Since heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, especially among seniors, it is important for caregivers to know the facts. 17.3 million deaths each year are caused by heart disease. Seniors are especially prone to cardiovascular complications. Learn about heart health to protect against this threat.
Glaucoma Awareness Month
Even though it is the second leading cause of blindness, few people know about glaucoma. Seniors are especially at risk and need to know the facts. More than 3 million people in the US have glaucoma. Many are seniors. Many don’t know they have the condition. However, this symptomless disease can be stopped before it does more damage. Click below to learn more.
Fight Holiday Loneliness
Persistent loneliness can have the same health impact as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. Since loneliness can exacerbate health issues and increase the risk of mortality, it is especially important to combat isolation and feelings of loneliness during the holidays. Read the article below to learn how.
A Simple Approach To Advance Directives
It is important to have a plan for future care in case a senior is unable to make decisions for themselves at that time. Many individuals create living wills to direct such decisions, but may not understand all of the legal jargon. Five Wishes is a very simple legal document written in plain language to ensure individuals receive the end of life care they desire. Click below to learn more.
Safety Tips for Seniors
These important safety tips will help you avoid accidents and injuries:
• Use night-lights throughout your house and keep a lamp near your bed that you can turn on before getting up.
• Beware of falling objects. Store heavy items at waist level for easier handling.
• Use a nonsolid rubber mat in your bathtub or shower and have a grab bar installed.
• Carry a cell phone for emergencies.
• Remove any phone or electrical cords that cross areas where you might walk.
• Light up dark rooms and stairs.
• Set your water heater to ‘’low’’ (below 120 F) so you will not accidentally scald yourself.
• Keep household cleaners and other chemicals in a safe place.
• Keep medications in properly marked containers. Read labels regularly to confirm proper dosage.
• Make sure rooms stay neat and uncluttered. Clean up any spills immediately to avoid falls.
• Beware of telephone fraud targeting seniors – do not give anyone your credit card or bank account number over the phone unless you have initiated the call.
• Keep emergency phone numbers by the telephone or put them on your speed dial.
• Make sure your address is marked outside your home in large clear numbers and that the area is well lit to direct emergency assistance.
• If you live alone, set up a telephone “check-in” routine with family or friends.
