will arrange a complimentary assessment by one of our team of qualified Nurses.

Please call if you have any questions. 941 624-6100
Dianne Campbell
Community Liaison
A Preferred Nursing Service
2811 Tamiami Trail, Port Charlotte, FL
www.apnursingservice.com

Scald - Related Burns and the Elderly

Senior adults > 65 are more prone to have hospital emergency room visits than younger people or adults over the age of 80 for non-fatal scald burns. The CDC analyzed data from emergency room visits and found an estimated average annual rate of 23.8 visits per 100,000 population of seniors in this age bracket. Not surprisingly most scalds occur in the kitchen, dining area, or bathroom. Two-thirds of the visits were made by women and 76% of the scalds occurred at home. These statistics were taken only from emergency room visits and not doctor's offices or walk-in clinics.

When older adults are admitted to the emergency room for injuries caused by scald burns, they typically have longer hospital stays than younger people, due to complications and health issues. Preventing scald related burns is important. When cooking, a person should use the back burners rather than the front burners, and hot food should be placed in the middle of the table rather than near the edge.

Caution should be taken when boiling water, transferring food from one area to another or using the microwave. It was found that 41 % of scald burns were caused by microwave ovens. For more information on this topic visit the CDC's website by clicking here.

Karen Best Wright, B.S. Community Health Education
www.SeniorPro.com
www.PathwaytoHealthyLiving.com
www.RaisingYourGrandchildren.com

Exercise for Seniors

Many times when people think of exercising, they think of going to the gym or exercising to get buff and look good. While that may certainly be an okay reason to exercise, as we age we learn that exercising is very important for our basic health and to help us age better with fewer difficulties. Exercising can sometimes even prevent or even delay certain diseases.

The types of exercising an elderly person will participate in will certainly not be as strenuous as when they were younger, but it is just as important. People are never too old to exercise.

"Safety First" should be everyone's motto. If a person has any type of disease such as diabetes, a heart condition, obesity, or another health condition, a visit to the doctor should be first on the list. Most older adults will do just fine by moderately increasing their activity. Many older adults increase their activity and even their mental health by having a dog that needs to be walked.

To learn more about exercises for senior adults and elderly individuals, visit the NIH Senior Health website at http://nihseniorhealth.gov/exercise/toc.html

Beverly Napoli
Visiting Angels of Clearwater
www.homehealthclearwater.com

The Challenges of a Multi-Generational Family

Are you a multi-generational family?  Does “sandwich generation” sound familiar?  Welcome to the dilemma of the Boomers.  We’re reaching “upper middle age,”maybe  retirement, ourselves. Our kids are college age with all the attendant needs and costs. Maybe we’ve even got grandchildren and have to help with childcare, just so our kids and their spouses can make ends meet.  We’ve scrimped and saved in our 401K’s and IRA’s just to watch them dwindle, decline and effectively add another ten+ years to our working lives.  Then there are our parents-they survived the Great Depression, did more than their share of scrimping and saving just to prepare for this time in their life. But had no idea just how much that would cost and how much longer they would live than was projected when they were young.

    What do you do?  Where do you turn?  Do you feel like a piece of taffy that’s pulled and pulled until there’s nothing left?  Well, you’re not alone.  There are answers and alternatives to help ease your burden, help put that taffy back together, help make ends meet, and help give your parents the quality of life they deserve without killing or bankrupting you in the process. Allow me to introduce Geriatric Care Managers (GCM) to you.

    We’re professionals with degrees in nursing, social work and gerontology.  We have years of experience within the community your parent lives providing care to folks just like your Mom, Dad, Uncle Fred or Aunt Hazel.  Whether you live a block away or 2000 miles away, a GCM can become the key to maintaining a balance in your life and that of your parents. She can provide your parents with the kind of care you would want to provide yourself, if you had the training and the resources and weren’t pulled in a dozen different directions. Best of all, with a GCM’s help, you get to star in the role you were born to play: son, daughter, niece or nephew.

    Once contacted, we will meet with your loved one, and ideally with you, too, to provide a thorough assessment of your parents’ ability to care for themselves and determine if the appropriate interventions are in place.  We will develop a plan of care, with your loved one and with you, that addresses current and future needs.  Once an agreed upon action-plan is enacted, your GCM will visit at regular intervals which have been agreed upon in the Plan of Care.  She gets to know your parent so that she can identify subtle changes and nuances before they become major issues or crisis.  She communicates with everyone involved in your parents’ care to assure everyone is on the same page and needs are being anticipated and met. 

    There is a charge for the services of a GCM. But what you’ll find is utilizing her expertise will result in a savings as costly mistakes are avoided and crisis’ are averted.  Even if your parent isn’t at the stage where active interventions are needed, or if they’re already in a care facility, establishing a GCM is a prudent idea. She serves as your back-up if you are unavailable when a need arises.  In an ideal world, GCM’s would always have the opportunity to get to know their client long before a true need occurred.

    Whether you find yourself being squeezed from all directions or just want to have the assurance that a qualified, caring professional is at the ready should your loved one have a sudden need occur, consider contacting a Professional Geriatric Care Manager today.

    For more information, call Joyce Niederpruem BA, RN, CCM President of Southwest Solutions, Inc. @ 941-953-9757, or visit our website:  www.southwestsolutions.org.  

    Member National Association of Geriatric Care Managers and Florida Geriatric Care Manager’s Association.

Seasonal Flu vs. 2009 H1N1 Flu (swine flu) and Seniors

The seasonal flu and the H1N1 FLU (swine flu) are two different viruses, which require two different vaccines. The H1N1 flu is spread from person to person just like the seasonal flu. The H1N1 flu was first detected in April 2009. According to the CDC the H1N1 flu has caused greater problems in people younger than 25 than in elderly people. However, all individuals with chronic health problems such as asthma, diabetes, neuromuscular disorders, suppressed immune systems, heart disease, kidney disease, and neurocognitive disorders face an increased risk of complications from the 2009 H1N1.

People infected with either virus can spread the virus from 1 day before getting sick to 5 – 7 days after symptoms appear. Besides getting vaccinated for both viruses, the best way to avoid getting sick is through cleanliness.  Washing hands frequently with soap and water and drying hands with a soft cloth to avoid chaffing will help with preventing the spread of the virus along with covering ones nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing with a disposable tissue.

Caregivers of the elderly should be vaccinated to help prevent the spread of what can become a deadly disease. If the following symptoms are present, immediate medical attention should be obtain.
• Difficulty breathing
• Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
• Sudden dizziness
• Confusion
• Severe or persistent vomiting
For more information about the 2009 H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu) click here and visit the CDC’s website.

Peg Holloway
Senior Care Management Services
Melbourne, Florida
www.SRcaremanagement.com

Seasonal Flu Shots and the Elderly

For the elderly living in chronic-care facilities and those with long-term medical conditions such as diabetes, asthma, and heart disease, the seasonal flu shot is 50 - 60 % effective in preventing hospitalization or pneumonia, and 80% effective in preventing death from the flu.

For elderly persons who do not live in long-term facilities or have chronic diseases, studies have found that the seasonal flu shot is 30% - 70% effective in preventing hospitalization for pneumonia or influenza.

Persons 65 years old and older are at a higher risk of serious complications when contracting the seasonal flu. It is recommended that not only the elderly but those who live with them or are caregivers get a seasonal flu vaccination. For more information visit the CDC's website at www.cdc.gov and do a search for flu and elderly.

Beverly Napoli
Visiting Angels of Clearwater
www.homehealthclearwater.com

Everyone Needs a Break,... How Respite Care Can Help

Respite Care refers to a short time of rest or relief.  Studies show that today millions of Americans provide assistance to older family members, friends or neighbors to help them remain in their own home and community for as long as possible. If you are a caregiver you may feel exhausted and in need of taking a break to take care of your own responsibilities and interests. 

Respite care can provide the caregiver time to take care of their own errands and needs, go shopping, go to the doctor or even play a round of golf. Respite care for your loved one can provide you the opportunity to spend much needed time with other family and friends or just relax. In-home respite services are usually provided by licensed home health care agencies. Their trained caregivers can be there when you cannot and provide you with peace of mind knowing your loved ones are in good hands and are bathed dressed, physically cared for and are taking their medications properly. A home health care agency can also assist you by taking care of all the little things that need to be done around a house everyday like doing dishes, cooking meals, doing laundry, cleaning and other chores. 

Unfortunately, accidents, surgery or unexpected trips can create a need for emergency respite care. If such a situation does come up, it is helpful to have dome some advance planning. Why not try out a service in a non-emergency situation and see how it works.

 Dianne Campbell
Community Liaison
A Preferred Nursing Service, Inc.
Port Charlotte, Florida
www.apnursingservice.com

Weight loss and the elderly

A review of national data by Debra Umberson from the University of Texas at Austin found that people who lose a spouse are at risk of long-term weight loss.

While obesity is linked to sickness and death, too much weight loss can be too. Debra Umberson states, "The newly widowed should be aware that they are at risk if they begin to lose weight. And they might take an effort to avoid weight loss."

While younger people can experience losing a spouse, it is obvious that being elderly increases one's odds tremendously of becoming widowed. Family members and caregivers need to be aware and observant of any weight loss in newly widowed individuals.

Karen Best Wright, B.S. Community Health Education

SeniorPro Marketing
www.SeniorPro.com
www.RaisingYourGrandchildren.com
www.GrandparentingBlog.com
www.BlogforHealthyLiving.com

When Elders Are Financially Exploited By Friends, Family and Caregiv

It is a sad fact that most people who financially exploit the elderly get away with it. They often find it so easy that they do it time and time again. Each time the Exploiter becomes more and more bold. They act as though they are entitled to this money and no one else deserves it. This is why they must be prosecuted. There will be another victim.

Prosecuting these crimes is difficult for the State Attorney because of how it is done. In my career as a Professional Geriatric Care Manager in South Florida I have noticed a definite step-by-step process, almost a formula, that these Exploiters use to separate elders from their life savings. In many cases the Exploiter actually gets permission from the elder to take their money. Because of this, it can be argued that the elder "allowed" their assets to be taken and therefore, no crime took place. Furthermore, to argue that an elder was easily influenced by the Exploiter is to imply that the elder is incompetent and perhaps should not be in control of any of their finances. Few elders want to admit that. Instead they justify the theft or even cover it up. Once the elder realizes that they have been victimized, they may feel responsible, guilty or embarrassed. Few will testify against the one who stole from them.

When we think of someone who steals from the elderly, we conjure an image of the stranger lurking around the ATM machine or scam artist selling bogus products. Since Investment Broker, Bernard Madoff "made off' with his client's millions, we have all become familiar with the term "ponzi scheme". But this type of financial exploitation is rare compared to the financial exploitation elder care professionals see every day which is perpetrated by an elderly person's friends, family and caregivers. In cases I have worked I have seen that THIS type of exploitation achieved slowly, purposely and in FIVE PREDICTABLE STEPS. It is often done so artfully, that the elder and others around them see it happening but cannot believe it is true. They ignore all the small telltales signs. When the situation finally explodes, the FIVE STEPS are then seen as clear as day. By then it may be too late to do anything about it.

Here are the STEPs. Learn to recognize them and you may prevent this horrible crime from happening to yourself or someone you care about.

STEP ONE: The Exploiter comes to the rescue - they become a caregiver or helpmate when the person suffers a crisis. They may do extra favors for the elder without pay and refuse to take payment even when offered...at first. The Exploiter will later remind the elder of the favors and cause them to feel indebted to them.

STEP TWO: The Exploiter convinces the elder that they are the only one who cares about their welfare. The elder is brainwashed to believe that the true family only wants their money.

STEP THREE: The Exploiter separates the elder emotionally and physically from their family. They bring in their own family to be the "replacement family". Next they tell the elder they are like family to them. The Exploiter may even start to call the elder " Mom" or "Dad". They may deny the true family access to calling or visiting the elder and cause others in the community to regard the true family as exploiters. The elder may never know about all the family's attempts to reach them.

STEP FOUR: The Exploiter gets permission to use the elder's credit card, ATM card or other money for a small purchase. Then they continue to use the elder's assets and transfer assets little by little to their own account or distribute assets among the Exploiter's family members. The Exploiter may shop for the elder but purchase items for themselves as well. They may take the elder out to dinner but also invite their whole family and have the elder pay for it. When the Exploiter's car needs repair or gas, the elder is asked to pay for since that car is used to shop or transport the elder. The elder will feel they have no choice but to agree.

STEP FIVE: Finally, the Exploiter will attempt to take legal control over the person. They may become Power of Attorney, change the Will to disinherit the family and bequeath assets to themself and or their family. A few years ago, I had a case where an attorney changed the Will of a confused dying woman to give her home and assets to an aide whom she had only known for two years. This was especially heinous because that lawyer had previously written the Will for the family and knew that the heirs existed. This family fought the caregiver in court and had to settle for about one tenth of their original estate. I testified against the the attorney and he has tried to retaliate against me several times since. A few weeks ago I testified in a case where a caregiver in her forties married a ninety- four year old man. She was previously his maid for about two years. She had a notary perform the ceremony in their living room while her children served as witnesses. This act automatically disinherited the elderly man's entire family. The marriage was challenged and annulled. The elderly man was deemed incompetent by a court of law and assigned a guardian of his assets.

The secret weapon these perpetrators use is LOVE, ATTENTION, FAMILY- LIKE CONNECTION and even SEX...all the things human beings need but may not get once they are aged. In South Florida, many seniors retire to this area only to find themselves thousands of miles from their original family when they need them the most. This isolation creates a dangerous opportunity for exploiters.

If someone you love has a person in their life, be it friend, family, caregiver, or even a trusted professional and you feel they are taking over that person's finances, lifestyle and even thought processes, get professional help! Contact a professional such as a Geriatric Care Manager or an Elder Law attorney and make sure someone contacts Adult Protective Services. The reality is that the police and State Attorney's office will need you to practically build the case for them in order for them to prosecute. The evidence may need to be gathered secretly in order not to cause the Exploiter to quickly move to STEP FIVE. Most importantly, take action immediately. Know that the elder will feel you are meddling and taking over. They will not thank you for this because they have already been convinced that the Exploiter has somehow earned their loyalty and their money. Act anyway because it is the right thing to do. If you need assistance for an elder in South Florida call me toll free at V.I.P. Care Management, Inc. 1-877-588-5158. http://www.vipcaremanagement.com/

Choosing an Elder Law Attorney

Attorneys who work in the field of elder law bring more to their practice than an expertise in the appropriate area of law. They also have knowledge of the senior population and their unique needs as well as the myths related to competence and aging. They are aware of the physical and mental difficulties that often accompany the aging process. Because of their broad knowledge base they are able to more thoroughly address the legal needs of their clients.

For example, when planning an estate, an elder law attorney would take into consideration the health of the person or couple, the potential for nursing home care and the wishes and concerns of the person or couple if that event were to occur.   If need arises, the elder law attorney will associate other legal experts.

Elder law covers all aspects of planning, counseling, education, and advocating for clients.  Elder law attorneys are a resource to their clients because they understand their clients’ needs may extend beyond basic legal services and stay informed about and connected to the local networks of professionals who serve the elder population.

ELDER LAW SPECIALISTS
Some elder law attorneys are certified as elder law specialists by the Florida Bar.  This certification requires that attorneys must be a member in good standing of The Florida Bar and must have practiced law for at least five years. The applicants must have demonstrated substantial involvement of their practice -- 40 percent or more -- in elder law, in the three years preceding their application.  The lawyer must also pass a comprehensive written examination and peer review in order to be certified as a specialist.

QUESTIONS TO ASK WHEN CONSIDERING AN ELDER LAW ATTORNEY:  
·       How long has the attorney been practicing?
·       What percentage of the attorney's practice is devoted to elder law?
·       Does his or her practice emphasize a particular area of elder law?  (for instance, guardianship or other specific work)

·       What is the attorney's experience regarding the specific matter with which you are concerned?
·       How much elder law training has the attorney had, and from what organizations?
·       Is the attorney a Florida Bar Board Certified Elder Law Attorney?
·       Will the attorney be able to work within your time limitations?

PREPARE FOR YOUR MEETING
Should you decide to meet with an elder law attorney it will be helpful to prepare in advance.  Make a list of the questions you will want the attorney to answer.  When you review your list of questions, consider what information the attorney will need from you in order to answer your questions.   Bring with you any information or documents you think will be helpful.  The attorney may or may not need it but, either way, the information will be readily available. 

By April D. Hill, Board Certified Elder Law attorney
www.HillLawGroup.com

Nursing Home Medicaid... Fact or Fiction??

Nursing Home Medicaid is a big mystery for Seniors! So many rumors and so much misinformation is out there!  It is hard to figure out what is right and what is actually within the Medicaid rules. 

Some have heard that you have to sell your house to get Medicaid benefits. Others have heard that Medicaid can 'take" your house.   Another tidbit floating around is that, in Florida, you have to wait for five years before you can apply for Medicaid.  Another one heard around the pool deck is that you should transfer your home's deed to your family to qualify for benefits.    Even some Bank advisors may say to transfer your CD's when they mature to your children, to qualify. 

All are well meaning people who have information and want to help. But so much of what we hear is  "misinformation".  Would it surprise you to know that the "information" about the house, bank accounts and time periods mentioned above are not true??!!

I have heard Seniors say that they have "too much money" to qualify for Medicaid benefits.  Well, your assets can be protected in most circumstances, all while following the current Medicaid rules.  And with that asset protection, you can qualify for Medicaid. 

The Senior Information Center can meet with you for a free consultation.  They will discuss your situation and then tell you how you may qualify for Nursing Home Medicaid.

For more information, please visit the Senior Information Center website at

www.elderplanner.com

Carol Goldberg, BSW, CLA
Senior Information Center

Helping elderly individuals remember to take medication

I recently read a very good idea on how to help elderly individuals remember whether or not they took their medication. Often when seniors do not remember if they took their medication, they will take it twice. The obvious solutions is to have a medication container that contains a place for each day or even morning and evening medications to be taken.

However, one clever idea, came from HHS HealthBeat.

[Mark McDaniel speaks] "Older adults who were asked to put their hand on their head when they were also making the prospective memory task appeared to remember having made that task, and the repetition errors declined substantially."

Karen Best Wright
SeniorPro Marketing
www.SeniorPro.com
www.RaisingYourGrandchildren.com

Health Insuance Needs for Florida Seniors and Elderly

The SHINE Program Assists Florida Seniors with Health Insurance: The Florida Department of Elder Affairs offers the free SHINE program (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders).

SHINE counselors offer information and assistance with Medicare (figuring out paperwork, bills and filing appeals), Medicare supplemental insurance, Medicare prescription drug coverage, long-term care planning and pharmaceutical assistance programs.

Call the Elder Hotline toll-free at 1-800-262-2243 to find services in your area.

Karen Best Wright
www.SeniorPro.com
www.RaisingYourGrandchildren.com
www.BlogforHealtyLiving.com

Why are seniors reluctant to get a second opinion?

I was reading an article recently about why seniors are reluctant to get a second medical opinion. It was really quite interesting, because I find that I am the same way and I am only a senior by AARP standards. Many of us grew up with going to the family doctor for everything. The same doctor who gave us antibiotics for strep throat also delivered our babies. One doctor did it all. Today is quite different. There seems to be a doctor for each type of illness (well almost). Perhaps the elderly are frustrated with so many different types of doctors that a second opinion to the same type of doctor just doesn't occur to them. Or perhaps, it is the way they were brought up to respect and not question those in authority. Caregivers to the elderly are in a sensitive yet sometimes difficult situation when it comes to suggesting and sometimes insisting that an elderly family member get a second opinion. It is a good idea to get a second opinion when it comes to serious or potentially serious health problems or an illness that requires heavy duty medication and special diets.

Karen Best Wright, B.S. Community Health Education
www.SeniorPro.com
www.RaisingYourGrandchildren.com
www.GrandparentingBlog.com

Family Night at Manor Care Boca on Wednesday, August 19, 2009 at 6pm

Manor Care in Boca Raton and The Senior Information Center are having an Educational Seminar for Seniors, their families and those who want to learn about Medicaid and Nursing Homes. Speakers will provide information on Manor Care's great Rehab program and the benefits of long term skilled care for families and caregivers. Our Medicaid Specialists and Certified Senior Advisors will teach you what the real medicaid laws are, make clear the misinformation you may have heard, and tell you how you can qualify for medicaid benefits. This is a free event for the community. Refreshments will be served. Manor Care Boca Raton is located at 375 NW 51st Street (Yamato Road), Just east of I95.                     

We look forward to seeing you there!

For more info, contact Carol at 561-704-0150. Visit our website at 

www.elderplanner.com 

Preventing Heat-Related Illnesses in the Elderly

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention reports that approximately 400 people each year die from heat exposure related to weather conditions. This number does not include those who die from chronic illnesses that are worsened by excessive heat exposure. In 2008, seventy-one people died from heat exposure in the United States. More than 75% of these deaths occurred in people over the age of fifty.

Older persons are more at risk for heat-related injuries and deaths for a number of reasons. As we age, our bodies are not able to adjust as quickly to external stressors including sudden changes of temperature. Also, the elderly take more medications and have more chronic health conditions that may affect the body’s ability to regulate its temperature.

 

Here are some ways to prevent heat-related illnesses:

 

Stay indoors preferably in air-conditioning on hot days and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.

Replace fluids frequently especially during outdoor activities. Water is usually best. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol.

Wear cool clothing. Lightweight, loose-fitting, light colored clothing is best.

Listen to the weather report. If the heat index or temperature reaches dangerous levels, activities should be modified and extra precautions should be taken. 

Recognize the symptoms of heat illness. Heat illnesses can lead to permanent health problems and death. Prevent these serious outcomes by recognizing the warning signs. Report any symptoms to a physician immediately.

Early symptoms of heat illness may include:

·    Muscle Cramps

·    Tiredness

·    Weakness

·    Dizziness

·    Headache

·    Nausea or vomiting

·    Fainting

·    Skin: may be cool and moist

·    Pulse rate: fast and weak

·    Breathing: fast and shallow

·    Heavy sweating

·    Paleness

 

Symptoms of heatstroke include:

·         An extremely high body temperature (above 103°F)

·         Red, hot, and dry skin (no sweating)

·         Rapid, strong pulse

·         Throbbing headache

·         Dizziness

·         Nausea

·         Irrational behavior

·         Extreme confusion

·         Seizures

·         Unconsciousness

 

If you think someone is suffering from a heat-related illness, have someone call for immediate medical assistance while you begin cooling the affected person by taking these steps:

 

1. Get the person indoors or to a shady area.  

2. Lower their body temperature in any way you can such as in a cold bath or by applying cool, wet cloths or cool water to the person's skin. 

3. If the person is alert, have them sip 1/2 cup liquid every 15 minutes. Do not offer alcohol or caffeinated beverages.

4. Call 911 and give first aid as needed if the person:

 

• shows signs of shock
• develops bluish lips and fingernails
• has decreased alertness
• starts having seizures, or
• loses consciousness.

Most importantly, if you have an elderly neighbor, friend or family neighbor, visit them often when the weather is hot and look for signs of heat illness. Many seniors either do not have air conditioning or simply cannot afford to use it. You can also offer an elderly person a ride if you see them walking or offer to take them to an air-conditioned building such as the mall on hot days. For more information and safety tips, go to www.redcross.org.

 

By: Rhonda Johnson-Saunders, owner/director

Here to Help Senior Concierge Services     

www.heretohelpscs.com

Taking Medicine to Prevent Disease?

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services it is recommended that people over the age of 45 ask their doctor about taking aspirin to prevent heart disease. They also suggest that those under 45 also ask their doctor about aspirin if they have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, or if they smoke.

It is also recommended that people over 50 have annual flu shots and pneumonia shots for those 65 or older. Not all people may choose these preventions, but it is a good idea for elderly individuals to speak with their doctor about them.

Karen Best Wright, B.S. SeniorPro Marketing
www.SeniorPro.com
www.BlogforHealthyLiving.com
www.RaisingYourGrandchildren.com

Preventing Falls

This post is written more from personal experiences but is very important as people age. I seem to have a history of tripping over things and falling smack on my face even though I am not elderly. I have tripped over a toddler who walked in front of me, while I was carrying a baby in my arms. I have tripped over the front steps while carrying groceries into the house. I have tripped over the dog which ran in front of me, and I have tripped over my own floppy slippers. This last time, landing smack on my head requiring 5 stitches. Fortunately for me I have strong bones and haven't broken anything yet.

As people age, this becomes a very real concern. An elderly person's balance will not be what it was when they were younger, and their chance of getting severely hurt increases. Sometimes an elderly person may fall because of osteoporosis. A bone may break first, causing the fall. But many falls are preventable.

It is important that precautions are taken to help prevent falls. A few obvious things would be to make sure the floor is free from clutter, dim lights are left on at night, dogs are well trained, shoes or slippers fit properly and do not fall off while walking, and not trying to move too fast, thus throwing one off balance.

Karen Best Wright, B.S. Community Health Education
www.SeniorProMarketing.com
www.SeniorPro.com
www.GrandparentingBlog.com

Kidney Disease, a silent disease

Kidney disease is a silent disease. That means you do not feel symptoms until it is too late and you need medical treatment. No all, but most people who get kidney disease are over 60. The main causes of kidney disease are diabetes and high blood pressure.

Fortunately, people have control over diabtes and high blood pressure. Proper eating and exercise and medication if necessary can control these two diseases, thus helping to prevent the dreaded kidney disease. Treating kidney disease if far more instrusive than preventing it.

Here is a link to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services about Keeping Kidneys Healthy.

Karen Best Wright, B.S. Community Health Education
Pathway to Healthy Living
www.SeniorPro.com
www.BlogforHealthyLiving.com
www.RaisingYourGrandchildren.com

Dementia is not always Alzheimer's

There are other illnesses that mimic the symptoms of Alzheimer's Disease. Pseudo-Dementia caused by depression is one of them. This type of illness is treatable with the proper anti-depressant but can still be very disturbing. Since the person may act in a demented way such as forgetting how to do familiar things, memory loss, losing interest in previous activities, having a change in personality, and lacking focus, it can very much look like the early stages of Alzheimer's disease.

When any type of dementia is expected it is important to take the person to a good doctor. Tests are run to rule out or confirm an Alzheimer's diagnosis. Tests such as an MRI rules out brain tumors or strokes. Blood tests rule out thyroid and other problems, and a series of neuropsych test help to determine or rule out Alzheimer's. Even if Alzheimer's is diagnosed, there are good medicines that can help slow down the disease. If Alzheimer's is ruled out, there may be other medications to help with what the problem may really be. The earlier an illness is detected whether it be Alzheimer's disease or an illness with similar symptoms, the better it is for the person who suffers from the illness as well as all family members.

Karen Wright, B.S. Community Health Education
Pathway to Healthy Living
www.SeniorPro.com
www.RaisingYourGrandchildren.com
www.GrandparentingBlog.com
www.BlogforHealthyLiving.com

Top 3 causes of preventable premature death

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

 "Researchers have a new list of preventable causes of death. The top three: smoking, high blood pressure, and overweight or obesity."

A new list? That list seems as old as the hills. I honestly do not know what the top three preventable causes of death use to be, but I have known that simple fact for 30 years, and I am no scientist or doctor.

So whether we are concerned for the health of our elderly parents or clients, or our own health, living a healthy lifestyle that keeps our weight within a healthy range, our blood pressure normal, and definitely no smoking can not only help prevent premature death, but will also improve the quality of our lives. And isn't that really the goal we all have, to live a quality life not just a long life?

Karen Wright, B.S. Community Health Education
Pathway to Healthy Living
www.SeniorPro.com
www.RaisingYourGrandchildren.com

What is a Geriatric Care Manager?

ANSWER: GCMs are professionals with their degree in Social Work or Gerontology. They have the knowledge and experience to assist seniors, their families and their caregivers with long term care arrangements.

 Assessment & Ongoing Supervision

Geriatric Care Managers can perform in-home assessments for seniors to identify problems and recommend possible solutions. Based on this assessment, they can offer referrals to medical services, legal and financial services, home care, and many other community resources. GCMs have referred their clients to services such as: Meals on wheels, home care, emergency buttons, psych services, eldercare attorneys etc.

 GCMs often act as a connecting bridge between the seniors, their family members and supporting services that are offered in their area. They can coordinate all the services and keep in touch with verbal and written reports so the family members are always informed about their senior loved one.

Placement & Advocacy

GCMs strive to recommend services that enable the senior to continue to reside safely at home for as long as possible. If and when a senior does have the need to move into a community, assisted living facility or nursing home the GCM can assist with this process in order to make certain that this move is the most appropriate for the senior based on their unique needs. Once the senior has moved, the GCM can help them by visiting regularly and making sure their client’s best interest and safely is in mind.

 There is a team of experienced Geriatric Care Managers right here in the Bay Area. They are ready and willing to get to work for you or your loved one. Bayshore Geriatric Solutions’ goal is to assist seniors and their loved ones in making the best decisions for them and their well being based on each unique circumstance. If you know of someone who would benefit from the services of Bayshore Geriatric Solutions, call them today at 813-246-4120.

Jenee Mendillo, Assistant Administrator
Bayshore Health & Homemaker Services, Inc.

www.BayshoreHomeCare.com

ICE-In Case of Emergency from Visiting Angels, Clearwater, FL

Today, many seniors are carrying cell phones, not only for convenience, but also to be able to use in the event that something were to happen to them. They usually have information in their cell phones that would allow emerency personnel to contact a family member or friend, but how are they to locate it during an emergency? Simple...ICE your cell phone! "The original concept, conceived by Cambridge, England paramedic Bob Brotchie, involved putting the acronym ICE in front of your designated emergency contact. The idea is that you stor the word "ICE" in your mobile phone address book, and against it enter the numnber of the person you would want to be contacted..."In Case of Emergency". Additionally, you would want to enter the name of the individualo so your display would read: "ICE Heather" indicating the person's name. In an emergency situation, ambulance and hospital staff will then be able to quickly find out who your next of kin are and be able to contact them. For more than one contact name you can use ICE1, ICE2, ICE3 etc." Then all you have to do is place a sticker on the cell phone that says, "ICE Loaded". For more information on ICE, contact Visiting Angels. For the office nearest you, go to www.visitingangels.com.

Beverly Napoli, Owner/Director

Visiting Angels, Clearwater, FL