According to Stats Canada, 34% of seniors living at home are at risk of not getting adequate nutrition.

As we age, our bodies require fewer calories, yet we require more protein, calcium, B vitamins, and other nutrients. Unfortunately, there remains a surprising lack awareness about the specific dietary needs of seniors and how nutrition plays a key role in their well-being and longevity.

Seniors are particularly susceptible to malnutrition, because not only do they have different nutritional needs than younger adults, they also take more medications, and have higher rates of chronic medical conditions such as diabetes and heart disease. They also may be experiencing a change in their taste buds, a lack of appetite, or depression – or may just have trouble getting used to new nutritional needs after decades of employing certain eating habits.

9 Ways You Can Help a Senior Get the Proper Nutrition

Remember, identifying and treating nutrition issues early can promote good health, senior independence, and increased longevity. Take steps now to ensure your loved one’s nutrition.

1. Talk to the senior’s doctors. If a senior is losing weight, work with his or her doctors to identify and address contributing factors. Changing medications that affect appetite, curbing or eliminating any diet restrictions until the nutritional problem passes, and working with a dentist to treat oral problems can help. Ask for screenings for nutrition problems during routine office visits, and inquire about nutritional supplements. You might also request a referral to a registered dietitian.
2. Encourage him or her to eat nutritious foods. Spread peanut or other healthy spreads on toast and crackers, fresh fruits, and raw vegetables. Sprinkle finely chopped nuts or wheat germ on yogurt, fruit, and cereal. Add extra egg whites to scrambled eggs and omelets, and encourage use of whole milk. Add cheese to sandwiches, vegetables, soups, rice, and noodles.
3. Liven up bland foods. Add lemon juice, herbs, and spices to foods. If the senior is experiencing a loss of taste and smell, try some new seasonings and recipes.
4. Encourage healthy snacks. A piece of fruit or cheese, peanut butter by itself or as a spread, or a fruit smoothie can provide healthy  nutrients and extra calories.
5. Make meals social events. Visit at mealtimes, or invite seniors for dinner at your home or out at a restaurant. Encourage seniors to join programs and senior centers where they can dine with others.
6. Make sure seniors get regular physical activity. Even light daily exercise can stimulate appetite, while strengthening bones and muscles.
7. Provide tips for saving money. Persuade seniors to have a shopping list at the store, check store flyers for sales, and select less expensive brands. Suggest splitting the cost of bulk goods or meals with friends or family members, and dining at restaurants with senior discounts.
8.  Boost hydration for overall good health. Seniors should get at least 64 ounces of healthy fluids per day.
9. Consider outside help. If necessary, hire a caregiver to shop for groceries or prepare meals. Consider Meals on Wheels and other community services. Your local Area Agency on Aging or a county social worker also might be helpful.

The following are typical reasons for senior malnutrition:

• Lack of interest in cooking
• Living alone and eating for one
• Changing taste buds
• Medication side-effects that suppress appetite or create bitter tastes
• Restricted diets such as low sodium or low fat diets
• Depression
• Trouble swallowing
• Trouble eating, due to sore gums
• or poor dental health
• Limited income to buy nutritious food
• Paying for expensive medications
• instead of food
• Lack of mobility to get to the store
• Dementia

If you suspect senior malnutrition, watch for these signs:

• Excessive or prolonged sadness
• Lack of energy
• Memory issues or oncoming dementia
• Getting sick often
• Bruised or dry, cracked skin
• Wounds that are slow to heal
• Out-of-date food in the fridge
• Trouble chewing or swallowing
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Loose-fitting clothes
• Muscle weakness 

Comfort Keepers^® can help. Our caregivers can watch for the signs of malnutrition and help plan and prepare healthy meals for loved ones. They will also take note of the senior’s overall health, see that they take medications, help them follow dietary guidelines, and perform daily tasks around the home. Call your local office today to discover all of our available services.

References:

• Mayo Clinic. Senior Health: How to Prevent and Detect Malnutrition. Web. 2014.
• Today’s Dietitian. “Malnutrition in Older Adults” by Kris M. Mogensen, MS, RD, LDN, CNSC, and Rose Ann DiMaria-Ghalili, PhD, RN, CNSC, FASPEN. Web. 2015.
• A Place for Mom. How to Prevent Senior Malnutrition. Web. 2016.
• Statistics Canada. Nutritional risk among older Canadians.  Web. 2015.

Across Canada and the U.S. it is estimated that 45,000 adults die annually from complications due to vaccine-preventable diseases.

Several preventable diseases can cause serious illness and even death
in unvaccinated seniors. Many adults believe that they do not need vaccinations, or worry about their side effects, but people age 65 and older are at higher risk of complications from the actual diseases.

There are many reasons why seniors should keep up on their vaccinations. They may not have been vaccinated when they were children, new vaccinations may have been developed and are now available, or their immunity may have expired over time. Even more important, seniors are particularly susceptible to serious and life-threatening infections.

The more crucial vaccinations seniors should discuss with their doctors include the flu vaccine, pneumococcal vaccine to prevent pneumonia, the shingles vaccine, and a tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis vaccine (Tdap).

Vaccines for seniors: how vaccines work on the body

A vaccine provides immunity from a disease, and can be administered through needle injections, by mouth, or by aerosol. A vaccine will contain the same germs or a part of the germ that causes a certain disease. A good example is the measles vaccine contains measles virus. But the virus is either killed or weakened to the point that it doesn’t make you sick.

A vaccine stimulates your immune system to produce antibodies, exactly like it would if you were exposed to the disease. After getting vaccinated, you develop immunity to that disease without having to get the disease first. So, unlike medicine, instead of treating or curing diseases – it actually prevents them.

Senior influenza vaccine

Over 60 percent of seasonal flu-related hospitalizations occur in people 65 years and older. That’s why it is recommended that most adults get an annual flu vaccination. Getting an annual flu vaccine is necessary because immunity is short-lived, and manufacturers update the vaccine annually to ensure that it is as effective as possible against the most current virus. The vaccine is usually available September through April each year, but it depends on supply.

Speak to your doctor before getting the flu shot if you are allergic to eggs, latex, have had a severe reaction to the flu vaccine previously, or have had Guillain-Barre syndrome. Patients with fevers should wait to be vaccinated until the illness subsides.

Senior pneumococcal vaccine

Pneumonia causes significant illness in seniors and is responsible for 60,000 deaths each year. People 65 years or older need a series of two different vaccines for pneumococcal disease. Talk with your health care team about how to schedule them, and let them know if you have had a pneumococcal vaccine before.

There are currently two types of pneumococcal vaccines: pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) and pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23). There are more than 90 types of pneumococcal bacteria, and PCV13 protects against 13 types, while PPSV23 protects against 23 types. Both protect against illnesses like meningitis (infection of the covering of the brain and spinal cord) and bacteremia (blood infection). PCV13 also provides protection against pneumonia (lung infection).

Senior zoster vaccine

Shingles is a very painful, contagious blistering rash caused by a reactivation of the herpes zoster, or chicken pox virus. If you are 60 or older, get a shot to prevent it ─ even if you have already had shingles. The zoster vaccine has only been available for a few years, and decreases your risk of having shingles by about 50 percent, or can minimize its severity. There are risks with the vaccine for people with certain conditions, so be sure to discuss any health problems you have with your doctor.

Senior Tetanus-Diphtheria-Pertussis (Tdap)

Get a shot for tetanus, diphtheria, and whooping cough. Get a tetanus booster if it has been more than 10 years since your last shot. It contains the same components as the tetanus-diphtheria vaccine with the addition of the pertussis component. More seniors are getting pertussis, or whooping cough, possibly due to fading immunity.

Have a discussion with your doctor about which vaccines he or she recommends, and make sure to have the needed vaccines on schedule to help prevent disease and maintain good health.

Comfort Keepers^® can help. Our caregivers, or Comfort Keepers^®, can help establish a daily routine with your loved one that promotes good health and independent living. Call your local office today.

References:

• John Muir Health. “Senior Immunizations”. Web. 2016.
• NIH Health. “Recommended Immunizations For Adults 50+”. Web. 2015.
• Vaccines.gov. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Web. 2016.

Mobility is a serious safety issue. Within a year, 20% of people with hip fractures die from complications.

Problems associated with aging can affect a person’s ability to move around, or mobility. Mobility problems may include unsteadiness while walking, difficulty getting in and out of a chair, or falls. Muscle weakness, joint problems, pain, disease, and neurological difficulties can all contribute to mobility problems. Sometimes several mild problems combine and occur simultaneously, affecting mobility. It can also make the difference between living at home or in a facility.

The primary mobility problem that older people experience is falls. Falls are a major cause of injury and death, so prevention is important. Older bones break more easily, heal less quickly, and may not heal completely. If a hip is fractured, canes, walkers, or wheelchairs might be permanently needed. If the senior is afraid of falling, address it, or he or she may become afraid to move around.

Doctors often check for heart and lung problems, and screening for mobility can be put off, or even overlooked. This can be surprising, since tests for mobility can be relatively simple. With the “Get Up and Go Test”, a person is asked to stand up from sitting in a chair, walk 10 feet, turn around, walk back to the chair, and sit down. How long it takes and how steady the person is can then be noted. Another way is just to watch how quickly people walk. They should walk faster than a yard per second. If you walk that or faster, you’re in the normal range; if you’re slower, you may have a gait problem, which increases the chances of falling. An approach University of Alabama researchers use is to ask two simple questions:

For health or physical reasons . . .

1. Do you have difficulty climbing up 10 steps or walking one-quarter of a mile?
2. Have you modified the way you climb 10 steps or walk a quarter of a mile?

These questions can be asked prior to testing. A senior probably knows if he or she is having trouble climbing stairs ─ and walking one-quarter of a mile is equal to one lap around a medium-sized mall’s upper level.

Ways to help prevent senior mobility problems ─ or reduce the risk of them getting worse

• Stay active. A regular program of exercise can strengthen muscles and improve flexibility. With increased strength and balance, a senior is better able to maneuver and avoid a potential fall.
• Maintain a healthy weight and a healthy diet. It’s simply easier to get around without carrying extra weight, and there is less stress on bones and joints.
• Check the possible influence of medications. Prescription and over-the-counter medicines, herbal or other remedies can result in drowsiness or distraction, which can lead to falls. If medications affect your balance or alertness, discuss a lower dose or different medicine with a physician.
• Identify fall hazards in the home and eliminate them. Pay special attention to safety equipping the bathroom and kitchen. Use rubber appliqués or mats, raised toilet seats, and handrails where necessary. Clear the home of clutter and loose rugs or wires. Good lighting is essential; use night-lights in bathrooms, hallways, and, if needed, the bedroom.
• Ask the doctor about walking aids. If a senior is just a little bit unsteady on his or her feet, a cane or walker can be used. Skip the drugstore, and first check with a doctor or physical therapist to find out what type is needed. A physical therapist will make sure the cane or walker is adjusted to the right height, and can teach the senior how to use it.
• Test vision and hearing regularly. Seeing poorly or not hearing well can cause mobility problems and lead to falls. A senior should be extra careful with new bifocal or tri-focal eyeglasses.
• Make sure proper footwear is worn. Sturdy, well-fitted, low- or flat-heeled shoes with good grip and support are recommended. In bad weather, exercise indoors.
• Create opportunities for socializing. Look for community activities that keep seniors mobile. Check with local hospitals, senior centers, and community centers to see if they offer exercise or walking programs. An exercise or walking partner can help seniors stick to a program.
• Medical alert services can provide peace of mind. If you worry about a senior having an emergency while alone, consider a medical alert service to connect him or her to help 24/7, at the push of a button.
• Don’t help too much. Don’t do everything for someone because you are afraid that something might happen. He or she needs to stay active and most likely prefers to remain independent.
• Tell the doctor about mobility problems, and mention any falls. Certain diseases like arthritis can affect mobility. Risks can often be reduced if the medical condition is diagnosed and treated.

Comfort Keepers^® can help. About one-quarter of Canadians over age 65 need help with everyday activities such as eating, bathing, and getting in and out of bed or a chair. Our trained caregivers can help with these and other tasks, while providing companionship. Comfort Keepers can also have someone perform home safety assessments to identify fall hazards, and make recommendations to improve safety. Call your local office today!

References:

• HealthinAging.org. “Eldercare at Home: Mobility Problems”. Web. 2016.
• AgingCare.com. “Elderly & Senior Mobility Problems”.  Web. 2016
• Care.com. “Caring for Seniors with Mobility Problems”. Web. 2016.
• Harvard Health Publications, Harvard Medical School. Web. 2013.

Dehydration is one of the most common preventable medical conditions in the world.

Water is vital to keep our bodies functioning properly. We lose about 68 ounces of water a day, mostly through perspiration, respiration, and urination. This water must be replaced to prevent excessive fluid loss, or dehydration.

Why is Water So Important for Seniors?

• It helps to control body temperature.
• Perspiration keeps us cool in hot weather and protects the body
  against heat exhaustion.
• Water helps the body to insulate itself against cold weather.
• It carries nutrients to body cells and carries away waste.
• Water promotes better digestion and intestinal function.
• It keeps the mouth, nose, eyes, and skin moist.
• Water ensures proper volume of blood.
• The urinary tract can be flushed out. This is important in reducing the risk of urinary tract infections. Urinary tract infections can be serious or fatal in seniors.

Dehydration can be life-threatening for Seniors

Dehydration is one of the most frequent causes of hospitalization after age 65. Kidney function is less efficient in seniors, and body water content decreases. There is also less ability to notice changes in body temperature, as well as a reduced sense of thirst. Seniors also eat less, which means they are getting fewer fluids from food. Diabetes can upset the balance even further.

If a loved one experiences any of the signs listed below, go to the ER or contact a physician immediately:

• Fatigue
• Cramping
• Muscle weakness
• Difficulty walking
• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Forgetfulness
• Headaches
• Difficulty breathing
• Dry mouth, nose, or skin
• Sunken eyes
• Inability to sweat or produce tears
• A notable increase in body temperature
• Elevated heart rate
• Low blood pressure
• Low urine output
• Dark colored urine
• Constipation

If you suspect dehydration in a loved one, you can check by pulling up the skin on the back of the hand for a few seconds. If it does not return to normal almost immediately, the person is dehydrated.

Sixty-four ounces of fluids daily is recommended for good health. First, ask a doctor for appropriate levels of fluid intake, especially for seniors affected by congestive heart failure or kidney disease.

Preventing Dehydration in Seniors

Here are some ways to encourage your loved one to drink enough water and healthy liquids during
the day:

• Always have water and other healthy drinks in sight and within easy reach. Seniors may forget without a visual reminder. Keeping a water bottle next to the bed or their favorite chair could help, especially if they have mobility issues that discourage them from getting up to get ─ or replenish ─ their fluid supply.
• Drink sparkling water and vegetable juice.They can reduce spikes in blood sugar and unnecessary calories throughout the day.
• Replace caffeinated beverages with their decaffeinated versions. Sodas, coffee drinks, and teas with caffeine all have a diuretic effect on the body.
• Try flavored water. Add juice, a flavored drink mix, or flavored ice cubes to a bottle of water to make
  it more enticing. Keep in mind that diabetics need sugar-free water.
• Supply liquid nutritional supplements. They provide both water and nutrients.
• Consume foods that help with hydration. These include broth-based soups, watermelon, apples, oranges, cucumbers, green peppers, lettuce, and tomatoes.
• Choose healthy hydrating treats. Popsicles, water- or juice-based smoothies, frozen juice pops, Italian ices, or sorbets are hydrating treats that can help meet water consumption goals.
• Have seniors take extra water with medications. Some medications canaffect hydration.
• Remind seniors not to wait until they are thirsty to drink. Dehydration starts before people feel thirsty.

Comfort Keepers^® can help. If you’re currently responsible for a loved one’s health, you know dehydration is just one of many constant concerns. Our caregivers can help your loved one stick to recommended schedules of hydration, healthy eating, exercise, and other activities that improve quality of life. Call your local office today!

References

• HealthAfter50.com. “Drink More Water. Here’s Why.” Web. 2015.
• Mayo Clinic. “Diseases and Conditions: Dehydration”. Web. 2014.
• APlaceforMom.com. “Elderly Dehydration: Prevention & Treatment”. Web. 2015.
• University of Nevada. “Water: Fountain of Life” – Senior Wellness Series, by Claudia C. Collins, Ph.D.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, 6 in 10 people with dementia will wander, and if not found within 24 hours, up to half will suffer serious injury or death.

Due to Canada’s growing number of seniors, many of whom are afflicted with Alzheimer’s and dementia, wandering is increasing. Even in familiar places, a person with Alzheimer’s may not remember his or her name or address, and can become disoriented. Wandering with dementia is dangerous, but there are strategies and services to help prevent it.

Of course, no one can watch another person every second of every day, and the anxiety for caregivers can become overwhelming. You listen for every creak at night. You may stop taking your loved one to public places. And if you live away from him or her, the stress increases even more.

Warning Signs of Wandering in Seniors with Dementia

Wandering and getting lost is common among people with dementia, and can happen during any stage of the disease. Be on the lookout for the following warning signs:

• Returning from a routine walk or drive later than usual
• Wanting to “go home,” or “to work”, even when at home or not employed
• Paces, shows anxiety, or makes repetitive movements
• Having difficulty finding familiar places like the bathroom, bedroom, or other rooms in the house
• Asking about the whereabouts of current or past friends and family
• Appearing lost in a new or changed environment
• Setting out to do regular tasks, but accomplishes nothing

Tips to Help Prevent Seniors with Dementia from Wandering

• Provide supervision. Never lock the person in at home or leave him or her in a car alone.
• Avoid busy places that are confusing and can cause disorientation. This could include shopping malls, grocery stores, or other busy venues.
• Make sure the person always carries ID.Keeping an ID in a person’s wallet isn’t enough, because he or she could remove it, either deliberately or accidentally. Medical ID jewelry, like a bracelet or pendant, is wise.
• Dress your loved one in bright clothing. Choose clothing that’s easy to see from a distance, especially if you’re planning to be in a crowd.
• Carry out daily activities. Having a routine and daily plan can provide structure.
• Note the most likely times of day that wandering may occur. Plan activities at that time.
• Activities, exercise, and regular sleep. All of these can reduce anxiety, agitation, and restlessness.
• Reassure the person if he or she feels lost, abandoned, or disoriented. If the person wants to leave to “go home” or “go to work,” do not correct him or her. Say that he or she is safe, and you are there,
  then follow up with what you will be doing together.
• Ensure all basic needs are met. Check if the person needs the bathroom, or is thirsty or needs to eat. He or she may tend to wander for these reasons.

Caring for Seniors with Dementia at Home:

• Place locks out of the line of sight. Install them either high or low on exterior doors, and place slide bolts at the top or bottom. You may also need to install bars on windows, and a fence around the yard.
• Put up signs. Hang a sign inside a door to the outside that says ”Stop” or ”Do Not Enter”. Put signs on other doors, like the one to the bathroom, so he or she can see which door leads where, and won’t accidentally wind up outside.
• Camouflage doors and door knobs. Paint them the same color as the walls, or use childproof knobs. Try placing a black mat in front of the door, which may be perceived as a hole and will avoid exit seeking.
• Use devices that signal when a door or window is opened. This can be as simple as a bell placed above a door, or as sophisticated as an electronic home alarm.
• Keep car keys out of sight. Persons with dementia may drive off and be at risk of potential harm to themselves or others.
• If night wandering is a problem: Make sure the person has restricted fluids two hours before bedtime and has gone to the bathroom just before bed. Also, use night lights.

When a Senior with Dementia is Missing

Begin search-and-rescue efforts immediately, and call 911. Ninety-four percent of people who wander are found within 1.5 miles of where they disappeared. In addition:

• Ask neighbors, friends and family to call if they see the person alone.
• Keep a recent, close-up photo and updated medical information on hand for police.
• Know your neighborhood. Pinpoint dangerous areas near the home, such as bodies of water, open stairwells, dense foliage, tunnels, bus stops and roads with heavy traffic.
• Is the senior right or left-handed?Wandering generally follows the direction of the dominant hand.
• Keep a list of places where the person may wander. This could include past jobs, former homes, places of worship, or a favorite restaurant.
• Register with the Medic Alert Safely Home programme. The Alzheimer Society of Canada has partnered with MedicAlert Foundation Canada, to supply police and emergency responders with the missing person’s physical description, emergency contacts and critical health information. You can learn more about this programme at: http://www.alzheimer.ca/en/Living-with-dementia/Day-to-day-living/Safety/Safely-Home#works

• Use “silver alerts”. They work like an Amber Alert that is used for missing children.

Comfort Keepers can help with home safety assessments and tracking technologies. We can conduct a home safety assessment and recommend safety measures, including Safety Choice^® personal emergency monitoring systems (PERS) connected to a central monitoring station with personnel standing by to help in an emergency. SafetyChoice also offers door and window contacts, pressure sensitive floor mats, and wireless cameras. Ask your local Comfort Keepers office how we can help keep your loved one safe at home.

References:

• Agingcare.com. “Helping a Senior with Dementia Who Wanders”. Web. 2016.
• WebMD. “Prevent Wandering: 10 Tips for Caregivers”. Web. 2014.
• Alz.org. Alzheimer’s Association. “Wandering and Dementia”. Web. 2016.
• Alzheimer’s Society of Canada.  Medic Alert Safely Home Programme.  Web 2015.

Pneumonia is a major cause of mortality among seniors 65 and older. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, more people die each year from pneumonia than from car accidents.

Pneumonia is an infection that affects one or both lungs. The disease can range from mild to severe, and can be fatal. It is typically caused when bacteria, fungi, or viruses enter the lungs and cause inflammation within air sacs in the lungs called alveoli. This inflammation may cause the alveoli to fill with fluid, resulting in difficulty breathing and fever. Common causes of pneumonia include the bacteria Streptococcus pneumonia, and viruses such as the flu.

Why Pneumonia is More Common in Seniors

There are several primary reasons why seniors are more susceptible to contracting pneumonia:

• Frailty. Frailer than younger people, seniors can’t clear secretions as well from their lungs. Those secretions can go down into bronchial tubes, causing the infection.
• Weakened Immune Systems. Due to having weaker immune systems, seniors often cannot fight off an infection. A suppressed immune system may also be due to an organ or bone marrow transplant, chemotherapy (treatment for cancer), or long-term steroid use.
• Senior Health Conditions. Diabetes,Parkinson’s disease, chemotherapy, and HIV put seniors at a higher risk for pneumonia, as well as cystic fibrosis, asthma, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), and bronchiectasis.
• Seniors who have surgery are susceptible. Seniors experiencing pain or taking pain medication may take shallower breaths, which results in mucus gathering in the lungs.

Signs of pneumonia to look for include: coughing, fever, chills, shortness of breath, chest pain, green or yellow sputum that comes up during coughing, feeling lethargic, and the sudden worsening of a cold or the flu.

Pneumonia Treatments for Seniors and Elders

Chest X-rays and a blood test are how doctors can determine if a senior has pneumonia. If it is bacterial pneumonia, it is usually treated with antibiotics. If the infection is viral, an anti-viral medicine may be prescribed. Patients may begin to feel better before finishing their medicine, but should continue taking it as prescribed. If they stop too soon, the pneumonia may return. Doctors may give the patient fluids if he or she is dehydrated, oxygen if there is a breathing problem, along with pain relief and medical support. Milder cases of pneumonia can be cared for at home, but with severe cases ─ or if there are other underlying health conditions ─ hospitalization may be required,

Reducing the Risk of Pneumonia in Canada’s Seniors

Flu predisposes older people to pneumonia, so the number of cases tends to spike during flu season, but the illness can occur at any time of the year.

To help reduce the risk of pneumonia in Canada’s seniors:

• Get vaccinated.All people over age 65 should get an annual flu shot, as well as a pneumococcal vaccine, a one-time shot that protects against the pneumococcus, or pneumonia bacteria. Discuss   this with the doctor first.
• Practice good hygiene.Wash hands regularly or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• No smoking.It damages the lungs’ natural defenses against respiratory infections.
• Keep the immune system strong.Get enough sleep, exercise regularly, and eat a healthy diet.

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that anyone who has prolonged contact with seniors should also get vaccinated. Children in the senior’s family should get vaccinated, and caregivers should be vaccinated, too, to avoid getting sick themselves and passing the illness to clients and older members of their own families.

Comfort Keepers^® can help. Our caregivers can assist seniors ─ even those who may be recovering after a serious illness at home, or hospitalization. Caregivers can help seniors around the house, and support wellness through proper diet, and by making sure that clients take medications, and get enough sleep and exercise. Call your local office today!

References:

• Seniorlifestyle.com. “Preventing Pneumonia in the Elderly.” Web. 2015.
• Agingcare.com. “Pneumonia and Elders: Why They Are More Susceptible”. Web. 2016.
• Mayoclinic.org. Mayo Clinic. “Pneumonia Prevention”. Web. 2016.
• nhlbi.nih.gov. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute; National Institutes of Health. “How Can Pneumonia Be Prevented?” Web. 2016.

47% of Canadians over the age of 60 suffer from hearing loss, ranging from the inability to hear certain voices to deafness.

Presbycusis is a gradual loss of hearing that may come with age. It can be caused by changes in the inner ear, auditory nerve, middle ear, or outer ear. It can also be caused by loud noise exposure, heredity, head injury, infection, illness, some prescription drugs, and circulation problems, including high blood pressure.

Tinnitus, which is also common in seniors, causes a ringing, hissing, or roaring sound in the ears. It can be the result of exposure to loud noise or certain medicines, and can accompany any type of hearing loss.

If a senior has not been diagnosed with hearing loss, but it is obvious that it is present, referral to a specialist may be necessary. Start with a visit to his or her regular doctor. The doctor may then refer the senior to an otolaryngologist, a physician who specializes in ear, nose, and throat – or an audiologist, who is a health professional who conducts tests to define hearing loss. Sometimes the two work together in an office.

A senior with hearing loss may struggle with hearing alarms or telephones, or understanding speech on TV or radio; may be unaware that someone is talking or whispering; and may have a lack of understanding when talking on the phone, if several people are in a large room or many people are talking, or when a speaker’s face can’t be seen.

Psychological and Social Implications for Seniors with Hearing Loss

Seniors with hearing loss may suffer negative psychological and emotional effects that can affect them socially. Here are some examples of what they may experience:

• Feelings of being ashamed, inadequate, stupid, awkward, embarrassed, humiliated, or abnormal.
• Difficulty thinking or concentrating, which can result in inattentiveness, distraction, and boredom.
• Worry about loss of significant relationships, jobs, or about being perceived as incompetent.
• A feeling of worthlessness, which could cause withdrawal from others and a lack of participation in everyday living.

How to Support a Senior with Hearing Loss

Stay sympathetic: While it is very frustrating to deal with seniors with hearing loss, it is even more frustrating for them. Don’t ever respond “Never mind, it’s not important.” It only makes the person feel that he or she is not important enough to include.

Be patient: People who suffer from hearing loss wait 5-7 years before they do anything. Your loving support may speed up that process a bit, but if at any point you feel frustrated, remind yourself that this is a difficult and lengthy process.

Show understanding: Studies have linked hearing loss in seniors to feelings of stress, tension, depression, social isolation, irritability, negativity and anger. Don’t let their attitude get you down. Try to understand the difficult situation they must live with every day.

Be respectful: Speak openly and naturally, and do not speak on the senior’s behalf. Ask questions clearly or rephrase conversation so he or she may speak for himself or herself.

Don’t be too helpful:  Do not act as “ears” for the senior. While you think that you’re helping out a loved one, it builds a relationship of co-dependence that can hurt him or her over time.

When you speak to seniors with hearing loss:

• Minimize or eliminate background noise.
• Enunciate well, and don’t distort speech, mumble, or lower your voice at the end of a sentence.
• Use hands and facial expressions when you speak.
• Speak at a normal speed, not too quickly or too slowly.
• Speak more loudly – but never yell. Shouting distorts words.
• Rephrase your communication. Some seniors experience a type of hearing loss where certain sounds are difficult to hear, such as the “shhh” sound.

A hearing aid may help. It won’t restore normal hearing, but it will increase awareness of sounds through magnification of sound vibrations. Larger vibrations are changed to signals sent to the brain, but there are limits to amplification, and inner ear damage can mean that even large vibrations can’t be translated into signals. A doctor or a specialist can determine if a hearing aid will be helpful.

Need in-home care? Call Comfort Keepers^® today! Whether your loved one is suffering from hearing loss or not, we can help. Comfort Keepers^®’ Interactive Caregiving™ keeps senior clients engaged physically, mentally, and emotionally while living independently at home. Call your local Comfort Keepers office to see how we can help you.

References:

• Statistics Canada.  “Hearing loss of Canadians, 2012 and 2013.” Web 2015.
• Social Work Today. “Hearing Loss in Older Adults ─ Its Effect on Mental Health” by Claudia Dewane, DEd, LCSW. Web. 2016.
• OptimalHearing.com. “Supporting Hearing Loss in the Elderly”. Web. 2016.
• HearingLoss.org. Hearing Loss Association of America. “Living with Hearing Loss”. Web. 2016.
• LiveScience.com. “How to Help Seniors with Hearing Loss”. Web. 2016.

Every 13 seconds, an older adult is treated in the emergency room for a fall; every 20 minutes, an older adult dies from a fall.

Senior Falls and Injuries

About one third of the senior population over the age of 65 falls each year, but since many incidents go unreported by seniors and unrecognized by family members or caregivers – this estimate is most likely quite low.

Falls are the leading cause of death from injury among people 65 and older, and the risk of falls increases proportionately with age. At
80 years, over half of seniors fall annually.

Here are some more surprising facts and statistics related to seniors and falling:

• 87 percent of all fractures in the elderly are due to falls. Two-thirds of those who fall will do so again within six months.
• When an older person falls, his or her hospital stays are almost twice as long as those of older patients who are admitted for any other reason.
• Among people aged 65 to 69, one out of every 200 falls results in a hip fracture. That number increases to one out of every 10 for those aged 85 and older.
• One-fourth of seniors who fracture a hip from a fall will die within six months of the injury.
• Many falls do not result in injuries, yet 47 percent of non-injured seniors who fall cannot get up without assistance.
• For seniors who fall and are unable to get up on their own, the period of time spent immobile often affects their health outcomes. Muscle cell breakdown starts to occur within 30-60 minutes of compression due to falling. Dehydration, pressure sores, hypothermia, and pneumonia are other complications that may result.

Falls, with or without injury, also carry a heavy quality of life impact. A growing number of older adults fear falling and, as a result, limit their activities and social engagements. This can result in further physical decline, depression, social isolation, and feelings of helplessness. The most profound effect of falling is the loss of independent living.

Senior Fall Prevention Safety: 20 Things You Can Do to Help

1. Remove obstacles inside and outside of the house that could cause tripping.
2. Install handrails and lights on staircases, with light switches at the top and bottom of the stairs. You may even consider glow-in-the-dark or lighted switches.
3. Add non-slip treads for bare wooden steps.
4. Install shower and tub grab bars in the bathroom, around the toilet and the tub.
5. Place non-slip mats on the shower floor and bathtub.
6. Secure loose rugs with double-faced tape, tacks, or slip-resistant backing.
7. Repair loose, wooden floorboards and carpeting.
8. Store clothing, dishes, food and other necessities within easy reach.
9. Immediately clean spilled liquids, grease, or food.
10. Paint doorsills with a different, highlighting color to avoid tripping.
11. Make home lighting brighter, but prevent glare. Place night lights in the bedroom, bathroom and hallways. Place a lamp within easy reach of the bed for middle-of-the-night needs.
12. Store working flashlights in easy-to-find places in case of power outages.
13. Have vision checked often and regularly.
14. Ask the doctor to review medications regularly for side effects and interactions.
15. If he or she is able, have the senior start exercising on a regular basis ─ tai chi or yoga can increase flexibility and strengthen muscles and joints.
16. If the senior can’t stand comfortably, have him or her exercise in a chair.
17. Have the senior wear sensible shoes. They should be properly fitting, sturdy shoes with non-skid soles.
18. Note any health conditions such as dizziness, joint pain, numbness, or shortness of breath when walking. Tell the doctor, should any of these occur. He or she may evaluate muscle strength, balance and walking style (gait) as well.
19. Have the senior use assistive devices, if needed. The doctor might recommend using a cane or walker to keep him or her steady.
20. Consider a PERS (Personal Emergency Response System) unit that will alert others when help is needed.

If necessary, ask the doctor for a referral to an occupational therapist. He or she can help brainstorm other fall-prevention strategies.

Comfort Keepers^® can help. Getting help after an immobilizing fall improves the chance of survival by 80 percent and increases the likelihood of a return to independent living. Of course, it is best to prevent falls in the first place. Comfort Keepers can perform home safety assessments, and offer practical solutions and products to keep seniors safe. Call your local office today.

References:

• National Council on Aging (NCOA). “Falls Prevention Facts.” Web. 2015.
• Mayo Clinic. “Fall Prevention: Simple Tips to Prevent Falls”. Web. 2014.
• Learn Not to Fall. “How Often Falls Occur”. Web. 2012.

Cooking fires are the most common cause of house fires and house injuries, according to the National Fire Protection Agency ─ so remind seniors to never leave the kitchen unattended while cooking.

Kitchen Safety for Seniors

Kitchens are one of the most dangerous areas of a home for seniors. There may be physical issues such as diminished balance, vision, and reflexes ─ or a senior may be suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia.

Many accidents and falls occur in the kitchen due to: cooking fires, water, grease and spills on the floor, reaching for hard-to-reach objects, appliance injuries, even inappropriate objects placed in a microwave.

The senior, family members, and in-home caregivers should follow these kitchen safety tips:

• Survey the kitchen with a critical eye ─ what may seem perfectly harmless to you may be a potential threat to your loved one. Tackle the kitchen one layer at a time: move up from floors to lower cupboards, counter tops, appliances, and overhead cupboards.
• Have an electrician check the fuse box or circuit breakers to ensure that the wiring in the kitchen is done properly. Make sure no outlets or switches are unusually warm to the touch.
• Protect against electrical overload with ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs). Make sure all outlets and switches have cover plates, and that any extension cords are not overloaded.
• Make sure all electrical cords are covered or securely tacked down to prevent accidents. Keep cords out of the way of other appliances and keep them away from sinks and stove tops. Make sure cords don’t dangle over the edge of the counter or lie on the floor, creating a potential fall hazard.
• Place socket covers over electrical sockets that are not in use. Unplug small appliances when not in use.
• Make sure any gas stove has an automatic shut-off feature, in case the pilot goes out. You can have someone from the gas company check this for you.
• Check to see that the kitchen ventilation system or range exhaust is functional.
• Make sure there is a working smoke detector in the kitchen, and check the batteries at least twice a year.
• Keep a fire extinguisher handy, and make sure the senior knows how to use it properly.
• Move items that are used most often out of the highest and lowest cabinets and shelves, and into easy-to-reach cabinets and drawers. Pull-out drawers for bottom cabinets also make it so that seniors do not need to bend over so much. Countertop heights should be lowered for seniors who have trouble bending, or who are in a wheelchair.
• Close all drawers and cabinets when not in use, to avoid bumping into them.
• Make sure any knives and sharp utensils are secure in their storage areas.
• Secure area rugs to the floor with double-stick tape to prevent falls.
• As for other fall hazards, spills should be cleaned up immediately, using nontoxic cleansers. Also, check the refrigerator for leaks that could create puddles, and eventually rot wood floors.
• Keep flammable liquids out of the kitchen and store in a safe location outside of the house.
• Keep an eye out for signs of roaches, ants, or vermin infestations. Hire an exterminator if needed.
• Once a week, go through food in the refrigerator and throw out anything that is expired. Go through pantry/cabinet items once a month.

Senior kitchen safety while cooking:

• Seniors should work with adequate lighting over the sink, range, and countertop areas. You may want to install under-cabinet lighting to help with this. Also, add a night light.
• All pots and pan handles should be turned so they aren’t hanging out over the edge of the stove and able to be tipped over. Use pots with handles on both sides as much as possible.
• Seniors must avoid wearing loose sleeves, which can easily catch fire. Suggest that he or she wear short sleeves, or fasten long sleeves back with elastic bands.
• Make sure potholders and oven mitts are easy accessible, but located away from heat sources. Also, remove any towels or curtains that are hanging near the stove, where they may catch fire.

Kitchen safety for seniors with dementia:

• Get rid of the “junk drawer”, as many seniors with Alzheimer’s and various forms of dementia may eat matches, plastic, washers, and other objects.
• Think about disconnecting the garbage disposal.
• Install child-proof locks or latches to cupboards that contain knives, cooking utensils, and other objects that may break or cause injury.
• Use unbreakable dishes, when possible.
• Remember: Reminding a senior with cognitive issues to not place canned foods in the microwave or to be careful with knives is not enough. It’s up to you to unplug the microwave and to place the kitchen knives in a secured drawer.

You may be rather hesitant to make such changes around the home because of being afraid of hurting the senior’s feelings. However, stress the importance of safety whenever possible, and your loved one may appreciate your care and concern.

Comfort Keepers^® can help. We care for your loved one as though we were caring for a member of our own family. We perform home safety assessments, make recommendations, and offer safety products for your loved one’s home. Ask your local Comfort Keepers office for more information today.

References:

• Silver Planet. “Kitchen Safety for Seniors” by Marion Somers, PhD. Web. 2010.
• Age in Place, “Kitchen Safety”. Web. 2015.
• Boomers with Elderly Parents. “Elderly Safety Considerations for the Kitchen”. Web. 2016.

Up to 80% of falls in the home occur in the bathroom.

Bathrooms can be quite hazardous ─ especially for seniors.

Bathrooms typically have slippery surfaces, and nothing dependable to grasp in order to prevent falls. Fall-related injuries can range from minor cuts, scrapes, and bruises to more severe injuries, including broken bones such as hip fractures, head contusions, and even spinal cord injury.

Having poor muscle strength and balance is commonly associated with increased risk in the bathroom. Someone with a history of falls has an even greater risk. Most falls occur while stepping into and exiting the tub or shower; using towel bars, sink tops, or other objects for balance when walking; and sitting down and getting up from the toilet.

Installing safety features in the bathroom can reduce the risk of falling. When renovating a bathroom for a senior’s safety, consider the options below.

Senior safety for the shower and tub:

• Install grab bars. Towel bars are great for holding towels but aren’t built to support weight. Install slip-resistant grab bars in easy-to-reach places to help support balance when entering and exiting the shower or tub. Choose ones that are color contrasted from the wall for visibility, and securely fixed to the studs of the wall for adequate support. Look at the spots the senior normally holds onto when entering or exiting, and place the grab bars there.
• Install a tension pole. An alternative to grab bars for getting in and out of a shower or tub is a tension pole running from floor to ceiling to hold onto for balance support.
• Use a shower chair. A shower chair can provide stability for balance and be a resting place for those who can’t stand for long periods of time. A good shower chair has rubber tips on the legs to prevent sliding. Use with a hand-held shower head, and the senior can remain seated.
• Try a bath transfer bench. A bath bench eliminates the problem of stepping in and out of the tub. Users can safely get by sitting down on the bench outside of the tub, then sliding over safely into the tub.

Senior safety for slippery surfaces:

• Add non-slip mats. Having a non-slip rubber mat (or decals) on the floor of the shower or tub as well as a non-slip rug on the floor for stepping out helps seniors to feel more stable. Stepping onto a towel is not sufficient, as a towel can easily slip under the feet. A non-slip rug in front of the toilet and by the sink can help to reduce slipping on wet tiles.
• Add non-slip adhesive strips. These can be placed on the top of sink edges to guard against hand slippage if these surfaces are used for balance support.

Senior safety for using the toilet:

• Use a raised toilet seat. Seniors may have difficulty lowering themselves down to sit on a low toilet seat and rising to a standing position safely, due to lack of arm and leg strength and balance. A raised toilet seat that raises toilet seat height by 3-4 inches reduces squatting.
• Install grab bars for standing and sitting. Or you can get raised seats with built-in grab bars. Bedside commodes are beneficial if a toilet is far away or if it’s difficult to use.

Senior safety: difficulty with reaching or bending down:

• Put toiletries within reach. Mount easy-to-reach liquid soap and/or shampoo dispensers on the bath or shower wall (or shelf) to reduce the need to reach far or bend down for toiletries.

More senior bathroom safety tips:

• Caregiver assistance. Seniors who experience episodes of dizziness when getting up too quickly benefit from someone being nearby when bathing.
• Keep it clean. Rid showers and tubs of soap scum and mildew regularly to reduce the slippery coating that forms as a result. Also, avoid clutter in the bathroom to prevent tripping.
• Telephone or medical alert system. Having a phone nearby in the event of a fall and/or injury ensures that the senior gets help quickly. As an alternative, a medical alert system (that’s waterproof) can be used. These items could be life-savers for those who live alone.
• Bathroom doors. Does the door swing out or into the bathroom to open? If someone falls against the door, outward swinging doors will allow caregivers and emergency personnel quick access for treatment.
• Lighting. A poorly-lit pathway can easily cause a fall. Use night lights to create a well-lit path to the bathroom. Having night lights in the bathroom itself is helpful, too.

Comfort Keepers^® can help. Comfort Keepers^®’ Interactive Caregiving™ keeps senior clients engaged physically, mentally, and emotionally while living independently at home. We also perform home safety assessments, and offer practical solutions and products to keep your loved one safe. Call your local Comfort Keepers office today.

References:

• Senior Advisor. “Senior-Proof Your Bathroom”. Web. 2015.
• Consumer Affairs. “Making Bathrooms Safe for Seniors” by Rein Tideiksaar, Ph.D. Web. 2013.