My father always told me to take care of my teeth. "Don't be like me," he said "take care of your teeth or you'll regret if forever." Of course, not all of my father's advice was so sage, like when he told me to buy Telecommunications and Technology stocks right before their bubble burst about 8 years ago or so...or the time when he claimed Costco Hot Dogs were the best hot dogs in their world (I like Costco Dogs, but they're not the best in the world). Still, for seniors trying to maintain their oral health, the following story from seniorjournal.com might strike some as interesting.
A tooth-bleaching agent may improve the oral health of elderly and special-needs patients, say dentists at the Medical College of Georgia and Western University of Health Sciences. Standard oral hygiene methods, such as brushing and flossing, can be difficult or impossible for patients with mental challenges or senior citizens with impaired manual dexterity.
Additionally, when health problems or medications cause xerostomia, or dry mouth, the lack of saliva reduces the mouth's natural protective mechanisms. These problems lead to plaque accumulation, cavities and periodontal disease, and could further impact the patient's health.
A report featured on the cover of this month's Journal of the American Dental Association noted that applying the tooth whitener carbamide peroxide through a custom-fit mouth tray might combat those problems. The report was based on a literature review and the authors' clinical experiences with special-needs patients and tooth bleaching.
"What we've noticed through whitening patients' teeth over the years is that as they bleached, their teeth got squeaky clean and their gingival health improved," said Dr. Van Haywood, professor in the Medical College of Georgia School of Dentistry and co-author of the report.
Dentists have used carbamide peroxide, or urea peroxide, for decades to whiten teeth, but its original use was as an oral antiseptic. It removes plaque, kills bacteria and elevates the mouth's pH above the point at which enamel and dentin begin to dissolve, which results in fewer cavities.
"All these benefits lead us to believe that tray bleaching can be a very effective supplemental method of oral hygiene for patients facing greater challenges keeping their mouths clean," said Dr. David Lazarchik, associate professor in the Western University of Health Sciences College of Dental Medicine and the report's co-author.
The trick is in the tray, Haywood said. After a complete dental exam, the dentist can make the custom-fit tray that the patient can wear comfortably at night or for several hours during the day. The carbamide peroxide gel can be prescribed or purchased over-the-counter.
Lazarchik said further research is needed to determine a specific protocol for using tray-applied carbamide peroxide specifically to improve oral health.
Showing posts with label Caregivers. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Caregivers. Show all posts
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Monday, July 5, 2010
Activities for Senior Citizens in Los Angeles
As we head into the Dog Days of Summer, we thought the following list of activities and events for Senior Citizens throughout the Los Angeles area might of some value.
Summer Recreation Classes (City of Garden Grove)
Monday, July 5 7:00p
City of Garden Grove, Garden Grove
The Community Services Department offers year-round programs that provide a full range of opportunities for life enrichment, self improvement, personal growth, and artistic expression.
NARFE (National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association)
Wednesday, July 7 1:00pm
Joslyn Senior Center, Covina
Lean 101 Workshop
Thursday, Aug 5 9:00am
Cmtc Headquarters, Torrance
CMTC Presents the Lean 101 Workshop August 5, 2010 - 9:00am - 3:00pm - Lunch provided CMTC presents the 2010 Lean 101 Workshop.
Google Seminars for Success - Los Angeles, CA
Saturday, Aug 21 9:00am
Hilton Los Angeles North/Glendale & Mtg Center, Glendale
Google™ Seminars for Success Learn Google Analytics & Website Optimizer in the Classroom! Make it a full week of training: Join Stasia Holdren for Monday & Tuesday's Google AdWords Seminars for Success!
Super Senior Saturday "Seniorstock 2010"
Saturday, Aug 28 10:00am
Buena Park Senior Activity Center, Buena Park
Come Boomers, come Seniors to the grooviest aging health fair of the year. Join us for a far out day of peace, love and information.
9th Annual West Hollywood Book Fair
Sunday, Sep 26 10:00am
West Hollywood Park Auditorium, West Hollywood
The City of West Hollywood and LA Weekly present the multiple, award-winning West Hollywood Book Fair that will take place on Sunday, September 26, 2010 at 10 am.
Summer Recreation Classes (City of Garden Grove)
Monday, July 5 7:00p
City of Garden Grove, Garden Grove
The Community Services Department offers year-round programs that provide a full range of opportunities for life enrichment, self improvement, personal growth, and artistic expression.
NARFE (National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association)
Wednesday, July 7 1:00pm
Joslyn Senior Center, Covina
Lean 101 Workshop
Thursday, Aug 5 9:00am
Cmtc Headquarters, Torrance
CMTC Presents the Lean 101 Workshop August 5, 2010 - 9:00am - 3:00pm - Lunch provided CMTC presents the 2010 Lean 101 Workshop.
Google Seminars for Success - Los Angeles, CA
Saturday, Aug 21 9:00am
Hilton Los Angeles North/Glendale & Mtg Center, Glendale
Google™ Seminars for Success Learn Google Analytics & Website Optimizer in the Classroom! Make it a full week of training: Join Stasia Holdren for Monday & Tuesday's Google AdWords Seminars for Success!
Super Senior Saturday "Seniorstock 2010"
Saturday, Aug 28 10:00am
Buena Park Senior Activity Center, Buena Park
Come Boomers, come Seniors to the grooviest aging health fair of the year. Join us for a far out day of peace, love and information.
9th Annual West Hollywood Book Fair
Sunday, Sep 26 10:00am
West Hollywood Park Auditorium, West Hollywood
The City of West Hollywood and LA Weekly present the multiple, award-winning West Hollywood Book Fair that will take place on Sunday, September 26, 2010 at 10 am.
Saturday, June 19, 2010
This Father's Day, Remind Dad About Health Screenings
Father's Day is a great day to celebrate fathers! It's also a great day to take stock of men's health and well being, to help Dad enjoy many more Father's Days.
Men lead women in 14 of the top 15 causes of death in the United States. More than half of premature deaths in men are preventable. But most men are not aware that simple screening tests can dramatically improve their health. University of Maryland Medical Center experts offer this list:
Heart Health. Cardiovascular disease kills over 410,000 men each year. Risk factors for diseases of the heart and blood vessels, such as high blood pressure and elevated cholesterol, can begin in the thirties. Mandeep R. Mehra, MBBS, head of cardiology at the University of Maryland Medical Center, tells us that unfortunately many men do not pay attention to the heart and may feel invulnerable to heart disease.
Recommendations: (1) Blood pressure. Normal blood pressure in adults is below 120/80. High blood pressure is 140/90 or higher. One out of every four men has high blood pressure, but many men are unaware that they have it. High blood pressure is sometimes called the "silent killer," because it usually has no noticeable symptoms until other serious problems occur. Blood pressure should be checked at least every two years, starting at age 18, or more frequently if it is at or above 140/90 or if you have other risk factors. Ask your doctor. Don't have time for an appointment with a health care provider? Stop by a neighborhood fire station for a free blood pressure check-up. (2) Cholesterol. Your total cholesterol number should be below 200 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) and your good cholesterol (HDL) should be 40 mg/dL or higher. A lipid panel test (a simple blood test that measures blood fats such as cholesterol or triglyceride) is recommended for all men age 35 and up, and much earlier if heart disease runs in the family.
Diabetes. This chronic disease can be life threatening if it is not controlled. Complications include: heart disease and stroke, blindness or vision problems, nerve damage, kidney damage, gum disease, sleep apnea, and depression. Risk factors include: obesity, a family history of diabetes, high blood pressure, abnormal blood fat levels, and an inactive lifestyle.
Recommendations: According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, men age 45 or over, especially those who are overweight, should be screened for diabetes. Testing is also strongly recommended in men younger than 45 who are overweight with one or more risk factors. If results are normal, testing is recommended every three years.
Prostate Health. Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in American men, behind lung cancer. The best way for a man to protect himself is to catch prostate problems early, when chances of successful treatment are better.
Recommendations: Two prostate screening tests are advised: a physical exam, and a blood test, called a prostate specific antigen test. Dr. Michael J. Naslund of the University of Maryland School of Medicine recommends that men begin the physical exam and the PSA test at age 50. Two groups at higher risk for prostate cancer—men with a family history of the cancer and African-American men—should begin the screening when they are 40.
Colorectal (Colon) Cancer. Colorectal cancer is the third most common type of non-skin cancer in men, after prostate cancer and lung cancer. Healthcare providers suggest one or more tests for colorectal cancer screening. These include a colonoscopy, which is used to visually examine the lining of the large intestine. Other screening methods include virtual colonoscopy, flexible sigmoidoscopy, and double contrast barium.
Recommendations: The American Cancer Society recommends that beginning at age 50, men at average risk for developing colorectal cancer receive a colonoscopy every 10 years; or a flexible sigmoidoscopy every five years; or a virtual colonoscopy every five years. Men with a family history of colorectal cancer or precancerous polyps or a personal history of chronic inflammatory bowel disease should begin screening earlier.
Skin Cancer. Skin cancer is the most common of all cancers. According to the American Cancer Society, men are more likely to develop skin cancers than women. One form of skin cancer, called melanoma, causes about 73 percent of skin cancer deaths.
Recommendations: A monthly mole self-exam should be performed by men in all age groups. In addition, starting at age 20, a doctor should do a mole exam every three years. For men 40 and older, a doctor should do a mole exam every year.
Additional Screening
The University of Maryland team also reminds men to speak with their healthcare provider about the right schedule for dental exams, vision and hearing care screenings and immunizations.
Source: University of Maryland Medical Center.
Men lead women in 14 of the top 15 causes of death in the United States. More than half of premature deaths in men are preventable. But most men are not aware that simple screening tests can dramatically improve their health. University of Maryland Medical Center experts offer this list:
Heart Health. Cardiovascular disease kills over 410,000 men each year. Risk factors for diseases of the heart and blood vessels, such as high blood pressure and elevated cholesterol, can begin in the thirties. Mandeep R. Mehra, MBBS, head of cardiology at the University of Maryland Medical Center, tells us that unfortunately many men do not pay attention to the heart and may feel invulnerable to heart disease.
Recommendations: (1) Blood pressure. Normal blood pressure in adults is below 120/80. High blood pressure is 140/90 or higher. One out of every four men has high blood pressure, but many men are unaware that they have it. High blood pressure is sometimes called the "silent killer," because it usually has no noticeable symptoms until other serious problems occur. Blood pressure should be checked at least every two years, starting at age 18, or more frequently if it is at or above 140/90 or if you have other risk factors. Ask your doctor. Don't have time for an appointment with a health care provider? Stop by a neighborhood fire station for a free blood pressure check-up. (2) Cholesterol. Your total cholesterol number should be below 200 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) and your good cholesterol (HDL) should be 40 mg/dL or higher. A lipid panel test (a simple blood test that measures blood fats such as cholesterol or triglyceride) is recommended for all men age 35 and up, and much earlier if heart disease runs in the family.
Diabetes. This chronic disease can be life threatening if it is not controlled. Complications include: heart disease and stroke, blindness or vision problems, nerve damage, kidney damage, gum disease, sleep apnea, and depression. Risk factors include: obesity, a family history of diabetes, high blood pressure, abnormal blood fat levels, and an inactive lifestyle.
Recommendations: According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, men age 45 or over, especially those who are overweight, should be screened for diabetes. Testing is also strongly recommended in men younger than 45 who are overweight with one or more risk factors. If results are normal, testing is recommended every three years.
Prostate Health. Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in American men, behind lung cancer. The best way for a man to protect himself is to catch prostate problems early, when chances of successful treatment are better.
Recommendations: Two prostate screening tests are advised: a physical exam, and a blood test, called a prostate specific antigen test. Dr. Michael J. Naslund of the University of Maryland School of Medicine recommends that men begin the physical exam and the PSA test at age 50. Two groups at higher risk for prostate cancer—men with a family history of the cancer and African-American men—should begin the screening when they are 40.
Colorectal (Colon) Cancer. Colorectal cancer is the third most common type of non-skin cancer in men, after prostate cancer and lung cancer. Healthcare providers suggest one or more tests for colorectal cancer screening. These include a colonoscopy, which is used to visually examine the lining of the large intestine. Other screening methods include virtual colonoscopy, flexible sigmoidoscopy, and double contrast barium.
Recommendations: The American Cancer Society recommends that beginning at age 50, men at average risk for developing colorectal cancer receive a colonoscopy every 10 years; or a flexible sigmoidoscopy every five years; or a virtual colonoscopy every five years. Men with a family history of colorectal cancer or precancerous polyps or a personal history of chronic inflammatory bowel disease should begin screening earlier.
Skin Cancer. Skin cancer is the most common of all cancers. According to the American Cancer Society, men are more likely to develop skin cancers than women. One form of skin cancer, called melanoma, causes about 73 percent of skin cancer deaths.
Recommendations: A monthly mole self-exam should be performed by men in all age groups. In addition, starting at age 20, a doctor should do a mole exam every three years. For men 40 and older, a doctor should do a mole exam every year.
Additional Screening
The University of Maryland team also reminds men to speak with their healthcare provider about the right schedule for dental exams, vision and hearing care screenings and immunizations.
Source: University of Maryland Medical Center.
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Caregiver of the Month for May 2010 - Charmie L.
Right at Home is proud to announce that Charmie L. has been selected as the Caregiver of the Month for May 2010.
Charmie has been working a 12-hour overnight shift with a patient recovering from a stroke tirelessly in the San Fernando Valley for the past few months and has been praised by the family for her competency, professionalism and charm.
We'd like to thank Charmie for all of her great work and congratulate her on being selected caregiver of the month for May!
Charmie has been working a 12-hour overnight shift with a patient recovering from a stroke tirelessly in the San Fernando Valley for the past few months and has been praised by the family for her competency, professionalism and charm.
We'd like to thank Charmie for all of her great work and congratulate her on being selected caregiver of the month for May!
Friday, May 28, 2010
Ad Men Use Beatles to Sell Senior Care
The other day I was in my car listening to the radio. On came the song "Wish You Were Here" by Pink Floyd. When I was in high-school, I became a fan of Pink Floyd and had friends who were huge fans of the band and "Wish You Were Here" is probably my favorite Pink Floyd tune. I saw them in concert at the Nassau Coliseum in Long Island in 1989 - 14 years after that track was released.
When the song ended, I turned to another station and heard "Smells Like Teen Spirit" by Nirvana.
Nirvana released their album Nevermind in 1991, which included the iconic, "Stairway to Heaven" of my generation - "Smells Like Teen Spirit." I thought about it, and I realized that even though "Smells Like Teen Spirit" seemed more current; seemed more modern it was actually now a 19-year-old song. Which of course made "Wish You Were Here" at 35 year old song and all of this made me feel rather--older than I thought I was.
So when I ran across this little nugget in the Wall Street Journal, it made me wonder how some of our clients might feel if I started advertising our homecare services to the sounds of Frank Sinatra...or Chuck Barry...or, Pink Floyd?
The songs you loved when you were 23 may someday be used to sell you retirement care. Researchers have homed in on that age as the likeliest time when music that triggers life-long nostalgia is heard. People who watched the Beatles on the Ed Sullivan Show at 23 are now turning 70, and a Florida care home is using images of the one-time youth sensation as part of a nostalgia-based ad campaign.
The good feelings nostalgia generates are a potent tool for marketers, and, execs at the care home say, help improve life for seniors with little short-term memory. The care home runs a pop-culture program taking residents back to their youth. "They might not remember what they had for lunch, but they can sing along with Sinatra and know all the words," the facility's director of sales tells the Wall Street Journal.
When the song ended, I turned to another station and heard "Smells Like Teen Spirit" by Nirvana.
Nirvana released their album Nevermind in 1991, which included the iconic, "Stairway to Heaven" of my generation - "Smells Like Teen Spirit." I thought about it, and I realized that even though "Smells Like Teen Spirit" seemed more current; seemed more modern it was actually now a 19-year-old song. Which of course made "Wish You Were Here" at 35 year old song and all of this made me feel rather--older than I thought I was.
So when I ran across this little nugget in the Wall Street Journal, it made me wonder how some of our clients might feel if I started advertising our homecare services to the sounds of Frank Sinatra...or Chuck Barry...or, Pink Floyd?
The songs you loved when you were 23 may someday be used to sell you retirement care. Researchers have homed in on that age as the likeliest time when music that triggers life-long nostalgia is heard. People who watched the Beatles on the Ed Sullivan Show at 23 are now turning 70, and a Florida care home is using images of the one-time youth sensation as part of a nostalgia-based ad campaign.
The good feelings nostalgia generates are a potent tool for marketers, and, execs at the care home say, help improve life for seniors with little short-term memory. The care home runs a pop-culture program taking residents back to their youth. "They might not remember what they had for lunch, but they can sing along with Sinatra and know all the words," the facility's director of sales tells the Wall Street Journal.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Older Americans Month 2010 Promotion Theme: ‘Age Strong! Live Long!’
"May is Older Americans Month - a tradition dating back to 1963 to honor the legacies and ongoing contributions of older Americans and support them as they enter the next stage in life,” according to a news release prepared by the Administration on Aging for local media as part of the effort to encourage communities nationwide to celebrate this month with special activities and events.
This year’s Older Americans Month theme - “Age Strong! Live Long!” - recognizes the diversity and vitality of today’s older Americans who span three generations, according to the AOA news release.
“They have lived through wars and hard times, as well as periods of unprecedented prosperity. They pioneered new technologies in medicine, communications, and industry while spearheading a cultural revolution that won equal rights for minorities, women, and disabled Americans,” adds the news release.
“These remarkable achievements demonstrate the strength and character of older Americans, and underscore the debt of gratitude we owe to the generations that have given our society so much. But the contributions of older Americans are not only in the past.
“Older Americans are living longer and are more active than ever before. And with the aging of the baby boomer generation—the largest in our nation’s history - America’s senior population is expected to number 71.5 million by 2030.
“While keeping the growing population of older Americans healthy and active will increase the demand for senior services, what is remarkable is the extent to which older Americans themselves are supporting each other. As the new generations of seniors become better educated and more financially secure than their predecessors, they are spending more time making significant contributions in their communities through civic and volunteer opportunities.
“In fact, older Americans are a core component of service delivery to seniors—embodying and modeling the drive to Age Strong! Live Long! They volunteer at group meal sites and deliver food to homebound seniors; they act as escorts and provide transportation for older adults who cannot drive; they help seniors with home repair, shopping and errands; and they provide vital counseling, information and referral services.
“Their energy and commitment reminds all Americans—not just senior citizens and their caregivers—to do their part to enhance the quality of life for older generations.
“The annual commemoration of Older Americans Month is our opportunity to recognize the contributions of older citizens and join them in providing services and support that empower the elderly.
"Americans of all ages and backgrounds can volunteer with programs that improve health literacy, increase access to quality health services, offer food and nutrition services, provide financial and housing counseling, sponsor social activities and community engagement, and more.
Contact your local Area Agency on Aging by visiting http://www.eldercare.gov or calling 1-800-677-1116 to find out what you can do to strengthen services for older Americans, this month and all year round.”
History of Older Americans Month
When Older Americans Month was established in 1963, only 17 million living Americans had reached their 65th birthdays. About a third of older Americans lived in poverty and there were few programs to meet their needs.
Interest in older Americans and their concerns was growing, however. In April of 1963, President John F. Kennedy's meeting with the National Council of Senior Citizens served as a prelude to designating May as "Senior Citizens Month."
President Jimmy Carter decided in 1980 that what was once called Senior Citizens Month, should be called "Older Americans Month," which has become the tradition.
Historically, Older Americans Month has been promoted as a time to acknowledge the contributions of past and current older persons to our country, in particular those who defended our country.
Every President since JFK has issued a formal proclamation during or before the month of May asking that the entire nation pay tribute in some way to older persons in their communities. Older Americans Month is celebrated across the country through ceremonies, events, fairs and other such activities.
excerpted from SeniorJournal.com
This year’s Older Americans Month theme - “Age Strong! Live Long!” - recognizes the diversity and vitality of today’s older Americans who span three generations, according to the AOA news release.
“They have lived through wars and hard times, as well as periods of unprecedented prosperity. They pioneered new technologies in medicine, communications, and industry while spearheading a cultural revolution that won equal rights for minorities, women, and disabled Americans,” adds the news release.
“These remarkable achievements demonstrate the strength and character of older Americans, and underscore the debt of gratitude we owe to the generations that have given our society so much. But the contributions of older Americans are not only in the past.
“Older Americans are living longer and are more active than ever before. And with the aging of the baby boomer generation—the largest in our nation’s history - America’s senior population is expected to number 71.5 million by 2030.
“While keeping the growing population of older Americans healthy and active will increase the demand for senior services, what is remarkable is the extent to which older Americans themselves are supporting each other. As the new generations of seniors become better educated and more financially secure than their predecessors, they are spending more time making significant contributions in their communities through civic and volunteer opportunities.
“In fact, older Americans are a core component of service delivery to seniors—embodying and modeling the drive to Age Strong! Live Long! They volunteer at group meal sites and deliver food to homebound seniors; they act as escorts and provide transportation for older adults who cannot drive; they help seniors with home repair, shopping and errands; and they provide vital counseling, information and referral services.
“Their energy and commitment reminds all Americans—not just senior citizens and their caregivers—to do their part to enhance the quality of life for older generations.
“The annual commemoration of Older Americans Month is our opportunity to recognize the contributions of older citizens and join them in providing services and support that empower the elderly.
"Americans of all ages and backgrounds can volunteer with programs that improve health literacy, increase access to quality health services, offer food and nutrition services, provide financial and housing counseling, sponsor social activities and community engagement, and more.
Contact your local Area Agency on Aging by visiting http://www.eldercare.gov or calling 1-800-677-1116 to find out what you can do to strengthen services for older Americans, this month and all year round.”
History of Older Americans Month
When Older Americans Month was established in 1963, only 17 million living Americans had reached their 65th birthdays. About a third of older Americans lived in poverty and there were few programs to meet their needs.
Interest in older Americans and their concerns was growing, however. In April of 1963, President John F. Kennedy's meeting with the National Council of Senior Citizens served as a prelude to designating May as "Senior Citizens Month."
President Jimmy Carter decided in 1980 that what was once called Senior Citizens Month, should be called "Older Americans Month," which has become the tradition.
Historically, Older Americans Month has been promoted as a time to acknowledge the contributions of past and current older persons to our country, in particular those who defended our country.
Every President since JFK has issued a formal proclamation during or before the month of May asking that the entire nation pay tribute in some way to older persons in their communities. Older Americans Month is celebrated across the country through ceremonies, events, fairs and other such activities.
excerpted from SeniorJournal.com
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Assembling the Right at Home Team
The 2010 NFL draft recently took place – the day when pro football teams “draft” college football players they believe will improve their chances of being successful.
When I was a kid I loved the draft. Between the 4th and 12th grade, I faked being sick every single draft day so I could stay home and watch this annual event. Whether something would shock you (the Raiders always do something kooky) or just confuse you (the Giants once drafted a player who was blind) I always find the NFL draft to be fascinating.
So what does this have to do with providing caregivers? Well I feel that we hire caregivers not unlike teams evaluate college players. We check references (teams review college games) and conduct competency tests and background checks (teams conduct athletic tests) before we’re ready to draft – or more accurately hire – someone as a caregiver.
We recognize mistakes we’ve made in hiring and learn from that. Sometimes we’re pleasantly surprised with how good one of our caregivers turns out to be.
And as time passes, you assemble your team. Caregivers like Susan from Glendale, our 2008 Caregiver of the Year, who’s has been called “family” by virtually every client she’s worked with; Megan from Eagle Rock, who hasn’t shown up late in nearly 2 years; George from Santa Monica, who one client called “truly gifted” or Charmie from Reseda who her client refers to as “the kindest person ever.”
Not all of our employees turn out to be the equivalent of an All-Star player. But you can trust that at Right at Home we make sure we have our own Super Bowl caliber team ready to help you and your loved one when you need us the most.
When I was a kid I loved the draft. Between the 4th and 12th grade, I faked being sick every single draft day so I could stay home and watch this annual event. Whether something would shock you (the Raiders always do something kooky) or just confuse you (the Giants once drafted a player who was blind) I always find the NFL draft to be fascinating.
So what does this have to do with providing caregivers? Well I feel that we hire caregivers not unlike teams evaluate college players. We check references (teams review college games) and conduct competency tests and background checks (teams conduct athletic tests) before we’re ready to draft – or more accurately hire – someone as a caregiver.
We recognize mistakes we’ve made in hiring and learn from that. Sometimes we’re pleasantly surprised with how good one of our caregivers turns out to be.
And as time passes, you assemble your team. Caregivers like Susan from Glendale, our 2008 Caregiver of the Year, who’s has been called “family” by virtually every client she’s worked with; Megan from Eagle Rock, who hasn’t shown up late in nearly 2 years; George from Santa Monica, who one client called “truly gifted” or Charmie from Reseda who her client refers to as “the kindest person ever.”
Not all of our employees turn out to be the equivalent of an All-Star player. But you can trust that at Right at Home we make sure we have our own Super Bowl caliber team ready to help you and your loved one when you need us the most.
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Tips When Caring for an Elderly Loved One - Day 2
Jacqueline Marcell wrote a book a few years back titled Elder Rage-or-Take My Father... Please! This is Day 2 highlighting some tips from the book about how to handle certain difficult issues.
Complains about real or imagined physical symptoms?
Set a time limit for these health “complaint” sessions. Listen, be sympathetic, and offer solutions. Then, declare the complaint time over and divert their attention to a different topic or activity. If the moaning and groaning doesn’t stop, give three warnings, use the silent treatment, then walk away.
Try a simple test to see if their symptoms might be psychosomatic or just for attention. The next time they complain of a minor ache or pain, quickly put a vitamin pill in their mouth, pretending the pill is an aspirin. See if the mysterious pain immediately goes away. Don’t tell them that their pains are not real, but privately let their doctor know what you discover.
Together, write down their symptoms in order of what bothers them the most. When you go to the doctor, see which symptoms they actually end up complaining about. Have the doctor address each issue, take notes, and cross each item off the list as they are reviewed. If your loved one is embarrassed to complain to the doctor, take charge and make sure the doctor knows all symptoms including: sleep, appetite, energy changes, memory problems, alterations in mood, inability to do basic things, incontinence, depression, anxiety and anger. Speak with the doctor in private if necessary.
Frequently bring all medications (prescriptions and all over the counter vitamins, etc.) to the doctor’s to make sure there are no interactions. When a new medicine is prescribed, ask if any specific foods and alcohol should be avoided while taking this drug. Should this drug be taken with or without food? Should this drug be taken at a certain time of day? Is it all right to continue normal activities, such as driving? All drugs have side effects, and can interact with each other and produce further complications.
Get a lock box for their medications if you have any suspicions that they are not being taking appropriately. Hide a spare key someplace in their home in case you forget or lose your key, or if someone else has to give the medications if you cannot get there.
Complains about real or imagined physical symptoms?
Set a time limit for these health “complaint” sessions. Listen, be sympathetic, and offer solutions. Then, declare the complaint time over and divert their attention to a different topic or activity. If the moaning and groaning doesn’t stop, give three warnings, use the silent treatment, then walk away.
Try a simple test to see if their symptoms might be psychosomatic or just for attention. The next time they complain of a minor ache or pain, quickly put a vitamin pill in their mouth, pretending the pill is an aspirin. See if the mysterious pain immediately goes away. Don’t tell them that their pains are not real, but privately let their doctor know what you discover.
Together, write down their symptoms in order of what bothers them the most. When you go to the doctor, see which symptoms they actually end up complaining about. Have the doctor address each issue, take notes, and cross each item off the list as they are reviewed. If your loved one is embarrassed to complain to the doctor, take charge and make sure the doctor knows all symptoms including: sleep, appetite, energy changes, memory problems, alterations in mood, inability to do basic things, incontinence, depression, anxiety and anger. Speak with the doctor in private if necessary.
Frequently bring all medications (prescriptions and all over the counter vitamins, etc.) to the doctor’s to make sure there are no interactions. When a new medicine is prescribed, ask if any specific foods and alcohol should be avoided while taking this drug. Should this drug be taken with or without food? Should this drug be taken at a certain time of day? Is it all right to continue normal activities, such as driving? All drugs have side effects, and can interact with each other and produce further complications.
Get a lock box for their medications if you have any suspicions that they are not being taking appropriately. Hide a spare key someplace in their home in case you forget or lose your key, or if someone else has to give the medications if you cannot get there.
Friday, April 16, 2010
Home Care Helps Seniors Manage Painful Conditions
Pain isn't "just a part of growing older"
Though physical pain isn't inevitable as we grow older, seniors are more likely to have arthritis, osteoporosis, fractures, angina, shingles or other conditions that cause pain.
Home care worker with senior clientPain diminishes quality of life and independence. It even increases the risk of falls. And yet, while older adults are more likely to experience pain, they are the least likely to ask for or receive relief. Many believe they are "just getting older." Or, they hesitate to speak up because they "don't want to be a bother."
How can family help? If your loved one is experiencing pain and hasn't recently raised the subject with his healthcare provider, encourage him to request an evaluation of his current pain control regimen, and to discuss alternate solutions that might be more effective. Today's pain specialists have a wider array of treatment options than ever before.
Finding the right "prescription" for pain control is only the beginning. Following the doctor's instructions best ensures positive results, but a senior who is experiencing chronic pain may find it difficult to comply with the pain control strategy. Families can help by offering encouragement and helping with practical tasks. And when family can't be there, professional home care services can provide an extra measure of support.
Home care professionals have learned from years of experience that supporting pain management is a vital quality of life element for the seniors they serve. Home health aides support pain management in several proactive ways:
Medication management: The doctor may prescribe pain control drugs. Common drugs include:
* over-the-counter products such as aspirin and ibuprofen;
* opioid drugs such as morphine and codeine;
* antidepressants;
* muscle relaxants;
* steroids; and
* topical medications.
It is important to take these medications correctly, but this can be a challenge, especially if your loved one has multiple health conditions. A home health aide can remind your loved one to take medications on time and in the way they are supposed to be taken. The aide can also take your loved one to the pharmacy or pick up prescriptions, help with pill organizers and dispensers, and report any signs of side effects.
Promote compliance with physical treatments. Medications are not the only option for pain relief. Your loved one may benefit from physical therapy, which might include massage, heat and cold, biofeedback or electrical treatments such as a spinal cord stimulator or TENS device. Pain control specialists might also prescribe relaxation techniques, such as yoga, tai chi or breathing exercises. A home health aide can transport your loved one to appointments or classes. If home exercises are prescribed, the aide can provide encouragement and supervision.
Encourage physical activity. Staying active may well be the most important "medicine" for your loved one's health. Study after study confirms that physical activity improves arthritis, osteoporosis, heart disease and other painful conditions. And exercise increases the production of endorphins, the body's own pain reliever. Families report that the presence of a professional caregiver gives their loved one the self-confidence to follow their individual exercise plan, and to be more active in general.
Decreasing depression and anxiety. Pain isn't "all in our head," but how we think about pain does make a difference. Depression, anxiety and loneliness magnify the perception of pain. Families understand this, and often worry about their loved one being home alone while they can't be there. An in-home caregiver can provide transportation to the senior center, to Bible study or to other social events your loved one enjoys. Seniors report that just having another person around the house is a mood brightener that "takes your mind off your aches and pains."
Dementia care support. Pain control is especially challenging when a loved one has Alzheimer's disease or other dementia. Sometimes pain underlies behavior changes such as wandering and aggressiveness. Yet your loved one may be unable to express that they are feeling pain. According to professional in-home caregivers, it's important to be aware of signals that indicate pain, such as slower movements, decreased function, wincing or irritability.
Untreated, pain can lead to a cycle of decline that makes it impossible for a senior to stay in his or her home or retirement community. Persistent pain that has an impact on physical function, psychological function or quality of life should be treated appropriately. In-home care can be an effective addition to the pain management team.
Though physical pain isn't inevitable as we grow older, seniors are more likely to have arthritis, osteoporosis, fractures, angina, shingles or other conditions that cause pain.
Home care worker with senior clientPain diminishes quality of life and independence. It even increases the risk of falls. And yet, while older adults are more likely to experience pain, they are the least likely to ask for or receive relief. Many believe they are "just getting older." Or, they hesitate to speak up because they "don't want to be a bother."
How can family help? If your loved one is experiencing pain and hasn't recently raised the subject with his healthcare provider, encourage him to request an evaluation of his current pain control regimen, and to discuss alternate solutions that might be more effective. Today's pain specialists have a wider array of treatment options than ever before.
Finding the right "prescription" for pain control is only the beginning. Following the doctor's instructions best ensures positive results, but a senior who is experiencing chronic pain may find it difficult to comply with the pain control strategy. Families can help by offering encouragement and helping with practical tasks. And when family can't be there, professional home care services can provide an extra measure of support.
Home care professionals have learned from years of experience that supporting pain management is a vital quality of life element for the seniors they serve. Home health aides support pain management in several proactive ways:
Medication management: The doctor may prescribe pain control drugs. Common drugs include:
* over-the-counter products such as aspirin and ibuprofen;
* opioid drugs such as morphine and codeine;
* antidepressants;
* muscle relaxants;
* steroids; and
* topical medications.
It is important to take these medications correctly, but this can be a challenge, especially if your loved one has multiple health conditions. A home health aide can remind your loved one to take medications on time and in the way they are supposed to be taken. The aide can also take your loved one to the pharmacy or pick up prescriptions, help with pill organizers and dispensers, and report any signs of side effects.
Promote compliance with physical treatments. Medications are not the only option for pain relief. Your loved one may benefit from physical therapy, which might include massage, heat and cold, biofeedback or electrical treatments such as a spinal cord stimulator or TENS device. Pain control specialists might also prescribe relaxation techniques, such as yoga, tai chi or breathing exercises. A home health aide can transport your loved one to appointments or classes. If home exercises are prescribed, the aide can provide encouragement and supervision.
Encourage physical activity. Staying active may well be the most important "medicine" for your loved one's health. Study after study confirms that physical activity improves arthritis, osteoporosis, heart disease and other painful conditions. And exercise increases the production of endorphins, the body's own pain reliever. Families report that the presence of a professional caregiver gives their loved one the self-confidence to follow their individual exercise plan, and to be more active in general.
Decreasing depression and anxiety. Pain isn't "all in our head," but how we think about pain does make a difference. Depression, anxiety and loneliness magnify the perception of pain. Families understand this, and often worry about their loved one being home alone while they can't be there. An in-home caregiver can provide transportation to the senior center, to Bible study or to other social events your loved one enjoys. Seniors report that just having another person around the house is a mood brightener that "takes your mind off your aches and pains."
Dementia care support. Pain control is especially challenging when a loved one has Alzheimer's disease or other dementia. Sometimes pain underlies behavior changes such as wandering and aggressiveness. Yet your loved one may be unable to express that they are feeling pain. According to professional in-home caregivers, it's important to be aware of signals that indicate pain, such as slower movements, decreased function, wincing or irritability.
Untreated, pain can lead to a cycle of decline that makes it impossible for a senior to stay in his or her home or retirement community. Persistent pain that has an impact on physical function, psychological function or quality of life should be treated appropriately. In-home care can be an effective addition to the pain management team.
Monday, April 12, 2010
Senior Care Tax Deductions
With taxes due in just a few days its a good reminder that often times in-home care can be deducted from your taxes.
Our friends at caregiverlist.com provide a nice little recap of possible tax deductions for care below.
As the tables turn and children become the caregiver for their parents, and as the senior care expenses begin adding up, family caregivers often ask if Uncle Sam offers a tax deduction similar to the tax deduction for child care.
The answer is, yes, if you are able to claim the elderly relative as a dependent (your parent does not have to live with you but you must be providing for more than half of their financial support, which includes food and transportation). If you and your parent meet the Internal Revenue Service's criteria, you will be able to deduct up to $3,400.00 from your taxable income (for year 2007). Social Security benefits are not counted in most cases.
In addition, the Internal Revenue Service lets you deduct medical costs as long as they are more than 7.5 percent of your adjusted gross income. This may include the medical (and dental) expenses of everyone listed on your tax return, including your spouse and dependents. You may be able to include some of the expenses paid for a parent, along with expenses for a caregiver.
Keep in mind medical expenses include travel expenses to and from medical treatments, along with uninsured treatments, such as hearing aides and false teeth. If more than one child participates in the financial support of the parent, some families rotate the deduction to a different child each year.
Please do consult your accountant and review the specifics on the IRS publication guides (IRS Publication 502 covers medical expense deductions and IRS Publication 554 covers dependent care deductions).
Our friends at caregiverlist.com provide a nice little recap of possible tax deductions for care below.
As the tables turn and children become the caregiver for their parents, and as the senior care expenses begin adding up, family caregivers often ask if Uncle Sam offers a tax deduction similar to the tax deduction for child care.
The answer is, yes, if you are able to claim the elderly relative as a dependent (your parent does not have to live with you but you must be providing for more than half of their financial support, which includes food and transportation). If you and your parent meet the Internal Revenue Service's criteria, you will be able to deduct up to $3,400.00 from your taxable income (for year 2007). Social Security benefits are not counted in most cases.
In addition, the Internal Revenue Service lets you deduct medical costs as long as they are more than 7.5 percent of your adjusted gross income. This may include the medical (and dental) expenses of everyone listed on your tax return, including your spouse and dependents. You may be able to include some of the expenses paid for a parent, along with expenses for a caregiver.
Keep in mind medical expenses include travel expenses to and from medical treatments, along with uninsured treatments, such as hearing aides and false teeth. If more than one child participates in the financial support of the parent, some families rotate the deduction to a different child each year.
Please do consult your accountant and review the specifics on the IRS publication guides (IRS Publication 502 covers medical expense deductions and IRS Publication 554 covers dependent care deductions).
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Right at Home welcomes a new Staffing Coordinator
Right at Home in Glendale is happy to announce that they've hired Joanne Acosta to as a Staffing Coordinator.
Joanne has worked as a staffing coordinator for four years at 2 other companies and after taking a short break for school is back working in the industry she has a passion for.
Joanne will be in charge of hiring, staffing and scheduling our caregivers as well as other office administrative duteies.
We are so pleased that Joanne chose to join the Right at Home team!
Joanne has worked as a staffing coordinator for four years at 2 other companies and after taking a short break for school is back working in the industry she has a passion for.
Joanne will be in charge of hiring, staffing and scheduling our caregivers as well as other office administrative duteies.
We are so pleased that Joanne chose to join the Right at Home team!
Monday, March 1, 2010
Caregiver of the Month in February - Megan M.
Congratulations to Megan McHone for being named our caregiver of the month for the February 2010.
Megan has worked for Right at Home for just under a year and has worked on a variety of companion care cases. She is currently working part-time on three (3) different cases and has always been extremely well received by all of our clients.
Full of style and sass, Megan has become a breath of fresh air both for the clients she serves as well as our office staff. Megan, who owns her own catering business and also volunteers at Meals on Wheels, is a great part of the Right at Home team.
Congratulations Megan!
Megan has worked for Right at Home for just under a year and has worked on a variety of companion care cases. She is currently working part-time on three (3) different cases and has always been extremely well received by all of our clients.
Full of style and sass, Megan has become a breath of fresh air both for the clients she serves as well as our office staff. Megan, who owns her own catering business and also volunteers at Meals on Wheels, is a great part of the Right at Home team.
Congratulations Megan!
Friday, February 26, 2010
Senior Citizens Can Add Quality Years to Life with Exercise
My 79 year-old father has not only taken the best physical care of himself. He loves Red-Meat and Bacon; has no qualms about chomping down on sugary snacks; and has been a smoker for virtually his entire life. However, health problems have slowly started to weigh him down the last few years and he finally took his doctor's advice and went on an exercise program. And you know what? It's working. He recently told me he never exercised before because it was, in his words, "A Pain in the $*%#." but he now extols the virtues of exercise even in later life stating he feels better now than he has in a few years. If this personal anecdote isn't enough to get you or your loved one up and moving, than perhaps this article highlighting a University of Illinois at Urbana-Champagne study from a few years ago will.
A study has found that previously sedentary senior citizens who incorporated exercise into their lifestyles not only improved physical function, but experienced psychological benefits as well.
“Exercise is a lot like spinach … everybody knows it's good for you; yet many people still avoid it, forgoing its potential health benefits,” say the authors.
But researchers at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, led by kinesiology professor Edward McAuley, who study the effects of exercise on aging point to their new findings that may inspire people to get up, get out and get moving on a regular basis.
"The implications of our work are that not only will physical activity potentially add years to your life as we age, but the quality of those years is likely to be improved by regular physical activity," McAuley said.
The UI research indicated positive psychosocial and cognitive outcomes -- in effect, significant quality-of-life gains -- among participants who remained physically active long after they began an initial randomized, six-month exercise trial consisting of walking and stretching/toning exercises. Results were gleaned from a battery of surveys and assessments administered at one- and five-year intervals following the initial exercise regimen.
McAuley said the study -- which assessed physical activity levels, quality of life, physical self-esteem, self-efficacy and affect in a large sample (174) of adults over age 65 -- is believed to be the only one to date to examine the relationship between physical activity and quality of life over such a long time.
"Self-efficacy," McAuley noted, can be defined as "the belief, or self-confidence, in one's capacity to successfully carry out a task"; while "affect" refers to reported levels of happiness or contentment.
The researchers found that participants who continued to be physically active a year after baseline responses were recorded -- through engagement in leisure, occupational or home activities, such as house-cleaning or gardening -- were "fitter, had higher levels of self-efficacy and physical self-esteem, expressed more positive affect and reported, in turn, a better quality of life."
Increased physical activity over time, as indicated by results of the five-year follow-up, "was associated with greater improvements in self-esteem and affect. Enhanced affect was, in turn, associated with increases in satisfaction with life over time," the researchers noted.
"Our findings are important on several fronts," McAuley said. "First, we demonstrated that physical activity has long-term effects on important aspects of psychosocial functioning through its influences on self-efficacy, quality of life and self-esteem."
"Second, there is a growing interest in the relationship between physical activity and quality of life, especially in older adults. However, much of this work suggests a direct relationship between the two. Our work takes the approach, and the data support it, that physical activity influences more global aspects of quality of life through its influence on more proximal physical and psychological factors such as affect, self-efficacy and health status."
A related, two-year study conducted in McAuley's lab looked at the roles played by physical activity, health status and self-efficacy in determining "global quality of life," or satisfaction with life among older adults. The research focused on a different sample of 249 older black and white women. Results of that study will be published in an article titled "Physical Activity and Quality of Life in Older Adults: Influence of Health Status and Self-Efficacy" in a forthcoming edition of the Annals of Behavioral Medicine.
In that study, the researchers tested three potentially competing models of the physical activity/quality-of-life relationship and ultimately concluded that their findings "offer a strong theoretical foundation for understanding physical activity and quality-of-life relationships in older adults."
McAuley said the study's results confirm earlier findings by other researchers suggesting "changes in levels of functioning in older adults with chronic conditions were not predicted simply by health status or disease state, but also by physical activity and self-efficacy."
In other words, he said, there is a tendency among adults with lower self-expectations of their physical abilities to give up -- to reduce the number of activities they engage in as well as the degree of effort they expend toward that end.
"These reductions, in turn, provide fewer opportunities to experience successful, efficacy-enhancing behaviors leading to further reductions in efficacy," McAuley said. "Our data would suggest that such declines are likely to lead to subsequent reductions in health status and, ultimately, quality of life."
Results of the study appear in an article titled "Physical Activity Enhances Long-Term Quality of Life in Older Adults: Efficacy, Esteem and Affective Influences," published in Annals of Behavioral Medicine. Co-authors with McAuley on the report are UI kinesiology professor Robert W. Motl; psychology professor Ed Diener; and current and former graduate students Steriani Elavsky, Liang Hu, Gerald J. Jerome, James F. Konopack and David X. Marquez.
Co-authors of the study with McAuley are Motl; kinesiology and psychology professor Karl R. Rosengren; and graduate students Konopack, Shawna E. Doerksen and Katherine S. Morris.
The research was funded by grants from the National Institute on Aging.
A study has found that previously sedentary senior citizens who incorporated exercise into their lifestyles not only improved physical function, but experienced psychological benefits as well.
“Exercise is a lot like spinach … everybody knows it's good for you; yet many people still avoid it, forgoing its potential health benefits,” say the authors.
But researchers at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, led by kinesiology professor Edward McAuley, who study the effects of exercise on aging point to their new findings that may inspire people to get up, get out and get moving on a regular basis.
"The implications of our work are that not only will physical activity potentially add years to your life as we age, but the quality of those years is likely to be improved by regular physical activity," McAuley said.
The UI research indicated positive psychosocial and cognitive outcomes -- in effect, significant quality-of-life gains -- among participants who remained physically active long after they began an initial randomized, six-month exercise trial consisting of walking and stretching/toning exercises. Results were gleaned from a battery of surveys and assessments administered at one- and five-year intervals following the initial exercise regimen.
McAuley said the study -- which assessed physical activity levels, quality of life, physical self-esteem, self-efficacy and affect in a large sample (174) of adults over age 65 -- is believed to be the only one to date to examine the relationship between physical activity and quality of life over such a long time.
"Self-efficacy," McAuley noted, can be defined as "the belief, or self-confidence, in one's capacity to successfully carry out a task"; while "affect" refers to reported levels of happiness or contentment.
The researchers found that participants who continued to be physically active a year after baseline responses were recorded -- through engagement in leisure, occupational or home activities, such as house-cleaning or gardening -- were "fitter, had higher levels of self-efficacy and physical self-esteem, expressed more positive affect and reported, in turn, a better quality of life."
Increased physical activity over time, as indicated by results of the five-year follow-up, "was associated with greater improvements in self-esteem and affect. Enhanced affect was, in turn, associated with increases in satisfaction with life over time," the researchers noted.
"Our findings are important on several fronts," McAuley said. "First, we demonstrated that physical activity has long-term effects on important aspects of psychosocial functioning through its influences on self-efficacy, quality of life and self-esteem."
"Second, there is a growing interest in the relationship between physical activity and quality of life, especially in older adults. However, much of this work suggests a direct relationship between the two. Our work takes the approach, and the data support it, that physical activity influences more global aspects of quality of life through its influence on more proximal physical and psychological factors such as affect, self-efficacy and health status."
A related, two-year study conducted in McAuley's lab looked at the roles played by physical activity, health status and self-efficacy in determining "global quality of life," or satisfaction with life among older adults. The research focused on a different sample of 249 older black and white women. Results of that study will be published in an article titled "Physical Activity and Quality of Life in Older Adults: Influence of Health Status and Self-Efficacy" in a forthcoming edition of the Annals of Behavioral Medicine.
In that study, the researchers tested three potentially competing models of the physical activity/quality-of-life relationship and ultimately concluded that their findings "offer a strong theoretical foundation for understanding physical activity and quality-of-life relationships in older adults."
McAuley said the study's results confirm earlier findings by other researchers suggesting "changes in levels of functioning in older adults with chronic conditions were not predicted simply by health status or disease state, but also by physical activity and self-efficacy."
In other words, he said, there is a tendency among adults with lower self-expectations of their physical abilities to give up -- to reduce the number of activities they engage in as well as the degree of effort they expend toward that end.
"These reductions, in turn, provide fewer opportunities to experience successful, efficacy-enhancing behaviors leading to further reductions in efficacy," McAuley said. "Our data would suggest that such declines are likely to lead to subsequent reductions in health status and, ultimately, quality of life."
Results of the study appear in an article titled "Physical Activity Enhances Long-Term Quality of Life in Older Adults: Efficacy, Esteem and Affective Influences," published in Annals of Behavioral Medicine. Co-authors with McAuley on the report are UI kinesiology professor Robert W. Motl; psychology professor Ed Diener; and current and former graduate students Steriani Elavsky, Liang Hu, Gerald J. Jerome, James F. Konopack and David X. Marquez.
Co-authors of the study with McAuley are Motl; kinesiology and psychology professor Karl R. Rosengren; and graduate students Konopack, Shawna E. Doerksen and Katherine S. Morris.
The research was funded by grants from the National Institute on Aging.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Milk Benefits More Than Just Bones
We saw this article on a recent study at www.healthandage.com and thought it was worth re-posting for those of you who still resist the benefits of milk.
Can a diet that includes plenty of dairy foods cut your risk of developing type 2 diabetes?
Milk drinking has declined over the past 30 years. During this same time, the prevalence of obesity and type 2 diabetes has increased. Is this just a coincidence, or are the two trends related? Harvard University researchers recently took a look at this question by examining the relationship between dairy consumption, obesity, and factors leading to the development of type 2 diabetes in young adults.
Their focus was on health factors --- including obesity and abnormally high levels of insulin in the bloodstream --- that appear to contribute to high blood pressure, abnormal blood sugar levels, low HDL (good) cholesterol, and elevated blood triglycerides. This cluster of risk factors, called the insulin resistance syndrome (IRS) or syndrome X, is linked to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
A look at diet and lifestyle
For this analysis, more than 3,000 young adults from 4 US cities completed a questionnaire that documented lifestyle habits, including smoking status, physical activity, and diet. A physical exam and blood tests measured blood pressure, cholesterol levels, blood sugar levels, and body fat.
Study participants were monitored over a 10-year period, and were diagnosed with insulin resistance syndrome if they had at least two of the following symptoms: high blood sugar, obesity, high blood pressure, and a combination of low HDL cholesterol and high triglycerides.
Dairy foods benefit overweight adults
Among the volunteers who were somewhat overweight, there was a significantly lower incidence of IRS characteristics --- obesity, high blood pressure, abnormal blood sugar levels --- in those who ate more dairy foods. Those who ate at least 5 servings per day (of milk, cheese, yogurt, and dairy-based desserts) reduced their odds of developing IRS by 72%, even after taking into consideration other dietary and lifestyle factors that affect the likelihood of developing IRS.
In normal weight individuals, there was no consistent pattern between dairy consumption and development of IRS.
Why dairy?
Scientists aren't yet sure how specific foods might affect the risk of developing IRS. They speculate, though, that the protective benefits of dairy products may come from calcium, potassium, and magnesium --- all of which may lower the risk of high blood pressure, coronary heart disease, stroke, or type 2 diabetes.
Insulin resistance syndrome, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease are on the rise in all racial, ethnic, and social class groups. Even children and young adults are developing these diseases at higher rates. The authors point out that dietary trends such as increased soda consumption (which often displaces milk) and snacking may contribute to overweight and poor health.
Make dairy decisions wisely
The downside of dairy is the high amount of saturated fat it contains. But consumers can minimize fat and calories by choosing low-fat and fat-free milk, yogurt, and cheese.
Source
* Dairy consumption, obesity, and the insulin resistance syndrome in young adults: The CARDIA Study. MA. Pereira, DR. Jacobs, L. Van Horn, et al., JAMA , 2002, vol. 287, pp. 2081--2089
Can a diet that includes plenty of dairy foods cut your risk of developing type 2 diabetes?
Milk drinking has declined over the past 30 years. During this same time, the prevalence of obesity and type 2 diabetes has increased. Is this just a coincidence, or are the two trends related? Harvard University researchers recently took a look at this question by examining the relationship between dairy consumption, obesity, and factors leading to the development of type 2 diabetes in young adults.
Their focus was on health factors --- including obesity and abnormally high levels of insulin in the bloodstream --- that appear to contribute to high blood pressure, abnormal blood sugar levels, low HDL (good) cholesterol, and elevated blood triglycerides. This cluster of risk factors, called the insulin resistance syndrome (IRS) or syndrome X, is linked to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
A look at diet and lifestyle
For this analysis, more than 3,000 young adults from 4 US cities completed a questionnaire that documented lifestyle habits, including smoking status, physical activity, and diet. A physical exam and blood tests measured blood pressure, cholesterol levels, blood sugar levels, and body fat.
Study participants were monitored over a 10-year period, and were diagnosed with insulin resistance syndrome if they had at least two of the following symptoms: high blood sugar, obesity, high blood pressure, and a combination of low HDL cholesterol and high triglycerides.
Dairy foods benefit overweight adults
Among the volunteers who were somewhat overweight, there was a significantly lower incidence of IRS characteristics --- obesity, high blood pressure, abnormal blood sugar levels --- in those who ate more dairy foods. Those who ate at least 5 servings per day (of milk, cheese, yogurt, and dairy-based desserts) reduced their odds of developing IRS by 72%, even after taking into consideration other dietary and lifestyle factors that affect the likelihood of developing IRS.
In normal weight individuals, there was no consistent pattern between dairy consumption and development of IRS.
Why dairy?
Scientists aren't yet sure how specific foods might affect the risk of developing IRS. They speculate, though, that the protective benefits of dairy products may come from calcium, potassium, and magnesium --- all of which may lower the risk of high blood pressure, coronary heart disease, stroke, or type 2 diabetes.
Insulin resistance syndrome, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease are on the rise in all racial, ethnic, and social class groups. Even children and young adults are developing these diseases at higher rates. The authors point out that dietary trends such as increased soda consumption (which often displaces milk) and snacking may contribute to overweight and poor health.
Make dairy decisions wisely
The downside of dairy is the high amount of saturated fat it contains. But consumers can minimize fat and calories by choosing low-fat and fat-free milk, yogurt, and cheese.
Source
* Dairy consumption, obesity, and the insulin resistance syndrome in young adults: The CARDIA Study. MA. Pereira, DR. Jacobs, L. Van Horn, et al., JAMA , 2002, vol. 287, pp. 2081--2089
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Is It Time to Give Up the Car?
For most of us, the automobile represents independence, control and mobility. We couldn't wait to get our first driver's license when we were teenagers, and we would like to keep driving as long as possible.
However, some of the normal changes of aging can make driving more challenging. Hearing loss, vision problems, decreased reaction time, memory loss and lessened manual dexterity are all limitations that tend to increase as a person ages.
Seniors and their loved ones should discuss driving safety, and periodically assess driving abilities to honestly judge whether the senior adult is safe behind the wheel. There may come a point when any one of these conditions or a combination of several make it difficult and risky to keep driving.
Some older drivers become increasingly nervous about their driving ability, and consequently become less mobile in the community. Some keep driving until an incident occurs—a scare, a minor accident, or worse—and then quit driving abruptly, without having made plans for what they will do without the car. And others are in denial, refusing to face up to limitations until family members or the department of licensing step in.
Seniors who have successfully made the transition from being a driver urge others to plan ahead and be proactive. One 80-year-old man who abruptly stopped driving after an accident counsels, "Don't wait for circumstances to make decisions for you!"
Giving Up Driving Doesn't Mean Giving Up Mobility
The first thing to do is to add up the cost of owning and maintaining a car. Car payments, insurance, repairs, gasoline, parking fees—all these should go into your calculation. For most people, the total is considerable. Think of those dollars as money available for alternative transportation.
Knowing your loved one has this "transportation allowance" available, begin to calculate the alternatives, and ask your loved one these questions:
* Do you live on or near a bus or rapid transit route? Where are the places you can conveniently travel using public transportation? If you've never explored your local bus, subway or light rail, take a field trip! Just hop on and take a ride some day, making sure you know how to return to the same spot. Look for grocery stores, dry cleaners, other shopping possibilities along the route.
* Do you have family or friends who might enjoy giving you a ride to church, to your doctor's office, to the barber or beauty shop, or on a weekly shopping trip?
* Is there special transportation for seniors in your area? Where will they take you? How convenient is it? How much lead time is needed to use this service?
* How much do cab rides cost to your usual destinations? Will a cab company take "standing assignments" on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis? Once you have figured out how the first three modes of transportation will work, use taxi cabs to fill in the blanks.
* Don't forget walking! We get in the habit of driving, even though some local destinations are near and provide a little extra exercise.
With this kind of planning, many seniors lose their anxiety over giving up driving. It may not be easy, but having a workable plan for getting where you want to go is a major step forward.
When the time comes to put away the keys, be creative in your approach. Encourage your loved one to try:
* Leaving the car in the garage for a while and see how they get along not using it.
* Setting a trial period for trying out transportation options.
* Giving the car to a favorite charity or a grandchild.
* Selling the car and using the money for an alternate transportation fund.
When seniors and families first begin to have concerns about the senior's driving, that is the time to begin planning a post-driving strategy. Think of this as just another challenge to be addressed, and then put your heads together, using your best problem-solving skills to keep your senior loved one active and mobile.
What's the Role of Family?
Don't let the topic of driving safety become a "taboo" subject in your family. Seniors have the right to make their own decisions as long as they're able, including the decision to keep driving. But family members have the right, and the responsibility, to be concerned about the safety of their loved one and of strangers who might be hurt in an accident. There is obvious potential for conflict here, but you shouldn't let it reach that point. Be willing to talk candidly about the issue, and be open to some risk-reducing compromises. Work together to create a plan that respects while it protects.
Learn More About Alternate Transportation Strategies
The National Center on Senior Transportation website offers information for older adults, caregivers and transportation providers to promote the greatest independence and mobility for seniors in the community.
However, some of the normal changes of aging can make driving more challenging. Hearing loss, vision problems, decreased reaction time, memory loss and lessened manual dexterity are all limitations that tend to increase as a person ages.
Seniors and their loved ones should discuss driving safety, and periodically assess driving abilities to honestly judge whether the senior adult is safe behind the wheel. There may come a point when any one of these conditions or a combination of several make it difficult and risky to keep driving.
Some older drivers become increasingly nervous about their driving ability, and consequently become less mobile in the community. Some keep driving until an incident occurs—a scare, a minor accident, or worse—and then quit driving abruptly, without having made plans for what they will do without the car. And others are in denial, refusing to face up to limitations until family members or the department of licensing step in.
Seniors who have successfully made the transition from being a driver urge others to plan ahead and be proactive. One 80-year-old man who abruptly stopped driving after an accident counsels, "Don't wait for circumstances to make decisions for you!"
Giving Up Driving Doesn't Mean Giving Up Mobility
The first thing to do is to add up the cost of owning and maintaining a car. Car payments, insurance, repairs, gasoline, parking fees—all these should go into your calculation. For most people, the total is considerable. Think of those dollars as money available for alternative transportation.
Knowing your loved one has this "transportation allowance" available, begin to calculate the alternatives, and ask your loved one these questions:
* Do you live on or near a bus or rapid transit route? Where are the places you can conveniently travel using public transportation? If you've never explored your local bus, subway or light rail, take a field trip! Just hop on and take a ride some day, making sure you know how to return to the same spot. Look for grocery stores, dry cleaners, other shopping possibilities along the route.
* Do you have family or friends who might enjoy giving you a ride to church, to your doctor's office, to the barber or beauty shop, or on a weekly shopping trip?
* Is there special transportation for seniors in your area? Where will they take you? How convenient is it? How much lead time is needed to use this service?
* How much do cab rides cost to your usual destinations? Will a cab company take "standing assignments" on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis? Once you have figured out how the first three modes of transportation will work, use taxi cabs to fill in the blanks.
* Don't forget walking! We get in the habit of driving, even though some local destinations are near and provide a little extra exercise.
With this kind of planning, many seniors lose their anxiety over giving up driving. It may not be easy, but having a workable plan for getting where you want to go is a major step forward.
When the time comes to put away the keys, be creative in your approach. Encourage your loved one to try:
* Leaving the car in the garage for a while and see how they get along not using it.
* Setting a trial period for trying out transportation options.
* Giving the car to a favorite charity or a grandchild.
* Selling the car and using the money for an alternate transportation fund.
When seniors and families first begin to have concerns about the senior's driving, that is the time to begin planning a post-driving strategy. Think of this as just another challenge to be addressed, and then put your heads together, using your best problem-solving skills to keep your senior loved one active and mobile.
What's the Role of Family?
Don't let the topic of driving safety become a "taboo" subject in your family. Seniors have the right to make their own decisions as long as they're able, including the decision to keep driving. But family members have the right, and the responsibility, to be concerned about the safety of their loved one and of strangers who might be hurt in an accident. There is obvious potential for conflict here, but you shouldn't let it reach that point. Be willing to talk candidly about the issue, and be open to some risk-reducing compromises. Work together to create a plan that respects while it protects.
Learn More About Alternate Transportation Strategies
The National Center on Senior Transportation website offers information for older adults, caregivers and transportation providers to promote the greatest independence and mobility for seniors in the community.
Monday, February 1, 2010
Caregiver of the Month - Catherine Z.
Right at Home wants to congratulate Catherine Z. for being our caregiver of the month for January!
Catherine has been working the same 5-day a week, live-in case for the past 6 months and has become a trusted confidant for both the patient and the patient's family. Despite some difficult times, including a few sleepless nights, Catherine has maintained her calm and friendly demeanor and has managed to not lose her cool even in the most trying of times.
As a recognition of her success, Angie will receive a Visa Gift Card, 2500 Care Reward points and her name engraved on the Right at Home caregiver of the month plaque.
Congratulations Catherine!
Catherine has been working the same 5-day a week, live-in case for the past 6 months and has become a trusted confidant for both the patient and the patient's family. Despite some difficult times, including a few sleepless nights, Catherine has maintained her calm and friendly demeanor and has managed to not lose her cool even in the most trying of times.
As a recognition of her success, Angie will receive a Visa Gift Card, 2500 Care Reward points and her name engraved on the Right at Home caregiver of the month plaque.
Congratulations Catherine!
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Multigenerational Households: A Rising Trend in Caregiving
Multigenerational households, those that consist of at least three generations living together, are greatly increasing in numbers in the US. Many adult children are choosing to move their elderly parents and loved ones into their homes for several reasons, including aging, health problems and economic considerations.
Multigenerational households were once a common occurrence in the U.S. In the late 1800’s, almost 70 percent of elderly widows lived with an adult child, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. By 1990, that number drastically decreased to 20 percent but the trend has reversed again. U.S. statistics show the number of parents who have moved in with their adult children increased 67 percent to 3.6 million people between 2000 and 2007.
It is important for caregivers in multigenerational households to be aware of the stress that may arise from this type of living arrangement. For those with children still at home, caring for their older relatives under the same roof can increase the stresses of caring for the rest of the family. In addition, caregivers may worry about their own health or have their own financial issues. It is also important to consider potential needs such as home modifications, the division of chores and outside assistance.
Whether the creation of a multigenerational household is permanent or temporary, sandwich generation family caregivers should keep the following tips in mind to help all family members peacefully adjust to their new living arrangement:
- Discuss the circumstances: Discuss the circumstances upfront with the entire family so that everyone understands why the arrangement is in place. Every living arrangement has its benefits and drawbacks, and in order for it to work, the benefits must be recognized and outweigh the drawbacks. In the future, remembering why one has chosen to live in a multigenerational household will help family members cope with any conflicts that may arise.
- Share responsibility: Caregiving is a family responsibility and it lessens the weight for all involved if everyone works as a team. Devise a system to help out with household chores; each person should be responsible for something that helps the whole household.
- Prepare the home: Several physical modifications may be necessary to ensure the home is safe and convenient for seniors. Make sure there is proper lighting throughout the house and no loose carpeting, cords or other hazards to help avoid falls. It also may be necessary to modify the bathroom by adding non-slip surfaces in the tub or shower and grab-bars near the tub, shower and toilet.
- Consider hiring a part-time caregiver: Help is available for those caring for their elderly parents or relatives in their homes. Hiring a trained caregiver from an in-home care agency such as Right at Home can provide much-needed respite for family caregivers. They offer individualized services ranging from companionship, meal preparation and housekeeping to personal hygiene, bathing, medication reminders and more.
- Be flexible: This new living arrangement will take adjustment time. What works at the beginning will most likely change within the first few months and even more so in the next few years. Use a trial and error approach to refine boundaries and guidelines to keep peace in the household.
With family members living longer, many people are faced with the prospect of becoming a family caregiver for a significant number of years. It is important for the family to recognize that they will not be able to tend to all the needs of their loved ones alone and that occasionally they will need to rely on others for support. Communication is the key to making a multigenerational household a beneficial experience for all.
Multigenerational households were once a common occurrence in the U.S. In the late 1800’s, almost 70 percent of elderly widows lived with an adult child, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. By 1990, that number drastically decreased to 20 percent but the trend has reversed again. U.S. statistics show the number of parents who have moved in with their adult children increased 67 percent to 3.6 million people between 2000 and 2007.
It is important for caregivers in multigenerational households to be aware of the stress that may arise from this type of living arrangement. For those with children still at home, caring for their older relatives under the same roof can increase the stresses of caring for the rest of the family. In addition, caregivers may worry about their own health or have their own financial issues. It is also important to consider potential needs such as home modifications, the division of chores and outside assistance.
Whether the creation of a multigenerational household is permanent or temporary, sandwich generation family caregivers should keep the following tips in mind to help all family members peacefully adjust to their new living arrangement:
- Discuss the circumstances: Discuss the circumstances upfront with the entire family so that everyone understands why the arrangement is in place. Every living arrangement has its benefits and drawbacks, and in order for it to work, the benefits must be recognized and outweigh the drawbacks. In the future, remembering why one has chosen to live in a multigenerational household will help family members cope with any conflicts that may arise.
- Share responsibility: Caregiving is a family responsibility and it lessens the weight for all involved if everyone works as a team. Devise a system to help out with household chores; each person should be responsible for something that helps the whole household.
- Prepare the home: Several physical modifications may be necessary to ensure the home is safe and convenient for seniors. Make sure there is proper lighting throughout the house and no loose carpeting, cords or other hazards to help avoid falls. It also may be necessary to modify the bathroom by adding non-slip surfaces in the tub or shower and grab-bars near the tub, shower and toilet.
- Consider hiring a part-time caregiver: Help is available for those caring for their elderly parents or relatives in their homes. Hiring a trained caregiver from an in-home care agency such as Right at Home can provide much-needed respite for family caregivers. They offer individualized services ranging from companionship, meal preparation and housekeeping to personal hygiene, bathing, medication reminders and more.
- Be flexible: This new living arrangement will take adjustment time. What works at the beginning will most likely change within the first few months and even more so in the next few years. Use a trial and error approach to refine boundaries and guidelines to keep peace in the household.
With family members living longer, many people are faced with the prospect of becoming a family caregiver for a significant number of years. It is important for the family to recognize that they will not be able to tend to all the needs of their loved ones alone and that occasionally they will need to rely on others for support. Communication is the key to making a multigenerational household a beneficial experience for all.
Monday, January 11, 2010
2009 CAREGIVER OF THE YEAR
It was a close race, but the ballots have all been cast and the votes have all been tallied.
The Right at Home Los Angeles 2009 Caregiver of the Year is SUSANA A.
Susana has worked for Right at Home for 2 years and has been a model of consistency. She has worked with one client for over 1 year and has worked a weekend Live-In case with another client for the past 6 months. Sometimes this has resulted in Susana working 7 days a week, but she has never complained.
Not only is Susana A. reliable and always on time, she superbly documents all of her cases after each shift and has a calm and easy going demeanor that has allowed her to work through even the most difficult and stressful of situations.
Susana showed particular grit and smarts this year when she helped prevent one of her patients from being scammed out of thousands of dollars by an relentless con artist preying on vulnerable seniors. Susana recognized what was going on immediately, informed the office and then was able to deftly delay the situation until family members were able to address the issue.
We are proud to have Susana as part of our team.
CONGRATULATIONS SUSANA!
The Right at Home Los Angeles 2009 Caregiver of the Year is SUSANA A.
Susana has worked for Right at Home for 2 years and has been a model of consistency. She has worked with one client for over 1 year and has worked a weekend Live-In case with another client for the past 6 months. Sometimes this has resulted in Susana working 7 days a week, but she has never complained.
Not only is Susana A. reliable and always on time, she superbly documents all of her cases after each shift and has a calm and easy going demeanor that has allowed her to work through even the most difficult and stressful of situations.
Susana showed particular grit and smarts this year when she helped prevent one of her patients from being scammed out of thousands of dollars by an relentless con artist preying on vulnerable seniors. Susana recognized what was going on immediately, informed the office and then was able to deftly delay the situation until family members were able to address the issue.
We are proud to have Susana as part of our team.
CONGRATULATIONS SUSANA!
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Understanding Home Care
What is “home care”? How is it different from “home health”?
This is a question that is important for anyone who has an aging parent, relative, or acquaintance who they are trying to help deal with disability, or retain their independence by remaining at home. If keeping a parent or loved one at home is the goal, then understanding clearly what home care models are available is important.
Most of us think of the traditional “visiting nurse” when we think of home care, but this is actually usually home health care. We kind of get stuck in what I call the medical model mode of thinking. When we think of care, we assume services are designed like most of our medical care services to help us recover from an illness, and usually just short term. This kind of care is paid for by Medicare or health insurance, and comes most often after a stay in the hospital.
Home care as provided by companies like Right at Home is substantially different in its focus. We provide many services all geared to help maintain the quality of life in a home setting. This can be an array of care, including support with everyday activities like bathing and dressing, preparing and serving nutritious meals, running errands and keeping up with housework–in other words, a lot of stuff that family members do if they have the time or capability.
The problem is, and you know this already if you are caring for an aging parent–it is not always possible for family members to help with this sort of care. Without it, the quality of life of the aging parent continues to decline. They don’t eat well, they don’t take care of basic hygiene, and if they are forgetful they can do things that create a danger to them without someone checking in.
For further information, check out the definition at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Home_care. For an informative newsletter on caring for an aging parent see www.rightathome.net and click on newsletter signup.
This is a question that is important for anyone who has an aging parent, relative, or acquaintance who they are trying to help deal with disability, or retain their independence by remaining at home. If keeping a parent or loved one at home is the goal, then understanding clearly what home care models are available is important.
Most of us think of the traditional “visiting nurse” when we think of home care, but this is actually usually home health care. We kind of get stuck in what I call the medical model mode of thinking. When we think of care, we assume services are designed like most of our medical care services to help us recover from an illness, and usually just short term. This kind of care is paid for by Medicare or health insurance, and comes most often after a stay in the hospital.
Home care as provided by companies like Right at Home is substantially different in its focus. We provide many services all geared to help maintain the quality of life in a home setting. This can be an array of care, including support with everyday activities like bathing and dressing, preparing and serving nutritious meals, running errands and keeping up with housework–in other words, a lot of stuff that family members do if they have the time or capability.
The problem is, and you know this already if you are caring for an aging parent–it is not always possible for family members to help with this sort of care. Without it, the quality of life of the aging parent continues to decline. They don’t eat well, they don’t take care of basic hygiene, and if they are forgetful they can do things that create a danger to them without someone checking in.
For further information, check out the definition at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Home_care. For an informative newsletter on caring for an aging parent see www.rightathome.net and click on newsletter signup.
Saturday, January 2, 2010
Caregiver of the Month for December
The Right at Home Los Angeles caregiver of the month for December is Dorothy T.
Dorothy has worked for Right at Home for about a year, much of it with the same client the past 8 months. Despite driving over 20 miles to her shift, Dorothy is never late and has created a close and personal bond with the client that she cares for as well as the client's family.
A Certified Nurse Assistant (C.N.A.), Dorothy is currently in school to become a Licensed Vocational Nurse (L.V.N.)
Reliable, always professional and exceedingly competent, Dorothy is an exemplary example of the best Right at Home can offer.
Congratulations Dorothy!
Dorothy has worked for Right at Home for about a year, much of it with the same client the past 8 months. Despite driving over 20 miles to her shift, Dorothy is never late and has created a close and personal bond with the client that she cares for as well as the client's family.
A Certified Nurse Assistant (C.N.A.), Dorothy is currently in school to become a Licensed Vocational Nurse (L.V.N.)
Reliable, always professional and exceedingly competent, Dorothy is an exemplary example of the best Right at Home can offer.
Congratulations Dorothy!
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