by Amber Kevlin, RN | Mar 14, 2023 | Senior Home Care
Depression in Aging Adults
Losing social connections is a regrettable part of the aging process, as certain challenges arise. Loved ones move away or spouses and friends pass away, and bodily limitations or chronic illnesses can compound on the alienation that comes from losing these connections.
Feelings of isolation and loneliness are unfortunately common in the elderly population, and depression can affect seniors
just as any other person, with possible physical ramifications as well as causing emotional distress. Signs of depression can be the same across the board no matter the age, such as withdrawal from favorite activities and social situations, weight loss or weight gain, either sleeping too much or too little, and a depressed mood.
However, seniors are especially at risk because statistically, 80% of elderly persons have at least one chronic health condition, and half of the aging population have at least two or more. Seniors are also sometimes misdiagnosed, due to physicians attributing depression symptoms to the natural decline that comes with aging, and also because seniors are less likely to seek out medical attention for mental health issues than younger people are.
In-home care services can be very beneficial in many cases where companionship can help a senior feel less alone, and housekeeping or domestic services can be provided as well to those with physical limitations. Oftentimes, seniors may develop a friendly relationship or bond with their caregivers, and having someone to listen to and talk with can help alleviate the feelings of isolation that come with depression.
If you or someone you know may need help with depression, speak with your primary care physician as soon as possible. There are many medications that can help with depression symptoms, as well as a change in lifestyle. Your doctor may recommend a change in diet or a more regular exercise regimen. If you or someone you know are having thoughts of self-harm or suicide, please call 911 immediately, go to the nearest emergency room, or call the toll-free, 24-hour hotline of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255); TTY: 1-800-799-4TTY (4889) to talk to a trained
counselor.
Are you or a loved one looking for in-home elderly and senior services? My Choice Home Care is a senior care service that serves clients in Macon County, Jackson County, and Haywood County in North Carolina. Counties served in Georgia are Rabun County, Towns County, and Habersham County. The counties served in Upstate South Carolina are Oconee County, Pickens County, and Anderson County. Call (828) 200-9000 to speak to someone today or contact us if you or a loved one would like to enjoy the benefits of living independently in your own home.
by Amber Kevlin, RN | Mar 10, 2023 | Senior Home Care
Detecting Alzheimer’s
Memory loss is a very normal part of the aging process, but there are signs that everyday problems may be something more than just “forgetfulness.” According to The Alzheimer’s Association, there are 10 signs to look for when detecting Alzheimer’s.
While Dementia is an umbrella term that signifies significant decline in a person’s ability to recollect information that also affects other cognitive abilities, Alzheimer’s is the most common disease diagnosed, and recognizing the symptoms can mean all the difference in early detection.
- The first symptom is memory loss that interrupts daily life, like forgetting important dates and appointments, and asking
the same questions frequently.
- Problem solving and planning also becomes difficult with Alzheimer’s, such as following a recipe or being able to correctly read an analog clock.
- Performing familiar tasks may also present a challenge, such as driving to the grocery store that they have been visiting for years, or dialing phone numbers they have memorized.
- Being unable to recognize their surroundings, or what time it is, or who the president currently is, is a tell-tale sign of severe cognitive decline.
- Some people with Alzheimer’s suffer from challenges in spatial relationships, where driving may also become very dangerous as judging distances become more difficult.
- Recalling words may become difficult. A person with memory impairment may stop in the middle of speaking, and get confused about what they are talking about, or may spend a long time trying to remember a specific word.
- Losing items frequently, and not being able to remember the last place they were can become an issue. Items may also end up being found in odd places, such as car keys in the freezer.
- Someone with memory impairment may forget that it’s been more than a week since they last showered, or brushed their teeth, so grooming and personal hygiene may fall by the wayside.
- Someone with memory issues may feel embarrassed by being unable to hold a conversation, and will begin to
withdraw from social activities they once enjoyed doing.
- Changes in behavior will also be a more noticeable sign of cognitive decline and memory impairment. Some people may become confused, agitated and upset when out of their comfort zone.
If you feel that you may be experiencing one or more of these issues, or a loved one is displaying signs of decline, please speak to your primary care physician as soon as possible, or call:
The Alzheimer’s Association Hotline
24/7 Helpline
800.272.3900
Are you or a loved one looking for in-home elderly and senior services? My Choice Home Care is a senior care service that serves clients in Macon, Jackson, and Haywood Counties in North Carolina. Counties served in Georgia are Rabun, Towns, and Habersham County. The counties served in Upstate South Carolina are Oconee, Pickens, and Anderson County. Call (828) 200-9000 to speak to someone today or contact us if you or a loved one would like to enjoy the benefits of living independently in your own home.
by Amber Kevlin, RN | Mar 7, 2023 | Senior Home Care
Winter Weather Safety Tips for Seniors
Preparing for winter weather can be a daunting task, especially for seniors living alone. Elderly persons are generally at a higher risk of airway infections and viruses due to an already lowered immune system, but the physical conditions of winter pose serious fall risks as well.
If you are making a plan covering winter safety for seniors you love here are strategies on staying safe this winter season.
- Prepare for Icy Conditions
Falls and injuries from falls are the number one cause of death in seniors ages 65 and older. Common injuries from falls may include wrist and hip fractures, head trauma, open wounds and skin tears. A good rule of thumb to prevent slipping is to wear non-skid shoes if you must go out, but waiting until the ice is gone is an even safer bet.
Many people suffer from an insufficiency of Vitamin D during the winter, as they spend more time indoors. This deficiency can lead to depression, fatigue, hair loss, and muscle weakness, which in turn increases a risk of falls. Certain foods rich in Vitamin D may bolster your levels, preventing these health concerns, such as tuna and salmon, milk, oranges, and fortified grains and cereals.
- Prepare Your Home
Always take good stock of your medications if there is a risk of dangerous weather conditions in your area. Make sure you have food that can be prepared in case of power outages, such as canned soup or sandwich items. Keep a supply of warm blankets and flashlights, along with batteries. If you have wood stoves or fireplaces, ensure your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors have new batteries and are in working condition. Keep your cell phone fully charged and have a back up power bank in case of emergencies.
Are you or a loved one looking for in-home elderly and senior services? My Choice Home Care is a senior care service that serves clients in Macon County, Jackson County, and Haywood County in North Carolina. Counties served in Georgia are Rabun County, Towns County, and Habersham County. The counties served in Upstate South Carolina are Oconee County, Pickens County, and Anderson County. Call (828) 200-9000 to speak to someone today or contact us if you or a loved one would like to enjoy the benefits of living independently in your own home.
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