Beat the Flu

Tried and true flu shot proves to be the 

best defense against influenza this year.

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.

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. 

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. 

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.

www.homeaidhealthcare.com

www.prairiehomeassistedliving.com

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.

Sources: 

www.cdc.gov/flu

www.medscape.com. Medical News, 9/6/16.

www.mystatesman.com. Nicole Villalpando, 8/20/16.

Strokes: Signs and Symptoms

Strokes cause long-term disability and death. 

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.

Fortunately Edith’s family realized something was terribly wrong and got her to the hospital in time. 

Strokes kill close to 800,000 people each year and is the 3^rd leading cause of death in the United States. It is also the leading cause of grave long-term disability. 

What is a Stroke

A stroke takes place when the brain doesn’t get enough blood.  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. 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.

Risk Factors

Risk for having a Stroke increases with age, but it is also affected by other factors:

• High blood pressure - Having Hypertension increases the risk factor of          experiencing Stroke by 4 to 6 times.
• Diabetes - People with Diabetes often have damaged blood vessels in the brain and so have a 3 times greater risk of having a Stroke.
• Heart Disease - Irregular heartbeat or damaged heart can contribute to having a Stroke.
• Abnormal Cholesterol - Having too much the “bad” LDL cholesterol or too little of HDL “good” cholesterol can also trigger Stroke.
• Obesity - Being overweight can contribute to all the other risk factors making Stroke all the more likely to strike.

Symptoms of Stroke

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.

F.A.S.T.

This acronym can help recognizing a Stroke as it is happening.

• F – FACE  Ask for a smile.  Check if the face is drooping on one side.
• A – ARMS  Ask to raise their arms.  Check if one arm drops down.
• S – SPEECH  Ask to repeat a simple phrase and check for slurred or odd speech.
• T – TIME  If any of the signs are evident, call 911 immediately. 

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.  

www.homeaidhealthcare.com

www.prairiehomeassistedliving.com

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.

 

Aging Joints

Joint pain can be one of the most

crippling aspects of living with arthritis.

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 hot fiery poker.

Arthritis literally means “joint inflammation,” but the term really defines more than 100 different conditions which affect joints throughout the body.  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. There are two common types of arthritis which are prevalent among the aging, Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Osteoarthritis

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.  

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.

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. 

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. 

Rheumatoid Arthritis

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.

The onset of Rheumatoid Arthritis can be as early as in the mid-twenties and affects people throughout their lives.  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.  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. 

Managing Arthritis

What can individuals with arthritis do to decrease the pain associate with this disease? 

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.

It is important to balance activity with rest.  Moderate movement with Arthritis is beneficial, but over exercising can cause increase in joint pain. 

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.

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.

www.homeaidhealthcare.com

www.prairiehomeassistedliving.com

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.

Sources: 

www.arthritisfoundation.com

www.arthritis.org,

www.cdc.gov/arthritis/basics

www.myageingparent.com/health/medical/arthritis-in-the-elderly. Feb. 18, 2015.

www.pharmacytimes.com/publications/issue/2003/2003-12/2003-12-7559,Greta M. Pelegrin, PharmD

Options of Elder Care

Know when it is time to get extra help 

and which type of care is appropriate 

for your loved one’s needs.

There is an awful lot to be said for an elderly person remaining at home as long as possible [1]. 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 healthy, safe, or practical option. People who need medically intensive  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.

Struggling With ADLs and IADLs

'ADL' stands for Activities of Daily Living [5]. 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.

Home Health Care Option

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 in the comfort of their own home. 

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.

Assisted Living Option

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 [3]. 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. 

When looking at assisted living facility, also known as a CBRF, Community Based Residential Facility, 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 decor is often short sighted as your loved one’s care needs will increase and that may mean having to change facilities in the future. 

Nursing Home Option

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. 

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.  

www.homeaidhealthcare.com

www.prairiehomeassistedliving.com

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.

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.

[1] National Institute On Aging, "There's No Place Like Home - For Growing Old", 

[2] Council On The Ageing, Victoria, "The Voice of older people on Independence", 2009

[3] Carol Bradley Bursack, "Handling a Parent Who Doesn't Want to Live in A Nursing Home",AgingCare.com

[4] KwikMed, "20 Truly Exceptional Elderly Care Sites"

[5] PBS, "Checklist Of Activities Of Daily Living (ADL)"

[6] Alzheimer's Association, "Choosing a Care Facility"

Seasonal Influenza for the Elderly

Weaker immune defenses put the

elderly at serious risk from the flu virus.

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 season and I had not yet gotten the flu shot. I was angry with myself for not taking the necessary precautions in time. 

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. 

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.

What is the flu? 

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.

How does the flu spread? 

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.

What is the period of contagiousness? 

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.

What are some of the symptoms of the flu?  

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. 

Protect yourself and others from getting the flu? 

1. Get vaccinated - The number one thing a person can do to protect themselves and others is to get a yearly flu shot.  A flu vaccine protects against the flu viruses that has been identified by researchers to be the most common during the upcoming flu season.   
2. Practice good health habits - The second thing to do to protect yourself is to practice standard precautions.  Cover your cough or sneeze with a Kleenex or use the bend of your elbow or upper arm.  Never cough into your hands. Avoid close contact with others-stay at home if you are sick.  Wash your hands with soap and water often. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Clean and disinfect surfaces or objects in your home.  Simple precautions can make a difference when trying to prevent getting sick with the flu.
3. See your doctor - The third thing you can do to protect yourself is seek medical advice quickly if you develop the flu symptoms.  The professionals can evaluate whether you need treatment and can prevent the symptoms from becoming a serious health threat.

Becoming sick after getting a flu shot

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: 

• 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.  It takes about 2 weeks after getting the flu shot for antibodies to develop in the body.
• Different strain of flu - You may have been exposed to a flu virus that is not included in this season’s flu vaccine.  
• Diminished immunity - Some older people and individuals who have certain chronic illnesses may develop less immunity after receiving the vaccine.  

The flu vaccine is not a perfect tool but it is the best way to protect against the flu infection.

 

Vaccinate ever year

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.

Is there treatment for the flu? 

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.

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.  

For more information about the flu visit the following websites: www.noca.org/flu, www.cdc.gov/flu or www.cdc.gov/flu/about/disease/65over.  

www.homeaidhealthcare.com

www.prairiehomeassistedliving.com

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.