What is Dysphagia?

Chronic difficulty with swallowing is referred to as dysphagia. It can be caused by a lack of esophageal muscle control, nerve issues, or other conditions that affect swallowing. It is much more common in older adults with chronic health issues than younger adults. Your esophagus moves to allow food/drinks to go to the stomach and air to go to the lungs. Challenges arise with dysphagia, as food, drinks, pills, or even saliva can end up in the airway by accident.

Common Causes of Dysphagia

As mentioned above, some health conditions or medication side effects can cause dysphagia. Parkinson’s and Multiple Sclerosis, which affect the nervous system, are common causes of dysphagia. Stroke survivors may have difficulty swallowing as a result of nerve damage. Health conditions affecting the esophagus, such as Esophageal cancer, can also be a potential cause. Dysphagia is common in late-stage dementia patients, especially those living with Alzheimer’s.

Complications Arising From Dysphagia

Often, your loved one will deal with complications as a result of their issues with swallowing. Below is a list of some of the more common symptoms:

• Pain/discomfort while swallowing
• Pneumonia
• Coughing or gagging while swallowing
• Chronic acid reflux
• Hoarse voice
• Malnutrition/sudden weight loss

Aspiration Pneumonia

Pneumonia is a type of lung infection caused by germs or bacteria. It causes inflammation in the lungs, restricting airways and causing coughing and phlegm. Aspiration Pneumonia is caused when food or fluids enter the lungs and cause inflammation. For aging adults, pneumonia can lead to hospitalization or death.

Managing Dysphagia At Home

There are many ways to improve health outcomes and quality of life with dysphagia. First and foremost is oral hygiene. Robust oral hygiene care can help reduce bacterial growth in the mouth and saliva, which can minimize potential lung infections. Encourage your loved one to brush their teeth 3 times a day and floss after each meal. When eating and drinking, your loved one should sit up straight and practice good posture. Good posture helps the esophagus work better, reducing strain on their esophageal muscles.

Dysphagia Mechanical Diets

One way to assist loved ones with dysphagia is to introduce diets that are easier to swallow. This can include foods that are moist, soft, and easier to swallow. This can help with proper swallowing, fighting malnutrition, and reducing muscle strain. Common examples of dysphagia-friendly foods can include:

• Ground or minced meat/meat-substitutes
• Scrambled eggs
• Mashed potatoes
• Yogurt
• Soft oatmeal
• Well-cooked pasta
• Small-diced, well-cooked vegetables
• Canned fruit without skin or seeds
• Ripe bananas

This is not an exhaustive list of foods for those with dysphagia. The important thing is to cut food finely, and cook to ensure softness. Make sure that your loved one is still getting a well-balanced diet for proper nutrition. Contact their doctor or a nutritionist to create a dysphagia-friendly diet plan.

Thickened Fluids and Hydration

Hydration is vitally important for our health. For those with difficulty swallowing, proper hydration can sometimes be challenging. They may be getting fluid in the lungs because of their condition. As a result, many older people with dysphagia forgo water and other fluids. One way to ensure that your loved one is getting the hydration they need is to thicken their fluids. You can buy water thickeners or bottles of thickened water from most pharmacies. Depending on how severe their dysphagia is, they may need their fluids thickened to a different consistency. The levels of thickness generally range from 0 (regular water) to 4 (extremely thick). Your loved one’s doctor can help you determine the thickness that is best for their needs.

Home Health Care for Aging Adults with Difficulty Swallowing

Older adults living with dysphagia may require daily care assistance for food preparation and other care needs. If their difficulty swallowing is also caused by a chronic condition, they may also have care needs associated with that. You may not always be available to oversee your loved one throughout every meal. A certified home health aide is a great addition to your loved one’s care support. Our home health aides assist with hygiene care, meal preparation, medication reminders, home upkeep, and more. This extra support can be vital for older adults with swallowing issues. Many older adults with dysphagia can feel nervous to eat alone for fear of choking or aspirating. Even having an aide there during mealtime can help them feel more at ease.

Safe Harbor Healthcare Services does not provide medical, healthcare, or financial advice via articles. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide and should not be relied on for advice.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services has provided excellent home care on Staten Island since 1967. Our services help older and disabled individuals live safely and independently while giving their families the peace of mind they need. For more information, contact us or call (718)-979-6900.

The post Dysphagia in Older Adults appeared first on Safe Harbor Healthcare Services.

Liver Cancer and Alcohol Consumption

Because liver damage is often linked with alcohol consumption, it’s no surprise that liver cancer is, too. Because alcohol consumption and the health of your liver are so closely linked, treatment and care can often include changing daily drinking habits. If your alcohol consumption has led to the development of Cirrhosis, you can be a likely candidate for liver cancer.

For those with this type of cancer, or a higher risk of developing it, limiting or avoiding alcohol consumption entirely is the first step to reducing poor health outcomes. Alcohol consumption can also counteract prescription medications you may be taking for other health conditions. For some medications, mixing with alcohol can be deadly.

Other Risk Factors

Besides alcohol consumption behaviors, there are several other risk factors for developing cancer. Family history can often be a good indicator for almost any form of cancer. Those living with Hepatitis B or C may be at higher risk. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease can also be a major risk indicator.

Signs and Symptoms of Liver Cancer

While tests and screenings can help identify a cancer diagnosis, below is a list of symptoms that may indicate liver cancer. Talk to your doctor if you are noticing these symptoms.

• Yellowing of the skin or eyes (Jaundice)
• Dark urine
• Pale stool
• Easy bruising
• Leg swelling
• Appetite loss
• Unexpected weight loss
• Fatigue
• Pain or pressure in the upper right part of your abdomen

Screening for Liver Cancer

Generally, a cancer diagnosis can be found through bloodwork screenings. Doctors usually recommend screening for liver cancer if you are at a higher risk for it. An AFP blood screening is generally used to screen for liver cancer, among other things. For higher-risk patients, doctors may recommend screenings every 6 months. An abdominal ultrasound may also be useful in identifying liver cancer development.

Medical Care for Liver Cancer

Treatment for Liver Cancer can often vary depending on the severity of the cancer. Surgery to remove the tumor is often an essential part of treatment. Chemotherapy, radiation, and other cancer treatments may also be employed. In some severe cases, an organ transplant may be recommended.

How Families Can Help

The liver is an essential part of the body’s metabolic system. Without a liver in good, working order, your loved one may not get as many nutrients as they are consuming through food. As such, nutrient-dense foods are a must. Additionally, cutting off alcohol consumption can help minimize further health risks involving the liver. Restful sleep and stress reduction are also essential to maintaining a positive outcome during treatment.

In-Home Care Support for Individuals with Liver Cancer

While your loved one is battling cancer, additional support at home can help them with their needs. A certified home health aide from Safe Harbor can help them with daily care support. This can include trips to the doctor or chemotherapy appointments, meal preparation, maintaining housekeeping, and more. Our aides work alongside family members to help ensure a higher quality of life for your loved one.

Safe Harbor Healthcare Services does not provide medical, healthcare, or financial advice via articles. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide and should not be relied on for advice.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services has provided excellent home care on Staten Island since 1967. Our services help older and disabled individuals live safely and independently while giving their families the peace of mind they need. For more information, contact us or call (718)-979-6900.

The post Liver Cancer Care for Older Adults appeared first on Safe Harbor Healthcare Services.

Emotional Abuse

Generally, emotional abuse can be defined by attempts to manipulate, control, or threaten the victim. It can often lead to other forms of exploitation, as well. Emotional manipulation can have detrimental effects on your loved one’s mental health. Many senior citizens who are emotionally abused can experience depression, anxiety, and the overall deterioration of mental health. This deterioration can include confusion, memory loss, and more.

Physical Abuse

Physical elder abuse refers to methods of physical harm towards the victim. This may include pinching, striking, kicking, burning, shaking, shoving, and beating. Injuries like bruises, head trauma, burns, internal bleeding, and even broken bones are often reported as signs of violence. If your loved one is showing signs of injury that are unexpected or otherwise unreported to you, it could be a sign of abuse.

Sexual Abuse

Sexual elder abuse is the assault of a senior citizen in a sexual manner. Common signs of sexual maltreatment in elders include infections of the genitals and/or anus, bruises on or around the thighs, and difficulty walking or sitting. This is often harder to notice than the other forms of abuse and is not uncommon for elderly individuals to stay silent regarding it. They may experience emotional or mental trauma from the experience as well. Those who are sexually abused may try to hide the signs of their trauma from loved ones. For many elders, this can be an especially embarrassing situation. It is always important to communicate to your loved one that they can talk to you about any abuse they are facing.

Financial Abuse

Financial abuse is the most prevalent form of mistreatment among the elderly. It refers to the misuse or theft of the individual’s finances. This may include the abuser taking money, cashing checks without permission, buying personal items with the elder’s money, coercion to sign legal documents, the direct transfer of money, and more. Financial abuse can also include the changing of a Will or other estate documents. This can often make it difficult for the victim to afford their basic needs. Costs for medications, treatments, food, or rent may pile up as funds diminish. Sometimes, the abuser will take savings or valuables intended for heirs.

Neglect & Abandonment

The lack of care or treatment can also be considered elder abuse. Leaving elder individuals alone and unable to take care of themselves when they are unable to is abusive. This can also include the failure to provide adequate food, hygiene, safety, medications, etc. Sometimes, this neglect can be intentional or unintended. But it is serious nonetheless. Bedsores, malnutrition, dehydration, sunken eyes, poor hygiene, and untreated medical conditions can all be signs of neglectful caretakers.

If You Notice Signs of Abuse

If you or a loved one is being abused, seek assistance. Be sure to talk to your loved one. They may not be emotionally open to discussing what they are going through. Or they may fear the repercussions from their abuser. Legal action may be an avenue to recover stolen assets or for reparations. The National Center for Elder Abuse (NCEA) has resources for victims, including information on how to report signs to the proper authorities. You can also visit NYC’s page for Elder Abuse information or call their hotline at 212-AGING-NYC (212-244-6469). These resources can help victims and their families accept and overcome the trauma of Elder Abuse.

How SafeHarbor Helps

Safe Harbor Healthcare Services works hard to help ensure the safety of our clients. They are also trained to identify signs of abuse. We also use background checks and drug testing when hiring to help ensure the safety of our clients and their families.

Safe Harbor Healthcare Services does not provide medical, healthcare, or financial advice via articles. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide and should not be relied on for advice.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services has provided excellent home care on Staten Island since 1967. Our services help older and disabled individuals live safely and independently while giving their families the peace of mind they need. For more information, contact us or call (718)-979-6900.

The post Understanding the Signs of Elder Abuse appeared first on Safe Harbor Healthcare Services.

Why Is Your Loved One Stuck at Home?

For older adults, being home-bound can be a progression of decreasing mobility and/or social isolation. With age come mobility issues, health concerns, and fatigue. Compounding chronic health conditions can also add to these difficulties. For many older adults, this isolation can be a gradual change.

Agoraphobia

Some older adults, however, suffer from a mental health condition called agoraphobia. It is an anxiety disorder where the individual develops a fear of not being able to escape certain situations. This can progress until the individual does not want to leave their home at all. This condition can progress naturally, though it is often caused as a reaction to an extremely traumatizing event. Extreme isolation and becoming home-bound is often a progression of agoraphobia, especially in older adults. They may even become panicked at the thought of leaving their home in advanced cases.

Grocery Shopping

Going to the supermarket or local convenience store can be a big task for an elderly person who is lacking in mobility. Many elderly individuals who live alone begin to eat less healthily because they do not have as much access to fresh ingredients due to a lack of mobility. Many supermarkets and local grocery stores alike offer delivery options that can help you keep your loved one’s pantry full and the fridge stocked with fresh ingredients. As a child or loved one of a shut-in, it can be better for you to place online orders with the grocery store for them.

Some big supermarkets and Amazon have apps that can allow you to ensure that the deliveries are being made regularly, without your loved one having to worry about it themselves. Many of them offer subscription deliveries to ensure that your loved one has what they need delivered regularly.

Dietary Planning For Agoraphobic or Home-Bound Individuals

Some doctors may suggest that certain foods be avoided due to certain medications that your loved one is on. Certain medications can work best with a diet rich in certain nutrients. Knowing which of those ingredients to highlight in your loved one’s diet can help you make sure that they stick around for a long time. Work with your family member’s doctor and nutritionist, if they go to one, to pick ingredients that fit their needs.

Prescription Deliveries

Your loved one must be getting the prescriptions they need to stay healthy. But as they age, it can become increasingly more difficult to travel to the pharmacy to pick up their medications. Many pharmacies, both local and chain, offer prescription delivery services that can help your loved one keep up with their refills. Several online services provide delivery of prescriptions. As a child or loved one of a shut-in, it can be better for you to make online orders to the pharmacy for them.

Shop around to see which services are active in your area, and which one has the best features for your loved one. Many of these services, for both completely online programs and physical pharmacies, offer online chats with pharmacists so that your loved one can stay informed about their medications.

Mental Health Care for Agoraphobic and Home-Bound Individuals

Mental health support can be incredibly beneficial to home-bound individuals. Telehealth appointments can make it easy for your loved one to access the care they need, while remaining at home. Many home-bound elders struggle with the isolation they experience while stuck in the house. For aging adults, worsening mobility and reliance on others for basic care needs can impact their mental health greatly.
As agoraphobia is a mental health condition, addressing it with a therapist or other mental health professional can be a vital treatment pathway. Telehealth is a great way to help your loved one work through their fear, as well as associated trauma.

Home Health Aides

A home health aide can be a great asset in ensuring your loved one is well cared for. They can assist your loved one throughout the week with their daily needs. Our Certified Home Health Aides can help them with simple chores such as cooking and cleaning, assistance in the tub, or even grocery shopping. Home health aides also provide social interaction that can be vital to keeping your loved one from feeling too isolated.

Safe Harbor Healthcare Services does not provide medical, healthcare, or financial advice via articles. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide and should not be relied on for advice.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services has provided excellent home care on Staten Island since 1967. Our services help older and disabled individuals live safely and independently while giving their families the peace of mind they need. For more information, contact us or call (718)-979-6900.

The post Helping Your Home-Bound Loved One Thrive appeared first on Safe Harbor Healthcare Services.

Why Upgrade With Universal Design in Mind?

While you may not need these features in your bathroom right now, they can make life easier over time. Furthermore, universal design upgrades can often add resale value to your home. Whether you are planning for the future or looking to sell, upgrading your bathroom using universal design principles is often a good idea.

Grab Bars in the Bathroom

Stabilizing grab bars are often a simple upgrade to make in your bathroom. They can greatly benefit all members of the family. Grab bars make it easier and safer to use the bathroom. While most people think of the commercial-looking stainless steel grab bars in most public bathrooms, they can be highly customizable for your bathroom style. In fact, grab bars can come in a variety of styles, finishes, and materials, offering much more customization. Grab bars for assistance on and off the toilet are less common in homes than shower bars. But both can be important for older or disabled residents or guests. Grab bars should be installed properly, into the wall studs. This helps them be able to withstand 250-300 lbs of load.

Universal Shower Upgrades

Showers can be dangerous at any age. But slipping and falling in the shower can be particularly deadly for older adults. Built-in shower benches make washing your lower body easier. They can also be essential for those with mobility limitations. Handheld showerheads allow you to wash hard-to-reach places more easily. Curbless shower doors reduce the risk of tripping hazards when entering or exiting.

Universal Design for Bathtubs

Walk-in bathtubs take up less floor space while offering a safer bathing experience and have built-in seating. Walk-in tubs are taller and usually feature a built-in seat. These models are especially effective for older individuals and those with disabilities. This type of tub can also use less water than standard tubs of similar size.
If a walk-in tub is not for you, consider adding a transfer bench. A transfer bench helps an individual slide over the tub and ease themselves into the water. Look for models that are ADA-compliant.

Anti-Slip Tiling

Tiles are generally a good choice for bathroom flooring because of the consistent moisture. But they can also be slippery and hard if you fall onto them. As such, buying the right tiles can make a big difference. It is important to look for less slippery tiles. Tiles with a better coefficient of friction will be less slippery. Some tiles, such as quarry or terracotta tiles, are naturally less slippery. Other tiles may be treated to be more slip-resistant. Smaller tiles can also reduce the chance of slipping, as there is more grout per square foot. This provides more natural grip to the surface, whether barefoot, in socks, or in shoes.

Universal Design for Your Sink

While most bathroom vanities are around the right height for wheelchair accessibility, they often lack clearance below the counter. Floating or table-style counters allow for a wheelchair to be pulled in closer. This helps provide easier access for wheelchair users. Avoid deep or basin style, which can take up more space under the counter, or raise them higher than necessary.

Bathroom Cabinets

Universal design options for cabinets and drawers that are more accessible. The height of drawers and cabinets, as well as the types of handles used on them, can make a difference. The right combination of hinges, handles, and positioning can allow for easier access to storage regardless of hand dexterity, strength, or reach. For example, knob-style handles can be harder for those with arthritis to manipulate.

Accessible Lighting in the Bathroom

Proper lighting is important to a safe and accessible bathroom space. A well-lit bathroom is easier and safer to navigate. Rocker-style switches can make them easier for people of any accessibility level to use. When planning out lighting, consider how the fixtures will illuminate the interiors of cabinets and drawers. Adding lights above shower spaces can also limit tripping hazards when entering or exiting.

Safe Harbor Healthcare Services does not provide medical, healthcare, or financial advice via articles. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide and should not be relied on for advice.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services has provided excellent home care on Staten Island since 1967. Our services help older and disabled individuals live safely and independently while giving their families the peace of mind they need. For more information, contact us or call (718)-979-6900.

The post Universal Design in the Bathroom – Planning for Aging-in-Place appeared first on Safe Harbor Healthcare Services.

What is a Stroke?

A stroke is a sudden interruption of blood flow to the brain. Generally, most strokes are caused by an artery blockage from the heart to the brain. However, there are other potential causes. They often depend on the type that is occurring. You can find more info on the different types of strokes below. A stroke will generally happen rapidly, and medical intervention is needed as soon as possible. Acting quickly can make a big difference. On average, those who receive emergency care within 3 hours of having a stroke will have a better overall outcome than those who don’t.

Stroke Signs: FAST Acronym

One of the most widely accepted methods of identifying a stroke is FAST, which stands for Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech, and Time to call. FAST is taught by the National Stroke Association and the American Heart Association.

Face Drooping

During and after a stroke, you may notice the individual’s face drooping. It is common for this drooping to affect only one side of the face, but it may affect both. They may also experience numbness in their face. One way to be sure is to ask the person to smile. They may not be able to lift both sides of their mouth into a smile.

Arm Weakness

One arm (generally on the same side as the facial droop) may weaken or become numb. Try asking the individual to raise their arms. The arm on the affected side may drift downward, or may not move as easily. In some cases, they may not be able to lift the affected arm at all.

Speech

The individual’s speech might become slurred and/or difficult to understand. Ask the individual to repeat a simple phrase. Garbled or slurred speech when repeating the phrase should be a red flag. They may even mix up the order or switch words out for those that don’t make sense.

Time to Call

Call 911 immediately. Even if the signs fade over time, you should still contact emergency services. If possible, note the time that you notice the symptoms starting, so that the first responders and doctors have an accurate account of when the stroke occurred.

Types of Stroke

There are three types of strokes. While the main signs and symptoms remain the same, the severity of the stroke can differ. A medical professional will be able to determine the type of stroke an individual had with proper testing and evaluation in the hospital. Medical attention is needed regardless of the type and should be given as soon as possible.

Ischemic Stroke

This is the most common type. About 80% of all strokes are Ischemic Strokes. This type of stroke occurs when a clot or other blockage prevents blood flow through an artery to the brain. This blockage can cause brain cells to die as they cannot get oxygen or other nutrients. Bad cholesterol is one of the most common causes of Ischemic Stroke. This is because cholesterol deposition can narrow your arteries.

Intracerebral Hemorrhage

An Intracerebral Hemorrhage means that an artery in the brain has ruptured. This causes blood to compress the brain’s structure. As blood leaks within the brain, the pressure will continue to build. The pressure, combined with internal bleeding, can be a seriously dangerous combination. This condition can lead to unconsciousness or even death. High Blood Pressure (Hypertension) is the most common cause of this.

Subarachnoid Hemorrhage

This type of hemorrhagic stroke happens if an artery ruptures near the brain. This can cause immediate and intense headaches, nausea, and vomiting. This type is most often caused by abnormalities of the arteries at the base of the brain. This is also known as a cerebral aneurysm. The cause of cerebral aneurysms is not fully known, but they can occur at any age.

Additional Stroke Symptoms

There are many other common stroke symptoms, but they are often not as easily identifiable as those in the FAST model. Dizziness and overall loss of balance or coordination can be common in most stroke victims. Numbness, especially along one side of the body, is one of the first signs the victim might notice themselves. Blurred vision or trouble seeing can also be a sign of stroke, especially in just one eye.

Because strokes happen in the brain, headaches are a common symptom that stroke victims suffer from. Many stroke victims report that these sudden, severe headaches are more painful than any migraine they have had before.

Safe Harbor Healthcare Services does not provide medical, healthcare, or financial advice via articles. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide and should not be relied on for advice.

Safe Harbor Healthcare Services has provided excellent home care on Staten Island since 1967. Our services help older and disabled individuals live safely and independently while giving their families the peace of mind they need. For more information, contact us or call (718)-979-6900.

The post Learning the Signs of a Stroke appeared first on Safe Harbor Healthcare Services.

The Pains of Aging

Many elderly people deal with a lot of pain and health issues in their final years. Getting old is not an easy process. If you were close to them, you may have witnessed their health declining over time. It can be difficult to think about, but many old people suffer from a lot of chronic problems in their final years. It can be painful watching a loved one struggle with their diminishing mental or physical well-being. Conditions like dementia, heart disease, arthritis, cancer, and other chronic illnesses take their toll.

Minimized Grief of the Elderly

Unfortunately, people can often diminish feelings of grief for older people. Sometimes it can be unintentional. It may seem comforting to tell someone, “At least they lived a long life,” but that doesn’t make the loss hurt any less. A long life lost means that those closest to them probably had a lifetime of memories. Even if they died peacefully, saying that “it was their time” doesn’t often negate feelings of loss. Platitudes don’t always help. Your reaction to them may differ. Know that they aren’t said to minimize your loss, even if they feel that way.

Losing a Parent or Grandparent

It can be heartbreaking to lose a parent or grandparent, no matter your age. If they were your only surviving parent, you may feel lost and alone without them. Your children may also be experiencing the loss of their grandparent. A family losing its matriarch or patriarch can mean a lot of dynamics changing in the coming years. This can include changing holiday traditions and plans with extended family. For many families, the elders are the glue that holds them together and keeps everyone in touch.

If You Are Close in Age to the Deceased

The older you get, the more common isolation can seem. Friends and family throughout the years pass away. Grief can weigh heavily on those of an advanced age, especially when the deceased was close in age to you. Many elderly individuals suffer from what is known as cumulative grief, where the feelings of loss throughout their years begin to weigh even more heavily on them. As you survive more and more of your friends and family, that grief can compound.

Grief and Mental Healthcare in Elder Care

The loss of a loved one can weigh heavily on your elderly loved one. Losing a spouse, sibling, or close friend can be a devastating loss to your loved one. For many older adults, the mental effects of a major loss can take a toll on their own health. Changes in the dynamics of their home life can undergo major changes as well. This is especially common when a partner or spouse passes away. During this transitional time, it can be vital to oversee your surviving loved one’s care situation and help them monitor their needs. They may also feel especially lonely or isolated. If your loved one relied heavily on their partner, they may require more assistance around the house in their daily life. This may require considering additional care support.

Safe Harbor offers in-home care assistance through our Certified Home Health Aides. Our aides are trained to assist older and disabled individuals with daily care needs, such as meal preparation, hygiene care, medication reminders, and more. Having an aide around throughout the week can also help fend off feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Safe Harbor Healthcare Services does not provide medical, healthcare, or financial advice via articles. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide and should not be relied on for advice.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services has provided excellent home care on Staten Island since 1967. Our services help older and disabled individuals live safely and independently while giving their families the peace of mind they need. For more information, contact us or call (718)-979-6900.

The post Grief and Losing an Elderly Loved One appeared first on Safe Harbor Healthcare Services.

Why Are Advance Directives Important For Older Adults?

It is important to understand what your options are when discussing advance directives with an estate attorney so that you can create a plan that reflects your loved one’s needs. Advance directives can cover a variety of medical situations. They can be important for defining unwanted treatments, or keep you on or off life support, depending on your wishes. Advance directives can also prevent family members from dealing with court battles over your wishes when you are unable to represent your own desires.

Living Wills

A Living Will is a document that establishes what kinds of medical treatment may be administered, or not, during end-of-life treatment. This is very important, as these cases can come up suddenly, such as from a car accident or a medical emergency. A Living Will takes out the guesswork, where family members may struggle to decide in your stead. A Living Will generally needs to be constructed with an attorney in the state where the treatment is being given, to ensure validity. Some states may honor the Living Will of other states, depending on local or state laws.

Health Care Proxy

Health Care Proxies are individuals who are granted authority over your medical care if you are incapacitated. Proxies are generally close family members or trusted friends. While many people rely on their spouse in a medical emergency, they are not automatically considered a healthcare proxy. Some couples may also choose to name an adult child as their Health Care Proxy. This can be helpful if both spouses are rendered incapacitated, like in a car accident.

Before you declare someone as your healthcare proxy, you should first notify them. Ask the chosen individual if they are comfortable with the responsibility, and express your wishes to them. They must be aware of what this means when it comes to healthcare, especially in the event of an emergency. In New York State, 2 doctors must examine you and determine that you are unable to make proper decisions regarding your medical health before your proxy can act on your behalf.

There are 2 types of Health Care Proxies. Temporary proxies are typically utilized when an individual undergoes an outpatient procedure requiring anesthesia, but can be used in some other cases. Temporary proxies are there to make decisions quickly for you in the event of complications. Permanent proxies are set up for more long-term care. This is usually employed when an individual goes into a vegetative state, or suffers from a debilitating mental illness.

DNR Orders

Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Orders mean that the individual doesn’t wish to be revived if their breathing or heartbeat stops. These orders generally only apply to emergency medical professionals, doctors, and other healthcare workers. DNR instructions are signed by a doctor when put in place. DNR’s do not affect any wishes to remain on life support. DNR Orders are sometimes included within Health Care Proxy or Living Will orders. This can help inform those who would enact them of their wishes. Individuals with DNRs may sometimes wear a medical bracelet to inform paramedics and EMTs of their status. Otherwise, there is no way for the emergency medical service provider to be informed of a DNR status. When filing for a DNR, the individual can decide whether it applies only in a hospital or also out of hospital.

Advance Directives and Home Health Care

<p>When your loved one is receiving care with a home health agency, you should inform the agency of their Advance Directives. This can help ensure that their care wishes are followed in the event of an emergency. You may want your loved one’s care team to contact their Health Care Proxy in an emergency, for example. Out-of-hospital DNRs would not prevent a home health aide from calling for an ambulance in the event of an emergency. But, it would inform them not to attempt resuscitation themselves.

Safe Harbor Healthcare Services does not provide medical, healthcare, or financial advice via articles. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide and should not be relied on for advice.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services has provided excellent home care on Staten Island since 1967. Our services help older and disabled individuals live safely and independently while giving their families the peace of mind they need. For more information, contact us or call (718)-979-6900.

The post Advance Directives and Elder Care appeared first on Safe Harbor Healthcare Services.

Dehydration Risks for Older Adults

As you age, your body’s capacity for water retention decreases. Additionally, your body’s receptors can dull. This means that you are less tuned in to when your body needs water. The combination of dulled receptors and poorer retention can cause elders to not realize that they need water. Certain medications, as well as chronic conditions such as diabetes and dementia, can affect these receptors, too. Mobility issues with age can also contribute to dehydration, as it becomes harder to access water.

Health Risks from Dehydration

Dehydration can lead to dizziness, muscle weakness, confusion, cramps, bladder problems, and constipation. Additionally, chronic dehydration can also cause more serious health issues. Urinary and kidney issues, low blood volume complications, and even seizures can develop from a lack of water.

Heat and Hydration

While there are plenty of health risks from dehydration normally, the summer heat can create many more risk factors. Water is essential to the body’s natural cooling functions. Sweating, for example, helps the body cool by expelling stored water onto the skin. The body can’t sweat if there is no water to release. Dehydration during the summer can contribute to heat stroke risk. A lack of hydration can also make symptoms of sunburn and sun poisoning much worse.

Dehydration Prevention Tips

The best way to prevent dehydration is to drink water. It is important to drink a few glasses of water with each meal. Encourage your loved one to drink water before, during, and after exercising. When spending time outside in the heat, water can be extra important.

Taking Pills with Water

If your loved one has to swallow pills, they are likely drinking liquid to assist in taking the medicine. Instruct them to drink a full glass of water with their pills, not just a few sips. This can help them intake more water. Proper water consumption can also help distribute the medicine more efficiently through the body.

For Adults Who Hate Water

Some people do not like drinking water. It may help to flavor the water to help encourage drinking. Avoid flavorings and additives. Instead, add natural and healthy ingredients to their water. Common ingredients include lemon, cucumber, lime, mint, rosemary, or berries. Try switching up these add-ins on occasion to keep them interested.

Water-Rich Fruits and Veggies

Consider more water-rich vegetables and fruits for your loved one’s meals and snacks. Melons, berries, celery, romaine, peppers, cucumbers, oranges, and spinach all contain a lot of water. For these vegetables, serving them raw is best for hydration purposes.

Soups and Smoothies

Serving soup is a great way to add extra water to your loved one’s diet, but the summertime may be too hot for that. Consider making your loved one a healthy, refreshing smoothie with water, fruit, and even some vegetables. Gazpacho and other cold soup recipes may be an interesting avenue to explore.

Shade Is Your Friend

When going outside with your loved one, sit them in the shade and give them a sun hat. You sweat more in the sun, leading to more dehydration. Shade can also help reduce the risk of developing heat exhaustion, sunburn, and heat stroke.

Don’t Just Drink When You Are Thirsty

As mentioned above, it can be harder for older people to feel thirsty. As such, consistent water consumption is a helpful way to combat dehydration. This can be extra important in the summer heat. Even if they are staying indoors in the air conditioning, consistent hydration can be vital.

Safe Harbor Healthcare Services does not provide medical, healthcare, or financial advice via articles. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide and should not be relied on for advice.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services has provided excellent home care on Staten Island since 1967. Our services help older and disabled individuals live safely and independently while giving their families the peace of mind they need. For more information, contact us or call (718)-979-6900.

The post Summer Hydration for Elders appeared first on Safe Harbor Healthcare Services.

Brushing and Flossing Daily for Better Dental Health

Dentists recommend brushing twice daily and flossing at least once a day. Daily care helps manage plaque, build gum strength, and keep your mouth healthier. Use fluoride toothpaste to brush. Dentists usually recommend brushing after breakfast and before bed. Flossing can be a challenge for seniors with mobility issues or arthritis. If you have trouble flossing, ask your dentist about potential alternatives.

See Your Dentist Regularly

Check-ups and regular cleanings from the dentist are vital to improving your overall oral health. Dental appointments can help you flag oral health issues before they become much more serious. What constitutes “regular” dental appointments can vary from person to person. Your dentist can help you create an appointment schedule that fits your needs and budget.

Dental Care Costs for Older Adults

Unfortunately, basic Medicare doesn’t cover most dental care. You may need to consider getting private dental insurance if you do not have it already. When looking for dentists in your network, look for dentists who cater more to older clients. They will be more familiar with the care associated with aging individuals.

Dry Mouth and Your Dental Health

Dry mouth is a common side effect of many medications and can be detrimental to your dental health. Saliva washes away bacteria and reduces infection. Dry mouth can make eating, talking, and swallowing harder. In addition to medication, chemotherapy and radiation treatments can lead to dry mouth. Some chronic health conditions, such as diabetes, can also reduce saliva production. If you are suffering from dry mouth, talk with your dentist about what you can do to remedy it.

Looking for Changes in Your Mouth Health

Your risk of developing dental health issues increases with age. This can include gum disease, tooth loss, infections, and even oral cancer. See a doctor or dentist if you are experiencing any of these symptoms for 2 or more weeks:

• A lump in your mouth, lip, or throat
• Abnormal white or red patches in your mouth
• Trouble moving your tongue or jaw
• Issues with swallowing or chewing
• Numbness in your mouth or tongue
• Pain in an ear without hearing loss
• Swelling or numbness of the jaw

These symptoms are common indicators of more serious health issues. Your doctor or dentist can help you identify the issue and begin treatment.

Healthier Habits for Better Dental Care

In addition to the aforementioned brushing and flossing, there are several ways that you can improve your overall dental health by making life changes. Eating healthy and reducing sugar intake is a great place to start. Smoking, chewing tobacco, and heavy alcohol consumption can increase your risk of oral cancer and tooth decay.

Safe Harbor Healthcare Services does not provide medical, healthcare, or financial advice via articles. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide and should not be relied on for advice.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services has provided excellent home care on Staten Island since 1967. Our services help older and disabled individuals live safely and independently while giving their families the peace of mind they need. For more information, contact us or call (718)-979-6900.

The post Dental Care Tips for Older Adults appeared first on Safe Harbor Healthcare Services.