Decluttering Our Lives

Navigating Sexual Health in the Over-85 PopulationThe term sexual health is rarely considered in discussions focusing on older adults over the age of 85. However, engagement in sexual relations or being emotionally intimate may continue to be of great value to older age groups.The term sexual health is rarely considered in discussions focusing on older adults over the age of 85. However, engagement in sexual relations or being emotionally intimate may continue to be of great value to older age groups. In the present context, as peoples lifespan increases and cultural norms change, it becomes essential to think about the sexual health concerns of this age group.Understanding Sexuality Beyond 85With regards to sexuality of older adults, it is not only about having sexual actsit also involves emotional relationships, physically being close to someone, and caring about them. For many people over 85 years it may be important to help and sustain such intimate relationships as it contributes to positively beautiful enhancement of life satisfaction and mood. Sadly, negative social norms and beliefs regarding ageing often create a false impression that the older generation is devoid of any sexuality or does not wish for any such engages, which is not the case.A considerable number of these adults still have sexual fantasies, indulge in sexually related actions, or even seek people in intimacy although they face problems of old age that hinder sexual health. These problems include, amongst others, medical illnesses, cognitive ageing, the adverse effects of treatment, and lack of other peoples participation.Common Sexual Health Concerns in the Over-85 PopulationPhysical Changes and Sexual Function: Changes related to the normal aging process can affect sexual function. The most common sexual problem in older men is erectile dysfunction. For women, there may be insufficient lubrication, pain during intercourse, or decreased interest in sex due to lower levels of estrogen. Nonetheless none of these changes entail per se the cessation of orgasmic activity. All medications, lubricants and other interventions can address these problems.Chronic Illness and Sexual Health: It is not unusual for some of the people over 85 to have chronic conditions such as diabetes or heart disease, or arthritis among others that have bearing on the sexual act. More so, the treatment of these conditions may require certain medications whose side effects may interfere with sexual drive or performance. Still, many elderly people adjust and manage to be intimate with others, be it through non-sexual skin contact, talking to someone or other ways of sexual expressions.Cognitive Decline: Cognitive impairment, such as dementia or Alzheimers disease, can lead to difficulties in relationships, especially the physical aspects of such relationships. Furthermore, although this is uncommon, patients who experience cognitive decline may act out sexually inappropriately or exhibit states of confusion or other changes regarding their sexual interests. In all situations where sexual health needs are to be addressed, it is rather critical that family and caregivers understand these matters compassionately and ensure that dignity is preserved.Psychological Factors: Factors such as social isolation, the death of a partner, geriatric depression, and anxiety are problems that can be noted in these older people and also have an adverse effect on sexual health. These emotional issues might trigger a drop in intimacy levels. It helps to combine support from practitioners with social activities.Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Older adults are likely to believe that they are not at risk of infections. Despite this myth, older population is also prone to STIs. Also, there has been a rise of STDs among older people due to lack of information and methods to prevent. With a doctors recommendation, these lessons should not be contraindicated to people aged 85 years and above.Promoting Sexual Health and Well-beingThose over 85 require an integrated response which addresses sexual health and includes health practitioners, family, care providers and patients.Open Communication: Discussing sexual health issues is mostly forgotten when one advances in age. Society needs to blatantly create the need for these conversations. Healthcare workers are to include sexual health without being directed on how to include it in the routine visits as sexual health is central to ones wellbeing irrespective of their age.Education and Awareness: Enlightening seniors on how to practice safe sex, how the body functions sexually, and how medications work can ensure their participation in relevant activities. Stereotypes that associate old age with certain characteristics can also be suppressed by campaigns that seek to raise awareness of the harm of old age.Tailored Healthcare: Patients treatment plans must integrate sexual wellness into the wider picture of healthcare. This might mean providing patients with means of addressing erectile disorders or prescribing post-menopausal hormone therapies or other forms of mental wellbeing support.Emotional and Social Support: Older individuals are encouraged not to isolate themselves and look for activities that boost self-esteem, and even relationships, which can promote a healthy sexual atmosphere.ConclusionSexual health cannot be ruled out even in elderly persons above 85 years of age. By taking care of the various spheres of a person on a particular age, we are able to achieve a better health and quality of life among a specific group of people. Societal misunderstandings should be disregarded and the notion that older persons are not entitled to any sexual care should be disbanded. This view enables better facilities and improvements in the quality of life for elderly people.

Practical Tips for Safety, Independence and JoyAbout the Author: Sherri Snelling is a leading gerontologist, author, and expert in aging and caregiving. She is dedicated to educating and empowering families on promoting dignity, purpose, and well-being for older adults. Dementia and Alzheimer's disease (AD) are a growing concern for many families which is why it is important to be well-informed and well-prepared to support a loved one. Nearly 7 million Americans are currently living with Alzheimer's, the most prevalent type of dementia representing 70% of all dementia diagnoses, according to the Alzheimer's Association. In addition, these adults are being cared for by 11 million family members, and by 2050 Alzheimers is expected to nearly double, reaching approximately 13 million. A dementia diagnosis is a diagnosis for the whole family. While an Alzheimer's or related dementia diagnosis can be daunting, it is important to help an AD adult maintain a healthy and fulfilling life in the comfort of their own home. Research suggests that staying at home as long as possible is linked to a better quality of life for those with dementia and Alzheimer's.1Dementia family caregivers whether an adult child, spouse or other family member can find their caregiving role challenging but also rewarding.  Following are some tips and guidance to help make it easier to provide care at home for a parent, spouse, or grandparent with Alzheimer's, while also finding moments of connection and joy.Creating a Safe and Comforting Home EnvironmentIssues related to Alzheimer's and dementia can impact an individual's ability to keep themselves safe. To make the home a safer and more comforting place, consider the following steps: Secure hazardous areas: Lock garages, basements, and sheds, especially where hazardous materials or tools are located, since 60% of AD adults wander and may be in danger of falls or other health risks.Enhance lighting: Keep walkways and rooms well-lit as a person with Alzheimers may have impairment of their visual field and their pupils often adjust more slowly to both bright and low light so maintaining good lighting throughout the home is essential.Minimize tripping hazards: People with AD have impaired balance so remove clutter and obstacles to create a clear path for movement and reduce the risk of fallsInstall handrails: Consider adding handrails or chair rails in hallways to assist with balance, as Alzheimer's can affect motor skills.Establishing Routines for Familiarity and IndependenceMaintaining routines and schedules can help reinforce a loved ones sense of familiarity, of control and independence while also reducing anxiety. A consistent routine actually uses rote memory rather than working memory and is easier for AD adults to maintain in the early and mid stages of the disease. Routines not only benefit the individual with Alzheimer's but also makes it easier for caregivers to plan their day and manage caregiving responsibilities.Fostering Joyful Moments Through Creative ActivitiesEngaging in everyday positive moments through creative activities and social events can significantly enhance the quality of life and overall health for individuals with Alzheimer's. Activities that keep older adults engaged include:Memory-related activities: Take a trip down memory lane by looking at old photos, taking a joyride to familiar places in your loved ones past or just reminiscing about past experiences.Sensory engagement: Stimulate the senses with their favorite music or the aromas of beloved foods, which are two powerful ways to spark positive memories. Music memory is the longest memory kept within an Alzheimers brain.Art projects: Simple art projects can keep their hands and minds busy, fostering creativity and relaxation. Keep in mind the sense of touch tactile projects with different types of touch sensations are very engaging for someone with AD.Physical activity: Encourage physical activity, such as walking, to help maintain a regular sleep schedule and promote overall well-being. Studies have found walking in nature is more beneficial than walking inside for everyone including those with dementia.2The Role of Professional CaregiversProfessional caregivers can play a crucial role in creating a personalized care plan that allows your loved one to experience greater well-being through positive moments, meaningful connections, and a more purposeful life. This is especially valuable in the familiar environment of home, where comfort and security are paramount. They also can provide important respite breaks for family caregivers who find dementia caregiving can take an emotional and physical toll.Connecting with an in-home caregiver network, like Comfort Keepers, can provide the specialized care needed for seniors with dementia. Comfort Keepers offers highly trained caregivers who are equipped to help older adults stay engaged physically, mentally, and emotionally while living independently at home. References1 Leverton, M., & Pui Kin Kor, P. (2023). Supporting people with dementia to live at home. BMC geriatrics, 23(1),681. Retrieved from: https://bmcgeriatr.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12877-023-04389-w  2 Boere, K., Lloyd, K., Binsted, G., & Krigolson, O. E. (2023). Exercising is good for the brain but exercising outside is potentially better. Nature scientific reports, 13(1), 1-8. Retrieved from: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-022-26093-2

People over the age of 65 are more likely to be readmitted than younger patients, and readmission can be more serious for seniors.Readmission after an illness or injury is a serious health issue for seniors. However, it is important for seniors and their loved ones to remember that in many cases, readmission is avoidable and can be prevented with a thoughtful post-hospital care plan.Nearly one-fifth of all Medicare patients in the United States who are discharged from the hospital end up returning within 30 days. There are many reasons seniors may need to be readmitted to the hospital, but healthcare agencies are focused on finding ways to reduce these numbers and educate patients about how to have a healthier recovery at home.For many seniors, this means having a quality caregiver that can help them overcome some of the main preventable causes for returning to the hospital. Consider the following:Medication is critical: Some seniors need assistance taking medication in the right amount on the correct schedule. When you consider that, on average, seniors with chronic conditions fill 50 different prescriptions annually, it is not difficult to imagine how someone could get confused when a new medication is added to their regimen. Caregivers can not only remind seniors to take medications as prescribed, but they can also help seniors keep a list of those medications and their dosages so the information is readily available for healthcare professionals. Managing medications is one of the best ways a caregiver can help seniors during their recovery.Follow up visits prevent readmission: A full two-thirds of patients readmitted to the hospital would have avoided that trip if they had seen their physicians within two weeks for follow up. The reasons for not following up vary but can include transportation difficulties and forgetting to make or keep appointments. Hospital staff can aid the senior by setting up appointments for the individual before discharge, but getting to the appointment can still be a challenge. In addition to a host of uplifting care services, caregivers can provide transportation to appointments and keep track of any post-care visits.Discharge plans only work when implemented properly: Having a discharge plan for the patient before he or she leaves the hospital can be crucial for recovery, but it can be difficult for seniors and their family members to focus on the plan during the stress of the illness and discharge. Caregivers can help the senior follow the instructions, and will connect with family or other approved individuals when there are problems or change in condition during recovery. They can also help explain the information or ensure that the appropriate person is notified if the older individual has questions about his or her course of treatment. This takes the stress off the family and the patient so he or she can focus on recovery.Having a helping hand during recovery can ensure positive outcomes and a return to an active, engaged life. Family members, friends and neighbors are often willing to serve as a post-hospital recovery caregiver, but there is professional help available for those that dont have someone nearby to assist them. For long-term recovery, those who have the assistance of friends and family can benefit from a professional caregiver to provide respite care and support. Comfort Keepers Can HelpComfort Keepers caregivers can help with encouragement, support and assistance with daily living. 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. ReferencesRelias. What you need to know about readmission among seniors. Web. 2016.American Hospital Association. Examining the drivers of readmissions and reducing unnecessary readmissions for better patient care 2011 AHA Policy Research. Web. 2011.Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. Ten things you should know about care transitions. Web. 2013.