Custom Fit-Mouth Tray for Teeth Bleaching May Improve Oral Health of Senior Citizens

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.

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.

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.

The History of Flag Day

Today is Flag Day! This is an oft-overlooked holiday. It seems these days even Arbor Day gets more attention. And let's not even talk about Groundhog Day. There was a whole movie about Groundhog Day. But Flag Day...no movie starring Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis...no public spectacle featuring Al Gore and the guys from Wilco. So we felt we'd take this time to teach everyone a little bit about what Flag Day is all about.

There are two recognized definitions of the term, Flag Day. The first definition is used to designate a day to fly a flag of a certain area, mostly that of nations. The second term is that a day is set aside to honour an event specifically involving a national flag (eg. creation/adoption).

Flag days are usually codified in national statutes, however, a decree by a head of state of the specific country can also order flag days. The display of the national flag on this day, mainly to fix it at either full or half staff. The locations of where the flags are flown (and how are they flown) can be also dictated by national law or decree.

In the United States, Flag Day (more formally, National Flag Day), is celebrated on June 14. It commemorates the adoption of the flag of the United States, which happened that day by resolution of the Second Continental Congress in 1777.

In 1916, Woodrow Wilson issued a proclamation that officially established June 14 as Flag Day; in August 1949, National Flag Day was established by an Act of Congress.

Flag Day is not an official federal holiday, though on June 14, 1937, Pennsylvania became the first (and only) U.S. state to celebrate Flag Day as a state holiday.

Social Networking Offers Many Benefits for Seniors

Seniors are increasingly turning to social networks for companionship and support. Social networking provides opportunities for seniors to meet new people, stay in touch with family and friends and support their hobbies and interests. Facebook was the third most popular online destination for people 65 or older in November 2009, compared to the forty-fifth most popular destination in 2008, according to The Nielsen Company.

The most popular social networking site is Facebook, which is used by 90 percent of senior social media users, according to a recent eMarketer study. However, experts from aging, healthcare and senior services have joined together with social media experts to create interactive sites connecting seniors through common interests, such as Eons and Vibrant Nation.

“Social media is giving seniors a voice and an outlet to communicate without limitations,” said Doug Dickstein, president of Right at Home in Los Angeles, a provider of in-home care throughout the Greater Los Angeles area. “It is not only bridging the generational gap with their grandchildren and younger generations of their families, but allowing them to create new social groups at a stage in their life when it is often difficult to do so.”

Benefits of Social Networks
The benefits of social networks are similar to the benefits of real-world groups of friends and families. About one-third of people 75 and older live alone, according to a 2009 study from AARP. Many seniors feel a sense of isolation, and social networking is an easy solution to find companions with shared likes and interests through groups, discussion boards, polls and relevant articles. Topics ranging from gardening to travel to volunteer opportunities are engaging seniors.

Social networking is a great option for seniors with limited mobility, as it can be done independently from the comfort of their own homes. They also may deal with hearing problems which make it challenging to talk on the phone. The Internet offers methods of communication that work for almost everyone. They can independently view photos of their grandchildren, follow their family’s activities and reconnect with old friends. Many sites also feature engaging and stimulating brain games to keep aging minds young and vital.

As seniors age, they often reach out for support for life challenges and health issues. Many social networking sites feature discussion boards and groups focused on health, aging and fitness. The encouraged open communication can help combat depression and provide a support group without leaving the home.

Tips for Getting Started
Social networking can help seniors stay connected like never before. But many may feel apprehensive about embracing the growing technology. They may ask themselves “How do I know where to begin?” or “Why should I join in?” Seniors may want an introduction to the basics of Internet use. Many community centers and organizations offer introductory classes to help seniors feel more comfortable while venturing out into social networking spaces. Also, social networking has a language of its own. There are many online resources available for seniors to become familiar with terms including “status update,” “wall” and “pokes,” including this recent article from AARP.

Seniors must also decide which type of community to join. Some, like Eons, are more interest-focused, while others, like Facebook, offer the opportunity to connect online with family and close friends. Most sites are free and require only an email address and password. Once an account is setup, seniors can add to their profile, express themselves and interact with people all over the world.

However, every age group has vulnerabilities online and seniors are no exception. It is important to be aware of hackers, scammers and identity theft. By getting to know the privacy settings on the site being used, seniors can control who can and can’t see the information they are sharing. Seniors should also be aware of emails from friends selling products and services or requesting money. If it doesn’t sound right, their friend’s account may have been hacked without them realizing it. This recent article from Right at Home’s free adult caregiving eNewsletter, Caring Right at Home, offers 10 ways for seniors to stay safe online.

Social networking provides seniors with a sense of purpose. They can feel empowered by making new connections and staying involved in society without having to rely on their loved ones for transportation or assistance. Seniors can easily enjoy the benefits and discover the joy of connecting with others online.

Caregiver of the Month - Susan P.

The Right at Home caregiver of the month for this past April was Susan P.

Susan becomes the first Right at Home caregiver to win the Caregiver of the Month award a second time.

Susan has been working four (4) different cases for Right at Home in the Glendale & Atwater Village areas and is one of the longest tenured employees at Right at Home.

In the past month, Susan not only continued her diligent work but also actually helped get a client to return to Right at Home after a brief break and her excellence even had them increase the amount of hours they wanted her to work.

Congratulations Susan!

Tips for Caring for an Elderly Loved One - Day 5

Jacqueline Marcell wrote a book a few years back titled Elder Rage-or-Take My Father... Please! This is Day 5 highlighting some tips from the book about how to handle certain difficult issues.

Gets mad when told “No” they can’t do something?

Avoid responding with a flat-out “No” to their request. Let them know that you have considered the issue and understand their viewpoint, but explain that it’s not a good idea right now. Indicate that maybe next time, or at a later date, you will be able to handle their request. Cheerfully distract their attention to something else more positive. Most of the time, they will completely forget about this request and have a different one by the next day.

Just like some children, the more some elders are told “No” they can’t do something, the more they will keep fighting to do it. It can become a test of wills for power and control. In some instances, it may be best to just let them have their way (if there is no danger). Usually they will come to the conclusion on their own that it really wasn’t such a good idea after all.

Tips When Caring for an Elderly Loved One - Day 4

Jacqueline Marcell wrote a book a few years back titled Elder Rage-or-Take My Father... Please! This is Day 4 highlighting some tips from the book about how to handle certain difficult issues.

Prefers to stay in bed or do nothing-”waiting to die”?

This could be an ulterior motive to get more attention, or it may be a sign of depression. Carefully evaluate what’s going on. Drop in unexpectedly a few times and observe their level of activity. If you suspect depression, ask their doctor to consider prescribing an anti-depressant. There is such a wide range of effective medications available today that there may be no need for them to suffer.

Then, get your parent enrolled in Senior Day Care to create a life outside of lying in bed all day. They have to have something to look forward to, friends to see, varied activities to do. You cannot supply all this stimulation yourself day after day. Go with them a few times, have lunch and introduce them to everyone to encourage the making of new friends. Additionally, many centers have a shuttle service to pick them up and bring them home.

If your parent is a “Sundowner” who wants to sleep all day and be up all night, there are a few things you can do to alter this pattern. In the morning, open all the windows and drapes to let in fresh air and sunlight; make lots of noise by turning on the radio and television, running the vacuum cleaner, dishwasher, etc.; plan activities, exercise and visitors. Getting an hour or two of sunlight daily can help regulate their circadian rhythm. Ask your doctor about Melatonin that may help them sleep at night. Make sure they are not getting any caffeine from coffee or chocolate in the evening. Also, have their doctor regularly review all of their medications to see if any may be causing daytime drowsiness. If possible, switch them to be taken at night.

Tips Wend Caring for an Elderly Loved One - Day 3

Jacqueline Marcell wrote a book a few years back titled Elder Rage-or-Take My Father... Please! This is Day 3 highlighting some tips from the book about how to handle certain difficult issues.

Has become suspicious and paranoid?

Don’t make light of it, argue, or tell them that their fears are irrational. Calmly acknowledge how awful it must be to feel that way and assure them you don’t think they are crazy. Make them feel safe, loved, and assured of your continued support. Report these symptoms with examples to their doctor. If you get an unconcerned attitude from their doctor that it’s just part of the aging process, insist on taking them to a geriatric psychiatrist for evaluation. With the proper medication, these fears may be greatly reduced.

Tips When Caring for an Elderly Loved One

Jacqueline Marcell wrote a book a few years back titled Elder Rage-or-Take My Father... Please! This week we will highlight some tips from the book about how to handle certain difficult issues.

How Do I Handle My Elderly Loved One Who:

Makes constant unreasonable demands?

Focus on the positive things you can do for your parent and don’t emphasize the things that you can’t. If you continue to eventually give in to their extreme demands these behaviors will get worse. Assertively set your boundaries of what you will and won’t do ahead of time and stand firm, giving sympathy and empathy where appropriate. Don’t let your better judgment be swayed by your sense of responsibility. If their demand strikes you as illogical or irrational, BIG FLAG-it is! Call the Alzheimer’s Association to find out where your loved one can be tested for dementia. If the bad behavior stops, give positive reinforcement by acknowledging their ability to control their conduct. You may want to give a specific reward to further encourage them. If the negative behavior continues, give three warnings, use the silent treatment, then walk away.