Just as patients were steered clear of using hospitals for certain surgeries in an effort to cut costs, that same impetus is forcing people out of their alternative, cost saving surgical facilities, way too soon as well. Today’s trend of using these facilities instead of hospitals for surgery should set off warning messages. With inadequate…
DetailsOf the falls that occur within the home, approximately one-half of these occur in the bathroom. This makes sense when considering that the environment is, by necessity, comprised of hard surfaces which are often wet or damp. With the elderly, factor in less-than-perfect balance or failing eyesight, and a misstep in this room can spell…
DetailsReadmission Problem Hospital readmission is a persistent problem amongst the elderly and reforms by hospitals and other health-related agencies enacted to date have done little to make a real impact. The truth is healthcare policymakers are not even sure where the problem lies. Are the hospitals discharging patients too early or is the post-hospital home care…
DetailsIncontinence Embarassment Incontinence is a tricky disorder to manage. Unlike many other conditions whose effects can go undetected, the inability to control one’s bladder function can become public knowledge very quickly. The appearance of moisture on clothing and the presence of urine’s distinct odor make it obvious. In the US, nearly 3.5 million Americans deal with…
DetailsManaging Diabetes There has long been a controversy in managing diabetes as to whether it is better to eat two large meals or six small meals over the course of a day. There are experts that come down on either side of the issue. Also, some believe it doesn’t make much of a difference. The…
DetailsGrowing Need for Home Healthcare As people live longer, the need for home care likely increases. While some aging seniors can receive personal care from family members, others search for care from a qualified home health aide. Hiring a home health aide can allow your loved one to remain in the comfort of his or…
DetailsSimple Pleasures is the Key For our most senior citizens, the way to their hearts and minds is through simple companionship. Rather than wasting money and energy on new fangled gadgets for older loved ones, a visit and a simple dinner is the best gift in the world. What they most want is time and…
DetailsSenior Moments They’re quips we hear often enough. When a companion forgets a well-known nameor when you’ve forgotten where you left your keys: “I’m having a senior moment,” or, “My Alzheimer’s is setting in!” The lapse in memory in itself may be disquieting. After all, no one likes to forget things. However, jests of this…
DetailsExercise May Prevent Alzheimer’s Disease The New York Times just reported on a fascinating study published in the May edition of Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience in an article entitled, “Can Exercise Reduce Alzheimer’s Risk?” by Gretchen Reynolds. By examining people aged 65-89 who possess a gene related to Alzheimer’s development, e4 gene, they have found…
DetailsA Frightening Aspect of Aging What would happen to you if you reached a stage in life where you were no longer able to make decisions about yourself? Your healthcare? What would become of you? Even if you have loved ones, do you trust all of them to make the kinds of decisions you would…
Details
