Simple Changes That Make Aging in Place Safer for Those with Low Vision
HomeWell Care Services
For more information about the author, click to view their website: Homewell
Jul 20, 2023
Florida - Sarasota, Bradenton & Charlotte Counties , Florida - Southwest
Email US
Click to Email Us
by Michelle Cone, Senior Vice President of Training and Brand Programs at HomeWell Franchising Inc.®
A 2016 study in JAMA Ophthalmology projects that the number of blind and visually impaired Americans will double by 2050. The reason behind this spike? For homecare providers, the answer should come as no surprise—age.
Aging is the greatest contributing factor to low vision disorders, with more than 12 million Americans aged 40 and older experiencing some level of vision impairment. At the rate the senior population is increasing, providers are facing the largest number of vision-impaired clients they have ever experienced.
For homecare providers, these predictions illuminate a compelling need and an opportunity: Older adults with vision loss need specialty care support developed explicitly to address the challenges associated with low vision. By tailoring services to clients living with low vision, providers nationwide can empower vision-impaired seniors in their communities to thrive at home and enjoy the liberties of aging in place. Simultaneously, they solidify their roles within the care continuum by helping reduce hospital readmission rates.
A More Mindful Approach
The likelihood of needing to provide care to low-vision clients is already high, as many seniors experience some degree of vision impairment. There are even estimates that one in three individuals has some form of vision-reducing eye disease by age 65. Hence, initial client home assessments typically account for potential hazards or obstructions in the hallways and other high-traffic areas of the home to prevent falls for vision-impaired clients. So, why should in-home care and home medical equipment providers develop a program specifically for low vision?
Brand programs thrive on specificity, and a well-executed low-vision program is no exception, as it can enhance the appeal of your care to potential clients and their families. This begs the question: What particular needs should a low-vision program address?
1. Fall Prevention
Falls pose a serious threat to the well-being and independence of older adults, as one slip can result in a severe injury and a trip to the emergency room. Each year, one in four Americans age 65 and older experiences a fall, and impaired vision more than doubles this fall risk.
For seniors struggling to see, the repercussions of a potential fall can cause a paralyzing fear and withdrawal from performing everyday tasks or their favorite hobbies. A study published in the journal “Investigative Ophthalmology and Visual Science” found that 40% to 50% of older adults with chronic eye disorders limited their activities because they feared falling, putting them at greater risk for social isolation, immobility and disability.
Vision impairment and fall risk go together, as the latter is often a direct result of low vision, but both require individual attention. Fortunately, by properly equipping a home for low-vision clients, organizations can address potential hazards in each client’s residence to prevent falls and preserve their confidence and health.
2. Mental Health
A 2020 study from the National Library of Medicine found that up to 8.6% of older adults with vision loss met the criteria for a depressive disorder. Between 10.9% and 43% reported clinically significant levels of depressive symptoms, both noticeably higher percentages than those found in the general aging population. The same study revealed that seniors with vision impairment exhibited more anxiety symptoms than those with other health conditions such as diabetes or cardiovascular problems.
Because vision loss is usually gradual, seniors and their loved ones may not be aware of how compromised their vision has become, posing a greater risk to their safety. Simply locating items around the house or enjoying activities such as gardening or cooking can become dangerous for certain older adults and consequently hinder their enjoyment and independence in living at home.
3. A Need for Color & Contrast in the Home
Marking areas of the home using a bright array of colors and contrasting light against dark elements can help clients navigate their homes and distinguish between household items, such as a favorite chair, and medical items, such as prescription bottles.
Color
Bright colors that reflect light are generally the easiest to see, especially vivid primary colors such as red, orange and yellow. Bright contrast tape, stickers or sticky notes in fluorescent colors can be used to mark changes in levels like stairs, identify household items like documents or bills, and warn clients of potential hazards such as doors or cabinets left ajar. Bright decorative elements like vibrant throw pillows, blankets or magnets can assist clients in locating furniture or appliances in their homes. Grab bars that are available in bright colors would also be useful to low-vision customers.
Contrast
Enhancing the contrast of light against dark or vice versa in clients’ homes has proven beneficial. Consider creating contrasting backgrounds, such as a dark switch plate behind a light-colored switch, or placing dark objects against lighter backgrounds. For example, a pale green chair can easily disappear in front of a yellow wall. Incorporating a dark blue throw blanket or slipcover can help clients identify this furniture against the yellow wall. Updating paint colors to provide more contrast is also an option, if the senior approves.
It is equally important to avoid or remove items that are transparent or too easily blend in with their surroundings, like glass items. In addition, try to avoid using patterned materials when possible, as contrasting is most effective using solid colors. This is something to keep in mind as a provider of lift chairs or other home furnishings.
4. Low Vision Tasks & Errands
Household tasks and certain errands, such as shopping or traveling to and from appointments, can be dangerous for low-vision clients to perform. Depending on the degree of their visual impairment, a caregiver may need to complete certain tasks or assist the client by performing any duties or steps requiring keen eyesight. These tasks can include meal preparation, laundry and light housekeeping.
While these services may fall under the category of general homecare, including and promoting them in your low-vision program helps ensure clients and their families that your caregivers and care managers are mindful of any potential needs resulting from vision impairment.
Regular eye exams are also critical to seniors since age-related macular degeneration is the leading cause of vision loss for individuals aged 50 or older. As seniors age, their risk or degree of vision impairment increases. The National Eye Institute recommends that adults over 60 receive a comprehensive eye exam with dilation every one to two years. While the exam is not to be carried out by a caregiver, it is helpful for homecare providers and caregivers to be aware of the recommended frequency of eye exams and be prepared to transport their clients to and from appointments.
Low Vision in the Care Continuum
As a homecare provider, you play a pivotal role in the care continuum. As we face the largest elderly population in our nation’s history, health care systems will need to lean on your expertise more than ever to support their patients’ journeys and avoid readmission into their system.
Diversifying your offerings and tailoring your care through brand programs, such as low vision, reinforces your value in the eyes of clients, their families, and both the homecare and health care industry.
- To view the original version of this article visit homewellcares.com/
- Seniors Blue Book was not involved in the creation of this content.
Other Articles You May Like
Six Morning Exercises for Seniors
We all know that exercise is important for our bodies to stay healthy and happy, especially as we age. However, finding a good exercise routine that is gentle enough for seniors, but keeps your body healthy and moving, can be a real challenge. Below are six morning exercises for seniors that are easy to mix into your morning routine. Regular exercise and stretching can improve range of motion, stability, and all around mental health.Why Exercise For Older Adults is ImportantExercising helps to slow the progression of many diseases and can even slow the aging process. Studies have shown that older adults, those age 55+, who have been active for most of their lives actually have the similar aerobic fitness of people 30 years younger than them.For older adults who have not been able to stay active their whole life, its not too late to start. Starting now will help not just in the long-term, but there are also plenty of short-term benefits to exercises for seniors.Exercise is essential in managing many long-term health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, asthma, or back or joint pain. For example, exercise can help improve high blood pressure and can lower your risk of heart disease progression.Daily Exercises for SeniorsThis exercise routine is meant to be versatile and flexible. Do the exercises that feel the best for you and your unique needs. As you make the routine your own, be sure to start slowly and stop if there is any bad pain.Make sure you have a clear space with plenty of room to move your arms and legs. A chair, water bottle, and towel may also be helpful to have close to you.Also, always start with some nice stretches to get you going.Sit to StandThe sit-to-stand exercise is among one of the best exercises for seniors. It strengthens your lower body and can improve general mobility, and helps make standing up from a chair easier. Eventually, as your strength improves, the goal is to do the sit-to-stand exercise without using your hands.It is normal to feel mild stretching, pulling, tightness, or discomfort as you do this exercise, but you should stop right away if you feel pain.How to do the exercise: Sit on a sturdy chair. Your knees should be bent and your feet should be flat on the floor and shoulder-width apart. Place your hands lightly on each side of the seat. Keep your back and neck as straight as possible, with your chest slightly forward. Breathe in slowly. Lean forward and slightly shift your weight to the front of your feet. Breathe out as you slowly stand up. Try to use as little support from your hands as possible. Stand and pause for a full breath in and out. Breathe in as you sit down slowly. Tighten your core and abdominal muscles to control your lowering as much as possible. Breathe out slowly. Rest for 1 minute, then do another set of 5-8 repetitions. Repeat for a total of 3 sets if comfortable. Knee ExtensionsKnee extension exercises are used to strengthen thigh muscles. These are big muscles in our body and improving thigh muscle strength can improve mobility, reduce knee injury risk, and rehabilitate knee injuries.How to do the exercise: Sitting up tall with your shoulders back and down. Lifting one leg up, extending at the knee. Hold briefly at the top of the movement, squeezing the muscles at the front of the thigh before lowering your leg back down. Ensure the movement is slow and controlled. Alternate legs, ensuring full knee extension (leg completely straight). Rest for 1 minute, then do another set of 5-8 repetitions. Repeat for a total of 3 sets if comfortable. Core twistsCores twists are a fantastic exercise that not only improve the strength of your trunk muscles, including back and ad muscle, but they also help with twisting mobility.How to do the exercise: Grab a medicine ball (or similar object). Sit comfortably in the chair toward the edge of the seat for extra room. Keep the core (abs and lumbar) tight. Stick the chest out. Both hands should be in front of the body gripping the sides of the medicine ball, with elbows bent. Lift the ball a couple inches off the lap then rotate the upper body to the right, keeping the ball in front of the body. Rotate to the middle of the body then rotate to the left, finish by rotating back to the middle. Each rep is one full rotation. Rest for 1 minute, then do another set of 5-8 repetitions. Repeat for a total of 3 sets if comfortable. Seated Shoulder PressThis exercise will help to increase strength and mobility of the shoulders. Please be cautious with this exercise if you have any shoulder contraindications, and/or consult with your physician.How to do this exercise: Choose a pair of low weight dumbbells or do without weights. Sit comfortably in the chair with the hips as far back as possible. Ensure that the back is firm to the backrest of the chair. Keep your core tight. Start with both elbows spread to the sides of the body and align them under the shoulders. Stick the chest out. Face the body straight, palms forward, gripping the dumbbells. Extend the arms up, reaching above the head until theyre fully extended (or get to a range that feels most comfortable). Dont touch the hands together and keep both arms parallel to each other. Once the arms extension limit has been reached, slowly bring the hands down to the starting position, keeping the elbows spread. Dont tuck the elbows toward the middle of the body, extend them out till the top of the back feels a pinching sensation (not hurting) at the shoulder blades. Seated Knee LiftsKnee lifts exercise and strengthen the hip flexors, and quads. Each is an important muscle for sitting and standing.How to do the exercise: Sit on a sturdy chair, keeping the back straight and holding the sides for support if needed. Avoid leaning back. Slowly lift the right knee slowly towards your chest, then back to the beginning position with control. Repeat the motion using the left leg. Alternate the legs. Remember to keep your back straight and avoid leaning back to gain new heights. Seated Chest PressThe seated chest press will exercise your chest muscles, shoulders, and triceps.How to do the exercise:This exercise can be done with a resistance band, dumbells or with no weight all. Choose the option that best meets your fitness level. Place the resistance band/weights/or empty fists at a point on the chair where its directly behind the back just under where the shoulder blades would be. Ensure that the resistance band isnt able to move on the back of the chair; moving it during the exercise can result in injury or target the wrong muscle groups. Sit comfortably in the chair with the hips as far back as possible. Ensure that the back is firm to the backrest of the chair. Keep the core muscles tight. Stick your chest out. Keep both palms down, elbows bent and parallel to the shoulders. Both hands should be positioned just outside of shoulder width. Push the resistance band forward until the arms are fully extended in front of the body (dont touch hands together). Slowly reverse the movement back to starting position. Some General TipsRemember, starting a new exercise routine will take some practice and getting used to. Dont get discouraged if you cant do an exercise or can only do a few repetitions.Here are few things that are normal when starting a new exercise regimen. Its normal to: feel tired when starting an exercise routine. have muscle soreness that lasts a few days. As you get stronger, you may not feel muscle soreness. Here are some tips that can help make your new exercise journey easier: Use smooth, steady movements. Do not hold your breath during strength exercises. This can cause unsafe changes in your blood pressure. Breathe in slowly through your nose, and breathe out slowly through your mouth. Most importantly, Always consult with a physician before beginning any exercise program.Keeping Seniors in Their Homes, Its What We Do.At Senior LIFE, we focus on taking care of the whole person so that they can maintain their independence for as long as possible. We offer various types of therapy for members. Depending on members individual care plans, they may receive any or all of the therapies we offer. Occupational Therapy Physical Therapy Speech/Language Therapy Recreational Therapy We are committed to keeping members independent as long as possible. There are no limits on rehabilitation or the amount of therapy services a member can receive.Our care offerings dont stop at therapies. We also offer all the medical and supportive services our members need. These services can include physicians and specialists, nursing care, physical, occupational and speech therapies, personal and home care, medications, meals and nutritional counseling, eye, dental and foot care, durable medical equipment and other medically necessary services.The LIFE Program is a Medicare and Medicaid approved long-term care program that provides complete medical care and supportive services for persons 55 years and older so that they can remain living in their home. The LIFE Program is an alternative to nursing and personal care homes. https://seniorlifepa.com/aboutTo learn more about the LIFE Program, or to see if its the right fit for you and your loved ones, contact us today! https://seniorlifepa.com/contact
Boost Your Health with 500 Steps
As we age, staying active and maintaining a healthy lifestyle becomes increasingly important. One way to do this is by walking more. In fact, research suggests that taking just 500 extra steps per day can have a significant impact on senior health.Health Benefits of WalkingWalking is a low-impact form of exercise that can have numerous health benefits, especially for older adults. It can help improve cardiovascular health, strengthen bones and muscles, and reduce the risk of chronic conditions like osteoporosis, diabetes, and heart disease. In addition, walking can improve balance and reduce the risk of falls.The Benefits of 500 Extra StepsTaking just 500 extra steps per day may not seem like much, but it can have a significant impact on senior health. Research suggests that taking an extra 500 steps per day can lead to a decrease in the risk of developing chronic conditions like heart disease and diabetes. In addition, it can lead to improved mental health, better sleep, and increased energy levels.A study conducted by the American Heart Association found that for people ages 70 and older who walked an additional 500 steps per day, or an additional quarter mile of walking, experienced a 14% lower risk of heart disease, stroke or heart failure. Also, compared to adults who took less than 2,000 steps per day, adults who took about 4,500 steps per day had a 77% lower observed risk of experiencing a cardiovascular event.Strategies for Walking MoreTaking an extra 500 steps per day may sound like a daunting task, but there are many strategies that can help seniors achieve this goal. Here are a few tips: Take multiple short walks throughout the day: This can help add up to 500 extra steps without requiring a lot of time commitment. Use a pedometer or fitness tracker: Tracking steps can help seniors stay motivated and monitor their progress. Find a walking partner: Walking with a friend or family member can make it more enjoyable and provide social interaction. Set achievable goals: Start small and gradually increase the number of steps taken each day. Choose scenic routes: Walking in a park or nature trail can make it more enjoyable and provide additional health benefits. In conclusion, taking 500 extra steps per day can have a significant impact on senior health, and its an achievable goal for most people. Walking can help improve cardiovascular health, reduce the risk of chronic conditions, and improve mental health and overall well-being. By incorporating walking into their daily routine, seniors can help maintain their independence and enjoy a higher quality of life.Senior LIFE can help you with your goalsAt Senior LIFE, our goals align with the goals of many seniors to stay in the comfort of their homes, and out of a nursing home. We work with seniors and their caregivers to help seniors maintain independence by providing medical and supportive services including physician and nursing services, medication management, in-home care, and so more more! For a full list of services, please visit us online at: Senior LIFE ServicesSenior LIFE (Living Independence for the Elderly) is state and federally funded Medicare and Medicaid Program that provides long-term care for seniors, 55 years of age or older, so that they can remain living at home and out of a nursing facility.Senior LIFE Services are provided at NO COST to those on Medicaid who live in the community.To speak with a Senior LIFE representative about the program, and to learn if you or a family member may be eligible, please contact us via our website or email us at info@SeniorLIFEPA.com
6 Fall Prevention Tips for Seniors This Holiday Season
Stay Safe and Celebrate: 6 Fall Prevention Tips for Seniors This Holiday SeasonThe holidays are a time for joy, laughter, and togetherness. But for many seniors, they can also bring unexpected hazards. From slick winter sidewalks to crowded, decoration-filled spaces, its important to prioritize safety so you can enjoy the season to the fullest. A little preparation can go a long way in keeping your home safe and festive.At Seniors Helping Seniors, were here to help make your holiday season both merry and secure. Whether you need a hand with decorating, organizing, or just navigating the winter months, weve got you covered. Here are our top fall prevention tips to keep your holidays safe and bright.Why Holidays Bring Extra Risks for SeniorsWinter weather already introduces challenges like slippery sidewalks and damp entryways. Add holiday decorations, gatherings, and extra clutter, and even a familiar home can become tricky to navigate. But the good news? Small adjustments and a bit of planning can make a world of difference.Our caregivers at Seniors Helping Seniors specialize in spotting risks and creating safer environments. With their support and a few proactive steps, you can enjoy the season without worry.6 Fall Prevention Tips for a Safe and Joyful Holiday1. Declutter and OrganizeHoliday decorations and seasonal items can easily pile up, creating tripping hazards. Take a moment to clear hallways and high-traffic areas. Need help tidying or rearranging? A caregiver can assist with storing decorations safely and keeping your home accessible.2. Choose Simple, Safe DecorationsOversized holiday decorations might be beautiful, but they can block walkways and create obstacles. Stick to smaller, manageable decor that stays out of paths. A caregiver can help you set up decorations in a way thats festive yet safe.3. Opt for Steady LightingTwinkling lights may look magical, but they can make it harder to spot potential hazards. Consider steady, bright lighting to illuminate your space without causing distractions. A Seniors Helping Seniors caregiver can help place lights where theyre most needed.4. Tame Those Extension CordsExtension cords are a holiday staple, but loose cords can be dangerous. Keep them along walls or secure them with tape or cord clips to prevent trips. Let your caregiver handle the setup so you can relax and enjoy the festivities.5. Skip the LaddersHanging decorations or adjusting lights often means pulling out a stepstool or ladderbut these can pose serious risks. Instead, ask a family member or caregiver for help. Its a great opportunity to catch up while staying safe.6. Create a Toy ZoneWhen grandchildren visit, toys can quickly scatter everywhere. Designate a specific play area to keep toys contained and reduce tripping hazards. Caregivers can help tidy up so everyone can focus on celebrating together.Celebrate Safely and ConfidentlyThe holidays are a time to connect with loved ones and create cherished memories. By clearing clutter, simplifying your decorations, and asking for help when needed, you can ensure your home is a safe space to celebrate.At Seniors Helping Seniors, were here to lend a handwhether its decorating, organizing, or just providing companionship. Together, lets make this holiday season one to remember for all the right reasons.Wishing you a joyful and safe holiday season!
Local Services By This Author
HomeWell Care Naples
Home Health 13100 Westlinks Terrace, Fort Myers, Florida, 33913Our Approach:HomeWell Care Services is committed to providing the highest quality of in-home care and peace of mind for families in Lee and Northern Collier Counties. We offer personalized care plans tailored to each individual's needs.Our Services:We offer a range of services to meet your needs, including companion care, personal care, specialty care, and more. Our signature programs, such as GoHomeWell and SureStep, are designed to safeguard and strengthen your well-being for the long term.Types of Care:Companion Care: Providing companionship and a quality home life environment.Personal Care: Assisting with basic tasks of daily living to maintain independence.Specialty Care: Additional support for advanced health issues.Hospice Care Support: Providing comfort and care for those with terminal illnesses.Palliative Care Support: Enhancing quality of life for individuals with serious illnesses.Fall Prevention: Implementing strategies to reduce the risk of falls.Low Vision: Supporting individuals with vision impairments.Respite Care: Providing temporary relief for primary caregivers.Alzheimers & Dementia Care: Specialized care for those with memory loss.Chronic Conditions Care: Managing care for individuals with ongoing health issues.Transportation: Assisting with transportation to appointments and errands.Transitional Care: Supporting individuals transitioning from hospital to home.Couples Care: Providing care for couples who wish to remain together.Elderly Support: Addressing the unique needs of elderly individuals.Adults under 65: Providing care for adults under 65 with specific needs.Facility Support: Supporting care facilities with staffing and care management.Frequency of Care:Hourly: Care provided on an hourly basis as needed.24-Hour: Around-the-clock care for those who require constant support.Live-in: Caregivers live with clients to provide continuous care.HomeWell Cares:Our commitment to compassionate care extends beyond our services. We actively engage with our community through our Front Porch Blog, providing valuable resources and information.Meet the Team:Our team of dedicated professionals is here to support you every step of the way. From our expert Care Managers to our compassionate caregivers, we are committed to your well-being.Jobs:Interested in joining our team? Explore career opportunities with HomeWell Care Services and make a difference in the lives of others.Partnerships:We collaborate with local organizations and healthcare providers to ensure our clients receive comprehensive care and support.Resources:Access helpful resources, including guides on how to talk to your aging loved one about home care and determining if home care is right for your family.Contact Us:For more information about our services or to schedule a consultation, please contact us at 239-666-2339.
HomeWell Care Naples
Non-Medical 13100 Westlinks Terrace, Fort Myers, Florida, 33913Our Approach:HomeWell Care Services is committed to providing the highest quality of in-home care and peace of mind for families in Lee and Northern Collier Counties. We offer personalized care plans tailored to each individual's needs.Our Services:We offer a range of services to meet your needs, including companion care, personal care, specialty care, and more. Our signature programs, such as GoHomeWell and SureStep, are designed to safeguard and strengthen your well-being for the long term.Types of Care:Companion Care: Providing companionship and a quality home life environment.Personal Care: Assisting with basic tasks of daily living to maintain independence.Specialty Care: Additional support for advanced health issues.Hospice Care Support: Providing comfort and care for those with terminal illnesses.Palliative Care Support: Enhancing quality of life for individuals with serious illnesses.Fall Prevention: Implementing strategies to reduce the risk of falls.Low Vision: Supporting individuals with vision impairments.Respite Care: Providing temporary relief for primary caregivers.Alzheimers & Dementia Care: Specialized care for those with memory loss.Chronic Conditions Care: Managing care for individuals with ongoing health issues.Transportation: Assisting with transportation to appointments and errands.Transitional Care: Supporting individuals transitioning from hospital to home.Couples Care: Providing care for couples who wish to remain together.Elderly Support: Addressing the unique needs of elderly individuals.Adults under 65: Providing care for adults under 65 with specific needs.Facility Support: Supporting care facilities with staffing and care management.Frequency of Care:Hourly: Care provided on an hourly basis as needed.24-Hour: Around-the-clock care for those who require constant support.Live-in: Caregivers live with clients to provide continuous care.HomeWell Cares:Our commitment to compassionate care extends beyond our services. We actively engage with our community through our Front Porch Blog, providing valuable resources and information.Meet the Team:Our team of dedicated professionals is here to support you every step of the way. From our expert Care Managers to our compassionate caregivers, we are committed to your well-being.Jobs:Interested in joining our team? Explore career opportunities with HomeWell Care Services and make a difference in the lives of others.Partnerships:We collaborate with local organizations and healthcare providers to ensure our clients receive comprehensive care and support.Resources:Access helpful resources, including guides on how to talk to your aging loved one about home care and determining if home care is right for your family.Contact Us:For more information about our services or to schedule a consultation, please contact us at 239-666-2339.