Aging in place Seniors Elderly, home remodeling, assistive technology & planning

Will Empty Spaces Affect Your Aging?

Bjerke, D.C., CAPS — Fri, 03 May 2013 19:24:52 +0000

Will Empty Spaces Affect Your Aging?

I was working with a client not long ago who afforded me one of those “epiphany” moments. We were diligently rearranging her kitchen because she felt it difficult to work in. She said she could not find the things she needed when she needed them, items were scattered about and nothing seemed to have any order. Once we reorganized everything, she ended up with a totally empty cabinet above her stove. “What am I going to do with that,” she asked me. Good question! “Why do you have to do anything with it,” I replied. As it turns out she, like many of us, felt empty spaces must be filled. After all, if we leave them empty, does that imply that we are forgetting something or have left things only partially done? And so appeared that “aha moment!”

I have ruminated (one of my favorite words) over this cogent thought for quite a while and have even taken to observing people in their everyday lives endlessly filling up everything from shopping carts to task lists in an effort to avoid the dreaded emptiness of that blank space.

Many years ago I came across a book titled, “Entropy” by Jeremy Rifkin where he simplistically states that whenever order is created anywhere in the universe, it is done so at the expense of creating greater disorder in the surrounding environment. So are we, then, naturally held back from creating order because of the discordance we may experience as the price for creating that symmetry? Do we then bend to the rationale that we can’t possibly leave anything empty as it could also represent discordance? I wonder.

But this has really incredible implications. Does the bucket list we pursue as we age represent all of the things we can possibly accomplish in the time we feel we have left to live? What about when we are downsizing or transitioning to a new home? I’ve experienced situations where no matter what I said to a client about the smaller space they were moving into, the client ended up with a lot of furniture and possessions in the hallway of a senior residence because it all simply wouldn’t fit! The physical space had changed, but the mental one had not.

Aging in place, in its most simplified form, is a desire to remain in our home as we age. I sometimes wonder, however, if the driving force behind that concept might be that we don’t want to face a future that might not contain all of the things it does now and force us to experience emptiness. Now granted no one wants to be lonely, bored or feel uncomfortable in their own home.

Enter an empty room and some of us immediately want to fill it up – with something. However, there are those of us that would relish this at it is, to them, what is a called a “blank canvas” – a clean slate upon which anything can be written, so to speak. To others, this is highly uncomfortable. This may also be why some of us feel more at ease in small spaces rather than large spaces, or in rooms that do not have cathedral or high ceilings.

Our lives are filled with work, activities, events, hobbies, church, family gatherings and so on. Our homes are filled with things we no longer need or use or furniture that does nothing but crowd us out. For just one moment, one small space of time, we should just “be,” with nowhere to go and nothing to do. Just breathe. This is harder than it seems.

Taking time to “be”…

As we age, we may slow down somewhat, but we still are likely to experience very few “be” moments, and these are the ones we should treasure. For it is in those quiet, “white space” snippets of “nothingness” that we have the opportunity to experience the greatest gift of all – time. Time to engage our future as we age. Time to whittle that bucket list down to what really matters to us and why.

Aging in place is not an event; rather it is a decision-making process. Where we choose to live is actually the answer to a whole host of questions from whether or not our neighborhood is safe or if our town has lighting, sidewalks and businesses that are age-friendly to the types of transportation and health care available to us if we choose to remain in our home.

We are so lucky to be in an era where the aging in place future is unfolding as a flower does in response to sunlight. So much is yet to be revealed. Much will be left by the wayside in a natural progression of “natural selection” of what will benefit the aging population and what won’t. But what remains will, hopefully, bring joy, happiness and peace to the years we so dearly want to experience.

Take time out of your life to cognitively experience “be” moments and avoid the pull to fill up every available moment. Eliminate the clutter from your life (and our home) and you will reveal spaces that may have been unknown to you before. Use them wisely.

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Slip & Fall Accident Prevention

Mark Hager — Mon, 25 Feb 2013 04:55:21 +0000

Preventing slip & fall accidents

Safeguarding you or an elderly loved one against slip & fall accidents should be on your list when trying to help a senior age in place. After all, without preventing falls your independence may be at risk. While many people think it won’t happen to them, they’ll just “be careful,” think about this: More than 1 in 3 seniors age 65 or older fall each year, reports the National Institute on Aging. Your risk of falling increases as you age.

There are many reasons why a slip & fall can occur such as health conditions, medications and environmental hazards. All of these accident causes can lead to lengthy hospitalization, permanent disabilities or even death. Here are some precautions you can take to help prevent falls.

Slip & falls : Your environment

Remove all clutter from the floor including shoes, magazines, baskets, rugs, plants, coffee tables, pet toys, electrical cords, wastebaskets and other items that are easy to trip over. Non-skid rugs should be left at entrances in order to absorb any liquid dragged in from outside.
Make sure the spaces around your furniture are large enough to easily navigate through particularly if you use a cane or walker.
Use assistive devices when you can such as grab bars and non-slip surfaces in bathtubs and showers. You also can add grab bars by the toilet.
Use a sturdy bench in the shower.
Check all lighting and install more if necessary. Good lighting in hallways, bathrooms, kitchens, garages, entrances, sidewalks and driveways and on stairs will illuminate walkways making it easier to see even when eyesight is not as good as it used to be. Use extra lamps and nightlights and make sure flashlights are easily accessible.
Make sure floors are clear not just of clutter but rugs, loose carpets and floor boards and any other items that can be tripped over easily by the elderly.
Do not store heavy items on high shelves. Make sure any heavy items are stored in lower cabinets and on closet floors. Also, be sure that items are in reach without the need of a stool or ladder.
Remove all snow, leaves, ice, branches, welcome mats and potted plants. Also, be sure that borders around gardens are easily seen and not sticking up or easy to trip on.
Use raised toilet seats.
Furniture such as chairs, couches and beds may be too high or too low. Adjust the height of furniture according to the senior’s needs.
Install a second railing on stairs. Use safety treads on the steps. You also can mark the edge of steps with bright colored paint or illuminating tape.
Clean up all spills right away.
Keep drawers, cabinets and closet doors closed.
Install motion lights throughout the house or make sure you always turn lights on as you enter a room.
If there are pets in the home, try brightly colored collars to more easily see the pets and avoid tripping over them.

Health tips for fall prevention

Muscle weakness is a common reason for falls in the elderly. Use strength building exercises to improve leg strength and help prevent falling. Exercises such as swimming, walking, Tai Chi and dancing also will improve balance and coordination. Always speak with your doctor before beginning any exercise program.
Impaired vision can cause slip & fall accidents, so be sure to get your vision checked annually and wear your glasses if you require them. Poor depth perception, cataracts and glaucoma all can cause slips & falls.
Always use a cane or walker if recommended by your physician.
Stand up slowly to prevent dizziness, light headedness or weakness.
Have your hearing checked regularly. Hearing loss and hearing conditions can cause balance problems.
Address any leg or foot pain.
Avoid alcohol.

Your medication

Identify any medications that may make you drowsy or dizzy. Take extra cautionary measures when taking these.
Identify any over-the-counter or prescriptions that can cause interactions or side effects, especially in the elderly.
Reduce medications if possible by speaking with your doctor and regularly reviewing your prescriptions. The more you take, the more likely you are to fall.
Discuss any concerns with your physician.

Other slip & fall prevention tips

Wear proper fitting shoes with rubber soles. Avoid backless shoes, high heels, slippers, flip flops and even bare feet.
Take vitamin D and calcium to maintain strength and overall health.
Install additional phones throughout the home to avoid running for calls. You also will be able to call for help more easily if necessary.
Call family and friends for help. Whether it’s for clearing the driveway, lifting something heavy or washing the floors, don’t be afraid to call for assistance.
Hire some help. Health and personal care services are available through senior care service providers.

Always speak with an occupational therapist or your physician to determine your fall risk as well as for ideas on how you can be safe and independent for longer.

Sources
National Institutes of Health
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Falls Among Older Adults: An Overview.”
Webmd.com. “Preventing slips and falls.”
photo credit : partie traumatic

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Elderly Depression How to Help

Mark Hager — Thu, 14 Feb 2013 16:31:21 +0000

Elderly depression – how to help

Depression in seniors often can go undetected. Many times the signs are seen as symptoms of other conditions such as Alzheimer’s or dementia, general aging changes and social/emotional changes due to retirement and other life changes. How can you help someone who has elderly depression? There are several ways you can assist.

Identify elderly depression

It can be difficult to identify elderly depression. With natural aging and major life changes, many people can experience a short period of the “blues.” Seniors face things such as death of a friend or loved one, loneliness or chronic illness, which can bring sadness. But don’t dismiss signs such as reduction in appetite, trouble sleeping, disinterest in activities and sadness that continues for more than 2 weeks. When depression lasts a long time, your loved one can’t regain his emotional balance or affects his daily life, help may be needed. Watch and listen for the signs of depression.

Bring up the subject

Be sensitive and find a gentle and kind way to discuss your concerns. Encourage him to talk about his feelings. Listen without judgment and gently overcome any resistance.

Seek medical assistance

Take your loved one to see their primary care physician. If they refuse to make the call, and you are able, make the call yourself. Offer to go with to help put them at ease.

Maintain a positive attitude

Keep a positive outlook about the treatment process and outcome for elderly depression. Your loved one needs your support and needs to remember the positive things in his life. Encourage your loved one to be active and maybe even take up an activity they once enjoyed.

Be there

Whether it’s being a good listener, a shopping partner, cooking them dinner one night or even just inviting seniors to one of your outings, find ways to be there for your loved one.

Make appointments or help keep them

Go with the senior to their appointments. Not only can you give them a ride, but you also can offer support and even help them keep track of when they need to go.

Don’t try to take over

Even if it is not your intention, be careful not to “take over” the person’s life. Helping seniors cope with depression and life changes is a better choice. Trying to take over will rob him of independence and increase feelings of helplessness.

When offering help to your loved one, make sure you show understanding, patience and respect. Seniors suffering from depression are going through many changes and need to feel loved and remember the good things in their lives.

Sources
1. American Psychological Association
2. NIH Senior Health on NIHseniorhealth.gov
photo credit : greenluka

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Elderly Slip & Fall Accidents

Mark Hager — Wed, 06 Feb 2013 18:43:32 +0000

Elderly Slip & Fall

People don’t just fall because they become elderly. There are many factors involved. A slip & fall accident may seem unlikely to happen, but slip and fall accidents can occur at any age in any home with a higher risk for the elderly (and seniors aging in place). In fact, 1 in 3 adults age 65 and older fall each year, reports the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Slip & fall accidents are the main cause of injuries to seniors in their homes, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission. The risk of accidents increases as we age as well as the risk of serious injury resulting from a fall, leaving many elderly dependent and with home care, hospitalization or long-term care.

Many accidents may result in a bruise or cut but falls by the elderly can cause much more serious injuries including hip fractures, head injuries or even death. The CDC reported that 2.3 million nonfatal fall injuries among older adults were treated in emergency departments in 2010.

Aside from medical and rehabilitation costs, these injuries can limit or take away elderly mobility and independence. As you work to help yourself or a loved one age in place, it is important to take fall risk seriously and prevent as many accidents as possible from ever occurring.

Whether it’s for your home or a loved one, it is important to be aware of potential dangers in order to minimize fall occurrences. Slip & fall accidents can be caused by several risk factors including environmental, health and medications.

Slip & Fall Environmental Hazards

Many slip & fall accidents could have been prevented. Something as simple as removing a rug on the floor, picking up an object lying on the stairs or replacing a burnt out light bulb in a walkway could save a senior from serious injury. Pay close attention to stairways and bathrooms, which are especially dangerous areas.

Other things to look for are spills and other wet areas on the floor such as at the front door where outside weather may be dragged in on shoes. The kitchen and, again, bathroom floors are highly susceptible to spills and slick surfaces. Make sure all liquids are carefully cleaned off the floor.

There are environmental hazards in everyone’s home and many ways to help prevent slip & fall accidents.

Health Issues

There are many physical conditions and medical problems that could contribute to the increasing prevalence of falls in the elderly. Aging changes such as degenerating eye sight, muscle weakness and balance issues increase the dangers in a home. Proper lighting, handrails and removal of clutter can help reduce the likelihood of falling for seniors facing these issues.

Twenty to 30% of falls result in moderate to severe injuries, according to the CDC. However, other health problems can make a fall more likely to happen and the result even more devastating. Osteoporosis, arthritis and Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia not only can cause slip & fall accidents, but seniors with these conditions are likely to suffer serious injury from falls and maybe even death.

Medication

Many medications can have side affects such as dizziness, confusion or drowsiness, which increase your chances of falling. The more medications you take, the more likely you are to fall, reports the National Institute on Aging. Taking 4 or more prescription drugs or recently starting a new medication increases the risk of falling. If you feel dizzy or unsteady, tell your physician. It’s also important to check drug interactions if you are taking multiple medications. Seniors and the elderly should always check with your doctor about any medication you begin as even over the counter medications could cause problems.

Lastly, if an elderly person has fallen, he may develop a fear of falling again. It is important to help them settle back into his home, help him prevent future falls by safeguarding the home and speak with him and his doctor about other ways you can prevent slip & fall accidents.

If you fall, speak with your doctor because there could be a new medical problem. Most importantly, try to prevent the falls in the first place.

Sources
1. Center for Disease Control and Prevention
2. National Institute on Aging, Senior Health.
3. Consumer Product Safety Commission

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Elderly Depression Treatment

Mark Hager — Sat, 19 Jan 2013 20:51:29 +0000

Elderly Depression – Treatment

Anyone can develop elderly depression, and seniors have an increased chance the longer they age. Some elderly people may experience life changes such as financial, health and even spiritual changes, which can lead to sadness, feelings of isolation and hopelessness. Although the “blues” can strike anyone, when depression affects your life and takes away your joy from things you love, help may be needed.

Elderly depression treatment varies, depending greatly on the cause. In addition, different depression therapies and treatments work differently for different people. It is important to speak with your doctor when seeking treatment for depression. Here are some treatment options that are available.

Therapy with a trained professional is an important option to consider when dealing with elderly depression. Discussing your feelings and working through life changes such as retirement, financial changes, health issues and feelings of isolation can help you cope better and think more positively while dealing with these challenges.

Religious and peer counseling can help you find new meaning and purpose, ground you in your community, and reduce the feelings of loneliness and hopelessness that may come with elderly depression.

Support groups can be a good way to heal. Sharing your experiences, feelings and offering encouragement with other seniors suffering from depression can give you a sense of belonging, social support and a connection with other seniors going through similar situations. Support groups for bereavement, illness or depression are all available and can provide a positive and safe place for sharing what you are going through.

Medication prescribed by your physician or therapist might be an option for depression treatment in seniors. Medications such as antidepressants can help improve your mood, sleep, appetite and concentration. As a senior, you may already be taking other medications and therefore you must be aware of possible side affects and drug interactions if you begin a medication regimen.

Once you have recognized that you or a loved one may be suffering from elderly depression, speak with your physician who can help decide the best treatment for you. Share your condition with loved ones, or seniors that are friends, so you don’t feel alone. If you are a senior suffering with depression, there is help available and you can be treated successfully with the proper care. Depression probably didn’t develop over night, so it may take some time to heal.

Sources:
1. American Psychological Association
2. National Institute on Aging
3. NIH Senior Health on NIHseniorhealth.gov
image : bartholemaus

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Elderly Depression Causes

Mark Hager — Wed, 16 Jan 2013 06:03:47 +0000

Causes of depression in older adults and the elderly

Elderly Depression Causes

The risk of elderly depression increases as we age. Aging can deliver physical, financial, spiritual and mental challenges some of which may be difficult to deal with. Many life changes such as health problems or fixed income issues can get seniors down once in a while, but when a senior doesn’t enjoy his usual activities or the “blues” continue on for a long period of time, he may require help for clinical depression.

Experiencing symptoms such as a lack of energy, confusion, grumpiness, irritability, mood changes and forgetfulness may seem like symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, dementia and other diseases and conditions related to getting older, but all can be signs of depression. It is important to identify elderly depression causes because often times it goes undiagnosed due to the symptoms seeming like part of the “normal” aging process or a change such as in medication.

There are many causes and risk factors that contribute to depression in older adults and the elderly.

Health problems such as dealing with physical changes, illness, disabilities, pain, limited mobility and even cognitive decline can be frustrating and lead to elderly depression.
Seniors may have a weakened sense of purpose with changes such as retirement and health limitations. Having previously defined themselves through work and activity, a senior may feel a loss when faced with new restrictions.
Loneliness plays a role in elderly depression. Relocation, social changes, living alone, death of friends or loved ones and other changes can lead to feelings of isolation.
Fear of dying, reduction in finances and health issues are all understandable since the unknown can be scary. But fears and anxiety can lead to depression if not dealt with properly.
Loss of friends, family and pets can create long-term depression unless you can find a way to cope with these losses.
Depression can develop in seniors due to changes in the brain. According to the NIH, seniors can develop ischemia, a condition where blood flow is restricted creating hard blood vessels and preventing blood from reaching organs including the brain. This condition is known as vascular depression.
Damage to body image, which can be through a recent surgery or just aging.
Family history can increase a seniors’ risk for depression.
Various medication also can increase chances of developing depression. Speak with your doctor if you experience depression after a change in medication.

Identifying the causes of depression in the elderly can help you or your loved one from suffering. If you are a senior or a caregiver, identify depression by checking for these depression causes and risk factors, finding ways to cope with each of them and seeking medical assistance if necessary.

Sources
1. NIH Senior Health on NIHseniorhealth.gov
2. Depression in Elderly on Webmd.com
3. American Psychological Association
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What is an Aging In Place Specialist and How Can They Help

Mark Hager — Tue, 08 Jan 2013 20:38:42 +0000

What is an Aging in Place Specialist, by Mary Alexander from Home Instead Senior Care. Mary explains what a Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS) is and how they can help you stay in your home longer, and more safely, as you age.

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Elderly Depression

Mark Hager — Wed, 12 Dec 2012 04:51:28 +0000

Elderly depression can be brought on by a number of things, including life changing events, such as isolation, health issues, the death of a spouse or other loved one, or retirement. Major events in life can leave and elderly person feeling down, unmotivated or that their life is lacking somehow. The risks are also increased for females, those that are unmarried (or, widowed or divorced), and persons without a network of family or friends around. Depression can keep anyone from feeling their lives are full.

Elderly depression is a serious problem

Elderly depression is common and affects nearly 6 million seniors. However, only a small percentage get help. Left untreated, depression can keep a person from living a life that is full and happy. This is especially true for elderly suffering from major depression disorder.

Depression risks

Left untreated, elderly depression can increase thee risk of cardiac disease. It can also increase the probability of death from other illnesses, as well as increase the risk of suicide. Depression also can reduce the ability of an elderly person’s body to recover from illness, thus increasing the amount of time it takes to rehabilitate.
The risk of depression can be increased by other medical conditions, such as atrial fibrillation, dementia, high blood pressure, cancer or diseases that cause chronic pain.

Symptoms of depression in elderly

Elderly depression can manifest differently. However, some symptoms can be similar to what people of any age would suffer.

Loss of interest in activities
Low self worth
Frequent thoughts of death; suicide attempts
Weight loss and/or appetite loss
Social isolation
Sadness
Insomnia
Fatigue
Feeling helpless or high anxiety

Some symptoms that might be displayed by depressed seniors, include:

Confusion
Vague complaints of pain
Irritability or demanding behavior
Neglecting personal care
Memory problems
Delusions
Slowed movements or speech

If you or an elderly loved one is suffering from depression, talk to a physician about options. Getting help is easier than you might think.

Elderly Depression Video

Sources:
WebMD
National Alliance on Mental Illness
MedlinePlus, National LIbrary of Medicine & National Institute of Health

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Senior Healthcare And Planning

Mark Hager — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 15:33:34 +0000

I’m reading a lot of reports about rural healthcare for seniors lately. It certainly is a real issue and if you’re being realistic as you make your own aging in place plans, you know we all will face care needs at some point.

There are many factors that concern rural medical care today, including budget cuts, the high volumes of senior Medicare patients, retirement income, insurance and more.

The reality for seniors

There is going to be a shortage of doctors, medical facilities, caregivers and a lot of other things. And, the shortages won’t all be in rural areas, they will just be hit harder. Our country has never had to provide this coming level of care for the millions of Baby Boomers in (and going into) retirement. It is just a fact. Obviously, technological advancements will someday make it easier, such as telemedicine. But, we can’t count on that to be the answer now. That being said, it isn’t hopeless.

Aging in place planning is crucial

When you are thinking about where you are going to spend your retirement years, make sure you consider the availability of health care. Be realistic when you think about the level of care you might need and if you can get it where you are at. Do some research. If it doesn’t add up, start laying plans now.

Get involved in your community to find out how you can help be a part of the solution. Start or join a group focused on bringing medical care, caregivers or other service providers in to meet the needs of your local seniors. We can all make a difference in our collective future if we play it right.

If you’re 45 or 70, planning is imperative. Don’t fall prey to, “I’ll get to it some day.” Reach out to the aging in place professionals in your community that can help you, such as Certified Financial Planners, Certified Aging in Place Specialists, Certified Senior Advisors and others.

No plan is perfect. Even more true is that not planning is dangerous.

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How To Find A Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS)

Mark Hager — Fri, 31 Aug 2012 19:23:31 +0000

The following Certified Aging in Place Specialist article covers how you can locate a professional in your city.

What is a Certified Aging in Place Specialist?

The Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS) designation program was developed by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Remodelers, NAHB Research Center, 50+ Housing Council and the AARP. The program is designed to teach the business management, customer service and technical information a business needs to serve the needs of seniors
or elderly.

To learn more, please see : Introduction to Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS) >>

Finding A Certified Aging in Place Specialist in Your City

There are thousands of CAPS professionals throughout the United States. Finding out if one is in your city will require a minimal amount of effort.

1. Start by visiting the CAPS directory page on the NAHB website

2. Select your State from the 3rd field from the top of the form.

3. Select “Certified Aging in Place Specialist CAPS” in the Designation field. (The 6th field from the top of the form.)

4. Then, press the “Search” button.

5. The results will be all the Certified Aging in Place Specialists in your state.

There are several other ways you can use the search form to search for CAPS professionals. You can do a radius search from your zip code or supply your city name, to name a few.

What if I don’t find a Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS) in my city?

If you are unable to locate a CAPS professional in your city, there may still be professionals in your city that can help you with your needs.

First, you could visit Age in Place Professionals to see if there are any members in your area. Many of them are CAPS certified and a large number of them provide consulting to seniors aging in place.

Finally, you can contact your local Home Builders Association and request a list of members that have aging in place home remodeling experience. You can also contact a local Occupational Therapist and ask if they can consult with you on home remodeling (or other modifications) for aging in place.

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