Acupuncture involves the insertion of extremely thin needles in your skin at strategic points on your body. Acupuncture originated in China thousands of years ago, but over the past three decades its popularity has grown significantly within the United States.
Traditional Chinese theory explains acupuncture as a technique for balancing the flow of energy or life force — known as qi or chi (chee) — believed to flow through pathways (meridians) in your body. By inserting needles into specific points along these meridians, acupuncture practitioners believe that your energy flow will re-balance.
In contrast, many Western practitioners view the acupuncture points as places to stimulate nerves, muscles and connective tissue. This stimulation appears to boost the activity of your body's natural painkillers and increase blood flow.
Why it's done
You may try acupuncture for symptomatic relief of a variety of diseases and conditions, including:
■Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting
■Fibromyalgia
■Headaches
■Labor pain
■Low back pain
■Menstrual cramps
■Migraines
■Osteoarthritis
■Postoperative dental pain
■Tennis elbow
Scientists don't fully understand how or why acupuncture affects the amount of pain you feel. Several studies have found that acupuncture has little or no effect beyond that of the sham treatment used in some study participants — the control group — for comparison. The lack of firm results can be explained, in part, by the difficulty of devising a realistic but inactive stand-in for acupuncture.
Risks
The risks of acupuncture are low if you have a competent, certified acupuncture practitioner. Possible side effects and complications include:
■Soreness, bleeding or bruising at the needle sites
■Internal organ injury, particularly to the lungs, if the needles are pushed in too deeply
■Infectious disease, such as hepatitis, contracted from reused needles
Not everyone is a good candidate for acupuncture or for particular types of acupuncture. Conditions that may increase your risks of complications include:
■Bleeding disorders. Your chances of bleeding or bruising from the needles increases if you have a bleeding disorder or if you're taking blood thinners such as warfarin (Coumadin).
■Having a pacemaker. Some types of acupuncture involve applying mild electrical pulses to the needles, which can interfere with a pacemaker's operation.
■Being pregnant. Some types of acupuncture have been known to stimulate labor, which could result in a premature delivery.
How you prepare
No special preparation is required before acupuncture treatment.
Choosing a practitioner
If you're considering acupuncture, do the same things you would do if you were choosing a doctor:
■Ask people you trust for recommendations.
■Check the practitioner's training and credentials. Most states require that nonphysician acupuncturists pass an exam conducted by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM).
■Interview the practitioner. Ask what's involved in the treatment, how likely it is to help your condition and how much it will cost.
■Find out whether the expense is covered by your insurance.
Don't be afraid to tell your doctor you're considering acupuncture. He or she may be able to tell you about the success rate of using acupuncture for your condition or recommend an acupuncture practitioner for you to try.
Before you start treatment, make sure that your acupuncture practitioner uses single-use, sterile packaged needles.
What you can expect
Each person who performs acupuncture has a unique style, often blending aspects of Eastern and Western approaches to medicine.
To determine the type of acupuncture treatment that will help you the most, your practitioner may ask you many questions about your symptoms, behaviors and lifestyle. He or she may also closely examine:
■The parts of your body that are painful
■The shape, coating and color of your tongue
■The color of your face
■The strength, rhythm and quality of the pulse in your wrist
This initial evaluation may take up to 60 minutes. Subsequent appointments usually take about a half-hour. A common treatment plan for a single complaint would typically involve six to 12 treatments, scheduled over a few months. Several maintenance sessions a year also may be recommended.
During acupuncture
Acupuncture points are located in all areas of the body. Sometimes the appropriate points are far removed from the area of your pain. Your acupuncture practitioner will tell you the general location of the planned treatment and if articles of clothing need to be removed. If appropriate, a gown, towel or sheet will be provided to preserve your modesty. After you lie down on a padded table, the treatment begins.
■Needle insertion. Acupuncture needles are very thin, so insertion usually causes very little discomfort. Between five and 20 needles are used in a typical treatment. You may feel a deep, aching sensation when a needle reaches the correct depth.
■Needle manipulation. Your practitioner may gently move or twirl the needles after they've been placed. Another option is to apply heat or a mild electric pulses to the needles.
■Needle removal. In most cases, the needles will remain in place for 15 to 30 minutes while you lie still and relax. There is usually no sensation of discomfort when the needles are removed. Your acupuncture practitioner should discard the needles after removal — reusable needles can spread infection.
After acupuncture
Some people feel relaxed while others feel energized after an acupuncture treatment. But not everyone responds to acupuncture. If your symptoms don't begin to improve within a few weeks, acupuncture may not be the right treatment for you.
Results
The effects of acupuncture are sometimes difficult to measure, but many people swear by it as a means to control a variety of painful conditions.
Several studies, however, show that simulated acupuncture appears to work just as well as real acupuncture. There also is evidence that acupuncture works best in people who expect it to work.
Since acupuncture has few side effects, it may be worth a try if you're having trouble controlling pain with more-conventional methods.
information brought to you by mayo clinic
Monday, November 1, 2010
Monday, October 4, 2010
Influenza
Influenza is a viral infection that attacks your respiratory system, including your nose, throat, bronchial tubes and lungs.
If you're generally healthy and you catch influenza — commonly called the flu — you're likely to feel rotten for a few days, but you probably won't develop complications or need hospital care. If you have a weakened immune system or chronic illness, though, influenza can be fatal.
For those at high risk of influenza, the first line of defense is an annual flu shot. This year, in addition to a regular flu shot, you may need a different flu shot for protection against novel H1N1 swine flu, a new type of influenza identified earlier this year. The first doses of swine flu vaccine will be available later this fall, after seasonal flu immunization begins.
Symptoms
Initially, the flu may seem like a common cold with a runny nose, sneezing and sore throat. But colds usually develop slowly, whereas the flu tends to come on suddenly. And although a cold can be a nuisance, you usually feel much worse with the flu.
Common signs and symptoms of the flu include:
■Fever over 101 F (38 C) in adults, and often as high as 103 to 105 F (39.5 C to 40.5 C) in children
■Chills and sweats
■Headache
■Dry cough
■Muscular aches and pains, especially in your back, arms and legs
■Fatigue and weakness
■Nasal congestion
■Loss of appetite
■Diarrhea and vomiting in children
When to see a doctor
If you have flu symptoms and are at risk of complications, see your doctor right away. Taking antiviral drugs within the first 48 hours after you first notice symptoms may reduce the length of your illness by a day or two and may help prevent more serious problems. Seek immediate medical care if you have signs and symptoms of pneumonia. These include a severe cough that brings up phlegm, a high fever and a sharp pain when you breathe deeply. If you have bacterial pneumonia, you'll need treatment with antibiotics.
Causes
Flu viruses travel through the air in droplets when someone with the infection coughs, sneezes or talks. You can inhale the droplets directly, or you can pick up the germs from an object, such as a telephone or computer keyboard, and then transfer them to your eyes, nose or mouth.
The flu is caused by three types (strains) of viruses — influenza A, B and C. Type A can be responsible for the deadly influenza pandemics (worldwide epidemics) that strike every 10 to 40 years. Type B can lead to smaller, more localized outbreaks. And either types A or B can cause the flu that circulates almost every winter. Type C has never been connected with a large epidemic.
Type C is a fairly stable virus, but types A and B are constantly changing, with new strains appearing regularly. Once you've had the flu, you develop antibodies to the strain that caused it, but those antibodies won't protect you from new strains. That's why doctors recommend getting a flu shot every year.
Risk factors
You're at increased risk of influenza or its complications if you:
■Are an infant or young child
■Are over age 50
■Are a resident of a nursing home or other long term care facility
■Have a chronic disorder, such as diabetes or heart, kidney or lung disease
■Have a weakened immune system, such as from medications or HIV infection
■Will be pregnant during flu season
■Work in a health care facility where you're more likely to be exposed to the flu virus
■Are in regular, close contact with infants or young children
Children on long-term aspirin therapy also may be at greater risk.
The flu vaccine is safe for children 6 months and older. If your child isn't at risk of the flu but lives with someone who is, you still may want to have your child vaccinated. That way, your child is less likely to infect others. The more people immunized, the less likely it is that the flu will spread through a community.
Complications
If you're young and healthy, influenza usually isn't serious. Although you may feel miserable while you have it, the flu usually goes away with no lasting effects. But high-risk children and adults may develop complications such as:
■Ear infections
■Acute sinusitis
■Bronchitis
■Pneumonia
■Encephalitis
Of these, pneumococcal pneumonia, a serious bacterial infection of the lungs, is the most common and most serious. For older adults and people with a chronic illness, pneumonia can be deadly. The best protection is vaccination against both pneumococcal pneumonia and influenza.
Treatments and drugs
Usually, you'll need nothing more than bed rest and plenty of fluids to treat the flu. But in some cases, your doctor may prescribe an antiviral medication such as oseltamivir (Tamiflu) or zanamivir (Relenza).
These drugs, which treat both influenza A and B, work by deactivating an enzyme the virus needs to grow and spread. If taken soon after you notice symptoms, they may shorten your illness by a day or so. Oseltamivir is an oral medication, but zanamivir is inhaled through a device similar to an asthma inhaler and shouldn't be used by anyone with respiratory conditions, such as asthma and lung disease.
Both medications can cause side effects, including lightheadedness, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite and trouble breathing. They can also lead to the development of antiviral-resistant viruses.
In November 2006, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) required the maker of Tamiflu to include a warning that people with the flu, particularly children, may be at increased risk of self-injury and confusion after taking Tamiflu. The FDA recommends that individuals with the flu who take Tamiflu be closely monitored for signs of unusual behavior. Discuss possible side effects with your doctor before starting any antiviral medication.
Lifestyle and home remedies
If you do come down with the flu, these measures may help ease your symptoms:
■Drink plenty of liquids. Choose water, juice and warm soups to prevent dehydration. Drink enough so that your urine is clear or pale yellow.
■Rest. Get more sleep to help your immune system fight infection.
■Try chicken soup. It's not just good for your soul — it really can help relieve flu symptoms by breaking up congestion.
■Consider pain relievers. Use an over-the-counter pain reliever such as acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others) cautiously, as needed. Remember, pain relievers may make you more comfortable, but they won't make your symptoms go away any faster and may have side effects. Ibuprofen may cause stomach pain, bleeding and ulcers. If taken for a long period or in higher than recommended doses, acetaminophen can be toxic to your liver. Talk to your doctor before giving acetaminophen to children. And don't give aspirin to children or teens because of the risk of Reye's syndrome, a rare but potentially fatal disease.
Prevention
These steps can help you stay healthy, even at the height of flu season:
■Get an annual flu vaccination. The best time to be vaccinated is October or November. This allows your body time to develop antibodies to the flu virus before peak flu season, which in the Northern Hemisphere is usually December through March. However, getting a flu shot later in the flu season may still protect you. It takes up to two weeks to build immunity following a flu shot.
Keep in mind that the flu vaccine doesn't offer complete protection, especially for older adults, but it can reduce the risk and severity of illness. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), when the match between flu vaccine and circulating strains of flu virus is close, a flu shot is between 70 and 90 percent effective in warding off illness in healthy people under age 65. It is less effective in older adults. Health experts recommend vaccinations for people over 50 because the flu shot may reduce the risk of flu-related complications, hospitalizations and deaths.
Healthy people ages 2 to 49 alternatively may receive the flu vaccine via a nasal spray called FluMist. It protects against the same strains of influenza that the flu shot does. Like the flu shot, FluMist is given every year. Because FluMist contains live, but weakened, flu viruses, it shouldn't be given to pregnant women, people with weakened immune systems and those with chronic illnesses. A study published in 2006 found that FluMist was only between 30 and 57 percent effective in preventing the flu in adults. However, another study in 2006 found that giving nasal spray vaccine to school-age children helped to reduce the spread of flu in the community. And in 2007, researchers compared the effectiveness of FluMist with the flu shot in children ages 6 months to 5 years. The children treated with FluMist experienced about half as many cases of flu as did those treated with the shot. However, FluMist increases the risk of wheezing in this age group — especially in those who already have asthma or recurrent wheezing and in all children under age 2. In 2007, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) therefore approved FluMist for children older than 2 years who don't have asthma or recurrent wheezing. Consult with your doctor about which form of vaccination may be best for you or your child.
You can get the flu vaccine from your doctor, at public health centers and many pharmacies. In some areas, flu vaccines are also available at senior or community centers and at supermarkets.
■Wash your hands. Thorough and frequent hand washing is the best way to prevent many common infections. Scrub your hands vigorously for at least 15 seconds, rinse well and turn off the faucet with a paper towel. Or use an alcohol-based hand gel containing at least 60 percent alcohol.
■Eat right, sleep tight. A poor diet and poor sleep both lower your immunity and make you more vulnerable to infections. A balanced diet that emphasizes fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and small amounts of lean protein works best for most people. On the other hand, the amount of sleep needed for a healthy immune system varies from person to person. In general, adults seem to do best on seven to eight hours of sleep a night. Older children and teens need more rest — between nine and 10 hours every night.
■Exercise regularly. Regular cardiovascular exercise — walking, biking, aerobics — boosts your immune system. Exercise won't prevent infection, but if you do come down with the flu, you may have less severe symptoms and recover more quickly than do people who aren't as fit.
■Avoid crowds during flu season. Flu spreads easily wherever people congregate — in child care centers, schools, office buildings, auditoriums and public transportation. By avoiding crowds whenever possible during peak flu season, you reduce your chances of infection.
brought to you by mayo clinic
If you're generally healthy and you catch influenza — commonly called the flu — you're likely to feel rotten for a few days, but you probably won't develop complications or need hospital care. If you have a weakened immune system or chronic illness, though, influenza can be fatal.
For those at high risk of influenza, the first line of defense is an annual flu shot. This year, in addition to a regular flu shot, you may need a different flu shot for protection against novel H1N1 swine flu, a new type of influenza identified earlier this year. The first doses of swine flu vaccine will be available later this fall, after seasonal flu immunization begins.
Symptoms
Initially, the flu may seem like a common cold with a runny nose, sneezing and sore throat. But colds usually develop slowly, whereas the flu tends to come on suddenly. And although a cold can be a nuisance, you usually feel much worse with the flu.
Common signs and symptoms of the flu include:
■Fever over 101 F (38 C) in adults, and often as high as 103 to 105 F (39.5 C to 40.5 C) in children
■Chills and sweats
■Headache
■Dry cough
■Muscular aches and pains, especially in your back, arms and legs
■Fatigue and weakness
■Nasal congestion
■Loss of appetite
■Diarrhea and vomiting in children
When to see a doctor
If you have flu symptoms and are at risk of complications, see your doctor right away. Taking antiviral drugs within the first 48 hours after you first notice symptoms may reduce the length of your illness by a day or two and may help prevent more serious problems. Seek immediate medical care if you have signs and symptoms of pneumonia. These include a severe cough that brings up phlegm, a high fever and a sharp pain when you breathe deeply. If you have bacterial pneumonia, you'll need treatment with antibiotics.
Causes
Flu viruses travel through the air in droplets when someone with the infection coughs, sneezes or talks. You can inhale the droplets directly, or you can pick up the germs from an object, such as a telephone or computer keyboard, and then transfer them to your eyes, nose or mouth.
The flu is caused by three types (strains) of viruses — influenza A, B and C. Type A can be responsible for the deadly influenza pandemics (worldwide epidemics) that strike every 10 to 40 years. Type B can lead to smaller, more localized outbreaks. And either types A or B can cause the flu that circulates almost every winter. Type C has never been connected with a large epidemic.
Type C is a fairly stable virus, but types A and B are constantly changing, with new strains appearing regularly. Once you've had the flu, you develop antibodies to the strain that caused it, but those antibodies won't protect you from new strains. That's why doctors recommend getting a flu shot every year.
Risk factors
You're at increased risk of influenza or its complications if you:
■Are an infant or young child
■Are over age 50
■Are a resident of a nursing home or other long term care facility
■Have a chronic disorder, such as diabetes or heart, kidney or lung disease
■Have a weakened immune system, such as from medications or HIV infection
■Will be pregnant during flu season
■Work in a health care facility where you're more likely to be exposed to the flu virus
■Are in regular, close contact with infants or young children
Children on long-term aspirin therapy also may be at greater risk.
The flu vaccine is safe for children 6 months and older. If your child isn't at risk of the flu but lives with someone who is, you still may want to have your child vaccinated. That way, your child is less likely to infect others. The more people immunized, the less likely it is that the flu will spread through a community.
Complications
If you're young and healthy, influenza usually isn't serious. Although you may feel miserable while you have it, the flu usually goes away with no lasting effects. But high-risk children and adults may develop complications such as:
■Ear infections
■Acute sinusitis
■Bronchitis
■Pneumonia
■Encephalitis
Of these, pneumococcal pneumonia, a serious bacterial infection of the lungs, is the most common and most serious. For older adults and people with a chronic illness, pneumonia can be deadly. The best protection is vaccination against both pneumococcal pneumonia and influenza.
Treatments and drugs
Usually, you'll need nothing more than bed rest and plenty of fluids to treat the flu. But in some cases, your doctor may prescribe an antiviral medication such as oseltamivir (Tamiflu) or zanamivir (Relenza).
These drugs, which treat both influenza A and B, work by deactivating an enzyme the virus needs to grow and spread. If taken soon after you notice symptoms, they may shorten your illness by a day or so. Oseltamivir is an oral medication, but zanamivir is inhaled through a device similar to an asthma inhaler and shouldn't be used by anyone with respiratory conditions, such as asthma and lung disease.
Both medications can cause side effects, including lightheadedness, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite and trouble breathing. They can also lead to the development of antiviral-resistant viruses.
In November 2006, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) required the maker of Tamiflu to include a warning that people with the flu, particularly children, may be at increased risk of self-injury and confusion after taking Tamiflu. The FDA recommends that individuals with the flu who take Tamiflu be closely monitored for signs of unusual behavior. Discuss possible side effects with your doctor before starting any antiviral medication.
Lifestyle and home remedies
If you do come down with the flu, these measures may help ease your symptoms:
■Drink plenty of liquids. Choose water, juice and warm soups to prevent dehydration. Drink enough so that your urine is clear or pale yellow.
■Rest. Get more sleep to help your immune system fight infection.
■Try chicken soup. It's not just good for your soul — it really can help relieve flu symptoms by breaking up congestion.
■Consider pain relievers. Use an over-the-counter pain reliever such as acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others) cautiously, as needed. Remember, pain relievers may make you more comfortable, but they won't make your symptoms go away any faster and may have side effects. Ibuprofen may cause stomach pain, bleeding and ulcers. If taken for a long period or in higher than recommended doses, acetaminophen can be toxic to your liver. Talk to your doctor before giving acetaminophen to children. And don't give aspirin to children or teens because of the risk of Reye's syndrome, a rare but potentially fatal disease.
Prevention
These steps can help you stay healthy, even at the height of flu season:
■Get an annual flu vaccination. The best time to be vaccinated is October or November. This allows your body time to develop antibodies to the flu virus before peak flu season, which in the Northern Hemisphere is usually December through March. However, getting a flu shot later in the flu season may still protect you. It takes up to two weeks to build immunity following a flu shot.
Keep in mind that the flu vaccine doesn't offer complete protection, especially for older adults, but it can reduce the risk and severity of illness. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), when the match between flu vaccine and circulating strains of flu virus is close, a flu shot is between 70 and 90 percent effective in warding off illness in healthy people under age 65. It is less effective in older adults. Health experts recommend vaccinations for people over 50 because the flu shot may reduce the risk of flu-related complications, hospitalizations and deaths.
Healthy people ages 2 to 49 alternatively may receive the flu vaccine via a nasal spray called FluMist. It protects against the same strains of influenza that the flu shot does. Like the flu shot, FluMist is given every year. Because FluMist contains live, but weakened, flu viruses, it shouldn't be given to pregnant women, people with weakened immune systems and those with chronic illnesses. A study published in 2006 found that FluMist was only between 30 and 57 percent effective in preventing the flu in adults. However, another study in 2006 found that giving nasal spray vaccine to school-age children helped to reduce the spread of flu in the community. And in 2007, researchers compared the effectiveness of FluMist with the flu shot in children ages 6 months to 5 years. The children treated with FluMist experienced about half as many cases of flu as did those treated with the shot. However, FluMist increases the risk of wheezing in this age group — especially in those who already have asthma or recurrent wheezing and in all children under age 2. In 2007, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) therefore approved FluMist for children older than 2 years who don't have asthma or recurrent wheezing. Consult with your doctor about which form of vaccination may be best for you or your child.
You can get the flu vaccine from your doctor, at public health centers and many pharmacies. In some areas, flu vaccines are also available at senior or community centers and at supermarkets.
■Wash your hands. Thorough and frequent hand washing is the best way to prevent many common infections. Scrub your hands vigorously for at least 15 seconds, rinse well and turn off the faucet with a paper towel. Or use an alcohol-based hand gel containing at least 60 percent alcohol.
■Eat right, sleep tight. A poor diet and poor sleep both lower your immunity and make you more vulnerable to infections. A balanced diet that emphasizes fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and small amounts of lean protein works best for most people. On the other hand, the amount of sleep needed for a healthy immune system varies from person to person. In general, adults seem to do best on seven to eight hours of sleep a night. Older children and teens need more rest — between nine and 10 hours every night.
■Exercise regularly. Regular cardiovascular exercise — walking, biking, aerobics — boosts your immune system. Exercise won't prevent infection, but if you do come down with the flu, you may have less severe symptoms and recover more quickly than do people who aren't as fit.
■Avoid crowds during flu season. Flu spreads easily wherever people congregate — in child care centers, schools, office buildings, auditoriums and public transportation. By avoiding crowds whenever possible during peak flu season, you reduce your chances of infection.
brought to you by mayo clinic
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Alzheimer's
What is Alzheimer’s Disease?
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia among older adults. Alzheimer’s disease involves parts of the brain that control thought, memory, and language and can seriously affect a person’s ability to carry out daily activities. Although scientists are learning more every day, right now, they still do not know what causes Alzheimer’s disease.
Who has Alzheimer’s Disease?
As many as 5 million Americans suffer from Alzheimer’s disease. While younger people may get Alzheimer’s disease, it is much less common. The disease usually begins after age 60, and risk goes up with age. About 5 percent of men and women ages 65 to 74 have Alzheimer’s disease, and nearly half of those age 85 and older may have the disease. It is important to note, however, that Alzheimer’s disease is not a normal part of aging.
What causes Alzheimer’s Disease?
Scientists do not yet fully understand what causes Alzheimer’s disease. There probably is not one single cause, but several factors that affect each person differently. Age is the most important known risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease. The number of people with the disease doubles every 5 years beyond age 65.
Family history is another risk factor. Researchers believe that genetics may play a role in developing Alzheimer’s disease.
Scientists still need to learn a lot more about what causes Alzheimer’s disease. In addition to genetics, they are studying education, diet, and environment to learn what role they might play in developing this disease.. Scientists are finding more and more evidence that some of the risk factors for heart disease and stroke, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and low levels of the vitamin folate may also increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Evidence for physical mental and social activities as protective factors against Alzheimer’s disease is also growing.
What is the burden of Alzheimer’s disease in the United States?
Alzheimer’s disease is one of the top ten leading causes of death in the United States. Alzheimer’s disease has recently surpassed diabetes as the 6th leading cause of death among American adults. Notably, mortality rates for Alzheimer’s disease are on the rise, unlike heart disease and cancer death rates which are continuing to decline.
An estimated 5 million Americans have Alzheimer’s disease. This number has doubled since 1980, and is expected to be as high as 13.4 million by 2050.
In 2005, total Medicare spending for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease was estimated at $91 billion.
Individuals with Alzheimer’s disease make up less than 13 percent of the Medicare population, yet they account for 34 percent of Medicare spending.*
*Reference: Urban Institute, unpublished tabulations from the 2000 Medicare Current Beneficiary Survey and Medicare Claims, 2005; published by the Alzheimer’s Association, Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures, 2007.
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia among older adults. Alzheimer’s disease involves parts of the brain that control thought, memory, and language and can seriously affect a person’s ability to carry out daily activities. Although scientists are learning more every day, right now, they still do not know what causes Alzheimer’s disease.
Who has Alzheimer’s Disease?
As many as 5 million Americans suffer from Alzheimer’s disease. While younger people may get Alzheimer’s disease, it is much less common. The disease usually begins after age 60, and risk goes up with age. About 5 percent of men and women ages 65 to 74 have Alzheimer’s disease, and nearly half of those age 85 and older may have the disease. It is important to note, however, that Alzheimer’s disease is not a normal part of aging.
What causes Alzheimer’s Disease?
Scientists do not yet fully understand what causes Alzheimer’s disease. There probably is not one single cause, but several factors that affect each person differently. Age is the most important known risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease. The number of people with the disease doubles every 5 years beyond age 65.
Family history is another risk factor. Researchers believe that genetics may play a role in developing Alzheimer’s disease.
Scientists still need to learn a lot more about what causes Alzheimer’s disease. In addition to genetics, they are studying education, diet, and environment to learn what role they might play in developing this disease.. Scientists are finding more and more evidence that some of the risk factors for heart disease and stroke, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and low levels of the vitamin folate may also increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Evidence for physical mental and social activities as protective factors against Alzheimer’s disease is also growing.
What is the burden of Alzheimer’s disease in the United States?
Alzheimer’s disease is one of the top ten leading causes of death in the United States. Alzheimer’s disease has recently surpassed diabetes as the 6th leading cause of death among American adults. Notably, mortality rates for Alzheimer’s disease are on the rise, unlike heart disease and cancer death rates which are continuing to decline.
An estimated 5 million Americans have Alzheimer’s disease. This number has doubled since 1980, and is expected to be as high as 13.4 million by 2050.
In 2005, total Medicare spending for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease was estimated at $91 billion.
Individuals with Alzheimer’s disease make up less than 13 percent of the Medicare population, yet they account for 34 percent of Medicare spending.*
*Reference: Urban Institute, unpublished tabulations from the 2000 Medicare Current Beneficiary Survey and Medicare Claims, 2005; published by the Alzheimer’s Association, Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures, 2007.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Home Care Services for Seniors
Respite care basics
Seeking support and maintaining one’s own health are key to managing the caregiving years. Using respite care before you become exhausted, isolated, or overwhelmed is ideal, but just anticipating regular relief can become a lifesaver.
Respite can take many forms, but boils down to two basic ideas: sharing the responsibility for caregiving and getting support for yourself. Finding the right balance requires persistence, patience, and preparation.
Planning your relief
Planning starts with analyzing needs…both yours and your loved one’s. As a caregiver, is support what you need most? Some free time? Help with transportation? Keep track of your daily activities then make a list of the areas and times when you most need help. Identifying your loved one’s requirements, abilities, and preferences will also help you find the right match. Are social activities primary? Assistance with walking, eating or medications? Mental stimulation? Exercise? Answering these questions will help you determine which respite options to pursue.
Types of respite care services
Respite Services
In-home respite
Informal family support and relief
Online caregiver communities and video workshops
Volunteer or paid companionship
Personal care or skilled health assistance
Out-of-home respite
Adult day programs
Residential respite care
Caregiver support groups
Engaging family members in respite care
Family members and friends may be able to help out while you run an errand, take a break or even go on vacation. However, just as the burden of caregiving is often more than one person can handle – it can also be a tough process for families to share.
Even the healthiest families can be severely stressed by ongoing care, and the division of labor is frequently lopsided. You can encourage support and participation by:
Talking openly and regularly. Keep everyone up to date on your loved one’s needs and condition. Family members who don’t share the day-to-day caretaking experience may not fully appreciate the situation.
Encouraging family members to evaluate what they can reasonably and honestly do. Changing roles and varying resource levels can impact family involvement. Welcome different viewpoints, accept limitations, and be willing to try alternate strategies. Share your list of needs and take advantage of all offers to help.
Recognizing your own feelings and discussing disproportionate tasks. Harboring resentment when you need more help can lead to your burnout and impaired health. Ask directly for concrete support and specific time commitments. Consider establishing an online calendar to organize relief and reconfirm schedules.
Using technology to bridge distances. Try free video conferencing services to hold family meetings at times that work for everyone. Create a web-based community to share updates and explore options.
Exploring a family respite cooperative. Consider trading respite services with other caregivers and their families. Pooling resources can encourage involvement, reduce costs, and increase flexibility.
Participating in support groups. Learning how other families cope can suggest new options and provide reassurance. When siblings are unable or unwilling to share the load, peer support can be invaluable.
In-home respite care
In-home services can be provided by volunteer or paid help, occasionally or on a regular basis. Services may last from a few hours to overnight, and may be arranged directly or through an agency. This popular respite choice enables individuals to remain in their own environments, and can be invaluable for caregivers. Consider which of these options might meet your needs:
Stimulation, recreation, and companionship can be provided by family members, friends, or neighbors while you take a break. Faith-based, community, and other non-profit organizations recruit volunteers, while home-care businesses provide trained staff to cover short in-home intervals.
Personal care providers assist with daily living skills such as bathing, dressing, feeding, or toileting. Homemaker services support meal preparation, shopping, and housekeeping. Skilled health care, which requires more specialized training and experience, addresses medical needs.
The key to successful home respite is matching needs to services, selecting qualified providers, providing meaningful information, and evaluating results.
Out-of-home respite care programs
As our aging population grows, this range of private and non-profit respite programs continues to expand:
Adult day centers are designed for older adults who can no longer manage independently, or who are isolated and lonely. Planned activities promote well-being though social and health services. Adult day care centers operate during daytime hours, Monday through Friday, in a safe, supportive, and cheerful environment. Nutritious meals and afternoon snacks that accommodate special diets are typically included.
Residential programs offer temporary care for varying lengths of time. Group homes, hospitals, nursing homes, and other specialized facilities provide emergency and planned overnight services, allowing caretakers 24-hour relief. Although medical insurance generally does not cover overnight respite, long term care policies and veterans programs may subsidize care.
Caregiver retreats and respite camps are available in some areas, combining respite with education and peer support. Availability varies from state to state and may be disability specific.
When you devote so much love and energy to caregiving, it may be difficult to entrust your family member to strangers. Whether you engage a provider directly or work through an agency, you can allay your fears by conducting some basic research.
Using independent providers
Although you are anxious for relief, taking time to find the right person is essential for your peace of mind and your loved one’s safety. Make sure you:
Conduct an in-depth interview with each candidate. Screening applicants on the phone should always be followed with a personal interview.
Be specific about all of the tasks, skills, and schedules involved.
Discuss compensation and payment schedules. Do not pay for services in advance.
Request several work and personal references, then check them carefully. Verify t
he information provided, and ask all references about reliability, trustworthiness, punctuality and the care provider's ability to handle stress.
If possible, consider a background check. Professional services cost between $100-$150 and can alert you to potentially serious problems. Check with your local police department, legal aid service or attorney for referrals to reputable investigators or search for "background checks" on the Internet.
Always include the potential care recipient in the screening process if he or she is able to participate, to ensure that both parties are comfortable and that your loved one's needs are respected.
Working with agencies
Although independent providers are generally the least expensive, home care agencies and referral services are often easier to use. Use your planning lists to help these professionals better serve you.
An agency finds and places providers, handles payroll, and usually provides substitutes for sick or absent personnel. If problems occur, you also have specific avenues of recourse (complaints, mediation, or arbitration) that are not available when working with individuals.
Referral services work to match your needs with local program options. Use online registries, check newspaper ads or the yellow pages to find specialists who know local programs and can help you navigate their systems.
Choosing off site programs for respite care
When you have identified potential out-of-home programs, plan to visit at least three. Observe the care participants and their interactions with the staff. Try to picture your loved one there, and check your instincts to see if you’re on the right track.
Be sure to ask the following questions:
How are care providers screened?
What is the training and level of experience of the care providers?
Will care providers need additional training to meet specific family needs?
How, and by whom, are the care providers supervised?
What procedures does the program have for emergencies?
Are families limited to a certain number of hours of services?
Does the program provide transportation and meals?
What is the cost of services? How is payment arranged?
Paying for respite care
In today’s challenging economy, you may think respite services are unattainable. However, thinking creatively can uncover valuable resources:
Ask local retirement groups for volunteers to sit with your loved one while you take a walk, watch a movie, or complete an internet workshop.
Trade services with other caregivers. When a loved one is able to change locations for an afternoon, alternate weeks caring for both recipients at once.
Contact area high school counselors. College-bound students often need community service experience and are available afternoons and evenings.
Traditional funding sources for respite care
Insurance: Although medical insurance generally does not include respite coverage unless licensed medical professionals are involved, long term care policies usually fund services up to specific time or dollar limits.
SSI: Patients with disability coverage may be eligible for home health care benefits. Check your local Social Security office or call the toll free number to verify eligibility.
Medicaid: Medicaid does not fund respite directly, but some states use waivers to apply federal funds to offset respite costs for residents with specific conditions and disabilities. Consult your state’s Administration on Aging website.
Veterans’ Benefits: The VA provides inpatient respite coverage for up to 30 days per year for qualified veterans. In addition, when war-time vets care for their spouses, funding for in-home services are available on a state-by-state basis.
Foundation Grants: Private foundations, such as The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the Brookdale Foundation make grants to organizations that provide direct respite. These funds are usually awarded annually and posted on foundation websites.
Nonprofit and Disability Organizations: The United Way, the Alzheimer’s Association, and other disability-specific organizations may offer respite money in your area. Agency care specialists can assist you in researching these funds.
State Agencies: Over half of all states allow family members to receive payment for providing respite care. Eligibility, delivery modes and funding vary from state to state.
Strategies for successful respite care
Finding and implementing respite care sounds like a lot of work! Relief and revitalization is not just important for you, it benefits all involved in the caregiving process.
Remembering the benefits and following these six tips can ease the process:
Plan and schedule frequent breaks. Respite is not just a service-it is an outcome that requires regular relief.
Use checklists to teach providers about your care recipient’s schedules, likes and dislikes. Offer suggestions for handling behaviors.
Make back-up plans. Always keep a list of alternate providers and resources. Unplanned emergencies should not prevent you from taking care of yourself.
Evaluate often. Observe your care recipient before and after respite sessions. Ask for brief updates and more detailed reports regularly.
Expect changes. Respite care is a process that often requires fine-tuning, Anticipating and accepting changes in personnel or programs can keep you from becoming discouraged.
Attend your support group regularly. Structured and informal groups allow you to meet others in situations much like yours. You can talk, vent, laugh, and exchange tips with people who understand. If you can’t easily leave home, online communities, message boards and forums can provide much-needed support.
Seeking support and maintaining one’s own health are key to managing the caregiving years. Using respite care before you become exhausted, isolated, or overwhelmed is ideal, but just anticipating regular relief can become a lifesaver.
Respite can take many forms, but boils down to two basic ideas: sharing the responsibility for caregiving and getting support for yourself. Finding the right balance requires persistence, patience, and preparation.
Planning your relief
Planning starts with analyzing needs…both yours and your loved one’s. As a caregiver, is support what you need most? Some free time? Help with transportation? Keep track of your daily activities then make a list of the areas and times when you most need help. Identifying your loved one’s requirements, abilities, and preferences will also help you find the right match. Are social activities primary? Assistance with walking, eating or medications? Mental stimulation? Exercise? Answering these questions will help you determine which respite options to pursue.
Types of respite care services
Respite Services
In-home respite
Informal family support and relief
Online caregiver communities and video workshops
Volunteer or paid companionship
Personal care or skilled health assistance
Out-of-home respite
Adult day programs
Residential respite care
Caregiver support groups
Engaging family members in respite care
Family members and friends may be able to help out while you run an errand, take a break or even go on vacation. However, just as the burden of caregiving is often more than one person can handle – it can also be a tough process for families to share.
Even the healthiest families can be severely stressed by ongoing care, and the division of labor is frequently lopsided. You can encourage support and participation by:
Talking openly and regularly. Keep everyone up to date on your loved one’s needs and condition. Family members who don’t share the day-to-day caretaking experience may not fully appreciate the situation.
Encouraging family members to evaluate what they can reasonably and honestly do. Changing roles and varying resource levels can impact family involvement. Welcome different viewpoints, accept limitations, and be willing to try alternate strategies. Share your list of needs and take advantage of all offers to help.
Recognizing your own feelings and discussing disproportionate tasks. Harboring resentment when you need more help can lead to your burnout and impaired health. Ask directly for concrete support and specific time commitments. Consider establishing an online calendar to organize relief and reconfirm schedules.
Using technology to bridge distances. Try free video conferencing services to hold family meetings at times that work for everyone. Create a web-based community to share updates and explore options.
Exploring a family respite cooperative. Consider trading respite services with other caregivers and their families. Pooling resources can encourage involvement, reduce costs, and increase flexibility.
Participating in support groups. Learning how other families cope can suggest new options and provide reassurance. When siblings are unable or unwilling to share the load, peer support can be invaluable.
In-home respite care
In-home services can be provided by volunteer or paid help, occasionally or on a regular basis. Services may last from a few hours to overnight, and may be arranged directly or through an agency. This popular respite choice enables individuals to remain in their own environments, and can be invaluable for caregivers. Consider which of these options might meet your needs:
Stimulation, recreation, and companionship can be provided by family members, friends, or neighbors while you take a break. Faith-based, community, and other non-profit organizations recruit volunteers, while home-care businesses provide trained staff to cover short in-home intervals.
Personal care providers assist with daily living skills such as bathing, dressing, feeding, or toileting. Homemaker services support meal preparation, shopping, and housekeeping. Skilled health care, which requires more specialized training and experience, addresses medical needs.
The key to successful home respite is matching needs to services, selecting qualified providers, providing meaningful information, and evaluating results.
Out-of-home respite care programs
As our aging population grows, this range of private and non-profit respite programs continues to expand:
Adult day centers are designed for older adults who can no longer manage independently, or who are isolated and lonely. Planned activities promote well-being though social and health services. Adult day care centers operate during daytime hours, Monday through Friday, in a safe, supportive, and cheerful environment. Nutritious meals and afternoon snacks that accommodate special diets are typically included.
Residential programs offer temporary care for varying lengths of time. Group homes, hospitals, nursing homes, and other specialized facilities provide emergency and planned overnight services, allowing caretakers 24-hour relief. Although medical insurance generally does not cover overnight respite, long term care policies and veterans programs may subsidize care.
Caregiver retreats and respite camps are available in some areas, combining respite with education and peer support. Availability varies from state to state and may be disability specific.
When you devote so much love and energy to caregiving, it may be difficult to entrust your family member to strangers. Whether you engage a provider directly or work through an agency, you can allay your fears by conducting some basic research.
Using independent providers
Although you are anxious for relief, taking time to find the right person is essential for your peace of mind and your loved one’s safety. Make sure you:
Conduct an in-depth interview with each candidate. Screening applicants on the phone should always be followed with a personal interview.
Be specific about all of the tasks, skills, and schedules involved.
Discuss compensation and payment schedules. Do not pay for services in advance.
Request several work and personal references, then check them carefully. Verify t
he information provided, and ask all references about reliability, trustworthiness, punctuality and the care provider's ability to handle stress.
If possible, consider a background check. Professional services cost between $100-$150 and can alert you to potentially serious problems. Check with your local police department, legal aid service or attorney for referrals to reputable investigators or search for "background checks" on the Internet.
Always include the potential care recipient in the screening process if he or she is able to participate, to ensure that both parties are comfortable and that your loved one's needs are respected.
Working with agencies
Although independent providers are generally the least expensive, home care agencies and referral services are often easier to use. Use your planning lists to help these professionals better serve you.
An agency finds and places providers, handles payroll, and usually provides substitutes for sick or absent personnel. If problems occur, you also have specific avenues of recourse (complaints, mediation, or arbitration) that are not available when working with individuals.
Referral services work to match your needs with local program options. Use online registries, check newspaper ads or the yellow pages to find specialists who know local programs and can help you navigate their systems.
Choosing off site programs for respite care
When you have identified potential out-of-home programs, plan to visit at least three. Observe the care participants and their interactions with the staff. Try to picture your loved one there, and check your instincts to see if you’re on the right track.
Be sure to ask the following questions:
How are care providers screened?
What is the training and level of experience of the care providers?
Will care providers need additional training to meet specific family needs?
How, and by whom, are the care providers supervised?
What procedures does the program have for emergencies?
Are families limited to a certain number of hours of services?
Does the program provide transportation and meals?
What is the cost of services? How is payment arranged?
Paying for respite care
In today’s challenging economy, you may think respite services are unattainable. However, thinking creatively can uncover valuable resources:
Ask local retirement groups for volunteers to sit with your loved one while you take a walk, watch a movie, or complete an internet workshop.
Trade services with other caregivers. When a loved one is able to change locations for an afternoon, alternate weeks caring for both recipients at once.
Contact area high school counselors. College-bound students often need community service experience and are available afternoons and evenings.
Traditional funding sources for respite care
Insurance: Although medical insurance generally does not include respite coverage unless licensed medical professionals are involved, long term care policies usually fund services up to specific time or dollar limits.
SSI: Patients with disability coverage may be eligible for home health care benefits. Check your local Social Security office or call the toll free number to verify eligibility.
Medicaid: Medicaid does not fund respite directly, but some states use waivers to apply federal funds to offset respite costs for residents with specific conditions and disabilities. Consult your state’s Administration on Aging website.
Veterans’ Benefits: The VA provides inpatient respite coverage for up to 30 days per year for qualified veterans. In addition, when war-time vets care for their spouses, funding for in-home services are available on a state-by-state basis.
Foundation Grants: Private foundations, such as The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the Brookdale Foundation make grants to organizations that provide direct respite. These funds are usually awarded annually and posted on foundation websites.
Nonprofit and Disability Organizations: The United Way, the Alzheimer’s Association, and other disability-specific organizations may offer respite money in your area. Agency care specialists can assist you in researching these funds.
State Agencies: Over half of all states allow family members to receive payment for providing respite care. Eligibility, delivery modes and funding vary from state to state.
Strategies for successful respite care
Finding and implementing respite care sounds like a lot of work! Relief and revitalization is not just important for you, it benefits all involved in the caregiving process.
Remembering the benefits and following these six tips can ease the process:
Plan and schedule frequent breaks. Respite is not just a service-it is an outcome that requires regular relief.
Use checklists to teach providers about your care recipient’s schedules, likes and dislikes. Offer suggestions for handling behaviors.
Make back-up plans. Always keep a list of alternate providers and resources. Unplanned emergencies should not prevent you from taking care of yourself.
Evaluate often. Observe your care recipient before and after respite sessions. Ask for brief updates and more detailed reports regularly.
Expect changes. Respite care is a process that often requires fine-tuning, Anticipating and accepting changes in personnel or programs can keep you from becoming discouraged.
Attend your support group regularly. Structured and informal groups allow you to meet others in situations much like yours. You can talk, vent, laugh, and exchange tips with people who understand. If you can’t easily leave home, online communities, message boards and forums can provide much-needed support.
Depression is Not a Normal Part of Growing Older
Depression is a true and treatable medical condition, not a normal part of aging. However older adults are at an increased risk for experiencing depression. If you are concerned about a loved one, offer to go with him or her to see a health care provider to be diagnosed and treated.
Depression is not just having "the blues" or the emotions we feel when grieving the loss of a loved one. It is a true medical condition that is treatable, like diabetes or hypertension.
How Do I Know If It's Depression?
Someone who is depressed has feelings of sadness or anxiety that last for weeks at a time. He or she may also experience–
•Feelings of hopelessness and/or pessimism
•Feelings of guilt, worthlessness and/or helplessness
•Irritability, restlessness
•Loss of interest in activities or hobbies once pleasurable
•Fatigue and decreased energy
•Difficulty concentrating, remembering details and making decisions
•Insomnia, early–morning wakefulness, or excessive sleeping
•Overeating or appetite loss
•Thoughts of suicide, suicide attempts
•Persistent aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems that do not get better, even with treatment
How is Depression Different for Older Adults?
•Older adults are at increased risk. We know that about 80% of older adults have at least one chronic health condition, and 50% have two or more. Depression is more common in people who also have other illnesses (such as heart disease or cancer) or whose function becomes limited.
•Older adults are often misdiagnosed and undertreated. Healthcare providers may mistake an older adult's symptoms of depression as just a natural reaction to illness or the life changes that may occur as we age, and therefore not see the depression as something to be treated. Older adults themselves often share this belief and do not seek help because they don't understand that they could feel better with appropriate treatment.
How Many Older Adults Are Depressed?
The good news is that the majority of older adults are not depressed. Some estimates of major depression in older people living in the community range from less than 1% to about 5% but rise to 13.5% in those who require home healthcare and to 11.5% in older hospital patients.
How Do I Find Help?
Most older adults see an improvement in their symptoms when treated with antidepression drugs, psychotherapy, or a combination of both. If you are concerned about a loved one being depressed, offer to go with him or her to see a health care provider to be diagnosed and treated.
If you or someone you care about is in crisis, please seek help immediately.
•Call 911
•Visit a nearby emergency department or your health care provider's office
•Call the toll-free, 24-hour hotline of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255); TTY: 1-800-799-4TTY (4889) to talk to a trained counselor
Web Resources
•American Psychological Association’s Depression and Suicide in Older Adults Resource Guide
•CDC’s Prevention Research Centers Healthy Aging Research Network Conference: Effective Programs to Treat Depression in Older Adults
•CDC Prevention Research Centers Healthy Aging Research Network Depression Webinars – hosted by the National Council on Aging
•The Community Guide Mental Health Recommendations
•Geriatric Mental Health Foundation
•National Council on Aging Center for Healthy Aging Mental Health Resources
•National Institute of Mental Health Depression
•SAMHSA Older Adults and Mental Health
•SAMHSA National Registry of Evidence-Based Programs and Practices
Depression is not just having "the blues" or the emotions we feel when grieving the loss of a loved one. It is a true medical condition that is treatable, like diabetes or hypertension.
How Do I Know If It's Depression?
Someone who is depressed has feelings of sadness or anxiety that last for weeks at a time. He or she may also experience–
•Feelings of hopelessness and/or pessimism
•Feelings of guilt, worthlessness and/or helplessness
•Irritability, restlessness
•Loss of interest in activities or hobbies once pleasurable
•Fatigue and decreased energy
•Difficulty concentrating, remembering details and making decisions
•Insomnia, early–morning wakefulness, or excessive sleeping
•Overeating or appetite loss
•Thoughts of suicide, suicide attempts
•Persistent aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems that do not get better, even with treatment
How is Depression Different for Older Adults?
•Older adults are at increased risk. We know that about 80% of older adults have at least one chronic health condition, and 50% have two or more. Depression is more common in people who also have other illnesses (such as heart disease or cancer) or whose function becomes limited.
•Older adults are often misdiagnosed and undertreated. Healthcare providers may mistake an older adult's symptoms of depression as just a natural reaction to illness or the life changes that may occur as we age, and therefore not see the depression as something to be treated. Older adults themselves often share this belief and do not seek help because they don't understand that they could feel better with appropriate treatment.
How Many Older Adults Are Depressed?
The good news is that the majority of older adults are not depressed. Some estimates of major depression in older people living in the community range from less than 1% to about 5% but rise to 13.5% in those who require home healthcare and to 11.5% in older hospital patients.
How Do I Find Help?
Most older adults see an improvement in their symptoms when treated with antidepression drugs, psychotherapy, or a combination of both. If you are concerned about a loved one being depressed, offer to go with him or her to see a health care provider to be diagnosed and treated.
If you or someone you care about is in crisis, please seek help immediately.
•Call 911
•Visit a nearby emergency department or your health care provider's office
•Call the toll-free, 24-hour hotline of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255); TTY: 1-800-799-4TTY (4889) to talk to a trained counselor
Web Resources
•American Psychological Association’s Depression and Suicide in Older Adults Resource Guide
•CDC’s Prevention Research Centers Healthy Aging Research Network Conference: Effective Programs to Treat Depression in Older Adults
•CDC Prevention Research Centers Healthy Aging Research Network Depression Webinars – hosted by the National Council on Aging
•The Community Guide Mental Health Recommendations
•Geriatric Mental Health Foundation
•National Council on Aging Center for Healthy Aging Mental Health Resources
•National Institute of Mental Health Depression
•SAMHSA Older Adults and Mental Health
•SAMHSA National Registry of Evidence-Based Programs and Practices
Falls in the home
The odds of falling each year after the age 65 in the U.S. are about one in three. Fortunately, most of these falls aren’t serious. Still, falls are the leading cause of injury and injury related death among older adults. As we age, our sight, hearing, muscle strength, coordination and reflexes change, weakening our balance. Also, some health coordination’s, such as diabetes and circulation problems affect balance. Even some medications have been known to make people dizzy.
By 2040 an estimated 500,000 hip fractures per year
(cooper 1992, braensky 1997)
Following hip fracture 17%-32% mortality
(kannis ctal 2003)
87% of all fractures among older adults are due to falls
Approximately 1/3 of older Californians fall each year, with many of the 1.3 million suffering serious injury, particularly hip fractures and head injuries.
More than 40% of those hospitalized for hip fractures never return home or live independently again and 25% will die within one year.
On average, everyday in California, two older adults die from fall related injuries. You’re more likely to fall as you get older because of common age related physical changes and medical conditions. There are medications you can take to treat such conditions.
The majority of falls can be prevented thru proper methods. Such as:
Appropriate risk assessment and follow up by real healthcare practitioners
Exercise strength training and flexibility aimed at reducing falls
Environmental modifications such as removing clutter and installing grab bars
Cause of falls
Internal risk factors
Medical conditions
Decreased vision
Medications
Decreased strength
Foot problems
Decreased balance
External risk factors
Uneven/ slippery surfaces
poor lighting
Activity level
Timing demands (i.e. crossing streets)
Home safety environment
Reducing your risk
Take care of medical problems as needed
Have your vision checked and wear eyeglasses as needed
Check with your doctor regarding possible medication interaction which may affect your balance
Take medication only as prescribed
Exercise daily
Do simple balance exercises balance is just like muscle strength - if you don’t use it you loose it
Try advanced balance exercise Taichi, Yoga, Pilates, balance classes or ball classes
Strength training consider using weights and resistance bands. Strength training helps balance, improves muscle tone, bone strength and fights osteoporosis
Take care of your feet and wear supportive, rubber soled shoes
Install proper lighting thought out your home
use nightlights
Stay on pathways
Let the phone ring- use a portable phone, *69 or answering maching
Use a cane, walker or other device if instructed to do so
Take the home safety check listed below and make repairs or changes as necessary for safety- full proof your living environment
When visiting friends or in any strange environment be alert to possible hazards
Never climb onto a chair to change a light bulb or reach high objects on shelves use a sturdy stool or step ladder or have someone else do it
Preventing Falls At Home
If you want to stay in your own home for as long as possible….
You certainly do not want to fall and risk an injury. Most serious falls occur in and around your home and can be life changing. To help maintain your independence, its important to understand the ways you can protect yourself from falls. Some simple precautions can ensure safety and reduce your risk of falling at home.
Have you done a safety check in your home recently? The attached brochure will help you understand what to do to prevent falls around your home, empowering you to live independently as long as possible.
By 2040 an estimated 500,000 hip fractures per year
(cooper 1992, braensky 1997)
Following hip fracture 17%-32% mortality
(kannis ctal 2003)
87% of all fractures among older adults are due to falls
Approximately 1/3 of older Californians fall each year, with many of the 1.3 million suffering serious injury, particularly hip fractures and head injuries.
More than 40% of those hospitalized for hip fractures never return home or live independently again and 25% will die within one year.
On average, everyday in California, two older adults die from fall related injuries. You’re more likely to fall as you get older because of common age related physical changes and medical conditions. There are medications you can take to treat such conditions.
The majority of falls can be prevented thru proper methods. Such as:
Appropriate risk assessment and follow up by real healthcare practitioners
Exercise strength training and flexibility aimed at reducing falls
Environmental modifications such as removing clutter and installing grab bars
Cause of falls
Internal risk factors
Medical conditions
Decreased vision
Medications
Decreased strength
Foot problems
Decreased balance
External risk factors
Uneven/ slippery surfaces
poor lighting
Activity level
Timing demands (i.e. crossing streets)
Home safety environment
Reducing your risk
Take care of medical problems as needed
Have your vision checked and wear eyeglasses as needed
Check with your doctor regarding possible medication interaction which may affect your balance
Take medication only as prescribed
Exercise daily
Do simple balance exercises balance is just like muscle strength - if you don’t use it you loose it
Try advanced balance exercise Taichi, Yoga, Pilates, balance classes or ball classes
Strength training consider using weights and resistance bands. Strength training helps balance, improves muscle tone, bone strength and fights osteoporosis
Take care of your feet and wear supportive, rubber soled shoes
Install proper lighting thought out your home
use nightlights
Stay on pathways
Let the phone ring- use a portable phone, *69 or answering maching
Use a cane, walker or other device if instructed to do so
Take the home safety check listed below and make repairs or changes as necessary for safety- full proof your living environment
When visiting friends or in any strange environment be alert to possible hazards
Never climb onto a chair to change a light bulb or reach high objects on shelves use a sturdy stool or step ladder or have someone else do it
Preventing Falls At Home
If you want to stay in your own home for as long as possible….
You certainly do not want to fall and risk an injury. Most serious falls occur in and around your home and can be life changing. To help maintain your independence, its important to understand the ways you can protect yourself from falls. Some simple precautions can ensure safety and reduce your risk of falling at home.
Have you done a safety check in your home recently? The attached brochure will help you understand what to do to prevent falls around your home, empowering you to live independently as long as possible.
Questions to ask your doctor
At some point you’ve probably had dozens of questions to ask your doctor. But once you are in the office your mind goes blank. As it turns out, even the best doctors can’t give you the right answers if your not asking the right questions.
Let the doctor know in advance how involved you would like to be in decision-making, and how much detailed information you would like him or her to give you It also is a good idea to bring a notebook with a list of questions for your doctor and a pen to jot down important information.
The benefits of a two way doctor –patient exchange has shown that asking questions has resulted in a more successful treatment. Make the most of your doctor’s visit. Write down everything you would like to ask your doctor. List what your doctor needs to know about you. If you have any symptoms—where and for how long. Bring a list of all medicines that you are currently taking to every visit. Both prescriptions and non prescriptions such as aspirin, vitamins and supplements.
You and your doctor must form a partnership in promoting your health. Only you know how you feel and how you are responding to treatment. Not all medicines or treatments react the same for each patient. Therefore if you do not experience positive results from a medicine or treatment notify your doctor. If you fail to inform your doctor about negative out comes the doctor’s belief will be that you are improving.
Remember your health is not only your doctor’s responsibility but your responsibility to actively participate in the care plan.
Let the doctor know in advance how involved you would like to be in decision-making, and how much detailed information you would like him or her to give you It also is a good idea to bring a notebook with a list of questions for your doctor and a pen to jot down important information.
The benefits of a two way doctor –patient exchange has shown that asking questions has resulted in a more successful treatment. Make the most of your doctor’s visit. Write down everything you would like to ask your doctor. List what your doctor needs to know about you. If you have any symptoms—where and for how long. Bring a list of all medicines that you are currently taking to every visit. Both prescriptions and non prescriptions such as aspirin, vitamins and supplements.
You and your doctor must form a partnership in promoting your health. Only you know how you feel and how you are responding to treatment. Not all medicines or treatments react the same for each patient. Therefore if you do not experience positive results from a medicine or treatment notify your doctor. If you fail to inform your doctor about negative out comes the doctor’s belief will be that you are improving.
Remember your health is not only your doctor’s responsibility but your responsibility to actively participate in the care plan.
Thursday, April 1, 2010
The Healing Power of Laughter
A growing body of research supports the theory that laughter has a therapeutic value. A good laugh not only helps the spirit, it gets the blood pumping.
Laugh on a regular basis, and you can even boost your immune system, according to some research. It improves your breathing, helps with blood pressure, burns calories and reduces pain.
Laughter is an important stress-management tool. When you laugh the brain stops thinking. It is a proven way to keep your mental balance.
Laughter is contagious, so if you bring more laughter into your life, you can most likely help others around you to laugh more. By elevating the mood of those around you, you can diminish their stress levels, and possibly improve the quality of social interaction you experience with them, reducing your stress level even more. What’s even better is that the more you smile, the more others will too.
A good sense of humour is one of the most important tools in your self-care kit. In fact, studies show that laughter affects both your body and your mind. Laughter is also readily available, free, has no side effects, and you do not have to worry about overdosing.
Only we ourselves can take control of our own lives and do something about it. No one can make you happy if you don’t want to be happy. Modern science and medicine have now discovered that the more you laugh the better your health is and that is no joke.
Now that you know about the benefits of laughter you need to do it more often , isn’t it time that you introduce lots of it into your life? You will be surprised at the results you get. Life is short. Have fun and keep laughing towards good health and a wonderful life.
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