Adapting Homes to Seniors' Changing Needs

The respiratory system, like many of the other human systems (e.g., cardiovascular, digestive), is a wondrously complex and sophisticated arrangement of organs working together to maintain homeostasis.Contact an Office in Your AreaChronic obstructive pulmonary disease, more commonly referred to as COPD, is a health problem facing adults in the U.S. Because of its progressive nature and increased age as a leading factor, there is a greater prevalence of COPD in seniors. The good news is that many adults can easily reduce their risk of COPD through lifestyle management.  COPD represents a group of lung diseases, with the two most common being emphysema and chronic bronchitis.Symptoms of COPD includeConstant coughingWheezingShortness of breathCoughing up mucusTightness in the chestResearch also suggests that there may be a link between poor air quality and COPD. The American Lung Association estimates that between 80-90% of COPD cases result from smoking. Unsurprisingly, secondhand smoke is a significant risk factor as well. Seniors should take the following steps to reduce their risk of COPD:Older adults that smoke should get support from a primary care physician and take steps to quit. There are many programs, services, and products that can help.Seniors should avoid contact with secondhand smoke whenever possible.Reducing exposure to air pollution can help relieve symptoms. Many cities issue poor air quality warnings when these warnings are in effect, seniors should limit outside activities. Seniors should avoid airborne irritants (chemicals, fumes, etc.) in the home.A healthy diet and exercise plan can improve lung function and overall health with direction from a physician.Older adults should understand the impact of aging on their respiratory system and reduce their risk of any related diseases, illnesses, or conditions.Doctors may recommend getting vaccinations for both influenza and pneumococcal pneumonia to guard against further breathing complications.Comfort Keepers Can HelpComfort Keepers elevates the human spirit for todays seniors and their families through a unique, individualized approach to care that helps seniors thrive and achieve greater wellbeing by fostering everyday positive moments, connection, and a more purposeful life no matter their age or acuity. As part of a healthcare team, an in-home caregiver can assist with activities that slow disease progression or reduce the risk for those with respiratory issues. Comfort Keepers caregivers can help by supporting physician-recommended health programs, preparing meals, encouraging prescribed physical activity, reminding seniors to take medications, and providing transportation to scheduled appointments. References:Healthline. Everything You Need to Know About Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Web. 2018.Everyday Health. 5 Best Ways to Prevent COPD by Chris Iliades, MD. Web. 2018.Aging Care. An Overview of COPD by National Institutes of Health. Web. 2017.Unity Point Health. The Top 8 Respiratory Illnesses and Diseases. Web. 2014.American Lung Association. Lung Capacity and Aging. Web. 2017.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Chronic Respiratory Disease. Web. 2017.

As seniors age, physical activities can have not only positive physical effects, but positive cognitive effects as well.Contact an Office in Your AreaIn one study, 100 nursing-home residents performed resistance exercises three times a week for 10 weeks. At the end, the exercise group could lift significantly more weight, climb more stairs, and walk faster and farther than their sedentary counterparts.Its been proven time and again that exercise is good for seniors physical and mental health. Regular exercise, even in small amounts, can improve mood, relieve stress and improve health. According to the CDC, four of the five most expensive health conditions older adults face can be prevented or managed with physical activity. But, only about 35% of adults over the age of 65 are physically active. Any senior starting a new exercise plan should consult with their physician. And, it is helpful for family and members of the care team to assist and support physical activity in any way they can. For those that are physically able to begin an exercise program, regular movement can help them live a more vibrant and healthy life. Some of the health benefits include:Improved mental health, mood and outlookPrevention, or improvement of, diseases such as diabetes, obesity, heart disease, and osteoporosisReduced pain from arthritis and minimizing its severityDecreased risk of fallsEach individual has different needs when it comes to exercise and varying health conditions that may need to be taken into consideration before beginning an exercise regimen. A health professional to determine the best approach to physical activity with senior care.There are a variety of ways to incorporate aerobic activity, strength-building exercises, stretching and balance all without leaving the comfort of home! Aerobic exercise  Walking in place, dancing or aerobic routines can help get the heart rate up. These activities improve cardiovascular health and help older adults maintain a healthy weight. Strength building exercises  there are many easy strength-building exercises that can help seniors build the muscles they need to do everyday activities and prevent muscle loss. And, exercises can be done with household items or using body weight, so no expensive equipment is required. Stretching  Stretching before and after exercise can help prevent soreness after exercise. And, the additional benefit is improved flexibility, which is good for older adults physical health. For those looking to improve their flexibility even more, there are exercise routines available online that include yoga or stretching routines specifically for seniors.Balance exercises  Balance exercises help seniors prevent falls and improve mobility. Yoga, tai chi, and other low-impact activities can all help improve balance and overall physical health.Those that need a little assistance getting started should not hesitate to reach out to their doctor, family or caregiver. It is never too late to adopt an active lifestyle! Comfort Keepers Can HelpFor seniors that need a little extra help living an active lifestyle, Comfort Keepers caregivers can help with encouragement, support and assistance with physician-prescribed exercise plans. And, caregivers can encourage overall health through meal planning, grocery shopping, meal preparation and activities. Our custom care plans focus on physical and mental health and wellness activities. Our goal is to see that clients have the means to find the joy and happiness in each day, regardless of age or acuity.To learn more about our in-home care services, contact your local Comfort Keepers location today. ReferencesCenters for Disease Control and Prevention. Adults Need More Physical Activity. Web. 2019.Health and Human Services. Facts & Statistics: Physical Activity. Web. 2017.National Council on Aging. Exercise Programs That Promote Senior Fitness. Web.Readers Digest Canada, 5 of the Best Exercises for Seniors to Build Strength, Improve Balance and Boost Heart Health. Web. Harvard Health Publishing. Exercise after age 70. Web. 2007.

Dementia is a widespread condition. In fact, nearly 55 million people live with dementia(Opens in a new window) worldwide. While its not uncommon to hear the terms dementia and Alzheimers disease used interchangeably, these two are quite different. Dementia is a general term used when referring to a range of symptoms that impact cognitive functioning, memory and behavior, and Alzheimers describes a specific type of dementia. In truth, there are several different types of dementia beyond Alzheimers, including vascular dementia and Lewy Body Dementia. Although the differences can be subtle, its important to know which type of dementia someone is living with. At BrightStar Care, we strive to educate families about this prevalent disease. Get details about dementia, its various types, and common treatments. What Is Dementia? Dementia(Opens in a new window) is the general term for the loss of memory and cognitive skills. While some cognitive impairment is normal with advancing age, in the case of dementia, symptoms are usually severe enough to interfere with everyday activities. People with this condition might have trouble with communication, reasoning, judgment, problem-solving, and even visual perception. Here are a few signs that may indicate the onset of dementia: Forgetting the names of close family members Getting lost in familiar areas Inability to complete tasks independently Forgetting words or using unusual verbiage to talk about familiar items Inability to recall key memories Behavior or mood changes The Main Types of Dementia As youve read, dementia is an umbrella term that describes a variety of conditions. But just how many types of dementia are there? There are three more common  types of dementia, but less common varieties exist as well. Learn more about the different types of dementia and their symptoms: Alzheimers Disease In 2020, approximately 5.8 million Americans lived with Alzheimers disease(Opens in a new window). Its the most common type of dementia and occurs when plaques and bundles of proteins build up between nerve cells in the brain, ultimately causing brain cell death in the final stage. There are three stages of the disease(Opens in a new window): early stage (mild), middle stage (moderate), and late stage (severe). While Alzheimers begins well before the first symptoms register, the earliest detectable signs include memory trouble, apathy, and depression. Someone developing Alzheimers might have problems completing familiar tasks or misplace things and be unable to retrace their steps. As the disease progresses, more severe symptomsincluding impaired communication, poor judgment, and disorientationmay emerge.Vascular Dementia Vascular dementia(Opens in a new window) accounts for roughly 10 percent of dementia cases. This condition is associated with damaged and blocked blood vessels in the brain, leading to decreased blood flow to areas of the brain and dead tissue. The severity of vascular dementia will depend on the location, number, and size of the damage or blockages. Unlike Alzheimers, where memory loss typically emerges first, with vascular dementia, the earliest symptoms tend to include impaired judgment or inability to make decisions, plan and organize.Lewy Body Dementia (LBD)Lewy Body Dementia(Opens in a new window) (LBD) is another one of the different types of dementia. LBD results when abnormal clumps of protein (called Lewy bodies) develop around the cortex. Like Alzheimers patients, people with LBD often experience memory loss and cognitive issues. But beyond that, they are likely to suffer initial symptoms such as sleep disturbances, visual hallucinations, and imbalanced gait, like those with Parkinsons. Less Common Types of Dementia Dementia comes in many forms, and numerous patients live with conditions beyond the main three types. Heres a brief overview of the fewer common varieties(Opens in a new window): Mixed Dementia: This condition occurs when two or three forms of dementia are present at once.Parkinsons Disease Dementia: Motor difficulties are one of the signature symptoms of Parkinsons disease, which otherwise manifests similarly to DLB.Frontotemporal Dementia: There are several subtypes of frontotemporal dementia, many of which lead to language difficulties and changes in personality and behavior.Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease: More commonly known as mad cow disease, this condition is a rapidly fatal disorder that triggers changes in behavior, memory, and coordination.Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus: Caused by excess fluid in the brain, normal pressure hydrocephalus results in impaired memory, difficulty walking, and incontinence. It can sometimes be treated with the draining of fluid.Huntington's Disease: This progressive brain disorder is caused by a chromosomal defect. Its symptoms include abnormal involuntary movements, a severe decline in thinking, and mood disturbances.Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome: This memory disorder is commonly associated with alcohol misuse.Treatments for Dementia  Thankfully, people living with dementia have several treatment options to reduce symptoms and increase quality of life. Physicians may recommend the following treatment approaches(Opens in a new window) to your loved one: Medication: Many patients benefit from medications that temporarily improve symptoms. Cholinesterase inhibitors, memantine, and Leqembi may be prescribed by your loved ones doctor. Therapy: Dementia patients often benefit from therapy. Occupational therapists can help patients learn coping strategies, prevent accidents, and manage behavior. Lifestyle changes: Lifestyle changes are key to living with dementia. As a caregiver, encourage your loved one to exercise and engage in activities they enjoy. It may also be helpful to keep a calendar, establish routines, and speak slowly to lessen confusion. Providing Specialized Care for Dementia At BrightStar Care, were glad to provide specialized care for those living with dementia. Whether your loved one is beginning treatment or has lived with the disease for years, our team is here to help. Our highly-trained caregivers will ensure your loved one has access to the gold standard in home care. Find a BrightStar Care Location Near You Looking for in-home care services or assisted living for your loved one or a reliable medical staffing partner for your organization? Our experienced local care team members are ready to help. Find a location near you, contact us online, or call 866.618.7827 to speak with a local care expert and learn more about how BrightStar Care offers A Higher Standard.