tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24204999060996886432024-03-08T11:37:33.788-08:00HomeAid Health Care - Elder TopicsInformational articles about elder care for seniors, family members and caregivers.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372682838795345369noreply@blogger.comBlogger56125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2420499906099688643.post-76147144574573780562016-09-29T07:53:00.000-07:002016-09-29T07:55:35.439-07:00Beat the Flu<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<i><span style="color: #c10538;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Tried and true
flu shot proves to be the </span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #c10538;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">best defense against influenza this year.</span></span></i></div>
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It is that time of year when
people of all ages start worrying about the flu season. The concern is real and
prevention is important. The influenza
virus can be extremely serious. Every
year thousands of people are hospitalized due to the flu. Approximately 46,000 people die annually from
flu complications. Each year new strains
of the virus circulate making being vaccinated annually very important.</div>
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For the past couple of years a
nasal vaccine called FluMist was available.
It was used with small children so to avoid the painful poke of the
injection. Unfortunately this type of
vaccine has been proven rather ineffective in beating influenza last
season. Recently the AAP (American Academy
of Pediatrics) recommended that
everyone aged 6 months and older get the tried and true flu shot to ward off
getting sick this flu season. The
inactivated influenza vaccine (trivalent or quadrivalent) was proved 63%
effective against last season’s flu strains whereas the nasal spray version was
only 3%. This could mean that there will
be more demand for the vaccination than normal. </div>
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The AAP encourages everyone to
get their flu shot no later than October to be protected against the virus for
the entire season. The length of flu
season is unpredictable and outbreaks of flu can occur even in the spring, so
healthcare providers are encouraged to provide the vaccine up to June
2017. </div>
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The very young and the very old
are at high risk from flu complications.
According to the CDC (Center for Disease Control) getting the flu shore
reduces the chances of catching the flu by up to 90%. Other preventative measures include practicing
good hand hygiene, covering the mouth when coughing or sneezing and maintaining
a clean living environment. One
especially helpful preventative measure is avoiding exposure to the flu by
staying at home during the peak of the season. </div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Deb
Hintz is Assistant to the Director for HomeAid Health Care. HomeAid provides
services for the elderly who wish to remain safe and independent at home.
HomeAid is sister company to MedAid Staffing which provides trained Caregivers
to serve the staffing needs of local facilities as well as educational training
classes for Caregivers. Both companies are associated with Prairie Home
Assisted Living which has served the physical, spiritual, mental and health
needs of their residents since 1999. Together the three family owned and
operated companies provide comprehensive care for the elderly in the Fox Valley
area of Wisconsin.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 7.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 8.0pt;">Sources: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.cdc.gov/flu"><span style="font-size: 7.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 8.0pt;">www.cdc.gov/flu</span></a><span style="font-size: 7.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 8.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.medscape.com/"><span style="font-size: 7.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 8.0pt;">www.medscape.com</span></a><span style="font-size: 7.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 8.0pt;">. Medical News, 9/6/16.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.mystatesman.com/"><span style="font-size: 7.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 8.0pt;">www.mystatesman.com</span></a><span style="font-size: 7.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 8.0pt;">. Nicole Villalpando, 8/20/16.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372682838795345369noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2420499906099688643.post-81681823122647349992016-08-03T13:59:00.000-07:002016-08-03T14:03:19.532-07:00Strokes: Signs and Symptoms <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<i><span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Strokes cause long-term disability and death. </span><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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Edith suddenly felt odd as she
sat at the table for lunch. The glass in
her hand slipped from her fingers and everything looked blurry. A small trickle of the water she just sipped
dribbled from the corner of her mouth. She tried to speak but her words slurred
and came out wrong. Edith was having a
stroke.</div>
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Fortunately Edith’s family
realized something was terribly wrong and got her to the hospital in time. </div>
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Strokes kill close to 800,000
people each year and is the 3<sup>rd</sup>
leading cause of death in the United States. It is also the leading cause of grave long-term
disability. </div>
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<b><span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">What is a Stroke</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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A stroke takes place when the brain doesn’t get enough blood. <span style="background: white; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">When a Stroke is happening, the blood supply to part of the brain
is interrupted or severely reduced, starving the brain tissue of oxygen and
nutrients. Within minutes, brain cells begin to whither and die. </span>This
happens either due to the blood flow being blocked by a clot or because an
artery feeding the brain has burst. The
lack of blood flow to the brain is immediately evident and requires quick
intervention to prevent permanent damage or even death.</div>
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<b><span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Risk Factors</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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Risk for having a Stroke increases with age, but it is also affected
by other factors:</div>
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<ul>
<li>High blood pressure - Having
Hypertension increases the risk factor of experiencing
Stroke by 4 to 6 times.</li>
<li>Diabetes - People
with Diabetes often have damaged blood vessels in the brain and
so have a 3 times greater risk of having a Stroke.</li>
<li>Heart Disease - Irregular
heartbeat or damaged heart can contribute to having
a Stroke.</li>
<li>Abnormal Cholesterol - Having
too much the “bad” LDL cholesterol or too little of HDL “good” cholesterol
can also trigger Stroke.</li>
<li>Obesity - Being
overweight can contribute to all the other risk factors making
Stroke all the more likely to strike.</li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Symptoms of Stroke</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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It is more likely that a bystander will recognize the Stroke than the
person experiencing one. Knowing what
the symptoms are and what to do is very important as every second counts when
getting treatment. A Stroke is evident by
the victim’s inability to speak, a awkward facial expression and cognitive
confusion. Secondary symptoms may
include dizziness, loss of balance and sudden onset of a headache. Some people experience blurred vision on one
or both eyes, a weakness on one side of the body and nausea. Some people suddenly experience trouble
walking.</div>
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<b><span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">F.A.S.T.</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">This acronym
can help recognizing a Stroke as it is happening.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<ul>
<li><b><span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">F – FACE </span></b><span style="line-height: 115%;">Ask for a
smile. Check if the face is drooping on
one side.</span></li>
<li><b>A – ARMS </b>Ask to raise their arms. Check if one arm drops down.</li>
<li><b>S – SPEECH </b>Ask to repeat a simple phrase and check for slurred or odd speech.</li>
<li><b>T – TIME </b>If any of the signs are evident, call 911
immediately. </li>
</ul>
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Getting to the hospital for treatment is important. The goal is to get a diagnosis within an hour
of experiencing a Stroke and treatment within 3 hours so to avoid complications
and long-term disabilities. </div>
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Kate
McCarthy is Director of Operations for HomeAid Health Care which provides
services for the elderly who wish to remain safe and independent at home. HomeAid is sister company to MedAid Staffing, which supplies trained Caregivers to local facilities, and Prairie Home
Assisted Living which has served the physical, spiritual, mental and health needs
of their residents since 1999. Together
the three companies provide comprehensive care for the elderly in the Fox Valley
area of Wisconsin.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372682838795345369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2420499906099688643.post-86480736231038039322016-06-15T10:02:00.000-07:002016-06-15T10:04:36.030-07:00Common Traits of Longevity<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X55AIT1jvMY/V2GGCVhOzeI/AAAAAAAAA84/NGi0c-KFF4gZ4JkJBkF5dl4DmfV7diq_ACLcB/s1600/Elderly%2BGreek%2Bwoman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X55AIT1jvMY/V2GGCVhOzeI/AAAAAAAAA84/NGi0c-KFF4gZ4JkJBkF5dl4DmfV7diq_ACLcB/s640/Elderly%2BGreek%2Bwoman.jpg" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">What do the
longest living people<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">in the world have
in common?<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></i></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
They say that it is the little things that matter most in life. That is true especially when talking about
the secrets of longevity. Apparently it
is the small details of daily living that add up to a healthier and longer
life. That is what the people at
National Geographic discovered when they tried to explore the secrets of
longevity among various people and cultures.
While looking for the common traits in lifestyle among the longest
living people on the planet, they discovered certain similar practices which
could be considered a formula to living a longer life. </div>
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<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
There are areas of the planet where people tend to enjoy
longevity. People there reach the age of
100 at extraordinary rates and reach these ages enjoying amazing health and strong cognitive capabilities.
The places have been geographically and demographically defined as the Blue Zones. Blue Zone places like Greece, Nicaragua and
Japan can teach the rest of the planet how to live a long and healthy life. In the book, “The Blue Zones: Lessons for
Living Longer from the People Who’ve Lived the Longest”, Dan Buettner maps out some
common traits shared be these groups of people.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Lifestyle of Food<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Diet is key to longevity. Those
who live in the Blue Zones share the same foundation in their diets. They all
get the bulk of their protein from beans rather than meat. High consumption of proteins from animal
products can increase mortality levels by 70% and greatly increase the risk of
getting cancer. The Blue Zone centenarians
eat beans, grains, fresh fruits and vegetables on a daily basis and enjoy small
amounts of meat only a couple times a month.
They also drink a little wine daily which brings high levels of
polyphenols and antioxidants into their diets. They live much longer than
average with just a fraction of the current rate of dementia in their elderly
years. </div>
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</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Lifestyle of Motion</span></div>
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People who live to the age of 100 and older are engaged in physical
activity throughout their lives. They
don’t actively take part in exercise like per se but their lifestyles are set
up so they are constantly in motion either through walking, gardening or doing
household chores, mostly without the aid of modern conveniences. Their daily chores keep them fit because they
do them the old fashioned way: walking to the stores instead of driving,
kneading bread instead of buying it sliced and packaged, planting, watering and
weeding a vegetable garden…. These daily tasks create unconscious physical
activity which carried out over a lifetime leads to a fit and healthy body.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; tab-stops: 3.75in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #c10538;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Lifestyle of Purpose<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Having a sense of meaning or purpose in your life can add up to 7
years to the average lifespan. The
people living in the Blue Zones focus on family and relationships. They live with or near their adult aged
children and help raise their grandchildren.
They are deeply involved in the daily lives of their family because they
all live, work, eat and play together. Having
a deep sense of purpose and involvement with the people you love adds years to
a lifespan. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Lifestyle of Community<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
Those living in the Blue Zones have a real sense of belonging to their
community. They share a commitment to
social network that they have built over a lifetime. Most live in a village setting with people
they grew up with and have known for years.
The concept of being lonely, which can take 8 years off average life
expectancy, would be hard for them to understand. In addition the bulk of the centenarians are
involved in a faith based group of some kind. A deep religious faith and
connection to other faith based people can add up to a decade in life
expectancy. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
Taking a lesson from lifestyles found in the Blue Zones and adapting
them to our daily lives can be a challenge but is well worth the effort. Aging cannot be helped but how you live as
you age can make an amazing difference in the quantity and quality of the years
you enjoy.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.homeaidhealthcare.com/" target="_blank">www.homeaidhealthcare.com</a></span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_9XB2mJUN0g/UUt5dsmdO6I/AAAAAAAAAM8/DqNabdxfQi0KKQuXn7Hj4zoCh_WSxaWqACKgB/s1600/Prairie%2BHome%2BLogo%2Bjpeg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="162" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_9XB2mJUN0g/UUt5dsmdO6I/AAAAAAAAAM8/DqNabdxfQi0KKQuXn7Hj4zoCh_WSxaWqACKgB/s200/Prairie%2BHome%2BLogo%2Bjpeg.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.prairiehomeassistedliving.com/" target="_blank">www.prairiehomeassistedliving.com</a></span></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="text-align: justify;">Kate
McCarthy is Director of Operations for HomeAid Health Care which provides
services for the elderly who wish to remain safe and independent at home.</span><span style="text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="text-align: justify;">HomeAid is sister company to Prairie Home
Assisted Living which has served the physical, spiritual, mental and health needs
of their residents since 1999.</span><span style="text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="text-align: justify;">Together
the two companies provide comprehensive care for the elderly in the Fox Valley
area of Wisconsin.</span></div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-size: 7.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 8.0pt;">Sources:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 7.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 8.0pt;">“Here are the Secrets to a Long and Healthy Life” by Simon Worrall, National
Geographic. April 12, 2015.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 7.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 8.0pt;">“The Blue Zones: Lessons for Living Longer from the People Who’ve Lived
the Longest” by Dan Buettner. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 7.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 8.0pt;">National Geographic, 2009.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 7.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 8.0pt;">“Top Lifestyle Changes for Older Adults to Live a Longer, More Enjoyable
Life” by Derek Jones, April 4, 2016.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372682838795345369noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2420499906099688643.post-29546585310216302982016-04-29T09:33:00.000-07:002016-04-29T09:35:49.710-07:00Preparing Your Aging Loved Ones for Tornado Season<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC6flMvJdGhQ1U-tk1WGuhkyACnTomalbAKLzQZpqKbzmeO8qjGtritWRgGpLLUpzZW7flAPcohc0lZTM4IltQSDjQPzs-3Rcoh0GizR9XO4EsvgdssZ4B5KNJoPRwMHKtaAsFNHBY7U8j/s1600/tornado2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC6flMvJdGhQ1U-tk1WGuhkyACnTomalbAKLzQZpqKbzmeO8qjGtritWRgGpLLUpzZW7flAPcohc0lZTM4IltQSDjQPzs-3Rcoh0GizR9XO4EsvgdssZ4B5KNJoPRwMHKtaAsFNHBY7U8j/s640/tornado2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="color: #c10538;"><span style="font-size: large;">Be sure to have an emergency plan <o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="color: #c10538;"><span style="font-size: large;">in place for your aging parents.</span><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="color: #c10538;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></i></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
It was a calm afternoon in early
May when the sky suddenly turned dark and ominous. A thunderstorm was approaching. The clouds turned green and then yellow and
orange and soon began to pile up and converge. As the sky grew dark and the wind picked up,
large hail began to fall. A tornado was
on its way.</div>
<br />
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Our area will soon be in the severe
weather season for tornadoes. A tornado can occur at any time of the year;
however, the peak season for Wisconsin is May through August. In the northern states the season starts
later in June and the southern states are on alert as early as March. Even if you and your aging loved ones don’t
live in states considered to be part of the tornado alley, it is important to
have a plan in place in case the weather turns severe.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #c10538; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Warnings</span></span><span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 7.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
Knowing the difference between the two tornado warnings can help
individuals know what steps they need to take to protect themselves. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
A <span style="color: #c10538;">Tornado Watch</span> is an indication that tornadoes are
possible in and near the watch area. During
a Tornado Watch, people should remain alert for approaching storms and be prepared
to move to safety if a warning is issued.
It is a good idea to know which counties are in the watch area by
listening to NOOAA Weather Radio All Hazards or a local radio or TV
station. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
A <span style="color: #c10538;">Severe
Thunderstorm Watch</span> means that thunderstorms with large hail and damaging
winds are possible. With a Severe Thunderstorm Watch, individuals must be
prepared to move to a safe place immediately. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
A <span style="color: #c10538;">Tornado Warning</span> is when a tornado
has been sighted or indicated by weather radar.
Once a Tornado Warning has been issued it is important to immediately
move to a safe place to wait out the storm.
Tuning in to local media to keep informed about the weather is good, but
having a plan of action in place in the event of an emergency can mean the
difference between life and death.</div>
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</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #c10538;"><span style="font-size: large;">Tornado Myths</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
In the case of a tornado, it is often wise to know
what not to do. There are many myths
surrounding tornadoes which are commonly accepted as fact by elderly and can
lead to making poor choices during an emergency. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #c10538;">Tornadoes</span><span style="color: #c10538;"> don’t come
here</span> – It is very common for people to assume that because a tornado
hasn’t hit an area before that it cannot happen. Assuming immunity to tornadoes is a dangerous
myth to follow. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #c10538;">I can’t see one</span>
– Stepping outside to check the sky after hearing a Tornado Warning may be a
natural reaction to the news but don’t assume that just because you cannot see
a funnel cloud it isn’t there. Funnel
clouds are often masked in a dropping cloud base and can descend at a moment’s
notice. Rain and hail can be so thick
and whipped around by wind that it obscures the tornado itself. Tornado experts say people should not
venture out looking for tornadoes when a Tornado Warning is issued. At that time the best thing is to immediately
seek shelter.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #c10538;">Taking Cover</span> –
Contrary to popular belief, the southwest corner of a basement is no safer than
any other corner during a tornado. An
interior room in the basement, away from windows with a support structure, like
a stairwell, is the best possible place to wait out a storm. Hiding under a sturdy workbench or heavy
table is a good shelter spot. Wearing a bicycle helmet while waiting out the
storm is excellent protection from possible flying debris. If basement shelter is not available, then an
interior room on the ground floor, preferably without windows is the next best
option. Taking shelter in a bathtub,
covered by a small mattress and blankets, is another option.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #c10538;">Open the windows</span>
– Wind blowing the walls in or out is what causes major structural damage
during a tornado, not the pressure of the storm on the house. Taking time to go through the house to open
each window instead of immediately getting to a safe shelter space can be
dangerous, especially when a Tornado Warning has been issued.</div>
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<br /></div>
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</div>
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<span style="color: #c10538;">Hide under a highway
overpass </span>– When on the road and a Tornado Warning has been issued it is
best to stay in the car and driving away from the storm. Tornadoes generally travel at about 25 mph,
but can move up to 60 mph in the spring when storms are more powerful. Although Tornadoes can change paths, they
generally move in the same direction, so outrunning a storm is possible. If there is no way to avoid a tornado, taking
shelter in a low lying ditch is better than getting into a culvert or hiding
under a highway overpass. The wind from
the storm can create a tunnel effect and can literally suck people out of their
hiding place.</div>
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<span style="color: #c10538; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #c10538; font-size: large;">What to do</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
Prepare for tornado season by making sure your
elderly loved one’s home is insured for full replacement value rather than just
its market value. Be sure there is a
list of their possessions to prove ownership and value just in case. It is always wise to have a copy of all
important papers safely stowed away in a safe deposit box. Keeping a list of insurance policies, policy
numbers and contact information for the agents is a good idea too. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
Practice what to do in the case of emergency with
your elderly loved ones. Go over the
different tornado warnings and review the various alarms used locally to warn
people about severe weather. Show your
loved ones where to go and what to do in the event of an actual tornado and
have them practice getting to their shelter area if a warning is given. Set them up with a weather radio and show
them how to monitor the weather. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
Review the Acronym D-U-C-K with your aging loved
ones. </div>
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<span style="color: #c10538;">D</span> = Get <span style="color: #c10538;">Down</span> to the lowest level in the house.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #c10538;">U</span> = Get <span style="color: #c10538;">Under</span> something. Preferably a stairwell, work
bench or heavy table.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #c10538;">C</span> = <span style="color: #c10538;">Cover</span> your head.
Use a bike helmet, a blanket or pillow.</div>
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<span style="color: #c10538;">K</span> =<span style="color: #c10538;"> Keep</span> in the shelter until the storm has passed.</div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.homeaidhealthcare.com/" target="_blank">www.homeaidhealthcare.com</a></span></i></div>
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<a href="http://www.prairiehomeassistedliving.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>www.prairiehomeassistedliving.com</i></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Deb Hintz is Assistant to the Director for HomeAid Health Care. HomeAid
provides services for the elderly who wish to remain safe and independent at
home. HomeAid is sister company to Prairie Home Assisted Living which has
served the physical, spiritual, mental and health needs of their residents
since 1999. Together the two companies provide comprehensive care for the
elderly in the Fox Valley area of Wisconsin.</span><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 7pt; line-height: 115%;">Sources:<u1:p></u1:p><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 7pt;"><a href="http://readywisconsin.wi.gov/tornado/sever_weather_watch.asp">http://readywisconsin.wi.gov/tornado/sever_weather_watch.asp<span style="color: blue;"><br />
</span></a>http://shotphotos.com/tornado-with-road-warning-sign/<br />
<a href="http://www.tornado/">www.tornado</a>factandsafety.com<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372682838795345369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2420499906099688643.post-62510318058675122922016-04-04T09:44:00.000-07:002016-04-04T09:47:22.227-07:00Aging Joints<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dzp6tH1PNgg/VwKVqZHDV-I/AAAAAAAAA6I/y4WqcPnr5uAzlGCwCLrCIjo-K-gUQXLEg/s1600/elderley%2Bhand%2Bold%2Bperson%2Bflickr%2B_ricky.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="324" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dzp6tH1PNgg/VwKVqZHDV-I/AAAAAAAAA6I/y4WqcPnr5uAzlGCwCLrCIjo-K-gUQXLEg/s640/elderley%2Bhand%2Bold%2Bperson%2Bflickr%2B_ricky.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
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<i><span style="color: #c10538;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">Joint pain can be one of the most <o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #c10538;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">crippling aspects of living with arthritis.</span><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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A sharp burning, ripping pain… a constant
pins and needles sting… a throbbing,
traveling ache… the constant echo of hurt … the pain of Arthritis is
experienced differently by those who suffer from it. For some it is stiffness and discomfort when
rising in the morning for others it is chronic and disabling pain which travels
through the body like a<span style="background: white; line-height: 115%;"> hot fiery poker.</span></div>
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Arthritis literally means “joint
inflammation,” but the term really defines more than 100 different conditions
which affect joints throughout the body.
<span style="line-height: 115%;">Symptoms of arthritis can include swelling, pain, stiffness
and a decrease in range of motion as the disease influences the muscles,
tissues and the bones associated with joints.
People of all ages, sexes, and races can suffer from arthritis and it is
the leading cause of disability in America.
More than 50 million adults and 300,000 children have some type of
arthritis. Arthritis is more common
among women and it occurs more frequently as people age. </span>There are two
common types of arthritis which are prevalent among the aging, Osteoarthritis
and Rheumatoid Arthritis.</div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Osteoarthritis<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Considered a common form of joint disease, OA usually afflicts people
over the age of 60. Although many
elderly experience this type of arthritis in some degree or another, it is not
considered an inevitable part of aging. Generally those with this disease deal
with limitations in their movement and experience pain. Osteoarthritis usually affects weight-bearing
joints and is commonly associated with a deterioration or breakdown of the
joint itself. Osteoarthritis destroys the cartilage which acts as a
cushion-like connection between the joints.
When everything is working well, the cartilage protects the bones of the
joint from rubbing on each other. When
Osteoarthritis attacks the cartilage it begins to die and disintegrate leaving
the joint to grind bone on bone, causing pain. </div>
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Carrying extra weight can really add stress to the lower body joints
and is a documented factor in the development of Osteoarthritis. At risk, in particular, are knees and
hips. For every extra pound a person
gains, an added 4 pounds of pressure are on the knees and each pound increases
the pressure on the hips by a factor of 6. </div>
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Another common factor in the onset of OA is injury or overuse of
joints. Former athletes have a higher
risk of developing Osteoarthritis as they age due to increased stress or sport
related injuries and on their joints when they were young. Even those who were not athletic their youth
can develop problems as they age due to repetitive motion that put stress on
their joints. </div>
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Genetics can also play a role in the onset of Osteoarthritis,
especially when there is a family history of arthritis in the hands. Families pass on bone abnormalities which
affect the joint shape and causes problems with the cartilage. </div>
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<span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Rheumatoid Arthritis<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Considered a chronic autoimmune disease, RA is a systemic inflammatory
condition that causes joint destruction. Currently there is little understanding
why those with Rheumatoid Arthritis develop an immune system that attacks
itself. The immune system, normally used
to fight infection, attacks the joint causing inflammation, swelling, stiffness
and pain. Rheumatoid Arthritis causes progressive deterioration of the joints
and often often results in permanent joint damage, deformity and disability.</div>
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<span style="background: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="background-color: transparent;">The onset of Rheumatoid Arthritis can be as early as in the
mid-twenties and affects people throughout their lives.</span><span style="background-color: transparent;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent;">RA presents itself with swelling and
stiffness in the joints of the shoulders and neck, hands and wrists, hips,
knees and feet and is often more noticeable in the mornings or when the body is
resting. </span><span style="background-color: transparent;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent;">Because RA affects the entire
body, other symptoms such as fever, weight loss, fatigue and loss of appetite
are often associated with RA and the inflammation can affect the body’s glands,
blood vessels and the lining of the heart and lungs.</span> </span></div>
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<span style="background: white; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 14pt;">Managing
Arthritis</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">What can
individuals with arthritis do to decrease the pain associate with this disease? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Exercising is a
key component to improving health and can help ease some symptoms of
arthritis. Studies have shown even two
minutes of exercise daily is enough to ease pain, improve energy levels, strengthen
muscles that support joints, increase joint range of motion, plus lose excess
pounds that add stress to painful joints. Pool-walking and water aerobics can
be an incredible workout that does not strain joints. Stretching and building strength in muscles
through yoga and Tia chi can also be beneficial for those who suffer with
Arthritis pain. Walking, biking and
swimming are other good options. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">It is important
to balance activity with rest. Moderate
movement with Arthritis is beneficial, but over exercising can cause increase
in joint pain. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Eating a
healthy balance diet with an emphasis on food with anti-inflammation properties
can make a real difference in levels of arthritic pain. Focus on consuming lean or low fat source of
protein, food rich in calcium and dark green and orange vegetables and foods
rich in antioxidants such as fruit. Tart cherries, blueberries and raspberries
can help limit inflammation and pain levels in joints.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Along with
exercising and diet, there are other options to help manage arthritic pain. Consult with your family physician about
medications that may be of benefit to you such as vitamins, and/or supplements
associated with relief from arthritis pain.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.prairiehomeassistedliving.com/" target="_blank">www.prairiehomeassistedliving.com</a></span></div>
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Kate
McCarthy is Director of Operations for HomeAid Health Care which provides
services for the elderly who wish to remain safe and independent at home. HomeAid is sister company to Prairie Home
Assisted Living which has served the physical, spiritual, mental and health needs
of their residents since 1999. Together
the two companies provide comprehensive care for the elderly in the Fox Valley
area of Wisconsin.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Sources: </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">www.arthritisfoundation.com</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">www.arthritis.org,</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">www.cdc.gov/arthritis/basics</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">www.myageingparent.com/health/medical/arthritis-in-the-elderly. Feb. 18, 2015.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">www.pharmacytimes.com/publications/issue/2003/2003-12/2003-12-7559,</span><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Greta M. Pelegrin, PharmD</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372682838795345369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2420499906099688643.post-56713694602869671372016-03-09T08:04:00.000-08:002016-03-09T08:07:27.807-08:00The Costs of Aging in Place <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgboZj-b97FGOYArr-qPlKkzXvihIT-R-jhw8xtQ2hgWOUFhU0UvcAuyMwWaYeCbgq_AWsSLt2cifx2-34VNLVwFXvAruLlO_14lVmZFe64w_8_jqIASxIWYz_J26YR2JHhRM17k0xDU72r/s1600/bigstock-Giving-Help-50630192.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="313" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgboZj-b97FGOYArr-qPlKkzXvihIT-R-jhw8xtQ2hgWOUFhU0UvcAuyMwWaYeCbgq_AWsSLt2cifx2-34VNLVwFXvAruLlO_14lVmZFe64w_8_jqIASxIWYz_J26YR2JHhRM17k0xDU72r/s400/bigstock-Giving-Help-50630192.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div align="center" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: #c10538;"><i>Home
Health Care allows</i></span></span></div>
<div align="center" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="color: #c10538;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>the
elderly to age in place.</i></span></span></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Image abandoning the place you’ve called home
for the past 40 years, surrendering all your income and moving into a long-term
care facility, a nursing home.</span><span style="line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="line-height: 115%;">There you
must share a room with a stranger, follow the facility’s schedule and spend the
majority of your time alone or with nursing staff.</span><span style="line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="line-height: 115%;">Of course this is a stereotype, many long
term care facilities are lovely places, but this lonely scenario is what many
older Americans fear to be waiting for them when they are too ill, injured or
grow </span>to frail to live independently. The majority of elderly are adamant
that they do not want to end up in an institutional setting. Today, with the rising costs of care, there
is an increasing interest in home health care as an alternative to long term
facilities.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #ad0538; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Age in Place</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Home Health Care provides health care and support services that can be
received at home and is available for ill or disabled people of all ages. The main goal of Home Health Care for the
elderly and frail is to allow the individual to age in place. Home Health services allow aging
individuals to maintain their independence and remain comfortable in a familiar
setting. With Home Health Care, the
aging can avoid moving to institutionalized long term care facilities. Studies have shown that Home Health Care can
actually improve the quality of care received and many times will reduce the
need for hospitalization. </span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: #ad0538; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Benefits
of Home Health Care</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">With outcomes often as effective as care received in assisted living,
rehabilitation and skilled nursing homes, Home Health Care brings a lot of
benefits to those who use it. Home
Health Care providers get to really know their patients and families and can
tailor their services to best meet the Client’s health care needs, finances and
family preferences. They can help
families navigate the confusing web of health care resources and can
effectively advocate the needs of their patients. Another advantage is family is invited to
become more involved and can participate in providing support and hands on care
for their loved one. In addition patient
morale is often better at home and people tend to recover faster with less
incidents and safety issues in a home setting.
Finally, there can be significant cost savings when using Home Health Care
as there are no room and board costs compared to nursing home, rehabilitation
centers and other institutional care settings.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: #ad0538; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Types of Home Health Care </span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">There are two types of Home Health Care options available; Skilled
Home Health Care and Non-Medical Home Health Care. </span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Skilled Home Health Care is medical in nature and is used to provide
skilled care or treatment or rehabilitation services to homebound
patients. This type of care is usually
initiated by a physician and provided by a licensed medical professional such
as an RN, LPN or Physical, Speech or Occupational Therapists. Providers must follow specific federal
guidelines and criteria regarding patient care.
Skilled Home Health Care providers are usually Medicare certified and
can accept 3<sup>rd</sup> party billing of health insurance which is great
because out of pocket expenses range from $85 - $150/hour.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Non-Medical Home Health Care provided home services which are not
considered to be skilled care but help the individual be safe and comfortable
at home. Services are usually initiated
by social workers, family members or by the aging person in need. Care is provided by trained Caregivers and
CNAs (Certified Nursing Assistants).
Providers can be licensed by the state but requirements vary state to state. Non-Medical Home Health is usually an out of
pocket expense and ranges from $20 - $30/hour in cost. Non-Medical Home Health Care can be covered
by Medicare if coupled with Skilled Home Health Care. Long term care insurance policies as well Veterans
Aid and Assistance benefits can be used to pay these Non-Medical services.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: #ad0538; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">How they work together</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Let’s work through a scenario to see how Skilled and Non-Medical Home
Health Care work together. Margaret is
an 83 year old female who was hospitalized due to a fall. She was released after 3 days in the
hospital. Upon her discharge, the
physicians and social workers agreed that Margaret could not be home alone
during her recovery even though she was expected to make a full recovery in
time. Margaret elected to use Home
Health Care rather than move into an assisted living or stay at a skilled
rehabilitation center. </span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Skilled Home Health Care was set up to monitor Margaret’s recovery and
ensure she would not have to be readmitted to the hospital. Weekly, 30 minute RN visits were scheduled to
check her vitals, medications and general health. Physical Therapists visited her at home
biweekly to work with Margaret on her walking and balance skills to prevent
future falls. Non-Medical Home Health
Care was set up to visit Margaret twice a day.
A 4 hour AM and a 2 hour PM shift came daily to help with companionship,
medication reminders, assistance with exercise routines, transfers, showering,
toileting and dressing as well as household chores and meals. Within a month Margaret no longer needed the
Skilled Home Health Care which was discontinued. She retained the Non-Medical Home Health Care
long term but reduced the hours to only 3 per day. Margaret’s combined use of the services cost
her very little compared to moving into a facility to recover. The fact that she retained the Non-Medical
Home Health Care means that she will be able to remain at home in the future
even as her care needs increase. </span></div>
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Kate
McCarthy is Director of Operations for HomeAid Health Care which provides
services for the elderly who wish to remain safe and independent at home. HomeAid is sister company to Prairie Home
Assisted Living which has served the physical, spiritual, mental and health needs
of their residents since 1999. Together
the two companies provide comprehensive care for the elderly in the Fox Valley
area of Wisconsin.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372682838795345369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2420499906099688643.post-65693497622543933872016-02-03T08:58:00.000-08:002016-02-03T09:04:34.047-08:00Living with Urinary Incontinence<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N1JEmdB-o0c/VrIt2TuCelI/AAAAAAAAA5Q/IuywQNhuitQ/s1600/old-peoples-home-63615_640.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N1JEmdB-o0c/VrIt2TuCelI/AAAAAAAAA5Q/IuywQNhuitQ/s400/old-peoples-home-63615_640.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="color: #c10538;"><span style="font-size: small;">The loss of bladder control can be embarrassing<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="color: #c10538;"><span style="font-size: small;"> and is a common problem
among the elderly.</span><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Joe tends to avoid company. His peers think of him a crotchety old man
and usually give him his space. His demeanor discourages close contact. But all that is a guise Joe maintains to keep
people at a distance. Joe suffers from
urinary incontinence and is embarrassed by his condition. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
A cough, sneeze or just laughing
out loud can trigger it. Urinary
incontinence is a common problem for many people, not just the elderly,
although it becomes more of an issue with age.
It is a topic which is difficult to talk about with family, friends or
even a doctor. The wetness, odor and the
constant need to change clothing can be very embarrassing. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #c10538; line-height: 115%;">What is Urinary Incontinence?<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Defined as loss of bladder
control, the term urinary incontinence covers anything from the occasional
leaking of urine to the inability to make it to the toilet in time. These
incontinence episodes can occur any time, even when asleep in bed. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
There are five types of urinary
incontinence.</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">Stress Incontinence – Pressure on the bladder
from coughing, sneezing, exercising, or lifting heavy objects.</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Urge Incontinence – an urge to urinate is
followed by involuntary loss of urine.</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">This is often caused by infections or more serious conditions such as
neurologic disorders or diabetes.</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Overflow Incontinence – a constant or frequent
dribbling of urine due to the bladder not being able to completely empty. </span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Functional Incontinence – a physical impairment,
such as limited mobility or severe arthritis, which prevents getting to the
toilet in time. Mental impairments, such as inability to recognize the need to
get to the toilet are also considered in this category.</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Mixed Incontinence – a combination of two or
more types of insentience.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #c10538; line-height: 115%;">Factors which increase development of Urinary Incontinence</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;">There are several factors which play a role in developing an incontinence problem.</span></div>
<ul>
<li><span style="text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">Gender – Women are more likely to have Stress Incontinence
due to the physical effects of pregnancy, childbirth and the female
anatomy.</span><span style="text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">Men with prostate gland problems
have an increased risk for Urge and Overflow Incontinence</span></li>
<li><span style="text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">Age – Unfortunately age causes the muscles
around the bladder and urethra to lose strength. With age the bladder reduces the amount it
can hold and increases the likelihood of incontinence.</span></li>
<li><span style="text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">Being Overweight – Carrying extra pounds can
increase the pressure on the bladder.
The muscles surrounding the bladder can weaken and allow the urine to
leak when coughing or sneezing.</span></li>
<li><span style="text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">Diseases – Neurological disease or diabetes may
increase risk of incontinence. In
addition a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) and constipation can also aggravate the
problem. </span></li>
<li><span style="text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">Diet – Temporary incontinence can be caused by
certain drinks, foods or medications.
The diuretic stimulants which can increase the volume of urine in the
bladder are alcohol, caffeine, decaffeinated coffee or tea, carbonated drinks,
artificial sweeteners, corn syrup, foods high in spice, sugar or acid
(especially citrus fruits). Heart and
blood pressure medication, sedatives and muscle relaxants also are diuretic
stimulants as well as large doses of vitamin B or C.</span></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: #c10538; line-height: 115%;">Complications
of Chronic Urinary Incontinence<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
Incontinence can greatly affect a person’s personal life by its
negative influence on social, work and personal relationships. Skin problems such as a rash, infections and
sores can also develop from constantly being wet with urine. Incontinence also increases the change of
repeat UTIs and can aggravate constipation.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #c10538; line-height: 115%;">Overcoming Urinary Incontinence<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
It is important to seek medical advice if urinary incontinence is a
frequent concern or is having an effect on the quality of life. Before speaking
to a physician:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Start a journal to track symptoms and frequency
of incontinence. Keep notes about what
was happening at the time of the incident, i.e. laughing, lifting groceries, or
sleeping.</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Make a list of all medications being taken. Multiple physicians may prescribe
medications and there is always a possibility of negative interactions from
various pharmaceuticals. Be sure to
including over the counter pills. The
doctor will be able to look at all the medications being taken to see if there
if incontinence is a side effect from one or a combination of medications.</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Track the kind of foods being eaten and how much
fluid is consumed daily.</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Provide a brief health history and compile a
list of questions to ask the physician.
It is sometimes helpful to bring along a friend or family member to take
notes and help remember what the physician said.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
Giving as much information as possible to the physician helps with
getting the correct diagnosis and making a plan of action to correct the
problem. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #c10538; line-height: 115%;">What to expect from the physician<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
The physician will review the information provided and ask questions
to get a complete picture of the problem.
Possible questions that could be asked are:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">How long has urinary incontinence been a
problem?</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Are there any issues when trying to empty the
bladder?</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">When is the problem most noticeable?</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
The physician will do an examination, order blood work and/or
radiology testing and could recommend a specialist called an Urologist. Those who suffer from urinary incontinence
often experience different symptoms and may receive a variety of treatment
plans.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
For most people simple lifestyle changes combined with some medical
treatment can ease the discomfort and stop the problem of incontinence. It is a difficult topic to speak about but
gathering information and taking steps to control the problem can lead to a
happier and healthier life.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 12.45pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
Deb
Hintz is Assistant to the Director for HomeAid Health Care. HomeAid provides
services for the elderly who wish to remain safe and independent at home.
HomeAid is sister company to Prairie Home Assisted Living which has served the
physical, spiritual, mental and health needs of their residents since
1999. Together the two companies provide comprehensive care for the
elderly in the Fox Valley area of Wisconsin.<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-size: 9.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372682838795345369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2420499906099688643.post-89895610675834866182016-01-08T12:40:00.000-08:002016-01-08T12:55:18.449-08:00Options of Elder Care<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh16qHzo_yO2zZwPCo9I3t0sWa7DfN2-ONohG8bh1POzmcRYh64rDY6RGzaemVMD6Uo0iazVBZJ5CVwPkpMYgsHytdv_c5rwZNOc2D4LCBNXqGThcAs9vzhOiJGB9oCchodm0oTUslLEcu/s1600/b2bf84ebcbdf8811b7da2d73bb1b30d8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh16qHzo_yO2zZwPCo9I3t0sWa7DfN2-ONohG8bh1POzmcRYh64rDY6RGzaemVMD6Uo0iazVBZJ5CVwPkpMYgsHytdv_c5rwZNOc2D4LCBNXqGThcAs9vzhOiJGB9oCchodm0oTUslLEcu/s400/b2bf84ebcbdf8811b7da2d73bb1b30d8.jpg" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
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<i><span style="color: #c00000;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Know when it is time to get extra help </span></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><span style="color: #c00000;"><span style="font-size: small;">and </span></span></i><i><span style="color: #c00000;"><span style="font-size: small;">which type of care is appropriate </span></span></i></span></div>
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<i><span style="color: #c00000;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">for your loved one’s
needs.</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;">There is an awful lot to be said for an elderly
person remaining at home as long as possible </span><span style="font-size: 6pt; line-height: 115%;">[1]</span><span style="line-height: 115%;">. Home is familiar, its the place that holds a lot of treasured memories, and staying at home is key to
retaining independence and feeling less like a 'burden' on family members
(however inaccurate that feeling may be). However, there may well come a point when home
is simply no longer a </span><span style="line-height: 115%;">healthy, safe,
or practical option. People who need medically intensive </span><span style="line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="line-height: 115%;">round the clock care, or are unable to afford the
assistance required to keep themselves safe and their homes running efficiently
may well be better off if they receive care in a facility setting. This can be
a hard decision to make, but there are a few pointers which may make choosing
easier.</span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #c10538; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Struggling With ADLs and IADLs</span></span></b><span style="background: white; color: #c10538; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 8.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; line-height: 115%;">'ADL' stands for Activities of Daily Living </span><span style="background: white; font-size: 6pt; line-height: 115%;">[5]</span><span style="background: white; line-height: 115%;">. These activities include ambulation, bathing,
continence, dressing and grooming, eating and toileting. The ability to manage these activities is necessary
to live independently. IADL means Instrumental Activities of Daily Living and they include doing housework and
laundry, shopping and preparing meals, managing medications, money and caring
for pets, as well as other basic functions which supplement independent living.
As people age they lose the ability to perform these activities as they used to. Inability to perform ADLs and IADLs are
usually the sign that assistance is necessary. Most elderly will maintain a
degree of function with their ADLs and IADLs and can often still live quite
happily in their own homes with a greater or lesser amount of outside assistance.
However, when functionality of these activities drop significantly, then it's considered
a sign that your loved one should make some changes so their care needs can be
met on a more permanent and professional level.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><span style="color: #c10538; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 8.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Home Health Care Option</span></b><span style="color: #c10538; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 8.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;">Staying at home for as long as possible is usually a very good
idea. Many elderly prefer to stay at home and will refuse to move despite their
need for increased daily care with their ADLs and IADLs. Moving elderly people away from the comfort
and familiarity of home can be very distressing, which in turn can affect their
health. For such people, home health care is probably the best option. Home Health care can help your ageing loved one maintain their treasured
independence and stay safe</span> <span style="line-height: 115%;">in the comfort of their own home. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;">With home health care medically trained Caregivers come to the home and provide the
individualized care that the elderly person needs. Home health care can be very
flexible and provide as little as an occasional visit every two weeks to tidy
up the house to round the clock care daily care. In some cases with the help of home health
care, it is possible to remain at home long term and receive appropriate care
which includes hospice and end of life care.
The home health Caregiver forms a unique bond with their home patients
and in many cases, become part of the family. The elderly person receiving care
has dependable care that is tailored to their preferences. Not only does this keep them feeling
comfortable and safe at home, but it also allows them to maintain their
independence which is indescribably valuable to the elderly. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #c10538; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Assisted Living Option</span></span></b><span style="color: #c10538; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 8.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;">The hardest part of sending a parent or loved one to a facility
setting can be persuading them that it's the right thing to do. Often they just
don't want to go, and it's not unusual for distressing scenes to develop </span><span style="font-size: 6pt; line-height: 115%;">[3]</span><span style="line-height: 115%;">. On these occasions, it
may be a good idea to look at assisted living options. In most assisted living
situations the facility is set up to feel like home. The buildings have individual rooms which
Residents can decorate with personal items from home. There are common living areas which promote
socialization among all the elderly who live there. It may not be home, but assisted living
facilities try to maintain a home-like atmosphere while providing the care that
an elderly person needs. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;">When looking at assisted living facility, also known as a </span><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; line-height: 115%;">CBRF, Community Based Residential Facility,</span><span style="line-height: 115%;"> it
is best to remember that there are many types of facilities which offer
different degrees of care. It is wise to
ask about the facility’s state classification to get a clear idea of what
degree of care they are allowed to provide.
Some facilities provide limited care and assistance while others can
provide full health care on site, including up to end of life care. Choosing a facility according to its location
and </span><span style="line-height: 23px;">decor</span><span style="line-height: 115%;"> is often short sighted as your loved one’s care needs will increase
and that may mean having to change facilities in the future. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #c10538; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Nursing Home Option</span></span></b><span style="background: white; color: #c10538; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 8.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; line-height: 115%;">If your loved one has an acute health condition, a nursing
home may be the best option. When an elderly person requires care which isn't
feasible to manage at home with home health care, or is beyond the scope of
care for an assisted living facility, then a stay in a nursing home might be
the best option. Typically a nursing home has a more institutional atmosphere
as the focus in health care rather than just assisting with ADLs and IADLs. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; line-height: 115%;">The bottom line is, if your loved one is seriously struggling to manage their ADLs and IADLs in their own home, and their quality of life is declining as a consequence,
then it is time to start considering the various options. Care solutions can be found in many locations,
even at home, but matching the type of care to your loved one’s needs requires
some thought and planning. Remember the goal is to ensure that your loved one
is safe and can enjoy a rewarding quality of life no matter which option is
chosen. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.prairiehomeassistedliving.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">www.prairiehomeassistedliving.com</span></a></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;">Mel Higham is a writer and editor
with a special interest in mental health and wellness. </span><span style="line-height: 115%;">As
a guest writer for HomeAid Health Care’s Elder Topics, Mel brings her expertise
to our audience. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;">HomeAid
is sister company to Prairie Home Assisted Living which has served the
physical, spiritual, mental and health needs of their residents since 1999.
Together the two companies provide comprehensive care for the elderly in the
Fox Valley area of Wisconsin.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 7pt; line-height: 115%;">[1] National Institute On
Aging,</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 7pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><a href="http://www.agingsociety.org/agingsociety/links/homegrowingold.pdf" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 7.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 8.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">"There's No
Place Like Home - For Growing Old"</span></a><span style="background: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 7pt; line-height: 115%;">, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 7pt; line-height: 115%;">[2] Council On The Ageing,
Victoria,</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 7pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><a href="http://cotavic.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/Voice-of-older-people-on-Indpendence.pdf" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 7.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 8.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">"The Voice of
older people on Independence"</span></a><span style="background: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 7pt; line-height: 115%;">, 2009<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 7pt; line-height: 115%;">[3] Carol Bradley Bursack,</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 7pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><a href="https://www.agingcare.com/Articles/handle-elderly-parents-who-don-t-want-to-live-in-nursing-home-138005.htm" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 7.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 8.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">"Handling a
Parent Who Doesn't Want to Live in A Nursing Home"</span></a><span style="background: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 7pt; line-height: 115%;">,<a href="http://agingcare.com/" target="_blank">AgingCare.com</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 7pt; line-height: 115%;">[4] KwikMed,</span><a href="http://www.kwikmed.org/20-truly-exceptional-elderly-care-sites/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 7.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 8.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> "20 Truly
Exceptional Elderly Care Sites"</span></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 7pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 7pt; line-height: 115%;">[5] PBS,</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 7pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><a href="http://www-tc.pbs.org/wgbh/caringforyourparents/caregiver/pdf/cfyp_adl_checklist.pdf" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 7.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 8.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">"Checklist Of
Activities Of Daily Living (ADL)"</span></a><span style="background: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 7pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 7pt; line-height: 115%;">[6] Alzheimer's Association,<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></span><a href="http://www.alz.org/nyc/in_my_community_17490.asp" target="_blank"><span style="background: white; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 7.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 8.0pt;">"Choosing a Care Facility"</span></a><span style="font-size: 7.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 8.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372682838795345369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2420499906099688643.post-88032943556893626132015-12-03T10:41:00.001-08:002015-12-03T10:43:43.022-08:00Seasonal Influenza for the Elderly<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1XhTycGZsOY/VmCIr37w4oI/AAAAAAAAA38/06ypCKIvU40/s1600/Flu%2Bvirus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="502" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1XhTycGZsOY/VmCIr37w4oI/AAAAAAAAA38/06ypCKIvU40/s640/Flu%2Bvirus.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
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<i><span style="color: #c10538;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">Weaker immune defenses put the <o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #c10538;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;">elderly at serious risk from the flu virus.</span><span style="font-family: Palatino Linotype, serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #c10538;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">I went to a friend’s home for a visit a few
weeks ago and about 3 days later I came down with the flu. I felt terrible. I woke up with a headache,
body aches, coughing with a sore throat.
I was sure I had the flu but wondered where I had got this bug. After some thought, I remembered my friend
was coughing and complaining about a sore throat. At that time, I didn’t think too much about
her symptoms. Later it dawned on me that
we are </span><span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-align: justify;">season and I had not
yet gotten the flu shot. I was angry with myself for not taking the necessary
precautions in time.</span><span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-align: justify;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The flu can appear
with no warning. One moment you are feeling well and – bam – the next you are
not. In the United States, fall and
winter is the typical time for getting the flu.
The exact timing and duration of the flu seasons varies. Flu outbreaks often begin in October and can
last as late as May, however most of the time flu activity peaks between
December and February. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Unfortunately, those
who are 65 years or older are at greater risk of serious complications from the
flu compared to younger people. This is
because human immune defenses become weaker with age and makes it harder for
the elderly population to fight disease.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #c10538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">What is the flu?</span><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Influenza (flu) is a
contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. The illness affects a person’s nose, throat
and lungs. It can cause mild to severe
illness and at times can lead to death.
Some people such as the elderly, younger children and people with
certain health conditions are at higher risks for serious complications. The flu can make existing health conditions
worse. People who suffer from diabetes,
heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma are more
at risk for serious complications and can result in hospitalization and even
death. Some of the complications can
include bacterial pneumonia, ear infection, sinuses infection, dehydration and
worsening of their chronic medical condition.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #c10538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">How does the flu
spread?</span><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">According to the CDC
(Center of Disease Control), the flu virus is spread by droplets made when
people with the flu cough, sneeze or even speak. These droplets can land in the mouth or nose
of people who are nearby. A person may
also get the flu by touching a surface or object that has the viruses on it, then
touches their own mouth, eyes or their nose.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #c10538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">What is the period
of contagiousness?</span><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">The
viruses may be passed on to another during several days when the carrier is contagious. Beginning a day before actual symptoms
develop, and running up to 5 to 7 days after becoming sick. During that time, the person with the flu can
pass it on to others.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #c10538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">What are some of
the symptoms of the flu?</span><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Individuals who have
the flu often feel some or all of the following signs and symptoms: fever or
feeling feverish/chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or
body aches, headaches, feeling fatigue,
and some people may have vomiting and diarrhea although this symptom is more
common in children than adults. It is
important to know that not everyone with the flu will have a fever. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #c10538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Protect yourself and
others from getting the flu?</span><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-align: justify;"><ol>
<li><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Get
vaccinated - The number one thing a person can do to protect themselves and
others is to get a yearly flu shot. </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">A
flu vaccine protects against the flu viruses that has been identified by
researchers to be the most common during the upcoming flu season.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"> </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Practice
good health habits</span><b style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"> </b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">- The second
thing to do to protect yourself is to practice standard precautions.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Cover your cough or sneeze</span><b style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"> </b><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">with a Kleenex or use the bend of your
elbow or upper arm.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Never cough into
your hands. Avoid close contact with others-stay at home if you are sick.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Wash your hands with soap and water often. Avoid
touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Clean and disinfect surfaces or objects in
your home.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Simple precautions can make a
difference when trying to prevent getting sick with the flu.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">See
your doctor - The third thing you can do to protect yourself is seek medical
advice quickly if you develop the flu symptoms.</span><b style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"> </b><span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">The professionals can
evaluate whether you need treatment and can prevent the symptoms from becoming
a serious health threat.</span></li>
</ol>
</span><span style="text-align: justify;"></span><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.25in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #c10538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Becoming sick after
getting a flu shot<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">People
often ask “Can I get the flu after I get a flu shot”? The answer is yes - it is possible for people
to get the flu even if they received the flu shot for the following
reasons: </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Prior
exposure - You may have been exposed to the flu before getting the shot or
during the period it takes the body to getting protection from the flu
shot. </span><span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">It takes about 2 weeks after
getting the flu shot for antibodies to develop in the body.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Different
strain of flu - You may have been exposed to a flu virus that is not included
in this season’s flu vaccine. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Diminished
immunity - Some older people and individuals who have certain chronic illnesses
may develop less immunity after receiving the vaccine. </span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">The flu vaccine is
not a perfect tool but it is the best way to protect against the flu infection.</span><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #c10538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Vaccinate ever year<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">It
is important to know that the flu vaccine declines over time and that is why
people need to get vaccinated every year.
The effectiveness of the vaccine is influenced by the age and the
general health of the person who was vaccinated as well as the antigens used in
the medicine. Older people or those who
have a weakened immune system may not generate the same amount of antibodies
after receiving the vaccine and the antibody levels may drop more quickly
compared to young health people.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #c10538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Is there treatment
for the flu?</span><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The answer is yes-the
drugs are called “antiviral” drugs.
These antiviral drugs can make your illness milder and make you feel
better faster. These medications can
also prevent serious flu-related complications like pneumonia.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">During flu season it
is best to be proactive and follow the guidelines set by the CDC for the
flu. Always check with your provider to
be evaluated for the best treatment and to answers any questions you may have
regarding the flu. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">For more information
about the flu visit the following websites: </span><a href="http://www.noca.org/flu"><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">www.noca.org/flu</span></a><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">,
</span><a href="http://www.cdc.gov/flu"><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">www.cdc.gov/flu</span></a><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">
or </span><a href="http://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/disease/65over"><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">www.cdc.gov/flu/about/disease/65over</span></a><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Deb
Hintz is Assistant to the Director for HomeAid Health Care. HomeAid provides
services for the elderly who wish to remain safe and independent at home. HomeAid is sister company to Prairie Home
Assisted Living which has served the physical, spiritual, mental and health
needs of their residents since 1999.
Together the two companies provide comprehensive care for the elderly in
the Fox Valley area of Wisconsin.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372682838795345369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2420499906099688643.post-53004488111387801542015-11-05T13:43:00.000-08:002015-11-05T13:46:49.267-08:00Hoarding Troubles<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ITkAgziVeqQ/VjvJoqEOjJI/AAAAAAAAA3o/RmybTAXOrmw/s1600/Clutter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ITkAgziVeqQ/VjvJoqEOjJI/AAAAAAAAA3o/RmybTAXOrmw/s640/Clutter.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="color: #c10538;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: small;">What looks like clutter to us, represents<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="color: #c10538;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> memories, travels,
friends and love to seniors.</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="color: #c10538;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></i></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Charlie was a young boy during WWII
and like many of his peers he remembers how it was to make do. He tended to keep things just in case he
might need them down the road. Yet a
lifetime of storing things became something far more than being frugal when his
wife passed away. After Marge’s death the stuff accumulating around the house grew into more than just
piles of clutter. There were newspapers,
old pill bottles, and empty food containers covering every flat surface, heaps
of dirty laundry on the bed and floor and no clear path to move from room to
room. Clutter took over Charlie’s home
and started to have a negative effect on many aspects of his life.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
The hoarding of objects among the elderly is a serious problem. Piles of hoarded objects can be a sign of a serious
cognitive disorder and present a safety concern which requires immediate intervention.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #c10538; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Hoarding as a disorder</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
We all keep things. For some,
the item has sentimental value and for others it is about a possible need in
the future, but often times the elderly keep things because they suffer from a cognitive
disorder. Diogenes Syndrome is a type of
obsessive-compulsive disorder which is prevalent among the elderly. It often presents itself in those suffering
from dementia or frontal lobe impairment. According to the American Geriatrics Society,
Diogenes Syndrome is usually characterized by extreme self-neglect, household
squalor, social withdrawal, apathy, compulsive hoarding of rubbish and a lack
of shame. This syndrome is usually found
in people who lack social interaction and cognitive stimulation, have suffered a
traumatic event or have a genetic predisposition to the condition. The elderly
are prime candidates for hoarding prevalent in Diogenes syndrome. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
Those who suffer from elderly hoarding tend to use their possessions
as a coping mechanism. The onset of this
condition can be triggered by an emotional trauma, like the death of a spouse. The elderly person has a hard time dealing
with their loss and so fixates on something they can control. The disorder is also associated with those
suffering from fear of loss, anxiety and depression. In some cases hoarders just don’t know how to
get rid of their unwanted possessions.
In other cases the collected items are kept out of sense of loyalty to
the past or a compelling need to conserve.
No matter what is the underlying cause of hoarding, the accumulation of
things over time combined with the daily bombardment of junk mail, bills, newspapers,
dirty dishes and laundry can very easily become too overwhelming for the
elderly to deal with. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #c10538; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Risks of Hoarding</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
Having clutter around the house is risky for the elderly. Piles of
newspaper and old books not only represent a potential fall risk but can add
fuel to a fire. Old clothes lying about
on the floor invite damp, mold and mildew into the home. Dirty dishes and expired food in the cupboard
lure mice, rats and insects. Piles of
mail could hide important documents, unpaid bills or checks that need to go to
the bank.</div>
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Hoarding not only creates anxiety, stress, guilt and embarrassment for
the elderly but often destroys relationships with family members. Adult children have a hard time trying to
convince their elderly loved ones to allow them to sort through things and
throw the junk away. Relationships are
strained and isolation becomes more of an issue when family stays away due to
the unhygienic state of the home. </div>
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<span style="color: #c10538; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">What to watch for</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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Sometimes it is hard to recognize and label the problem as Diogenes syndrome. Since confronting this issue can be difficult
for family members, it is helpful to know what signs indicate a real problem. </div>
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<ul>
<li>Piles of clothes, newspapers,
mail and unpaid bills</li>
<li>Difficulty
navigating safely through the house</li>
<li>Frustration with
sorting and organizing</li>
<li>Difficulty managing
activities of daily living</li>
<li>Expired food in the
refrigerator and cupboards</li>
<li>Closets and drawer
crammed with things</li>
<li>Compulsive shopping</li>
<li>Difficulty with
discarding items</li>
<li>Stroke or signs of
dementia</li>
<li>Loneliness</li>
</ul>
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Helping an elderly loved one who is struggling with hoarding requires a lot of patience. Bombarding the home with a ‘get this done today’ attitude or secretly clearing out things behind the hoarder’s back can only aggravate the stress in their lives. It is important to remember that the house didn’t get this way because of poor housekeeping skills. A hoarder is suffering from a disorder and needs emotional help before they are ready to toss anything. </div>
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<span style="color: #c10538; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">What to do to help</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
Experts suggest taking on small areas at a time. Help an elderly loved one clear off a table and
then praise the results. Suggest
donating items to a local charity or thrift shop. Remind that safety in the home is important
to being able to remain independent at home.
Work out an agreement of not keeping unused things for more than 6
months. Clutter is about control and
hoarders have a hard time letting things go, but allowing them to decide where
things go can be very helpful. Don’t think
that once the house is clean, the problem has gone away. Hoarders will continue keeping things and the
place will slowly fill up again unless the underlying emotional issues are
dealt with and there is practical help in keeping the clutter at bay.</div>
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Kate McCarthy is
Director of Operations for HomeAid Health Care which provides services for the
elderly who wish to remain safe and independent at home. HomeAid is sister company to Prairie Home
Assisted Living which has served the physical, spiritual, mental and health needs
of their residents since 1999. Together
the two companies provide comprehensive care for the elderly in the Fox Valley
area of Wisconsin.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372682838795345369noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2420499906099688643.post-51915148868466735622015-10-02T13:33:00.000-07:002015-10-02T13:39:35.601-07:00Vulnerable Seniors - Substance abuse among the Elderly<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4O9jydgerjg/Vg7n8hD76VI/AAAAAAAAA3E/pMPcT_0NyCM/s1600/Wine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4O9jydgerjg/Vg7n8hD76VI/AAAAAAAAA3E/pMPcT_0NyCM/s640/Wine.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
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<i><span style="color: #c10538;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">The most common forms of elderly addiction are<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #c10538;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">alcoholism and painkiller dependency.</span><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #c10538;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></i></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;">It's not something you often hear about, but the elderly of
America are increasingly at risk of becoming addicts </span><span style="font-size: 7pt; line-height: 115%;">[1]. </span><span style="line-height: 115%;">Our notion of seniors doesn't tend to
fit with our viewpoint of addicts - I'm willing to bet that you raised an
eyebrow at the first sentence - but the problem exists nonetheless, and is
growing. The most common forms of addiction are </span><span style="line-height: 115%;">alcoholism and
painkiller</span> <span style="line-height: 115%;">dependency - both of which can be just as devastating for seniors
as younger people. </span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #c10538;">Stereotypes</span></b><span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;">Stereotypes can be a major obstacle in all areas of drug
rehabilitation </span><span style="font-size: 7pt; line-height: 115%;">[2], </span><span style="line-height: 115%;">but it's particularly relevant when it comes to seniors. Typically
seniors aren’t what is pictured when we think about addicts. In fact, if asked
to describe the stereotypical antithesis of an addict, a nice old lady is
probably what you'd come up with. This kind of attitude frequently leads people
to miss the warning signs of a growing substance dependency. It may even lead them to unwittingly encourage
substance-abusing behaviors. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;">"Oh go on, Granny, have another glass of wine!" Well meaning people often encourage addictive
behavior with the belief that they are not likely to be adding to an existing
problem or it can’t do their elderly loved one any real harm anyway. There is
also a prevailing belief that seniors should be allowed to indulge their taste
for alcohol, or pop an extra pain pill if they want to. The general attitude is
that the elderly are old enough to have 'earned it’. There is also the misconception that the
elderly are too old for an addiction to really damage to their lives. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;">For seniors themselves, there is an attitude that they don't have
to worry too much about their bodies any longer, so indulging a bit really
won’t hurt them. Relying on a former
self-image of living a sober lifestyle may cause some Elderly to miss the signs
that an addiction has taken hold. The
belief that they are not the kind of people who abuse substances makes it all
the easier to 'let themselves go'</span><span style="font-size: 7pt; line-height: 115%;">[3]. </span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #c10538;">Loneliness and Boredom</span></b><span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;">As we age, many of us may find ourselves more isolated than we
used to be. Too many seniors find themselves living excruciatingly lonely
lives. Loneliness is incredibly bad for
anyone's mental health, but it can be especially damaging to an older person
who may need human stimulation to keep their mental faculties active. Coupled
with grief, which often affects seniors as they lose friends and loved ones,
the recipe for a slide into depression-related addiction is a potent one.
Loneliness has been proven to have a strong association with alcoholism in many
studies </span><span style="font-size: 7pt; line-height: 115%;">[4]</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="line-height: 115%;">- particularly when, as is often the case with retirees who live
alone, it is coupled with an excess of free time and boredom. Grief and
depression may also trigger comfort drinking, or encourage a growing reliance
upon the emotional numbing effects of opioid painkillers.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #c10538;">Opportunity</span></b><span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;">Older people are a lot more likely to be on medication than
younger people, which unfortunately gives them a lot more opportunity to become
addicted to prescription drugs. Prescription drug addiction is an enormous
problem within the United States, taking more lives on an annual basis than
heroin and cocaine combined. Many of the painkillers prescribed to our seniors
are opioids, just like heroin, or benzodiazepines, which affect the central
nervous system. They're powerfully addictive, and a vast swathe of our
population is currently in the grip of prescription drug dependency, to which
many lose their lives </span><span style="font-size: 7pt; line-height: 115%;">[5]. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;">Most addicts stumble accidentally into addiction, assuming that
pills given to them by a doctor can't be bad.
The often get hooked by upping their doses by increments in order to
help them 'get by' on 'bad days'. In the case of seniors with cognitive
impairment, a dependency can be developed by forgetting having taken the
medication and </span><span style="line-height: 23px;">accidentally</span><span style="line-height: 115%;"> repeating dosages. Alternatively, even non-addictive prescription medication can interact poorly with alcohol, thus contributing to
other dependency issues. And the fact that the symptoms of addiction often
mimic symptoms which we generally associate with old age </span><span style="font-size: 7pt; line-height: 115%;">[6] </span><span style="line-height: 115%;">and its related illnesses means that
often these addictions are not recognized until it is too late.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #c10538; line-height: 115%;">What Can We Do?</span></b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;">So how can we help our ageing loved ones to steer clear of the
addiction trap? If you have concerns about an elderly loved one's inclination towards
addictive substances, keeping an eye on worrying behaviors is the best way to
confirm any suspicions. One excellent way to help is to remove the burden of
loneliness, boredom, and grief by providing emotional support, visiting
regularly, and providing them with plenty of human stimulation. Keeping an eye on drinking habits and any
medicines they're taking is also a good idea. Taking an interest in their
health and emotional state can work wonders in preventing a problem from
developing! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;">A home health Caregiver can also be an enormous boon in this
situation. Not only will a medically trained Caregiver keep track of what your
loved one is taking and when, they'll also be on hand to pick up on any
worrying symptoms and trends within their lives. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;">Addictions can ruin a person's golden years - but good health,
both physical and mental, will make the elder years a time of joy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Mel Higham is a writer and editor
with a special interest in mental health and wellness. As
a guest writer for HomeAid Health Care’s Elder Topics, Mel brings her expertise
to our audience. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif; line-height: 115%;">HomeAid
is sister company to Prairie Home Assisted Living which has served the
physical, spiritual, mental and health needs of their residents since 1999.
Together the two companies provide comprehensive care for the elderly in the
Fox Valley area of Wisconsin</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 7pt;">[1] American
Osteopathic Association, </span><a href="http://www.osteopathic.org/osteopathic-health/about-your-health/health-conditions-library/seniors-health/Pages/senior-substance-abuse.aspx" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue; font-size: 7.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">"Substance Abuse in Senior Citizens - A Serious Problem"</span></a><span style="font-size: 7pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 7pt;">[2] Bruno
Gnaneswaran, </span><a href="http://www.concrete-online.co.uk/shattering-societys-stereotypes-of-drug-users/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue; font-size: 7.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">"Shattering Society's Stereotypes Of Drug Users"</span></a><span style="font-size: 7pt;">, Concrete, Jan 2013<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 7pt;">[3] Rita
Milios, </span><a href="http://www.recovery.org/pro/articles/seniors-and-substance-abuse-the-invisible-epidemic/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue; font-size: 7.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">"Seniors and Substance Abuse: The Invisible Epidemic"</span></a><span style="font-size: 7pt;">,</span><span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span><a href="http://recovery.org/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue; font-size: 7.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Recovery.org</span></a><span style="font-size: 7pt;">, Sept 2015<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 7pt;">[4] Igemar Akerland,
Jan Olof Hornquist, </span><a href="http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/027795369290300F" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue; font-size: 7.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">"Loneliness and alcohol abuse: A review of evidences of an
interplay"</span></a><span style="font-size: 7pt;">, Journal of Social
Sciences and Medicine, Feb 1992<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 7pt;">[5] Centers For
Disease Control And Prevention, </span><a href="http://www.cdc.gov/drugoverdose/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue; font-size: 7.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">"Injury Prevention And Control:
Prescription Drug Overdose"</span></a><span style="font-size: 7pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 7pt;">[6] Medical News
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372682838795345369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2420499906099688643.post-5516097537850900972015-08-13T11:30:00.000-07:002015-08-13T11:33:01.307-07:00Superfoods can maximize Senior Health<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5klAPq9ysyQ/Vczfy-QQ0eI/AAAAAAAAA2k/Ow5R1pDsFj4/s1600/super-foods-blueberries-post.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5klAPq9ysyQ/Vczfy-QQ0eI/AAAAAAAAA2k/Ow5R1pDsFj4/s640/super-foods-blueberries-post.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
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<i><span style="color: #c10538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">What you eat can make all the
difference with how you age.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<i><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Nutrition has always
been important, but it’s an especially valuable consideration for aging seniors
who can no longer rely on the natural robustness of their body. Here are the
top superfoods for seniors and how they can help reduce the problems of aging.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #c10538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Blueberries<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">These tiny little
spheres have more antioxidants by volume than any other fruit or vegetable -
which makes them absolutely phenomenal at helping ward off problems such as
heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. They’re also good for boosting brain
power, making it easier to remember the important things in life.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="color: #c10538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Beans</span></b><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> Contrary to the old song, beans aren’t a fruit
- but they <i>are</i> an excellent source of
dietary fiber, calcium (for aging bones), vitamins, and protein. Many beans
also contain high amounts of antioxidants - red, black, kidney, and pinto beans
are especially good sources.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #c10538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Salmon</span></b><span style="color: #c10538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Seniors living near
the ocean can look into getting more salmon into their diets. Professionals
recommend having at least two servings of salmon a week in order to gain all
the benefits, and this wonderful fish has been associated with a reduced risk
of heart disease… and it’s one of the best ways of getting omega-3 fatty acids.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="color: #c10538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Steelcut Oats</span></b><span style="color: #c10538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">When most people
think of oats, they imagine the rolled kind often used in oatmeal… but the
steelcut process works to retain considerably more protein and fiber. The
latter is especially valuable for diabetics, since it helps to improve overall
blood sugar levels.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="color: #c10538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Greek Yogurt</span></b><span style="color: #c10538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Anyone who’s had an
upset stomach knows how important it is to keep your digestive system in good
condition… and Greek Yogurt is packed with probiotics that do precisely that.
Many people enjoy eating it with fruit as a way of creating a healthy afternoon
snack, but it’s also good in smoothies if you’d prefer to drink it down
instead.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="color: #c10538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Coconut Oil<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">This fantastic oil
contains healthy fats that help seniors maintain a healthy, balanced weight.
While most people don’t suggest consuming it raw, it makes an excellent
replacement for butter and can be added to drinks and baked goods.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="color: #c10538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Kale<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Oranges are famous
for their high amount of Vitamin C, but this leafy green vegetable is packed
with even more of it! Kale also has an incredible amount of iron, as well as
enough omega-3 fatty acids to compare favorably to fish. Next time you have a
salad, look into tossing some kale in!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="color: #c10538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Cocoa</span></b><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The plant behind
chocolate, cocoa is excellent at lowering blood pressure - and it also releases
endorphins that can improve your mood, making it the ideal treat for seniors
struggling with depression.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="color: #c10538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Eggs<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Too much cholesterol
is bad, but eggs contain literally everything a baby chicken needs to develop
into a hatchling - and they’re especially good for preventing degeneration in
the eyes.</span><b><span style="color: #c10538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="normal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="color: #c10538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Sweet Potato<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> In addition to being another great source of
fiber and antioxidants, one sweet potato has <i>more</i> than the recommended minimum amount of Vitamin A. There’s no
need to worry about overdosing, either - the human body can consume <i>far</i> more than the recommended amounts of
most vitamins and suffer no ill effects.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="color: #c10538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Olive Oil<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">This popular cooking
oil is outstanding at preventing and alleviating the effects of osteoporosis,
since it’s able to significantly improve overall bone mineralization. This
should be a popular choice in the diets of any seniors worried about weak
bones. While most olive oil is only good for a year - it loses its potency
after that - seniors can look for shopping discounts to ensure they always have
some on the shelf.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="normal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="color: #c10538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Avocado<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Avocados aren’t just
another good source of omega-3 fatty acids - they also improve the body’s
ability to use and absorb other nutrients, making them ideal for maximizing the
results of any nutrition plan.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Eating healthy isn’t
just something that doctors recommend - when a good nutrition plan is followed,
many of the maladies of age can have their effects reduced or even eliminated
outright. Next time you go shopping, look for the items on this list and start
integrating them into your diet - the earlier you start, the easier it is to
make healthy eating into a healthy habit.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.prairiehomeassistedliving.com/" target="_blank">www.prairiehomeassistedliving.com</a></span></div>
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<span style="color: windowtext; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Originally born in
Flagstaff, Arizona, Felicity Dryer was raised by her parents (more or less
modern-day hippies) to always make her health a top priority. She moved to Los
Angeles to pursue her career as a freelance health writer, and continues to
help those seeking encouragement to keep moving forward to achieve their
goals. As a guest writing for HomeAid
Health Care’s Elder Topics, Felicity bring her expertise to our audience. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-size: x-small;">HomeAid is sister company to Prairie
Home Assisted Living which has served the physical, spiritual, mental and
health needs of their residents since 1999. Together the two companies provide
comprehensive care for the elderly in the Fox Valley area of Wisconsin.</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Sources:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">“The
Super Food Super Guide” by Amy Williams. </span><a href="https://s3.amazonaws.com/uvwx/SeniorSuperfood+(updated).png"><span style="background: white; color: #3376a4; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-highlight: white; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">h</span></a><a href="https://s3.amazonaws.com/uvwx/SeniorSuperfood+(updated).png"><span style="background: white; color: #3376a4; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-highlight: white; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">ttps://s3.amazonaws.com/uvwx/SeniorSuperfood+(updated).png</span></a><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%;">.
Retrieved 6/10/15.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">“The ABCs of Senior
Citizen Discounts” by Amy Williams. </span><a href="http://www.presidiohomecare.com/"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">www.presidiohomecare.com</span></a><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">. Retrieved 6/10/15.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372682838795345369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2420499906099688643.post-18245435256686597352015-07-14T11:18:00.000-07:002015-07-14T11:56:08.915-07:00Long Term Planning<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c1bF79cVzEk/VaVGbpI5MCI/AAAAAAAAA0k/PjmLABekw8g/s1600/photo%2Bcredit%2Ba%2Bhref%253Dhttpswww.flickr.comphotosoneworldgallery3003388845daystar297a%2Bvia%2Ba%2Bhref%253Dhttpphotopin.comphotopina%2Ba%2Bhref%253Dhttpcreativecommons.orglicensesby2.0cca.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="427" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c1bF79cVzEk/VaVGbpI5MCI/AAAAAAAAA0k/PjmLABekw8g/s640/photo%2Bcredit%2Ba%2Bhref%253Dhttpswww.flickr.comphotosoneworldgallery3003388845daystar297a%2Bvia%2Ba%2Bhref%253Dhttpphotopin.comphotopina%2Ba%2Bhref%253Dhttpcreativecommons.orglicensesby2.0cca.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
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<i><span style="color: #c10538; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Plan for the future and the costs of care.</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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It can be scary for today’s aging
to consider the future. The cost of
care, whether it be bringing in assistance at home, moving into an assisted
living facility or the health care costs of a nursing home, is overwhelmingly
expensive. Most everyone understands the
need to plan for retirement but few people really understand they need to plan
for the cost of long-term care. </div>
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<br /></div>
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There are many reasons people
avoid thinking about needing care in the future. It is natural for all of us to sidestep
dealing with difficult situations, especially when means having to picture
ourselves in a position of needing major health care or daily assistance. Yet the fact is that the majority of aging
citizens in the USA today will need long term care during their care years. Many Boomers are glossing over this fact and
not realistically factoring costs as they plan for the future. Here are some facts about health and long
term care costs:</div>
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<br /></div>
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<i><span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Boomers believe saving $50,000 is enough </span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">for health care needs during retirement.</span></span></i> </div>
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<i><span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></i></div>
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Most Boomers believe Medicare will cover all their health care needs. Medicare does pay for health care. Most dual income couples turning 65 in 2020
can expect about $499,000 in Medicare benefits.
Yet that is not usually enough. The current estimates show that a couple
turning 65 today will pay, on average, an additional $220,000 out of pocket
medical expenses before they die. These
costs include premiums, co-pays and deductibles for medical care. In addition to the health care costs,
two-thirds of those over 65 will also pay about $50,000 per spouse for
long-term care needs, such as nursing home care, assisted living or
professional assistance at home. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
Do the math. Putting
aside $50,000 for health care during the care years is just a drop in the
bucket compared to what could be needed.
The Employee Benefit Research Institute estimates that a couple who has
put aside $165,000 by the age of 65 will have a 50% chance of affording their
lifetime medical costs. Those who put
aside $225,000 have a 75% change of being able to cover their medical costs.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Right now the best scenario for Boomers turning 65 is
having $300,000 saved per couple to cover health care needs for the future.
According to the Census Bureau the median net worth of the average couple at 65
is nowhere near that. </div>
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<br /></div>
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<i><span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 14.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Boomers believe that
Medicare will pay for </span></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i><span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 14.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">long-term support and services. </span><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 14.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
Medicare does not cover long-term support and service
costs. So costs for elderly housing,
long term nursing care, assisted living, or Caregiver support at home will be
out of pocket expenses. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
Most Boomers fail to factor in how the costs of long-term
support can drain saved wealth. A long
stay in a nursing home, the need to move to an assisted living facility or the
long term use of home health aides can diminish savings very quickly. For instance, the average household wealth of
$120,000 can be reduced by half with just a six month stay in a nursing
home. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
Most males over 65 will require about 2 years of long-term
supports and services and most females require 3 years during their lifetimes,
so these long term support and service costs are important to factor into
financial planning.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<i><span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Boomers don’t believe they need </span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Long-Term
Care Insurance.</span><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
Again thinking they can rely on Medicare
and their health insurance, most Boomers try to avoid the additional expense of
another insurance policy. What isn’t
clearly understood is that Medicare long term benefits often only cover the
first 100 days of care, and in most cases the reason for the health care must
be serious enough to warrant a 3 day stay in the hospital before Medicare even
kicks in. Health insurance can also be
very limited as far as long term coverage.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
Another common misconception is that if it all gets too
expensive the Boomer can just go on Medicaid.
Medicaid is an entitlement program and is only for people who have very
limited assets. To qualify for Medicaid
means spending down all assets to get to poverty level. Most Boomers don’t realize that owning a
house or car will completely disqualify them from this program.</div>
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The cost of care for today’s aging can be intimidating and
overwhelming. Careful and creative
financial planning can make long term care a bit less scary. Today’s Boomers need to actively start
looking into long term insurance as well as reassess their financial plans for
their retirement years.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Kate McCarthy is Director of
Operations for HomeAid Health Care which provides services for the elderly who
wish to remain safe and independent at home.
HomeAid is sister company to Prairie Home Assisted Living which has
served the physical, spiritual, mental and health needs of their residents
since 1999. Together the two companies provide
comprehensive care for the elderly in the Fox Valley area of Wisconsin.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-size: 8.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Sources:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto;">
<span style="font-size: 8.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Why Baby
Boomers Need to Get Real About Health And Long-Term Care Costs in
Retirement. Howard Gleckman. Forbes.
5/22/13.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto;">
<span style="font-size: 8.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">InShare. Jan
Zhdonova. 3/25/14. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 8.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">photo credit
a href=httpswww.flickr.comphotosoneworldgallery3003388845daystar297a via a
href=httpphotopin.comphotopina a href=httpcreativecommons.orglicensesby2.0cca<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]-->Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372682838795345369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2420499906099688643.post-63588128297756471042015-06-03T09:57:00.000-07:002015-06-03T09:59:54.526-07:00Home Health Care<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pCr1iJkGYqU/VW8ONB7BxUI/AAAAAAAAA0E/Kaqm1SmUsHc/s1600/iStock_000016877423Small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pCr1iJkGYqU/VW8ONB7BxUI/AAAAAAAAA0E/Kaqm1SmUsHc/s400/iStock_000016877423Small.jpg" width="272" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="color: #c10537; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Most elderly
want to stay at home <o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="color: #c10537; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">but are
confused about <o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="color: #c10537; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">how Home
Health Care can help.<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Peter and Mary have lived in their home for over 40 years. They have loved and cared for the house, the garden
and the 4 children they raised there.
Now as they are aging and the children have grown and gone, they find it
increasingly difficult to keep up the place.
Basic yard work and housekeeping isn’t being done and daily household
chores like cooking and laundry are becoming a bit overwhelming. Yet despite Peter’s troubles with walking and
managing showers and Mary’s failing eyesight, they want to stay at home rather
than move into an assisted living facility. They decided to get a Home Health Caregiver
who will come and help them out a couple time a week. </span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Most elderly and disabled prefer to stay at home and are choosing to
use Home Health Care services to make that possible. Home Health Care is a
practical and efficient way for individuals with health care or age related
issues to get the services they need right in the convenience of their own home. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">There are two types of Home Health Care options, which can be
confusing when someone is just starting to look into Home Health as a possible
solution to their care needs. </span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: #c10537; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>Skilled
(Medical) Home Health Care </i></span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 18.75pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Skilled
or Medical Home Health Care is generally used to help someone get healthy at
home. Skilled Home Health is usually recommended after a doctor’s visit or a
hospital stay and the care is provided by medical professionals, such as a
visiting RN or LPN. Because the level of
care being provided is skilled, the costs can be high. Skilled Home Health Care is usually limited
to just a few hours a week and assists with very specific needs.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">With
Skilled Home Health Care you can expect:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #c10538; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 18.75pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 18.75pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">Skilled nursing</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #c10538; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 18.75pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 18.75pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">At-home physical therapy</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #c10538; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 18.75pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 18.75pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">Pain Management</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 18.75pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">Caring for wounds</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 18.75pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">Prescription management</span></li>
</ul>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<i style="color: #c10537; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Non-Medical
Home Health Care</span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 18.75pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Non-Medical
Home Health Care is about sustaining and maintaining a quality of life at home. It is about preserving safety and
independence at home for someone who might not be able to remain safe and
independent on their own. Many times the
Caregivers who provide these services are Certified Nursing Assistants
(CNA). These services are a lot less
expensive than the Skilled Home Health and can be used on a wider scale. Often those who use Skilled Home Health Care
will also have Non-Medical Home Health Care come to help with various tasks to
keep the home running smoothly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">With
Non-Medical Home Health Care you can expect:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #c10538; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 18.75pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 18.75pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">Personal grooming services like bathing or assistance
getting dressed</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #c10538; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 18.75pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 18.75pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">Ambulation services like assistance getting in and
out of the bed/shower</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 18.75pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">Medication reminders</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 18.75pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">Alzheimer's or Dementia care</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 18.75pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">Errands like grocery shopping, picking
up prescriptions or transportation to appointments</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 18.75pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">Housekeeping, laundry and cooking</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 18.75pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">Companionship</span></li>
</ul>
<div style="text-indent: -24px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 25px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="background: white; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-line-height-alt: 12.65pt; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="color: #c10537;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><i>Home Health Care Costs</i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Because both Medical and Non-Medical Home Health can get expensive,
people wonder what payment options are available to help with the costs.</span><span style="color: #585858; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The cost of services will vary depending on where you live and the type
of services needed. It is a good idea to
shop around and learn what services are provided. Some Home Health Care agencies have sliding
fee scales, and others charge on a per task basis and others provide a
Caregiver who can assist with all cares needed at set hourly rate. Non-Medical
Home Health Care services are usually paid for privately, but there are also
some public and private funding sources. Funding sources include the following:</span></span><span style="color: #585858; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #c10538; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 14.4pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 14.4pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">Medicare</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 14.4pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">Medicaid</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 14.4pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">The Older Americans Act</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 14.4pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">The Veterans’ Administration</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 14.4pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">Private insurance</span></li>
</ul>
<div style="text-indent: -24px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 19.2000007629395px;"><br /></span></span></div>
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</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Home Health Care (Skilled or Non-Medical) is a great way to get the
assistance needed without having to give up the family home and move into a
facility. As more and more people
understand the options available with Home Health Care, it is bound to become a
favorite option for families everywhere.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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Kate McCarthy is Director of Operations for HomeAid Health
Care which provides services for the elderly who wish to remain safe and
independent at home. HomeAid is sister
company to Prairie Home Assisted Living which has served the physical,
spiritual, mental and health needs of their residents since 1999. Together the
two companies provide comprehensive care for the elderly in the Fox Valley area
of Wisconsin.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372682838795345369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2420499906099688643.post-87262251183339992432015-04-30T12:54:00.000-07:002015-04-30T12:56:47.462-07:00Aging & Staying Positive<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DuUJifxmGDc/VUKB1FzbAAI/AAAAAAAAAy8/9Et40FFLvkA/s1600/4d8c2cabf41ee2b3c63f700304ed6194.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DuUJifxmGDc/VUKB1FzbAAI/AAAAAAAAAy8/9Et40FFLvkA/s1600/4d8c2cabf41ee2b3c63f700304ed6194.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
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<i><span style="color: #c10537; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 13.5pt; line-height: 115%;">A positive attitude about aging plays </span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #c10537; font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 13.5pt; line-height: 115%;">an active role in health</span></i><i>.</i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #c10537; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Life
expectancy is increasing in the USA and other wealthy countries, yet as the
population ages they are faced with very real prejudice. Ageism against the elderly population manifests
itself throughout the American culture.
From fighting against the “old geezer” stereotype, to the assumption of cognitive
or physical impairment, to being the butt of the old timer jokes, today’s
elderly constantly battle against Ageism. In fact nearly 80% of the elderly population report
experiencing Ageism. Despite the fact ageism is now recognized a problem in
society, it is not decreasing at a fast enough rate. American culture focuses and idolized youth. Negative stereotypes about the elderly often
develop from of fear of the unknown and are established at a young age in a
person’s mindset. This fear of the aging
process creates Ageism and is often expressed by the assumption that:</span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Elders
are slow when they move about.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Elders
are in ill health.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Elders
cannot learn new things.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Elders
are depressed and complain all the time about change.</span></span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The
stereotype assumes that the elderly are needy, feeble, idle and demanding
rather than deserving, yet in reality the majority of elderly today are self-sufficient,
middle-class consumers with resources, talent and time to contribute to
society. Unfortunately Ageism not only affects how society treats the elderly
but also how the elderly perceive themselves.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Reliable
research on today’s aging population shows an increased quality of life while
aging. This research s<span style="background: white;">upports the idea that
stereotypes held by people have a direct link to their health and
well-being. For example, Yale University found that older people who hold
negative stereotypes about themselves getting older are more likely to display
negative response to stress, self-efficacy, cognitive
function, and are more likely to have a negative view of their own peers. Not
only was it found that negative stereotypes affect performance and attitudes, it
was also found that these beliefs contributed to the elderly’s will to live
with healthy development.</span><br />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">These
stereotypes may hold some value to the people who are suffering with later
stages of an incurable diagnosis. Those with health issues who are active and
hold a positive outlook on reaching developmental milestones throughout their
entire life are not affected by negative stereotypes and do better physically
and emotionally. <span style="background: white;">The good news is
that holding positive views of ageing has a real beneficial impact on people. </span> Keeping a positive attitude compared to a
negative attitude on aging has been associated with a 44% greater likelihood of
recovery from severe disability.</span></span></div>
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<i><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Holding
a negative thought about aging is self discriminating.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; line-height: 115%;"><i>“If you are a man you
are prejudiced against women you will never know how a woman feels. If you are
white and you are prejudiced against blacks, you will never know how a black
person feels. But if you are young and you are prejudiced against the old, you
are indeed prejudiced against yourself, because you, too, will have the honor
of being old someday” (Lewis, C 1989)</i><span style="font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Changing negative stereotypes is difficult
because people hold predetermined social images reinforcing these stereotypes,
and thus are resistant to change. Environmental and social impact of being
comfortable with aging allows for a positive impact on healthy life choices for
all generations. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.homeaidhealthcare.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">www.homeaidhealthcare.com</span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8Es3m4I4thfsB_a2m6fuYqCgpb43e6G_4vCbgii9_PPEnTQSIGnWaQArgqycumoV_6m05iJUzgGG6sCvEtEwcqYuS2fcufKMuXlNsUa72kV0LIKO9oR8MYQHMuZZjLVRGSK4JSShVqNdF/s1600/Prairie+Home+Logo+jpeg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8Es3m4I4thfsB_a2m6fuYqCgpb43e6G_4vCbgii9_PPEnTQSIGnWaQArgqycumoV_6m05iJUzgGG6sCvEtEwcqYuS2fcufKMuXlNsUa72kV0LIKO9oR8MYQHMuZZjLVRGSK4JSShVqNdF/s1600/Prairie+Home+Logo+jpeg.jpg" height="260" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.prairiehomeassistedliving.com/" target="_blank">www.prairiehomeassistedliving.com</a></span></div>
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<i><span style="color: #a2a2a2; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 8.0pt; letter-spacing: .3pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #a2a2a2; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 8.0pt; letter-spacing: .3pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Sources:</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #a2a2a2; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 8.0pt; letter-spacing: .3pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Journal of the American
Medical Association<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; vertical-align: baseline;">
<a href="http://jama.jamanetwork.com/article.aspx?articleid=1392557"><i><span style="color: #0484d9; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 8.0pt; letter-spacing: .3pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;"> Levy BR, et al "Association between positive
age stereotypes and recovery from disability in older
persons" JAMA 2012; 308: 1972-1973.</span></i></a><span style="color: #666666; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 8.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 8.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">Lewis, C. 1989. How the
myths of aging impact rehabilitive care for the older person. Occupational
Therapy Forum</span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 8.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 8.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.5pt;">Susan
Sherriff, CNA and Marketing student, is a contributing
writer to Elder Topics as part of a Marketing Internship. As a member of
the HomeAid Health Care team, Susan uses over 10 years of Caregiver experience
to assist our elderly and disabled Clients who wish to remain safe and
independent at home. HomeAid is a sister company to Prairie Home Assisted
Living which has served the physical, spiritual, mental and health needs of
their Residents since 1999. Together the two companies provide
comprehensive care that meets the needs of the elderly and disabled in the Fox
Valley of Wisconsin.</span><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372682838795345369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2420499906099688643.post-43215807785919790842015-04-03T09:41:00.000-07:002015-04-21T11:52:03.478-07:00Sibling Troubles Revived<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E29ZKRAzhDc/VR7A8fQ4h-I/AAAAAAAAAyY/6rkxAb1KBfA/s1600/Siblings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E29ZKRAzhDc/VR7A8fQ4h-I/AAAAAAAAAyY/6rkxAb1KBfA/s1600/Siblings.jpg" height="362" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
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<i><span style="color: #c00538;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Caring for
aging parents can revive <o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #c00538;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">relationship
troubles between siblings.</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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You grew up together. You learned, played and fought together as
children and were the best of friends and the worst of enemies all at the same
time. You know your brothers and sisters well but now that your aging parents
need their children to actively help them, you may find working with your
siblings to be far more difficult than you ever imagined.</div>
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Martha‘s mother recently passed away.
When looking back at the whole experience, Martha could say she was now
at peace with it but deeply regretted the relationship damage that took place
with her brother and sisters during the months leading up to her mother’s
death. Conflicts over large and small issues
drove a deep wedge between the siblings.
There was bickering over medications and doctor appointments. There was squabbling over spending time with
mom. There was quarreling over who was
to help with specific tasks. There were
out and out fights over expenses. It was like all the adults in the family
reverted back to childhood battle lines and no one was fighting fair. </div>
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<i><span style="color: #c50538; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">United in crisis</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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Ideally, siblings will unite and work together to care for their
parents when they are ill or become too frail to care for themselves. Yet in real life it is often a crisis that suddenly
forces siblings to unite to provide care for an aging loved one. These
crisis situations trigger a lot of family friction. Conflicts are made worse by brother and
sister’s fine-tuned ability to push each other buttons and relive childhood
rivalries. Arguments over care sap the
strength out of the family at the time when their parents need them to work
together. It is also very upsetting to
the aging parents who depend on their children for help. </div>
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<br /></div>
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To avoid conflicts siblings need to face the fact early on that they
will someday be called on to care for their aging parents. Preventing disputes over how best to provide
that care is ideally done long before any care is needed. Sitting down with parents before any care
issues arise and discussing the realities of aging is the first step to keeping
the family intact and working together through the care years later on. </div>
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<br /></div>
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<i><span style="color: #c00538; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Talk it out ahead of
time</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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Long before the need exists, when the adult children are in their 40’s
and the aging parents are roughly in their early 70’s, have a serious talk
about the future. Gather the family and
openly discuss the possible scenarios of the parent’s future care needs. It may feel premature and a bit morbid to
discuss your loved one’s mortality, but it is foolish to pretend they will not
age or face health issues someday. Most
people avoid this uncomfortable discussion and wait until a crisis forces the
issue and then they must make quick decisions which often lead to mistakes,
conflicts and frustration. It is wise to
talk about the parent’s wishes and how they could be honored so the entire
family has a framework for the future.
Having a general care plan in place will go a long way if a crisis hits
and also will serve to lay the ground work for future long term care. </div>
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<i><span style="color: #c00538; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Figure out who will
do what </span></span></i><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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Recognizing off the bat that the division of labor will never be
perfectly fair, discuss among the siblings who could do which tasks and how
much money each would be willing to pitch in to pay for care if necessary. Try to roughly divide up the responsibilities
according to ability. Sketch out a game
plan that all members of the family can theoretically agree to. Don’t assume
that since you were all raised in the same family that you naturally agree on
what is best for mom and dad. There will
be some emotionally intense moments when you will not agree at all and these
will test your bond as siblings, so try to define roles and rules ahead of time
to ward off extra conflict. </div>
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<i><span style="color: #c00538; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Gather all the
important documents</span></span></i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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The sibling(s) with strong organizational and finance skills should be
appointed the Power of Attorney for finances by the parents. Everyone in the family should have a clear
understanding of under what situations that power would be activated and what
tasks the Power of Attorney will take care of.
This sibling should know where all the money and accounts are kept as
well as all the insurance and investment paperwork. Once activated, the POA of
finance should gather the titles to the house and cars, safety deposit boxes,
keys and passwords for all accounts. They should review any long term care
insurance and all other insurance policies your parents have set up and
understand the fine print about what is covered and how it will be covered. The sibling in charge of finances will take
care of organizing all the important paperwork, arrange the payments for all
bills and should keep the rest of the family informed. The POA of finances will become knowledgeable
about their parent’s financial details and be able to manage the available money
to cover care and end of life costs.
They will be responsible for exploring public assistance options if the
funds run short. </div>
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<i><span style="color: #c50538; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Health Care Decisions</span></span></i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"> </span></div>
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As parents age, their health care becomes an increasing concern. From managing their medications and doctor
appointments, to helping with mild cognitive issues to working out end of life
care, the amount of decisions can be overwhelming. The sibling who has been appointed POA of
health care will have their hands full once their power has been activated. If the aging parents were clear about their
health care directives and where they wish to be when full time care is needed,
then the many decisions will not be such a major source of stress. Yet even with clear guidelines in place there
will be many health care issues where conflicting opinions between siblings cause
stain. One family set a rule that the
sibling present at the moment gets to make the decision and, once made, it
cannot be second guessed. Even though
all agreed to this rule in the beginning, the siblings found it quite difficult
to abide by. Again, it is having a clear
understanding of the roles and rules between siblings that make the care years
easier to manage. </div>
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With long term family ties, a little grace will go a long way,
especially when stressful situations demand a unified working cooperation. Know ahead of time that all decisions
regarding the aging loved ones will not be unanimously accepted but agree to
disagree nicely for the sake of the parents and future family relationships. </div>
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Kate McCarthy is Director of Operations for HomeAid Health
Care which provides services for the elderly who wish to remain safe and
independent at home. HomeAid is sister
company to Prairie Home Assisted Living which has served the physical,
spiritual, mental and health needs of their residents since 1999. Together the two companies provide
comprehensive care for the elderly in the Fox Valley area of Wisconsin.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372682838795345369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2420499906099688643.post-9800046487484711532015-02-02T11:58:00.000-08:002015-02-23T07:10:25.794-08:00What you need to know when you are the family Caregiver<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitXXrFZ_xKfImB6jFNeQ2nx3bEsAOsEzl5uK7zvTbF-6ebrfWPxaPgf5R5r-oD-iQUVzQxglnz0bsTGXg3bDDz0TV5n-vXGNVOSuRQIb1XwOqm3oRexzQ3Oc1xREiLuM8BJFkUSdIF8PHY/s1600/hug+an+elder+photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitXXrFZ_xKfImB6jFNeQ2nx3bEsAOsEzl5uK7zvTbF-6ebrfWPxaPgf5R5r-oD-iQUVzQxglnz0bsTGXg3bDDz0TV5n-vXGNVOSuRQIb1XwOqm3oRexzQ3Oc1xREiLuM8BJFkUSdIF8PHY/s1600/hug+an+elder+photo.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="color: #c50537; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Knowing what to expect can make it easier.</span><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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Providing care for an elderly
loved one feels like the right thing to do.
Often family members grow into the role of Caregiver as their aging
parents need more and more help. A bit
of yard work in the fall, help with spring cleaning, driving to doctor appointments
and weekly trips to the supermarket are easy to accommodate and most families
are happy to have the opportunity to help.
It is when the need for help becomes
daily or reaches a point when your elderly loved one isn’t safe living on their
own any longer, that families need to make some hard decisions. Families will often slide into becoming their
loved one’s full time Caregiver and then they find themselves providing care
for their own young family and their aging parents. </div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: #c50537; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The
Sandwich Generation</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; line-height: 115%;">A term coined by Carol Abaya in the early 1990’s, the
Sandwich Generation describes those in their 50s or 60s who are sandwiched providing
care for their aging parents and their adult children and grandchildren. It is
a challenging time period for these people as they have demands on their energy
and resources from everyone in their family.
Many start out enthusiastic and excited about being able to give back to
the one who had raised them, only to become burned out and bitterly
disappointed at how their relationships, quality of life and energy levels have
been destroyed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; line-height: 115%;">For those who decide to take on the many responsibilities and
demands of becoming the Caregiver for their aging loved ones, there are some
basic tips which might make providing care easier<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #c50537; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #c50537; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Know that you will have to make hard
choices</span></span></div>
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Many don’t realize when they start out as family Caregivers that they
are now have taken on the responsibility to make another person’s
decisions. Many times this makes the
Caregiver the least favorite person in the family. Having to decide on an endless list of health
care issues, finances and quality of life decisions can be exhausting, but it
is often compounded by your loved one not agreeing with what you think is best. Siblings often add their 2 cents, making basic
decisions a multi-leveled negotiation. Many elderly will resist getting input
into major decisions believing their independence is being infringed on. Often they are slow to consider the options
and will put making any type of choice permanently on hold. It is frustrating for those who provide care
to be patient and respectful especially when deadlines are looming. </div>
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It is wise to have major decisions already determined before they
become an issue. Sit down with your
aging loved one and discuss how they want their affairs handled long before
they can no longer manage themselves. Your
loved ones can set up directives early which will take the pressure off of you
to decide for them later in life. Life
is much easier when medical directives are in place, the will has been made,
Power of Attorney for finances and health are set up and end-of-life choices
have been decided.</div>
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<span style="color: #c50537; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Know that caring for an elderly parent is not like caring
for a child</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Remember that your aging loved one has lived an entire life before you
even came into existence, so treating them as if they were another child is disrespectful
and demeaning. Expect there will be
times when their behavior is as stubborn as a toddler’s, but do not respond as
you would to a child. Instead try to
find out what is going on and give them the time to discuss their concerns and
fears. Do not expect your loved one to
easily adapt to your schedule and ways of doing things. They are probably pretty set in their ways and
have every right to be so. Also remember
that they crave adult interaction and need to be included in your family’s
normal life and activities, even if doing so requires a lot of extra effort on
your part. The last thing you want is to
have them feel as if their presence is a burden and that they are isolated and
lonely and just taking up space in your home.</div>
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<span style="color: #c50537; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Know that providing care can be uncomfortably embarrassing</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Understand that as your loved ones continue to age, their need for
assistance with personal care will increase.
This can cause embarrassment for both generations. Helping with showering, dressing and
toileting can be weird for the adult children of aging parents, but after a few
times it will feel less awkward. Trouble
with incontinence and loss of body functions can make everyone cringe and for
some it is just easier on relationships to have a professional Caregiver come
in a couple times a week to help with personal cares.</div>
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<span style="color: #c50537; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Know that providing care will affect your other
relationships</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Being a Caregiver is a very demanding job. It requires a servant’s heart at all times
and usually without any recognition or thanks.
Most often it is the women in the family who take on this role in
addition to all their other duties and responsibilities. Being stretched to the limit, the family Caregiver
will find relationships on all sides bearing the brunt of frustrations, exhaustion
and weariness. Interaction between the aging parents and adult children can become
strained, as well relationships with everyone else in the family. People often imagine having multiple generations
under the same roof will be wonderful, especially for the younger
children. They fail to realize that the
aging have limited tolerance for noise and commotion and would prefer some
space from the younger members of the family.
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<span style="color: #c50537; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Know that doctors are interested in prolonging life, not
the quality of life</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Doctors will be a primary source of information and help as your loved
one’s health needs increase. They are
kind, caring and committed to your loved one’s well being, but their main
concern is dealing with the physical concerns that prolong life. This
most likely will result in more and more prescriptions for medications, endless
office visits and lots of tests. As the
family Caregiver, your job will be to facilitate the doctor orders, to manage
the medications and interface between physicians. It will fall on you to become your loved one’s
advocate for health care concerns. Yet your
primary concern should be about making the final years and months comfortable and
enjoyable. Most elderly are far more
concerned about quality of life over longevity and if often falls on the family
Caregiver to ensure the quality of life through social interaction,
conversation, easy projects and just being there to listen. </div>
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<span style="color: #c50537; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Know that you will need help</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Being a family Caregiver can be difficult and stressful, especially
when providing care for an aging loved one is sandwiched in with all the other
demands of life. While in the midst of
providing care, life can get so busy that it is difficult to see the toll that it
takes on your energy, relationships and family.
Most families eventually realize that they need help. Finding a professional Caregiver to come into
the home a couple times a week makes an enormous difference. Respite Care is another option that allows
family Caregiver to get away and unwind.
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Families often naively believe that they can provide care for their
aging loved ones with minimal stress or stain on their lives. Since the end goal is enjoying a close and
loving relationship with their aging loved ones, knowing what to expect can
make it easier to avoid stressful problems for the entire family. </div>
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Kate McCarthy is Director of
Operations for HomeAid Health Care which provides services for the elderly who
wish to remain safe and independent at home.
HomeAid is sister company to Prairie Home Assisted Living which has
served the physical, spiritual, mental and health needs of their residents
since 1999. Together the two companies provide
comprehensive care for the elderly in the Fox Valley area of Wisconsin.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372682838795345369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2420499906099688643.post-91371346707378353272015-01-12T09:51:00.000-08:002015-01-29T07:44:43.578-08:00Talking about Home Health Care<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZQz-Q0aDoc6nL2EfB_85XMKojw-fsVnSIy-vVfxNSaEJ4flU5So61wp-fxyltCtcmAIFOwCBygCZrZ3rPOXBXEgoVwpLnzY5wKJ-W24hzGODg8yQW3byqDm07G8-ccLdHaVlDkpuf55y0/s1600/iStock_000017993382Small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZQz-Q0aDoc6nL2EfB_85XMKojw-fsVnSIy-vVfxNSaEJ4flU5So61wp-fxyltCtcmAIFOwCBygCZrZ3rPOXBXEgoVwpLnzY5wKJ-W24hzGODg8yQW3byqDm07G8-ccLdHaVlDkpuf55y0/s1600/iStock_000017993382Small.jpg" height="418" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
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<i><span style="color: #c50537; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Having the
conversation can be <o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #c50537; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">upsetting to
both generations</span><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #c50537; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></i></div>
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<span style="background: white; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 13.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The holidays are over and you have
enjoyed spending quality time with your loved ones. During your visit you noticed that your
mother was often confused and needed a lot more help than she did the last you
were together. Doubt and worry about her ability to live alone are your
constant companions now as it is obvious that her safety has become an issue. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 13.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></div>
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</div>
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<span style="background: white; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 13.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">While debating the possible
options you realize that home health care would solve the problem. She could
remain at home and have a professional Caregiver come daily to check on her,
remind her to take her medications, and help out with the household
chores. The </span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 150%;">Caregiver could
drive her to appointments, supervise showers and generally be there when you
can’t.</span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 150%;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 150%;">You want to talk to her about
bringing a home health Caregiver into the home, but dread starting a
disagreement.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #c50537; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 13.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">How
to talk to your loved ones about getting help:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 19.5pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #c50537;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">What to understand:</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; line-height: 115%;">Most elderly take great pride in their independence. The idea of having a Caregiver come to the
home is embarrassing to them. It is a
sign that they cannot manage alone any longer.
Although they logically understand they will need help someday, most don’t
believe that day is now. Often
introducing the use of home health as getting just “a little extra help” around
the house is a more acceptable approach.
Mentioning that a Caregiver will do the cleaning and help with the
laundry makes the use of outside help a little less threatening. Once your aging loved one is used to having
someone come into the home and that Caregiver has becomes a familiar companion,
accepting help from them in other areas is not such an issue. Typically home health Caregivers provide a
wide range of services including housekeeping, laundry, meal preparation, medication
reminders, help with personal cares and transportation. A good Caregiver never infringes on their
Client’s independence but works in the background to help when needed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #c50537;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">How
to start:</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; line-height: 150%;">Start a general conversation and be very tactful. Raise questions about the care of the
house. Just remarking that it must be
difficult keeping up such a large place could guide the conversation along the
right track. Most elderly are well aware
that the care of the home may be slipping.
Avoid statements that can cause your loved one to become defensive. Instead, ask if there is anything you can do
to help. If there is a lot of resistance
to just talking about it, you might want to wait a bit to mention the idea of
home care. Gently mention your concerns
and ask what possible solutions might be considered. Ask for her ideas of what they would like to
do. </span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #c50537; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 13.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Avoid Elder Speak:</span></span><span style="background: white; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 13.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; line-height: 150%;">Your parents are not your children<span style="color: #244061; mso-themecolor: accent1; mso-themeshade: 128;"> </span>and
will not respond well if you speak to them in a
controlling manner. You may be
convinced you have found the solution, but announcing what you have decided is
disrespectful and will hinder the entire process. The last thing you want is your loved one to react
negatively to your decision and that may taint relationships with you and any
Caregiver who comes to the house. Don’t
dictate what needs to happen, but allow your loved one to see the logic of your
suggestion. It is much better to include
them in the conversation and really listen to their desires. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 19.5pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #c50537;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Listen:</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; line-height: 150%;">Adult children of aging parents are busy and often
think things need to happen on their schedule.
The elderly operate at a much slower pace. Waiting quietly and patiently for an elderly
parent to think things over can be difficult.
Listen to what is said and try to understand their anxiety and fear of
change. Let the idea of accepting help
settle a bit and after some time re-approach the idea. A hard sell or nagging about using home
health rarely works and since the goal is providing safety and independence at
home, most elderly will soon realize that it is the preferred option to moving
to an institution. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.homeaidhealthcare.com/" target="_blank">www.homeaidhealthcare.com</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.prairiehomeassistedliving.com/" target="_blank">www.prairiehomeassistedliving.com</a></span></div>
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Kate McCarthy is Director of
Operations for HomeAid Health Care which provides services for the elderly who
wish to remain safe and independent at home.
HomeAid is sister company to Prairie Home Assisted Living which has
served the physical, spiritual, mental and health needs of their residents
since 1999. Together the two companies provide
comprehensive care for the elderly in the Fox Valley area of Wisconsin.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372682838795345369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2420499906099688643.post-23034546224742626252014-09-30T06:38:00.000-07:002014-09-30T11:39:05.850-07:00Hydration for Health, Water for Life<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbsxlMrvBbu0EEi4OhY1lLx6mZalBVXEF-XRB7yXWbGBVQ43JfJmEX5R8rKJX67JhNRKJvPaJ1fYUO8hQePl__t4B7jJpCEaSHt-BKrPtXNCtWxDck_k-pTFYzYO7qIYR8MH5mWyNxy4T0/s1600/water.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbsxlMrvBbu0EEi4OhY1lLx6mZalBVXEF-XRB7yXWbGBVQ43JfJmEX5R8rKJX67JhNRKJvPaJ1fYUO8hQePl__t4B7jJpCEaSHt-BKrPtXNCtWxDck_k-pTFYzYO7qIYR8MH5mWyNxy4T0/s1600/water.jpg" height="640" width="425" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #ad0538; font-size: 13.5pt; line-height: 115%;">Drinking water is a key element in</span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #ad0538; font-size: 13.5pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> maintaining health for the elderly</span></span></i><span style="color: #ad0538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h4>
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<b><span style="color: #ad0538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #ad0538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Wise up on water<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif; line-height: 115%;">Water
is often overlooked as one of the six basic nutrients </span><span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif; line-height: 115%;">(along with carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, proteins
and minerals)</span><span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif; line-height: 115%;"> needed for positive well-being and
better quality of life for the elderly. Water can make a valuable contribution
to health in old age. As we get older our body’s receptor for thirst decreases.
To stay hydrated do not</span><span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif;">
depend on feeling thirsty. Thirst may not be a reliable guide to tell you when
you're becoming dehydrated, especially for older adults.</span></span><b><span style="color: #ad0538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</h4>
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<b><span style="color: #ad0538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #ad0538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Evidence
for drinking water<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Medical evidence shows that good
hydration can assist in the management of diabetes, urinary tract infections,
incontinence, constipation, kidney stones, heart disease, low blood pressure,
cognitive impairment, falls, poor oral health, skin conditions, help prevent
pressure ulcers, and many other illnesses. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Proper hydration will increase
blood circulation to all vital organs including skin which will prevent and
help heal pressure ulcers. </span><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Drinking
water will stimulate urination and help the body flush out bacteria. Drinking
extra water will help stimulate the bladder for </span><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">healthy bladder function; experiencing
fewer incontinent episodes is one effective way to prevent urinary tract
infections. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Dehydration lowers blood pressure
which causes confusion and dizziness. Dehydration is the leading cause of
falls. </span><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">Balanced hydration is essential for the safety and
efficacy of some medications. One class of medications affected by hydration
status is the <span class="st">non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs </span>NSAIDs (<span class="st">Aspirin, Ibuprofen, Ketoprofen, and Naproxen)</span> which has
the potential to cause kidney damage in response to dehydration.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="color: #ad0538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Tips for Water Consumption</span></b></div>
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</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">A glass of water five minutes before standing will help stabilize blood pressure and prevent fainting.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Drink
a glass of fresh water when you get up in the morning.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif; line-height: 23px; text-indent: -24px;">Have a jug of water readily available with thinly sliced oranges, limes, lemons, and ice cubes. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Drink small quantities throughout the day. Drink
water at mealtimes and also between meals.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;">Eat </span><span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;"> foods high in water content, such as fruits
and vegetables</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;">Substitute hot caffeinated
beverages for </span><span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">hot
water with pieces of fruit in it.</span></li>
</ul>
<div style="text-indent: -24px;">
<span style="font-family: Palatino Linotype, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #ad0538; font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 21.4666652679443px;">Questions</span></b></div>
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<span style="color: #ad0538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">Is tap water safe to drink?</span><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif;">Yes.
The United States water supply is completely safe to drink and of high quality</span><span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif; line-height: 115%;">.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #ad0538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Do I need to filter or
treat my tap water before I serve it to drink?</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif; line-height: 115%;">No. The tap water you receive is
carefully monitored, tested and is supplied ready to drink straight from the
tap. Sometimes filters will polish the taste slightly, but the same effect can
normally be achieved by leaving the water to chill in the fridge this will help
take away any chlorine taste.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #ad0538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">If I drink more water, will
I have increased bladder function?</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif;">Yes,
for a while, and that’s a very positive change. People will use the toilet more
often if they drink more, and while there are perceived problems in the extra
effort of more frequent visits, people also need to be aware of the
serious ill-effects of not drinking enough and not going to the toilet often enough. Evidence
shows, however, that the restriction of overall fluid intake does not reduce
urinary incontinence frequency or severity. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif;">Start
drinking early with a fresh glass of water. Promote the fact that water
‘flushes through’ the system and helps to prevent kidney stones, UTIs and
constipation. Increased bladder function may also help reduce the need for
additional medication.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #ad0538; font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif;">What are the immediate benefits of hydration?</span><span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif;"> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif;">Water is an essential nutrient and dehydration is a common problem for the
elderly population. There is evidence that improving water intake:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0px;">
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Reduces constipation and subsequent
medication</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Reduces confusion (with reduced risks
of falls and fractures)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Reduces headaches</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Reduces urinary tract infections</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Improves skin integrity and reduces the
risk of pressure sores</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Improves blood pressure</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Reduces consumption of unhealthy
caffeine, alcohol, soft drinks and sparkling drinks</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Reduces the cost of providing other
commercial beverages. </span></li>
</ul>
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Susan Sherriff, CNA and an Occupational Therapy Assistant student, is a contributing writer to Elder Topics as part of a Marketing Internship. As a member of the HomeAid Health Care team, Susan uses over 10 years of Caregiver experience to assist our elderly and disabled Clients who wish to remain safe and independent at home. HomeAid is a sister company to Prairie Home Assisted Living which has served the physical, spiritual, mental and health needs of their Residents since 1999. Together the two companies provide comprehensive care that meets the needs of the elderly and disabled in the Fox Valley of Wisconsin.</div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Sources:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372682838795345369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2420499906099688643.post-78692406324956125552014-09-18T12:40:00.001-07:002014-09-18T12:43:21.568-07:00Driving Options As We Age<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1fbffGen-Ms/VBsteihi5AI/AAAAAAAAAwA/T9aUHIOVNG4/s1600/transport%2Bfor%2Bseniors.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1fbffGen-Ms/VBsteihi5AI/AAAAAAAAAwA/T9aUHIOVNG4/s1600/transport%2Bfor%2Bseniors.jpg" height="425" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="color: #ad0538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">There are many transportation options </span></i><br />
<i><span style="color: #ad0538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">available for seniors.</span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Nearly
50 years ago Baby boomers were dancing to the sounds of the Beach Boys singing
about a little old lady from Pasadena racing around town in her shiny red hot
rod. Now those same people are facing
some challenging decisions </span><span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; text-align: justify;">about
their own ability to drive</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; text-align: justify;">. </span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">There
are over 33 million older drivers in the USA and within 15 years that number
will double. Older drivers have a higher risk factor of being involved in
traffic accidents. In fact, over 500
elderly drivers are injured and 15 are killed in car crashes daily. Most accidents are due to poor judgment in
timing, most often while turning left, drifting within traffic lanes and a
decreased ability to respond to sudden changes on the road.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">There
is no set age that mandates when an older driver should hang up their
keys. Safety and performance on the road
are far more important than a person’s date of birth and there are many things mature
drivers can do to increase safety, decrease risks and remain on the road longer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"> </span><span style="color: #ad0538; font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Be proactive about health</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Annual
vision and hearing checks are very important.
Plus know if current medications affect driving abilities. Being in good health prolongs enjoyment of
many activities, including driving. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .25in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #ad0538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Drive defensively <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Avoid
using distracting cell phones in the car and take extra steps to watch out for
the other guy. Also leave adequate space
from other drivers, pay extra attention at intersections, allow enough time for
braking and drive at an appropriate speed for the flow of traffic. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #ad0538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Use new technology</span><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Crash
warning systems alert the driver of an impending accident or will automatically
apply the brakes if necessary. New parking features hands-free parallel
parking. Night vision systems used
infrared to mark people and objects on the road in the dark. These new technological breakthroughs help
older drivers stay behind the wheel longer.
In addition, simple tricks like turning up the brightness on the gauges,
adding a strap over the door to help getting in and out of the car, and keeping
the headlights, mirrors and windscreen clean can all make a substantial
difference in driving safety for mature drivers.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #ad0538; font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #ad0538; font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Set limits</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Many
older drivers voluntarily make changes in their driving practices such as driving
only during the day, staying off high speed roads or avoiding driving in bad
weather. Adopting “a better safe than
sorry” attitude can prevent serious problems.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #ad0538; font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Unfortunately,
retaining the ability and the privilege to drive is not something that lasts a
lifetime. There are some signs to look for which indicate it may be time to
seek alternative transportation.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #ad0538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Physical Issues</span><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Sensitivity
to light, difficulties seeing in the dark and blurred vision are all
significant hindrances to driving. Also inability to hear sirens, horns or
another driver accelerating nearby could mean a mature driver is missing
important clues necessary for safe driving.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #ad0538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Reflex and Range of Motion Issues <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Generally
older drivers are less able to judge distances and speed and may become confused
in situations requiring quick reflex responses. Also inability to turn to look quickly can
cause problems on the road.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .25in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"> </span><span style="color: #ad0538; font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #ad0538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Memory Issues <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Losing
one’s way happens to everyone one, but a pattern of being lost on once familiar
roads means it may be time to consider finding alternative means of transport.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .25in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #ad0538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Close Call Issues <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Dents
and scrapes on the car, frequent near misses and an increase in traffic tickets
or warnings from the police are all signs that continued driving is risky.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="color: #ad0538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">On the Road Issues</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">The
basics of driving like lane changes, braking, accelerating and use of turn
signals which were once second nature become increasingly difficult with age
and can be a signal it is time to get off the road.</span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
</div>
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<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Hanging
up the car keys does not necessarily mean loss of independence. There are alternative means of getting around
available for seniors. Family and friends are usually willing to lend a
hand. In addition there are some
transportation programs in the Fox Cities area of Wisconsin that cater to the
needs of the elderly. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span>
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<u><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Making
a Ride Happen</span></u><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"> serves seniors in Outagamie, Winnebago and Calumet Counties.
A team of volunteer drivers provide transport throughout the Fox Cities area
for a suggested price of $3.60 one way or $8.00 round trip. Availability is
limited. Call (920) 225-1719 to learn more.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Neenah-Menasha Dial-a-Ride</span></u><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"> serves seniors living in the city limits of Neenah and
Menasha. Dial-a-Ride tickets allow seniors to use Fox Valley Cabs for $3.50 one
way. Some limitations apply. Call (920)
886-6125 or (920) 720-7106 for more information. <u><o:p></o:p></u></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt 0.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<u><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Fox
Valley Transit II</span></u><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"> provides transportation for seniors in Outagamie, Calumet
Counties. Advanced scheduling and some
limitations apply. Call (920) 832-5789
to hear more details.</span></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></u></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Home
care agencies</span></u><span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> – Most home health care agencies offer driving services
which increase the independence of seniors by providing transportation for
appointments, outings and trips. In
addition to door to door service, most agency drivers will escort the
passenger, assist with walkers or wheelchairs, and devote full a day to
accommodate a passenger with a list of errands.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Kate
McCarthy is Director of Operations for HomeAid Health Care which provides
non-medical home services for the elderly who wish to remain safe and
independent at home. HomeAid is a sister
company to Prairie Home Assisted Living which has served the physical, spiritual, mental and health needs
of their residents since 1999. Together
the two companies provide comprehensive care that meets the needs of the elderly
in the Fox Valley.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372682838795345369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2420499906099688643.post-53316828202372115322014-08-27T12:19:00.000-07:002014-08-27T12:22:43.987-07:00Interdependence with aging parents<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Oar3AtMshyk/U_4uqw5sOGI/AAAAAAAAAu8/ihL3NOmTYN8/s1600/daughter%2Band%2Bmother%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Oar3AtMshyk/U_4uqw5sOGI/AAAAAAAAAu8/ihL3NOmTYN8/s1600/daughter%2Band%2Bmother%2B2.jpg" height="425" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal">
<i><span lang="EN-CA" style="color: #c10538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Family dynamics can
really be challenged as aging parents </span></i></div>
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<i><span lang="EN-CA" style="color: #c10538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">need more help from their adult children.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">The relationship dynamics of
family drastically shift over time.
Children, once dependent on their parents, grow and mature to
adults. Parents grow too and eventually
reach an age where they need to depend more upon their adult children. This
tends to cause a considerable amount of stress and anxiety for all
involved. On average more than half of elderly
over 85 need help with their daily life. It would seem natural that </span><span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif;">family would provide much of the
care their elderly loved ones need. Yet many elderly and their adult children have
difficulties finding a working balance between independence and providing
care.</span><span style="font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', serif;"> </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">Independence is a deeply
ingrained part of the American psyche.
It is revered just as dependency is looked down upon. Many older Americans refuse to accept help, even
from their adult children for fear of being dependent and a burden. Yet this
deprives the elderly of needed assistance that promotes longevity and health as
well as the opportunity for grown children to care for the ones who once cared and
provided for them. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">Most societies across the globe
care for their aged within the family and only turn to outside caregivers in
cases where medical issues demand it. In
other cultures, generations of families co-exist, often in the same home,
providing support and care for each family member as needed. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">The multi-generational American
family could greatly benefit from becoming more interdependent. But to
achieve interdependence in a healthy way, families must rise above some common
hindrances.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="color: #c10538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Filial maturity <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">Adult children need to accept
their parents as individuals, recognizing their personal needs and goals and
accept their imperfections as well as positive qualities. Filial maturity means relating to and
supporting aging parents in an adult way and requires understanding, patience
and respect of their stage in life.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="color: #c10538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Parental maturity <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">Elderly parents need to accept
their adult children as adults. They
need to rise above deep-rooted attitudes of being in control and graciously
accept help from the younger generation.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="color: #c10538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Acknowledge loss <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">Both elderly parents and adult
children need to come to terms with the loss that is part of aging. The elderly
experience many losses. The loss of status, health, financial security, spouse
and friends can cause despair and needs to be recognized by the family. The
children of an elder experience a sense of loss too, as the parents they once
knew and depended upon progresses through the aging process. Recognizing that loss as part of the circle of
life instead of battling against it can help ease the transitions as
relationships with in the family continue to change. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="color: #c10538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Mixed expectations <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">The elderly and their adult
children often have different agendas of what is important and requires
assistance. The adult children worry about practical cares and safety issues. They see help with bathing, food preparation
and the prevention of falls as important.
Where the elderly are more interested in getting help with bureaucratic
issues like managing health care or financial paperwork and can take offence at
being offered help with daily needs. Having different agendas causes stress and can
result in misunderstandings, anger and hurt feelings. When the elder parents and the adult children
openly communicate their concerns and expectations there is a much better chance
at a smooth relationships.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-left: .25in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="color: #c10538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Avoid role reversal
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">Assisting
a parent with bathing and dressing or taking over their decision making roles can
be uncomfortable for both generations. Elderly
often resent and resist being treated as a child and adult children miss having
their parents be parents. A role
reversal is not easy or healthy for either generation. There are times when the adult children will
have to make difficult decisions on behalf of their parents, but in general it
is best to keep family roles intact. The elderly, no matter how frail, should
maintain control of their own decisions as long as possible and the adult
children need to respect their parent’s desires. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="color: #c10538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Bring in help <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif";">Hire a home health Caregiver to
provide services for your elderly parents at home. An extra pair of helping
hands will take care of the daily tasks and intimate cares that often cause
conflict between the generations. Getting help inside the home works to
maintain healthy boundaries and relationships in the family and can make a
world of difference in having healthy interdependence with aging parents.</span><span lang="EN-CA" style="color: #c10538; font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA">Kate McCarthy is Director of Operations for HomeAid Health
Care which provides services for the elderly who wish to remain safe and
independent at home. HomeAid is sister
company to Prairie Home Assisted Living which has served the physical,
spiritual, mental and health needs of their residents since 1999. Together the two companies provide comprehensive
care for the elderly in the Fox Valley of Wisconsin.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 8.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">Sources:
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 8.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">“As
Parents Age, Family Will Have Role Reversal” by Dr. David Lipschitz. Retrieved
from </span><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="http://www.creators.com/"><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 8.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">www.creators.com</span></a></span><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 8.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">,
10/15/12.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 8.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">“Building
Positive Relationships”, Texas A&M Agrilife Extensions Service. Retrieved
from </span><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="http://www.fcs.tamu.edu.com/"><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 8.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">www.fcs.tamu.edu.com</span></a></span><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 8.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">,
10/15/12.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;">
<span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 8.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"> “’Parenting” Your Elderly Parents’ by Family
Caregiver Alliance. Retrieved from </span><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="http://www.familycaregiveralliance.com/"><span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 8.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">www.familycaregiveralliance.com</span></a></span><span lang="EN-CA" style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype","serif"; font-size: 8.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">,
10/15/12.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372682838795345369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2420499906099688643.post-67783869536867873102014-08-20T13:56:00.000-07:002014-08-20T13:57:28.689-07:00Working Through Grief With Dementia<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtUfs9rQyFcSpew7t7gpqApGi6RpcXY3annUPUruIEbqsRT7YT8HT9r5AAtR_fwVFDX17ofjwO3o3bq3hR6iI_Ds8o__XTESQUX0ZPWFvLOFXz6R0PZ9nblcayAWrx3c9pvZVsqPtPNiMt/s1600/82fb053378dbeabe4bed81ee49c7b237.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtUfs9rQyFcSpew7t7gpqApGi6RpcXY3annUPUruIEbqsRT7YT8HT9r5AAtR_fwVFDX17ofjwO3o3bq3hR6iI_Ds8o__XTESQUX0ZPWFvLOFXz6R0PZ9nblcayAWrx3c9pvZVsqPtPNiMt/s1600/82fb053378dbeabe4bed81ee49c7b237.jpg" height="355" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
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<i><span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">A person with dementia may not remember </span></span></i><i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">the name </span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">of their
missing loved </span></i><i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">one but still deeply feel that loss in their lives.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">We all experience grief.
Unfortunately, at one time or another everyone will suffer a loss of someone
dear to them. Although people grieve in different ways depending on the nature
of their relationships and their past experiences with loss, the grieving
process is quite normal and necessary. Grieving helps an individual adapt and
accept the reality of their loss, work through the pain and adjust to all the
life changes caused by the death of their loved one. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Going through the grieving
process is very difficult for people in general; but for people with dementia,
the process can be far more complicated. People with dementia experience grief,
but their reaction to their loss is largely affected by their own cognitive
understanding of what has happened to their loved one, the connection they had
with the person they are grieving for and how well they can express their
sorrow.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">It is wrong to assume that
because a person cannot remember the name of their missing loved one they do
not feel that loss in their lives. Those with dementia generally live with
feelings that things are not right, or a constant state of “wrong-being,” but
are usually unable to put their finger on what the problem is. Most individuals
suffering with dementia are somewhat aware of their confusion and live with
grief over lost abilities, memories and understanding. Add in the loss of
someone dear to them and their confusion can be compounded. Grief and the
mourning process can be experienced by those with even advanced dementia,
regardless of their cognitive ability to resolve or make sense of their
feelings. So in most cases it is better to share the news of a death than to
try to pretend nothing has changed.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
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</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">There are several considerations to keep in mind when helping a
bereaved person with dementia work through grief.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #c10538; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Choose carefully when to share bad news </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">According to Melanie Bunn, RN and Alzheimer’s training consultant,
consideration must be given to the bereaved person’s cognitive condition when
choosing when to share the news of a loss. Select a time of day when the
bereaved is rested and feels comfortable and safe. Many people suffering from “sundowners,”
a type of dementia, find late afternoons and evenings especially challenging
and would be better able to process difficult news in the morning hours.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #c10538; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Choose carefully how
to share bad news </span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Have a familiar and trusted person talk to the bereaved in a clear,
calm and simple manner. It is best to have only one person relay the news of a
death. People with dementia can be deeply affected by the emotional climate of
grieving family members and respond with increased agitation and restlessness. Experts
advise avoiding abstract phrases like “passed away.” It is much more effective
to plainly state that the person “died.” Keep sentences short and do not
overwhelm the bereaved person with dementia with too much information at once.
Be prepared to frequently repeat the information as they will need time and
repetition to process it. Do not be surprised by a delayed reaction or lack of
response. </span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #c10538; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;">Help the immediate grief process</span></span><span style="font-size: x-small; line-height: 115%;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Those suffering from dementia can benefit by participating in the
rituals of death. According to the article, “Sharing Bad News,” by Melanie
Bunn, it may be necessary to modify rituals to make them more workable for the person
with dementia. She suggests private visitations rather than participating in
public gatherings, attending the funeral but not the burial or hosting a local
memorial ceremony rather than traveling great distances to attend a funeral. </span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">After the funeral, it is helpful for the individual suffering from
dementia to reminisce about their loved one. Talking about memories while
looking at a photo of the deceased will aid in the grieving process. Often the
person with dementia needs help expressing their grief and speaking to them
using empathetic phrases will help them verbalize their mourning. According to
Alzheimer Scotland’s article, “Loss and bereavement in people with dementia,”
phrases like, “You sound like you really miss him. Tell me what you miss about
him most.” aid those who have a hard time finding words to express the emotions
they feel.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: small;"><span style="color: #c10538; line-height: 115%;">Help with long-term grief</span><span style="line-height: 115%;"> </span> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Constant assessment of the cognitive state of the bereaved is very
important. Ignoring the mood of the day and trying to force a person with
dementia to understand a death can be detrimental to the grieving process. Try
to have all people in contact with the person diagnosed with dementia be
consistent and patient as they work through their grief over time.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">By focusing on the person with
dementia and validating their emotions, even though the source of the emotions
are lost to them, the grieving process will be made easier for the person
suffering from dementia and the entire family.</span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Kate McCarthy is Director of
Operations for HomeAid Health Care which provides non-medical home services for
the elderly who wish to remain safe and independent at home. HomeAid is a sister
company to Prairie Home Assisted Living which has served the physical,
spiritual, mental and health needs of their residents since 1999. Together the
two companies provide comprehensive care that meets the needs of the elderly in
the Fox Valley.</div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Sources:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">“Sharing Bad News” by Melanie
Bunn<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">“Loss & Bereavement in People with Dementia” by Alzheimer Scotland<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</div>
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<span style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">“Grief and Dementia” by Kenneth J. Doka<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372682838795345369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2420499906099688643.post-62504650869139534052014-07-25T09:12:00.000-07:002014-07-25T09:15:15.086-07:00Choose well – Avoid common mistakes with Assisted Living<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-728EgQXMgks/U9J934jaeMI/AAAAAAAAAt4/KNlX1Rc8LC8/s1600/iStock_000009553546XSmall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-728EgQXMgks/U9J934jaeMI/AAAAAAAAAt4/KNlX1Rc8LC8/s1600/iStock_000009553546XSmall.jpg" height="262" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Choosing an
assisted living facility <o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">should not be
done in panic mode.</span><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">It happens all the time. A crisis takes place, an accident, a fall or
an illness forces the issue to the forefront.
No one in the family had a real plan on what to do when Mom or Dad
needed help on a daily basis and suddenly decisions have to be made and have to
be made now. In a panic to find an
immediate solution, siblings debate care options and charge out to tour facilities. In the rush to find a place, often very basic
questions are not asked and future possibilities are not
considered. Knowing how to prepare, what
questions to ask and what to look for can save your aging loved ones and the
entire family a lot of heartache down the road.
Here are some common mistakes to avoid.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Not having the conversation</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">It is unfortunate that<span style="color: #c10538;"> </span>most
families get caught off guard about their aging loved one’s future care
needs. The practical decisions of
providing care, in most families, have not been clearly mapped out ahead of
time so everyone knows what to expect.
This often leaves the adult children in the family in conflict with each
other and scrambling to find a care solution when their aging parent suddenly
needs daily help. Wise seniors and their
families will realize that it is better to have a plan in place than go through
the rush and stress of making a major life decision in panic mode.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Have the conversation ahead of time and get a clear plan set down that
the entire family can work with. Do the
research now and make general decisions about how care will be provided once
needed. Create a short list of
facilities and service providers to turn to in the future. Organize a list of things to be taken and
things to be passed along to family members when the time comes to move. Discuss parent preferences of who in the
family will take on managing the finances and who will make care decisions in
case they can’t. Get the legal paperwork
set up so it is just a matter of activating the decision once the time is
right. These are serious and often
uncomfortable issues that all families with aging parents must deal with and
putting off having the conversation and making decisions is being short
sighted.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Not
being realistic about the future</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">When shopping for a care facility it is important to be realistic
about current and future care needs.
Most families look at an assisted living facility with an eye on location,
cleanliness, decor and activities but fail to consider if the facility can
provide the level of care needed for possible future health and cognitive
issues. Assisted living facilities are strictly
regulated by state governments and fall into different categories which
determine what level of health care they are allowed to provide. For example in the State of Wisconsin, there
are three different levels of assisted living facilities: community-based
residential facilities (CBRF), adult family homes (AFH) and residential care
apartment complexes (RCAC). Out of these
three categories only CBRF facilities can provide significant health care on
site. In addition, within the CBRF category there are various classifications
which determine who they can and cannot serve.
Pay attention to the facility’s classification and ask specific
questions on if they provide up to end of life care as well as if and when they
would ever require a Resident to move. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">As the elder ages and health needs change, some facilities will be
forced to evict Residents when they no longer can provide the level of care
required. So it is important to consider future decline in health and cognitive
abilities when choosing an assisted living facility. Moving a loved one from facility to facility
is costly as well as emotionally and physically difficult for the elder so it
is better to be realistic about the future care needs now.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Not understanding the fine print</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Even though moving into an assisted living facility is usually a health
care decision rather than a real estate decision, there will still be contracts
involved. Most facilities have
straightforward contracts which need to be read in detail. When choosing between facilities, one of the
main sources of confusion is the various pricing structures which should be
explained in detail in the contract. In
addition to admission fees, facilities will have diverse systems set up to
determine monthly costs. Some facilities
have base rates for room rental and meals and then charge extra fees for
cares. Others may charge for each
service provided a la carte or they may rank the level of care needed on a sliding
scale and increase the monthly charges according to how many cares the person
needs. With a scale system, Residents
start at a lower cost but should expect monthly rates to increase as care needs
increase. Other facilities lock a rate
at admission and will honor that rate regardless of increase of care needs due
to aging, only to address the fees again if there is a major change in health. Since
each assisted living community sets up rates differently, it is important to
understand and compare upfront costs and how they may change over time.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Knowing about these common pitfalls can save the entire family stress
and regret and allows everyone to focus on making the transition to an assisted
living facility easier for your loved one when the time comes.</span></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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Kate McCarthy is Director of Operations for HomeAid Health
Care which provides services for the elderly and disabled who wish to remain
safe and independent at home. HomeAid is
sister company to Prairie Home Assisted Living (Class C, CBRF) which has served
the physical, spiritual, mental and health needs of their Residents since
1999. Together the two family owned companies
provide comprehensive care for the elderly and disabled in the Fox Valley of
Wisconsin.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372682838795345369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2420499906099688643.post-58676124182786767052014-07-01T14:31:00.000-07:002014-07-02T08:51:57.984-07:00Preventing Alzheimer’s disease<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CK9P2xzKY4U/U7MgEFf4ytI/AAAAAAAAAho/u7aPTOSgf0A/s1600/08cb8e092fc72ff9ebab57cefeaa25cf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CK9P2xzKY4U/U7MgEFf4ytI/AAAAAAAAAho/u7aPTOSgf0A/s1600/08cb8e092fc72ff9ebab57cefeaa25cf.jpg" height="640" width="584" /></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Pro-actively reduce the risk </span><span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 16pt;">of getting Alzheimer’s disease</span></span></div>
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The numbers are scary. Currently there are over 5 million people in
the USA suffering from Alzheimer’s disease.
This condition affects one out of eight people over 65 and one out of
two for those over 85. This progressive disease
slowly destroys the connections between brain cells, leaving holes in the brain
tissue. It steals memories and the
ability to communicate and respond to one’s environment and eventually leads to
death. It is the sixth leading cause of
death in the country now and is expected to affect more and more people as our
population ages. World-wide it is
estimated that there will be about 135.5 million people with Alzheimer’s by
2050. </div>
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</div>
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In the beginning, Alzheimer’s usually presents itself as a mild form of forgetfulness or
short term memory loss. At the early stages of cognitive problems there may be time to delay the onset of future memory issues. The Alzheimer’s Research & Prevention
Foundation believes that memory loss is not a normal or natural part of
aging. With proper preventative action,
the brain can be rejuvenated and the risk of developing Alzheimer’s greatly
reduced. For those already diagnosed
with Early Cognitive Impairment, studies show that actively working the
brain can elevate symptoms and actually reverse some of the damage caused by
the disease, as well as delay further damage to the brain.</div>
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<br /></div>
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The Alzheimer’s Research &
Prevention Foundation promotes “Four Pillars to Alzheimer’s Prevention”. These preventative measures are for all
seniors and elderly who wish to be proactive about their cognitive health. For those already diagnosed with Early
Cognitive Impairment or dementia, these measures can actively slow down the
progression of the disease and provide a longer, healthier life prolonging the onset of disabling symptoms. The ARPF suggests
focusing on these four areas of prevention:</div>
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<span style="color: #c10538; text-indent: -0.25in;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #c10538; text-indent: -0.25in;">1.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><span style="color: #c10538; text-indent: -0.25in;">Diet and Supplements</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #c10538; text-indent: -0.25in;">2.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><span style="color: #c10538; text-indent: -0.25in;">Stress Management</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #c10538; text-indent: -0.25in;">3.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><span style="color: #c10538; text-indent: -0.25in;">Exercise</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #c10538; text-indent: -0.25in;">4.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><span style="color: #c10538; text-indent: -0.25in;">Prescription
Medications</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #c10538; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #c10538; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%;">Diet and Supplements</span></div>
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Lifestyle has a direct impact on developing Alzheimer’s disease. Beyond genetic predisposition, a person’s
chance of being diagnosed with any form of dementia is greatly influenced by
diet. Eating correctly to promote better
memory, prevent memory loss and slow down cognitive impairment is an excellent
place to start. An Alzheimer’s prevention
diet is comprised of</div>
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<span style="color: #c10538; font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #c10538; font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">20% good fat - extra virgin olive oil, avocado,
flax seed oil and Omega-3 fish oils</span></div>
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<span style="color: #c10538; font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">40% lean protein – fish, chicken, turkey and soy</span></div>
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<span style="color: #c10538; font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">40% complex carbohydrates – fresh fruit &
vegetables, whole grains, and </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">legumes</span></div>
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<span style="color: #c10538; font-family: Symbol; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%; text-indent: -0.25in;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Super food for the brain – blueberries, spinach,
walnuts, wheat germ and flax, </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">etc.</span></div>
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Beyond diet, vitamin and minerals play an important role in preventing
Alzheimer’s disease. Taking a basic
multiple vitamin and mineral supplement with folic acid is a good place to start. Vitamin C taken with Vitamin E has been
proven to reduce risk of Alzheimer’s by up to 20%. Other supplements to boost memory include
ginkgo biloba, phosphatidyl serine, Omega-3 Oils, acetyl-L-carnitine, coenzyme
Q10 and alpha lipoic acid.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Stress
Management</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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It has been proven that high levels of stress play a role in
Alzheimer’s disease. There is a
relationship between high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and high cortisol
levels and the onset of Alzheimer’s.
This means that balancing stress is vital to prevention of these
conditions, which often leads to onset of Alzheimer’s as one ages. Stress relaxation techniques lower cortisol
levels which improve mental functions.
Although many types of stress reducing techniques are helpful, the ARPF
promotes a yoga meditation called Kirtan Kriya shows a profound effect on
the brain and memory as well as other aspects of overall health. </div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Exercise</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Being active both physically and mentally is essential to an
Alzheimer’s prevention program. Physical
exercise reduces the risk of developing this disease by 50% and regular exercise
in women aged 40-60 shows a notable reduction in cognitive decline compared to
those who do not exercise. Studies show
that 150 minutes a week of a combination of cardio and strength training boost
brain size and strength as well as benefit general health.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Mental exercise reduces chances of getting Alzheimer’s disease by
50-70%. Spending at least 20 minutes a
day challenging the brain with new or different tasks improves brain function
significantly. Moreover a combination of
physical exercise immediately followed by mental stimulation such as a
crossword puzzle or word game gets the best possible outcomes.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Prescription Medications</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Early detection and prompt medical treatment of memory problems can
help delay the onset of Alzheimer’s. In
fact those with a diagnosis of Mild Cognitive Impairment have a high risk of
progressing to Alzheimer’s unless a pro-active program is put in place. A combination of prescription medications along
with a holistic medical program has been proven to have the best results. Pharmaceutical
medications, Bio-identical hormone replacement therapy and over the counter
supplements should always be taken under the guidance of physician who is an
expert in Alzheimer’s disease. </div>
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<br /></div>
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Taking action by following the ARPF’s Four Pillars of Alzheimer’s
Prevention will maximize brain size and ability and reduce the risk of getting
Alzheimer’ disease. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.prairiehomeassistedliving.com/" target="_blank">www.prairiehomeassistedliving.com</a></span></div>
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Kate McCarthy is Director of Operations for HomeAid Health
Care which provides services for the elderly who wish to remain safe and
independent at home. HomeAid is sister
company to Prairie Home Assisted Living which has served the physical,
spiritual, mental and health needs of their Residents since 1999. Together the two family owned companies
provide comprehensive care for the elderly in the Fox Valley of Wisconsin.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-size: 8.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Sources:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</div>
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<span style="font-size: 8.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">“The Four
Pillars of Alzheimer’s Prevention” brochure. Alzheimer’s Research &
Prevention Foundation.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18372682838795345369noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2420499906099688643.post-38833171430456169542014-06-16T13:28:00.000-07:002014-06-30T08:03:23.921-07:00Exercising the Mind to Regain Memory<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aJ_F3QOyuqs/U59NvsLQ6nI/AAAAAAAAAhU/YmACrSGiV08/s1600/7d3e51b37fa162e2c2a8b5207f2797d3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aJ_F3QOyuqs/U59NvsLQ6nI/AAAAAAAAAhU/YmACrSGiV08/s1600/7d3e51b37fa162e2c2a8b5207f2797d3.jpg" height="640" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
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<i><span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Memory loss is
not a normal or <o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">natural
process of aging.</span><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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Jessica noticed feeling fuzzy in
her mind more and more after she reached her 70’s. She joked about being muddle-minded and
excused herself laughing about having a ‘senior moment’ when she couldn’t remember
an important fact. Jessica had always
prided herself on being sharp and so wasn’t about to let age steal her quick
wits. So she decided to get proactive
about her brain and began energetically exercising her mind. She was amazed by the results. </div>
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The brain is an organ and like
all organs in the human body it experiences some natural changes as we age, yet
loss of memory does not have to be one of them.
Mental decline due to aging is preventable and even reversible with the
right attitude and some dedication to exercising the mind.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
According to Dr. Dharma Signh Khalsa, President and Medical Director
of the Alzheimer’s Research & Prevention Foundation, seniors and the
elderly can avoid mental aging by keeping the brain active. By proactively engaging the mind in “vigorous
mental exercise” he calls brain aerobics, Dr. Khalsa states that mind and
memory can be improved in those starting to show signs of mental
deterioration. The theory that it is
normal and inevitable for the elderly to experience memory loss is no longer
believed to be true. </div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Let Einstein be your role model</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Albert Einstein has long been considered the most brilliant man in
history, yet he had very normal brain
cells. After his death, a pathologist
examined Einstein’s brain tissue and discovered that the cells, or neurons,
were no different from that of an average person. What was surprising was that the supporting
structure around Einstein’s brain cells was far more developed than
average. These supporting structures,
called glial cells, are the connections or pathways between brain cells
allowing them to communicate effectively.
Einstein’s glial cells were numerous and well developed which could
account for his remarkable intellectual ability. </div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Brain challenge </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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It is a proven fact that certain brain challenging activities will improve
existing glial cells as well as actually create new ones. Studies show that mental exercise regenerates brain
cells, causing them to grow larger and stronger and become more resistant to
the effects of aging. Cognitive exercise
also increases the number of connections in the brain which unlocks, activates
and sustains brain power no matter what our age, but to be effective the mental
activity must meet three criteria:</div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><b><span style="color: #c10538; mso-bidi-font-family: "Palatino Linotype"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Palatino Linotype";">1.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-weight: normal;">
</span></span></b><!--[endif]-->It must engage your attention</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1.0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><b><span style="color: #c10538; mso-bidi-font-family: "Palatino Linotype"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Palatino Linotype";">2.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-weight: normal;">
</span></span></b><!--[endif]-->It must break up a routine activity in an
unexpected way </div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><b><span style="color: #c10538; mso-bidi-font-family: "Palatino Linotype"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Palatino Linotype";">3.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-weight: normal;">
</span></span></b><!--[endif]-->It must involve two or more of the senses.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">How to exercise the brain</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Just as physical exercise is essential to healthy longevity; mental
exercise is the key to fighting loss of cognitive ability and memory, and a combination
of the two is the best bet to remaining mentally agile as we age. Recent studies show that greatest results are
found with a combination of physical and mental exercise. A 30 minute exercise
routine, such as brisk walking, followed by stretching and then a 15-20 minute
mental exercise, like a crossword puzzle, increases the efficiency and power of
the brain. Jolting the brain out of its normal routines is also a brilliant way
to improve cognitive agility. Learning a
new language or reading a book for 10 minutes upside down stimulates the brain
in amazing ways.</div>
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<span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">It is pretty easy</span></span></div>
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<span style="text-align: start; text-indent: -24px;">Like all things we should do, getting into the habit of actually doing them is the hardest part. Mental exercises or activities are easy and can be fun. Since the combination of physical and mental exercise gets the best results, it is a good idea to add a few cognitive activities to the end of a morning exercise routine. Follow a y</span><span style="text-align: start; text-indent: -0.25in;">oga session with 20 minutes working working on a cross word puzzle or take</span><span style="text-align: start; text-indent: -0.25in;"> a brisk walk with a friend and discuss current events. Playing electronic games such as Sudoku or word finding games </span><span style="text-align: start; text-indent: -24px;">on your phone or tablet is great way to rest after a session lifting hand weights or swim </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">laps followed by working on a jigsaw puzzle.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #c10538; font-size: 7pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span>It has often said you can’t teach old dog new tricks, but learning new
things, especially for the aging, will improve brain functions, regenerate lost
cognitive abilities and improve short term memory. So avoid watching TV and instead pick up a
good book, write a poem, play a word game, get going with new a hobby or learn
a new language. Proactively pursuing mental activity will improve connections
in the brain, stimulate the mind and help improve memory. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.homeaidhealthcare.com/" target="_blank">www.homeaidhealthcare.com</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.prairiehomeassistedliving.com/" target="_blank">www.prairiehomeassistedliving.com</a></span></div>
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Kate McCarthy is Director of Operations for HomeAid Health
Care which provides services for the elderly who wish to remain safe and
independent at home. HomeAid is sister
company to Prairie Home Assisted Living which has served the physical, spiritual,
mental and health needs of their Residents since 1999. Together the two family owned companies
provide comprehensive care for the elderly in the Fox Valley of Wisconsin.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Sources:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">“The Power of
Brain Aerobics: Maximize your Memory” brochure. Alzheimer’s Research &
Prevention Foundation.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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