by trevor@addfuelfire.com | May 10, 2016 | Healthy Aging, Uncategorized
Keeping medications that are no longer needed or those that are expired around the house can create problems for people of all ages. In households where older adults live, it can lead to the wrong medication being taken accidentally or to grandchildren finding one and ingesting it.
Experts estimate that 71,000 kids under the age of 18 are taken to the emergency room because of unintentional overdoses caused by a prescription or over-the-counter-medication.
What can you and your Michigan senior loved one do to safely dispose of medications that are no longer needed?
There are a few resources that can help you figure it out.
Guidelines for Disposing of Old Medications
Here are the guidelines recommended by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Department of Justice (DOJ):
- Take Back Programs: Take advantage of prescription take back days in your local community. Pharmacies typically offer them a few times a year. You can check to see if one is coming up near you by visiting the Department of Justice Office of Diversion Control
- Ask the Pharmacist: Check the instructions that come with each prescription medication to see if it indicates how it should be disposed of. If you didn’t save the safety insert, call the pharmacy where it was filled. (The phone number should be on the label.) The pharmacist can provide you with that information.
- FDA Database: The FDA maintains a list of medications that can safely be flushed down the sink or toilet. For these medications, it is considered the best way to keep small children and pets safe. Do not flush medications down the sink or toilet unless the instructions for disposal specifically indicate you should do so.
- Coffee Grounds and Kitty Litter: If the medication you want to dispose of didn’t come with any instructions, experts say to take the medicine out of the container and mixed it with coffee grounds or kitty litter. Don’t smash or crush the pills just mix them with either of the two products. Seal the entire mixture in a leak-proof bag and place it in the trash.
- Avoid Identity Theft: Make sure you remove or scratch out any identifying information on pill containers before disposing of them. This is an important step for reducing the risk of identity theft.
We hope these tips help you create a home environment that is safe for all generations!
by trevor@addfuelfire.com | Feb 29, 2016 | Healthy Aging, Uncategorized
If the Michigan senior you love is feeling lonely and blue after the long winter, a pet may be a happy solution! Pets can be great therapists. They are proven to help with everything from decreasing blood pressure to lowering rates of depression among our elders.
Health care organizations from hospitals to hospice programs incorporate pet therapy in to their daily routines.
But there are many factors to consider when choosing pets for seniors. From community restrictions on pets to budget issues and mobility challenges, there are a few issues to consider.
How to Find the Right Pet for an Older Adult in Michigan
- Budget: The financial impact of owning a pet is one consideration. While Great Danes or another large breed of dog may be your senior loved one’s favorite, they can be more expensive to feed. At the opposite end of the spectrum are the fluffy little dogs many people find so appealing. A challenge with owning one of these dogs, however, is they tend to need frequent grooming. Depending upon what part of Michigan your senior loved one resides in, the costs for grooming can quickly add up. Before you make a decision on a pet, be sure to factor in all of the expenses your loved one will incur with each of the companions you are considering.
- Mobility: Our snowy, icy Michigan winters can make it hard for older adults to get outdoors to walk a pet each day. While dogs are known to help seniors improve their physical fitness, they can also put them at risk for a fall during the winter months. If your senior loved one doesn’t have a fenced yard or easy outdoor access, a dog may not be the best choice. By contrast, a cat doesn’t need (or often want!) to go outside when the weather is frightful.
- Community restrictions: Another factor to keep in mind is where your senior loved one lives. If they reside in a senior living community in Michigan, is it pet-friendly? Or if they call a condominium complex home, are there homeowner’s restrictions regarding pets?
- Easy maintenance: Is your aging family member able to care for a pet that might be higher maintenance? For example, a puppy might be a little too high energy for some seniors. An older dog might be calmer and easier to handle. A small bird or fish might be other options. Both are known to help decrease stress and agitation, especially for adults with Alzheimer’s.
Resources for Finding a Pet for a Senior
Finally, we thought it would be helpful to share a few good resources you can use when it comes time to choosing a furry or feathered friend for your Michigan senior loved one:
- Petfinder is an organization that maintains a nationwide database of pets waiting to be adopted
- The Michigan Humane Society can help connect you with pets big and small that are looking for a home
by trevor@addfuelfire.com | Feb 18, 2016 | Healthy Aging, Uncategorized
Driving an automobile allows seniors in Michigan to maintain their independence. But as we age, our ability to operate a car safely declines. According to AAA, 90 percent of adults over 65 have health conditions that impair driving. In addition, age-related issues like loss of flexibility, diminished vision and reduced reaction time increase an older adult’s ability to drive safely.
Just a few years ago, this meant that seniors might have had to give up the keys. But automakers have developed high-tech safety features that allow older adults to stay safe behind the wheel longer.
These features include parking aids, backup cameras and reverse-sensing systems that can alert drivers to autos and objects in the driver’s blind-spots. Some cars are even equipped to automatically apply the brakes when a pedestrian or obstacle is in the path. Adjustable safety belts, pedals and seats can also improve visibility, reaction time and comfort.
Matching Senior Drivers with the Car Safety Features They Need
AAA Automaker software can help adults over 65 choose a car tailored to their physical limitations and health needs. This useful tool can help you and your senior loved one select automobile features that can help overcome some of the physical changes caused by aging.
AAA recommends:
Six-way adjustable seats. This can make is easier to get in and out of a car, as well as reduce hip and leg pain associated with rising and sitting. Seats with multiple positions, height adjustment and back support can help older adults feel more comfortable and confident behind the wheel.
Keyless entry and ignition. This is a must for seniors with arthritis. A push-button system eliminates the need for turning keys and fumbling around trying to push small buttons on a remote key chain.
Thick steering wheels. These are kinder on older hands because they reduce the need for a full grip on the steering wheel.
High-contrast, large print gauges. An easy-to-read instrument panel can help seniors with vision issues monitor their speed and vehicle issues.
Best Vehicles for Senior Drivers
Some cars are more senior-friendly than others. Consumer Reports rates new and used cars for older adults based on a variety of features ranging from seat adjustment to steering wheel comfort. Here are their recommendations for older driver safety:
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2014 Chevrolet Impala
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2011-2014 Chrysler 300
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2008-2014 Honda Accord
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2011-2014 Honda Odyssey
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2014 Kia Soul
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2004-2015 Lexus RX
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2009-2015 Subaru Forester
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2005-2012 Toyota Avalon
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2007-2014.5 Toyota Camry
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2004-2014 Toyota Highlander
For more information about older adult driving safety, visit the Michigan Guide for Aging Drivers and Their Families.
by trevor@addfuelfire.com | Oct 29, 2015 | Healthy Aging, Uncategorized
Strokes occur when the flow of oxygen to the brain is blocked. They can happen to people of all ages, but the chance of suffering one is much higher for seniors over age 65. When an aging parent suffers a stroke, it is crucial that they get treatment right away to improve the chances of survival and recovery.
October 29 is World Stroke Day, which is dedicated to raise stroke awareness and educate people about the importance of seeking help immediately when they see warning signs in loved ones of all ages.
Michigan residents can benefit from learning the three warning signs their senior loved one is having stroke. According to a 2007 study, many residents of the Great Lakes State could not identify all of the signs of stroke when surveyed. Stroke is the state’s fourth-leading cause of death and the nation’s leading cause of adult disability.
What to Know About Strokes
Here’s how you can help raise awareness that can save lives:
Know the signs. According to the CDC, the five most common symptoms someone is suffering a stroke all occur suddenly and without warning. They include
- A severe headache.
- Numbness or weakness in an arm, face or leg on one side of the body.
- Inability to walk or keep balance while standing or walking.
- Confusion, slurred speech and difficulty talking.
- Vision problems in one or both eyes.
Know what to do. Immediate action is key. If you see any of the symptoms in an aging loved one, don’t dismiss them. Call 9-1-1.
Educate your team. Make sure that all family and friends involved with caring for your senior loved one know the warning signs and know that if they see any of them, they shouldn’t hesitate to call 9-1-1.
Download the FAST Stroke Warning Signs mobile app on your mobile device. F.A.S.T is an acronym reminder of three common stroke signs and what to do when a loved one exhibits them. If you see Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, it’s Time to call 911. Use your device to show your aging parents this easy-to-read visual aid that can help them recognize the three most common stroke symptoms and remember what to do if they experience them.
Be Social. Share the American Heart Association’s World Stroke Day infographic and World Stoke Day messages on Facebook and Twitter. “Like” the American Stroke Association’s Facebook page.
Share the old fashioned way. If your aging parent resides in an assisted-living or independent-living community, ask to place fliers of posters in gathering areas.
Stroke can cause devastating lifestyle changes for older adults. Quick action can prevent disability and save your loved one’s life.
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by trevor@addfuelfire.com | Sep 30, 2015 | Dear Donna, Healthy Aging, Uncategorized
Dear Donna:
My father lives in southwest Michigan. He’s been on his own for a few years now since my mother passed away. Dad had been the primary caregiver for my Mom for about six years before her death. Since he has been on his own, he doesn’t seem to be getting out much. When I try to talk with him about it, he gets a little annoyed with me. The best I’ve been able to determine is that he doesn’t like to drive any longer and that he doesn’t feel like he has much purpose in life. I know he misses my Mom, and caring for her kept him very busy.
When I talked with our family doctor about it (she is also my Dad’s doctor) she suggested he might be happier in an independent living community where there is a lot to do each day. Somehow he has the idea that these communities are mostly for widows after their husbands pass away. I guess I’m a little confused about independent living, too. How would my Dad really benefit from this type of move?
Kathy in Grand Haven, Michigan
Dear Kathy:
It’s unfortunately all too common to see the surviving spouse —especially if they have been a long-term caregiver — struggle to build a new life. As you probably know from watching your parents, caregiving is a full-time plus job. To go from being so busy to having whole days to fill can be a big adjustment.
Your father’s feelings about women and senior living are not without merit. Experts say the ratio of women to men in an assisted living community can be as high as 7:1. The simple fact is most women live longer than men. On average, women outlive men by 5 – 7 years. It is important to note, however, that most senior living communities realize men feel this way and are working hard to overcome that stereotype. They are incorporating more masculine décor, offering programs specifically directed at male residents and more.
Your family physician’s suggestion sounds like a good one to consider! If your father chose to move to an independent living community he would benefit from:
- A full calendar of life enrichment activities to participate in each day
- Neighbors who have experienced similar struggles and losses and understand what your father is going through
- Transportation services to local shopping centers, community events, physician appointments and more
- A hassle-free lifestyle that includes all maintenance and housekeeping
- The option to purchase meal service at dinner time if he no longer wishes to cook for himself
I hope this helps give you a better understanding of independent living in Michigan, Kathy! I wish you and your Dad the best of luck as you make this decision.
Donna
by trevor@addfuelfire.com | Sep 22, 2015 | Caregiving, Healthy Aging, Uncategorized
Most people who develop the flu recover from the aches, cough and fever quickly. But older adults are more vulnerable to severe and sometimes deadly complications.
September is the time of year to help your Michigan senior loved ones prepare to fight the flu.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), people over the age of 65 account for 60 percent of seasonal flu-related hospitalizations and 90 percent of flu-related deaths each year.
It is crucial that you act early to protect your loved ones from this serious illness.
Here’s what you need to know to prevent your aging loved one from getting bitten by the flu bug this year:
- Get them vaccinated. According to the CDC, the flu shot is the best way to prevent high-risk populations from coming down with the virus. Getting the shot in October ensures they are protected through the peak season in January and February and on in to spring.
Though there is a slight chance that your vaccinated senior could contract the virus even if they receive their flu shot, the vaccine will reduce the severity of illness and the risk of complications.
Adults over the age of 65 may be given a standard flu shot or a higher-dose vaccine designed for those with compromised immunity. Talk with your loved one’s physician to determine which vaccine is best shot for them.
Vaccines can be given at physician’s offices, clinics, pharmacies and at your local health department. Visit the Michigan Flu Vaccine Finder to locate a clinic near you. The annual flu shot is covered by Medicare Part B, with no co-pay.
- Roll up your sleeve, too. The flu is highly contagious, so it is important that everyone who spends any time with your loved one is also vaccinated to prevent transmitting the disease. The CDC recommends the annual flu shot or nasal vaccine for everyone over six months of age.
- Limit your loved one’s contact with people who may have the flu. Don’t permit visits with anyone who has symptoms of illness. Remind visitors that the senior in your care cannot risk becoming sick.
- Encourage healthy hygiene. Remind your senior loved one to wash their hands thoroughly throughout the day and to avoid touching their face, eyes, and nose. This will prevent the spread of infectious germs.
- Take precautions when in public. Wipe down shopping cart handles with anti-bacterial wipes. Carry hand sanitizer and help elderly adults remember to use it frequently to kill germs they might pick up.
- Bolster immunity. Make sure your aging parents eat a balanced diet, exercise and maintain strong social ties. All of these things help strengthen their immune system.
If your senior loved one develops flu symptoms, call his or her physician. If they have the flu, the doctor can prescribe an anti-viral influenza treatment that can help them combat the virus more quickly and avoid debilitating complications.
For more information about flu prevention, visit the US Department of Health and Human Services website.
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