by trevor@addfuelfire.com | Sep 12, 2015 | Caregiving, Healthy Aging, Uncategorized
When your senior loved one is discharged from a Michigan hospital, they may have a long road to recovery ahead. Depending on the illness, injury or treatment, it could take anywhere from a few weeks to several months before your aging parent has regained their independence.
In order to heal, they will not only need assistance with healthcare, but also with everyday tasks like bathing, dressing and meal preparation. Your loved one may get this care temporarily in a rehabilitation center, but will also need extra help in their home or in a respite care at an assisted-living community
Being involved in their care before and after discharge can help ensure that they recuperate and return to their daily routine as soon as possible.
The first step
Recovery from a hospital occurs in several stages. If your aging parent is doing well, the hospital may discharge them directly into home care, where family will be responsible for supervising their recovery. Because this situation is not always best for the senior, many are transferred to a short-term rehabilitation center, where they can receive 24-hour skilled nursing services, as well physical, speech and occupational therapy. If the senior meets the criteria, Medicare will cover up to 100 days in one of these skilled nursing communities.
The discharge plan
As soon as your aging parent is admitted, the staff begins discharge planning. When a team of caregivers determines that your senior is healthy enough for release, they will call a meeting and provide options for the family to investigate and consider.
Use a Discharge Planning Checklist to help you prepare for the meeting. It will make it easier for you to have all the information discharge planners need to assess your senior loved one’s care and home environment.
If you aren’t certain if your senior loved one will be safe at home, be sure to share your concerns with the discharge team. They can share resources, offer support and possibly alter their plan. You can also appeal a Medicare discharge decision and request a reassessment.
What’s next?
Once a senior in your care is released from a hospital or rehab center, you will need to decide the best approach for making a full recovery. You will have several choices to consider:
1) Home care administered by family. This will require that you wear many hats as you take on a nursing role. You may need to administer medications, care for wounds, and oversee exercise, as well as bathing, dressing, meals and housecleaning. If your loved one lives alone, you may need to stay with them until they are in better health.
2) In-home care. You might consider hiring a visiting nurse or a private duty aide to lighten your load. A qualified caregiver can make recovery easier on your senior loved one and on you. If a physician orders skilled home health care, it will typically be covered by Medicare. Otherwise, your loved one will have to pay out of pocket.
3) In-home therapy or outpatient therapy. If your loved one needs therapy to build muscle strength, recover lost speech skills, or to re-learn ordinary tasks, a physician may order in-home therapy or outpatient therapy. With a physician’s order, both are usually covered by a senior’s Medicare.
4) Respite Care: You may want to consider a short-term stay at an assisted living community if your loved one is not ready to return home alone after a hospitalization. This allows them to live in a safe and comfortable home-like environment where they can get 24-assistance with care tasks. They can also receive therapy services through a skilled home health agency while they are recovering at an assisted living community.
If you are considering respite care for your recovering senior loved one in the Great Lakes State, call the Heritage Senior Community nearest you.
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by trevor@addfuelfire.com | Aug 16, 2015 | Caregiving, Healthy Aging, Uncategorized
August is National Immunization Awareness Month, which focuses on promoting vaccinations to prevent serious illness and to save lives. Many mistakenly believe that immunizations are only necessary for infants and young children. But vaccines are not just for kids. Seniors in Michigan needs their shots, too.
As we grow older, our immune system weakens, putting each of us at a greater risk of life-threatening diseases that are often times preventable with a simple vaccination. The Centers for Disease Control estimates that as many as 70,000 adults lose their life each year from vaccine-preventable illnesses. It is vital that you know which vaccines are recommended for your Michigan senior loved one to ensure they are protected.
Immunizations for seniors over age 65
The CDC recommends an annual flu shot and several one-time vaccinations for your senior loved one.
- Influenza or flu vaccine: This annual shot is a must for older adults. The flu can be deadly to people of all ages, but kills more seniors than any other group. Almost 90% of flu-related deaths are in adults over the age of 65. Seniors also account for more than 50% of hospitalizations for the influenza virus.
This important vaccine reduces the likelihood that an older adult in your care will contract the flu virus. If they do, the symptoms are less likely to be severe and less likely to require a costly hospital stay.
The US Department of Health and Human Services recommends your senior get the influenza vaccine in October or November to ensure they are protected through the peak season.
- Pneumonia vaccine: Pneumonia is responsible for almost 50,000 deaths in older adults each year. It is also the leading cause of hospitalization in Americans over the age of 65. This one-time vaccination, covered by Medicare, can protect against 23 different strains of bacterial pneumonia.
The Pneumovax immunization also helps to prevent infections of the bloodstream and bacterial meningitis.
Recently, the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommended that seniors also receive an additional dose of a new pneumonia vaccine that prevents 11 more types of this life-threatening disease. Prevnar13 is not yet covered by Medicare and costs up to $150.
- Shingles vaccine: Seniors over 60 are more prone to shingles, a painful and long-lasting skin rash caused by the chicken pox virus. The one-time Zostavax vaccine lowers the risk of contracting this infection by 50%. If your senior loved one does come down with shingles, the shot reduces the severity of the rash and the level of pain.
The shingles vaccine can be given even after an outbreak, preventing further infection.
Vaccines for special circumstances
Additional vaccinations may be required based on medical need.
- Tdap: This vaccine is the tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis booster for adults who may or may not have been given the DTP vaccine when they were younger. The one-time shot was added to the CDC’s recommended vaccinations list after a recent outbreak of whooping cough, or pertussis, which is deadly in infants.
- Hepatitis A and B: Physicians often administer these vaccines to seniors in assisted living communities and nursing homes, where an outbreak may occur.
To track vaccines for a loved one in your care, you may want to use a Vaccine Administration Record.
Vaccinations are an important part of your senior loved one’s health and well-being. Check with their health care provider to make sure they are protected. For more information about vaccinating a senior loved one, visit US Department of Health and Human Services Senior Vaccine Schedule.
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by trevor@addfuelfire.com | Jul 2, 2015 | Healthy Aging, Uncategorized
When you think about summer sun protection for your Michigan senior, don’t forget the sunglasses.
The sun’s ultraviolet rays can cause serious damage to the eyes of people of all ages. But the threat is even more serious for older adults. Years of unprotected sun exposure injures the eye and can cause cataracts, cancer and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). AMD is the leading cause of blindness in people over age 65.
Seniors who venture to Great Lakes State beaches or the pool face a greater risk of vison loss. Water and sand reflect the sun’s rays, doubling the exposure to ultraviolet light.
Sunglasses are the best defense against harmful solar radiation. The American Academy of Ophthalmology says wearing sunglasses year round, even on cloudy and hazy days, can help protect an older adult’s vision.
Advice for helping your senior loved one select the right sunglasses to shield their eyes and safeguard their sight:
Be a Savvy Eyewear Shopper
- Effective sunscreens block UV-A and UV-B light rays. Protective eyewear should be no different. Choose sunglasses that block 99 to 100 percent of UV-A and UV-B rays or that offer “400UV protection.” Don’t purchase a pair if they aren’t labeled.
- Buy from a reputable store or eye care center. Flea markets, street vendors and online auctions might offer incredible deals, but you cannot be sure that the UV protection ratings are accurate.
- If your senior wears eyeglasses, suggest that they invest in photochromic lenses, which block UV rays and automatically darken when exposed to sunlight. These can be helpful for older adults with Alzheimer’s or in dementia care, who may need to be reminded to use sunglasses.
- A set of prescription sunglasses is another option. Prescription lenses block 100% of the harmful ultraviolet light. Many eye care providers offer specials on multiple pairs.
Choose the Right Features for Your Senior’s Sunglasses
- Polarized lenses don’t block harmful UV light, but they do help to eliminate glare and reflection. This feature is a must for older adults who drive.
- Lens color doesn’t play a role in UV protection, but it can affect an older adult’s comfort level. Aging loved ones who have had cataract surgery may prefer amber lenses or “blue blockers.” These absorb HEV-rays that are more irritating to sensitive eyes.
- Dark lenses are no more protective than light tints, but they do reduce brightness and reduce squinting.
Select a Style: Bigger Is Better
- The US Food and Drug Administration recommends wraparound frames that fully shield the front, side and top of the eye from damaging UV rays. Wraparounds are available in a number of styles, including a goggle design that cups over and encloses the eyes.
- Over-lenses are another maximum coverage option. These larger frames slip over prescription frames.
- Flip-up and clip-on sunglasses attach to the top of prescription frames with a clip or magnet. Some clip-ons offer minimal side-coverage.
We hope these tips help you choose the right sunglasses for your senior loved one. Don’t forget to grab a pair for yourself! Protecting your younger eyes from intense sunlight helps to prevent age-related eye disease.
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by trevor@addfuelfire.com | Jun 12, 2015 | Caregiving, Healthy Aging, Uncategorized
Summer provides seniors in Michigan more opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities. But it also increases their risk of life-threatening dehydration. Older adults are already prone to dehydration in large part because age-related changes weaken their ability to sense when they are thirsty and to easily adjust to changes in temperature. Summer’s heat and humidity add to that threat. Both can lead to serious complications and even death. When a senior loved one is too hot, they lose fluid through perspiration. Added humidity prevents sweat from evaporating and cooling the body, further increasing the need for fluids.
The Centers for Disease Control recommends that adults of all ages consume 48-64 ounces of liquid each day. This includes fruit and vegetable juices, soups, and milk. Sodas, coffee and tea do count toward that total, however, medical professionals usually don’t recommend them because of the added sugar, calories and caffeine.
Here are some ideas for making sure your senior loved one gets adequate fluids year-round:
- Always provide a beverage with meals. If the person in your care chooses caffeinated coffee or tea, insist they include a small glass of water or juice to counteract the diuretic affects.
- Urge them to drink a full glass of water when taking daily medications. A phone call reminder at medication times might be necessary.
- Schedule hydration into their daily routine. For instance, if they watch a particular television program each day, prompt them to get a glass of water or juice before it begins. If they exercise, ask them to drink an 8-ounce glass of water before and after.
- Encourage your senior to drink throughout the day rather than waiting until they are thirsty. Remember, if an older adult is thirsty, they are likely already dehydrated. You might try designating a specific cup, glass or water bottle for drinking water and challenging them to finish it and refill it two-to-three times throughout the day.
- Dress up their drinks. Add fresh lemon slices, other fruits or even mint sprigs to water for a refreshing change. You can also use a water infuser to create a homemade fruity water beverage. Offer sparkling seltzers and flavored waters, which are available in the water aisle of the grocery store. A colorful straw can ensure your senior drinks more quickly.
- Provide access to plenty of water-rich fruits and veggies. Drinking isn’t the only way to stay hydrated. Melon, grapefruit, cucumbers, celery, tomatoes, bell peppers, strawberries, oranges, spinach, squash and broccoli are all high in water content. Offer them with meals and as snacks. Raw is best, as cooking removes water.
You can also reduce fluid loss through perspiration by helping your senior loved one stay cool.
- Make sure they dress in lightweight, breathable clothing. Cotton is ideal.
- Encourage them to stay in an air-conditioned building on hot days.
- Older adults should avoid direct sunlight. Staying indoors or in the shade between 11am and 4pm is best.
We hope these tips will help you keep your senior hydrated and safe this summer and throughout the year.
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by trevor@addfuelfire.com | Jun 4, 2015 | Dear Donna, Healthy Aging, Uncategorized
Dear Donna:
My 82-year old father has arthritis. He’s lived with it for many years. I know he is really suffering from it but I can’t convince him to see the doctor. He says there is no cure for it so it is a waste of time and money. In all honesty, I’m not sure how many years it has been since my dad has even been to the doctor. He is very stubborn!
I saw a commercial on television about arthritis medication so I think there might be options for him. Any suggestions to offer?
Tami in Hudsonville, Michigan
Dear Tami:
It isn’t uncommon for older adults to be resistant to seeing a physician for a variety of reasons. But in this case, seeing a physician experienced at working with older adults who live with arthritis is the best way to relieve the pain it sounds like your father is feeling. While your dad is correct in saying there is no cure for arthritis, there are ways to manage it.
A physician can recommend treatment options ranging from pain relievers and steroids to physical therapy or aquatic therapy. Both of these therapies help strengthen and support the muscles around the damaged joint while improving range of motion. His doctor can also share information on the surprising role diet plays in preventing –or creating—the inflammation that makes the pain of arthritis worse.
The experts from the Arthritis Foundation offer the following advice on when someone with the disease should consult with a physician:
- When pain, swelling, or stiffness is present in one or more joints
- If joints appear reddened or warm to the touch
- When moving a joint is difficult or when symptoms inhibit everyday activities
In addition, the experts recommend making an appointment with a doctor if symptoms persist for more than three days or if your father has more than one battle with his arthritis in a month. A gerontologist or a rheumatologist might be the best choice.
We hope sharing this information with your father may help change his mind and convince him to seek medical attention!
Donna
Heritage Senior Communities newest community assisted living community in Holland, Michigan will open its doors to new residents in June.
by trevor@addfuelfire.com | May 14, 2015 | Healthy Aging, Uncategorized
A stroke refers to the death of brain cells occurring as a result of a blockage of oxygen to the brain. Strokes affect people of all ages, but they are far more prevalent in those over 65, who might have more medical risk factors like high blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol.
Though some strokes are mild, many are devastating. Even minor strokes can affect memory, physical function, and the ability to communicate. In Michigan, stroke is the fourth leading cause of death. And while family history, ethnicity and gender can play a role, stroke risk can be reduced.
The American Stroke Association, which named May Stroke Prevention Month, says 80% of strokes can be prevented with lifestyle changes.
Eat well; be well: Fill your plate with nutrient-dense foods like fresh fruits, vegetables, and low-fat proteins. It may be hard for seniors to try new foods, but adding whole grains, beans and nuts to the diet a bit at a time can help to improve the diet.
Seniors should limit sodium to 1500 mg a day to keep hypertension in check. Shy away from refined sugars, processed foods and sodas.
Read more in the USDA Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
Get moving: Studies have shown that regular exercise three-to-five days a week reduces the risk factors for stroke. And the good news is that you are never too old to start exercising.
The US Surgeon General recommends a minimum 30 minutes of aerobic activity each day for better cardiovascular health. For seniors, this can be accomplished through brisk walking, and can be broken up into short ten-minute sessions. This type of exercise strengthens the heart and reduces stress levels—all necessary for a healthy blood pressure.
The Centers for Disease Control Physical Activity website is an excellent resource for helping older adults begin an exercise program.
Always check with a doctor before beginning any exercise regimen.
Maintain a healthy weight: Balancing caloric intake and exercise can help seniors maintain a healthy weight that will reduce the incidence of heart disease and stroke.
Quit smoking: Smoking makes the heart work harder by damaging the circulatory system, doubling the risk for stroke. The benefits of quitting even late in life are great. A 2002 study determined that smokers who quit at age 65 added up to 3.4 years to their lives. After one year smoke free, the added risk of stroke was eliminated.
Go easy on the alcohol:While some studies connect one alcoholic drink a day to a reduced stroke risk, others point to an increased risk when people drank two or more. The American Stroke Association recommends no more than two drinks per day for men and no more than one drink per day for women.
To learn more about strokes and stroke prevention, we encourage you to visit the Stroke Resource Center.
Heritage Senior Communities newest community is now open in Holland, Michigan. The Village at Appledorn West offers adults over the age of 55 one- and two-bedroom apartments. An assisted living community on the same campus will open its doors to new residents later this spring.
