December 9, 2021 by
If your child developed an illness, who would you call? Without a second thought, many parents have their pediatrician’s number on speed dial so that the professional they’ve meticulously selected to manage the medical care needs of their children can help as soon as possible. Due to their specialized training, working with a trustworthy pediatrician ensures the best possible care. (more…)
November 11, 2021 by
Dementia aggression is one of the most difficult behaviors common in dementia, and it is also one of the most complex behaviors to manage as a caregiver. A senior who is usually level-headed can unexpectedly lash out in outbursts that are truly concerning: cursing, hitting, kicking, biting, yelling, or throwing things. How can you, as a family caregiver, safely help give them a sense of calm? (more…)
October 21, 2021 by
What inspires you to get out of bed every day? The answer is different for every single one of us, of course, but there is one commonality: it may allow you to live longer. Scientific studies are showing us that having a sense of purpose is an integral aspect in longevity, something shown in Japan – the country with the highest life expectancy on earth. The connection between purpose and living longer is important, and it’s one that often goes unaddressed. (more…)
September 21, 2021 by
While COVID-19 still dominates our health concerns, it’s important to bear in mind that other illnesses can be just as dangerous, especially for seniors. Flu season is here, and it is time to make sure the seniors you love are protected by getting a flu shot. (more…)
September 16, 2021 by
Disorientation. Confusion. Memory loss. While these are certainly hallmark symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease as well as other types of dementia, they could also come about from taking particular medications. Rather than immediately assuming an inevitable diagnosis of dementia, review the following list of medications that may cause similar effects that can be mistaken for dementia symptoms. (more…)
August 13, 2021 by
Watch what occurs at your next family get together when a brand new mother places her baby in someone’s arms. The person will likely transition instantly into baby mode: a sing-song, high-pitched voice, overly-simplified speech, and exaggerated facial expressions. Of course, this is perfectly normal and actually good for a baby’s developing brain. (more…)
August 5, 2021 by
Shame. Fear. Embarrassment. The thoughts and feelings surrounding a potential dementia diagnosis can cause older adults to keep their suspicions to themselves. A recently available AARP survey peeled away a few of the layers of emotion to get to the root cause – namely, worry over losing independence and becoming a problem to others. (more…)
July 26, 2021 by
While we are gradually easing our way out of this pandemic, we are figuring out more information on how it has impacted older adults – both physically and emotionally. We realize older adults have been at a greater risk of serious issues and death from the COVID-19 virus; however, the impact of 15 months of physical distancing and social isolation is now revealing shocking results on senior strength post-pandemic.
June 14, 2021 by
Think of the many tools you use each day – your phone, hairbrush, toothbrush – simple things, but ones you can’t imagine living without. For millions of older adults, there are basic assistive devices available that could mean the difference between living at home and facing a move to assisted living. Yet nearly half of seniors living at home aren’t utilizing these helpful tools – even though costs are minimal.
A recent National Health and Aging Trends Study assessed the ability of older adults to perform tasks such as rising unassisted from a seated position and walking, and found that thousands of the participants could benefit from assistive devices.
Not only that, but the risk of senior falls from the lack of simple assistive devices is increased, leading to hospitalizations, serious injury, and disability that could easily have been prevented. In fact, once these devices were made available to seniors, according to research, disability rates for seniors dropped by 50%, along with a decrease in pain levels and an increase in the ability to perform activities of daily living independently.
Dr. Kenneth Lam, author of the study, explained, “It’s a technical problem which, unlike so much of aging, is actually solvable. In the hospital, I can order an M.R.I. and charge the system thousands of dollars. But down the road, that won’t help patients not fall. What happens when they get home?”
A program at Johns Hopkins in Baltimore is looking to change this by introducing inexpensive assistive tools to seniors. Through several in-home visits by an occupational therapist, nurse, and repair specialist, needs are identified and resolved. That could mean installing grab bars in the bathroom, removing fall hazards, or adding a shower chair or raised toilet seat. Small changes such as these can make an enormous difference in a senior’s ability to safely and independently manage activities of daily living.
With At Home Independent Living, the leading provider of Syracuse elderly care and care in surrounding areas, we’re pleased to offer in-home evaluations to recommend changes to the home environment that enhance safety and help seniors remain independent and in control. We can also help enhance senior’s safety, comfort, and independence through services such as:
Contact us at (315) 579-HOME (4663) to schedule your assessment today or to learn more about our senior care in Syracuse, NY and the surrounding areas.
May 6, 2021 by
We have long known that there are particular medications that increase the chance of elderly falls. Two decades ago, slightly more than half of seniors were impacted by that risk; yet today, that number has increased dramatically – to an astounding 94% of seniors who are now at risk of falling because of medication side effects. Not only that but, deaths from such falls are occurring at more than twice the earlier rate.