Senior Adventures: Exploring New Passions and Hobbies

By Faith Protsman, MD, Regional Medical Director, VITAS HealthcareTwo recent studies highlight how sepsis impact often extends well beyond the acute event that led to a patients hospitalization. The studies emphasize two particular points that should inform physicians and clinicians as they consider referring these patients to specialized care: Medicare patient data gathered between 2012-2017 shows that sepsis patients face considerably poorer health outcomes following hospital discharge when compared to non-sepsis patients, including elevated risk for death and increased use of advanced healthcare services. Sepsis survivors exhibit strong indicators of persistent inflammation and immunosuppression for up to a year after hospital discharge, increasing their risk of readmission or death. Both studies indicate a significantly elevated risk of death among sepsis patients after they have been discharged and ostensibly cured. Of course, sepsis patientsparticularly those of the Medicare cohort, who are largely of advanced agerarely leave the hospital in better condition than they entered.The Yende study, in particular, shows that neuroendocrine and inflammatory responses to sepsis can continue long after the patient survives a septic episode. For patients with advanced or chronic diseasesas was the case with nearly 78% of participants in the studythese biomarkers are associated with decline.Post-sepsis Discharge: A Critical JunctureIn many cases, these individuals life expectancies upon discharge will be less than six months. This is a critical juncture: While comfort-focused hospice care could provide an ideal source of support for the eligible patient, their family, and their caregiver(s), most sepsis patients are simply sent home without even a discussion about palliative end-of-life care and its benefits.Frankly, such an oversight is a disservice to everyone involved. The sepsis patient is left with physical and/or cognitive dysfunction, often without significant options for symptom management. Their partner or family will either need to assume caregiving duties or turn to costly private services. And the physician and hospital staff will likely see the patient again following another acute event, a readmission that impacts performance scores, strains resources, and unnecessarily fills beds.By no means do I intend to lay the blame for these unfortunate circumstances on physicians. Timely hospice referrals require ongoing education about end-of-life care, and open, ongoing communication between hospice providers and referral sources.More Help: How to Talk About Hospice Care >Those of us in hospice are working hard to bridge the gap, but even as our healthcare system transitions to a value-based model, the mentality of fee-for-service still permeates our nations acute-care facilities, and many hospitalists see a discharge home as a success.Hospice: A New Way Of Judging SuccessIn hospice, we judge our successes on the patients quality of life and the fulfillment of their goals and wishes near lifes end. Usually, that means going home with 24/7 support from an interdisciplinary hospice team. Whether home is a traditional residence, an assisted living facility, or nursing home, the hospice team will assist caregivers (and/or facility staff) with direct clinical care and education, integrative services, bereavement support, and delivery of medication, equipment, and supplies.In other cases, improving quality of life means remaining in a general inpatient setting with hospice support, taking the burden off hospital staff until the patient is able to transition home or until the patient dies. Hospice offers complex modalities in any setting, so patients who would otherwise be confined to an ICU can usually return home to be among loved ones.With support from hospice, a sepsis patient and their family are more likely to report higher satisfaction of care and greater quality of life. The patients emotional and spiritual needs can be met alongside their physical needs, thanks to care from chaplains, social workers, music and massage therapists, and other integrative specialists. Finally, the patient is more likely to die at home, surrounded by loved ones, rather than in the hospital.Because sepsis is most common in patients with advanced or chronic diseases that indicate hospice eligibility, acute incidences of sepsis should always trigger a hospice eligibility assessment. We owe it to our patients, their loved ones, and our colleagues in healthcare, all of whom can benefit from the support that timely end-of-life care offers. 

Help Seniors Maintain Emotional Wellness Through JournalingJournaling is often seen as a simple activityjust words on paperbut for seniors, it holds the potential to be so much more. Its not just about writing down daily thoughts or recalling memories; its a powerful tool for fostering emotional wellness, sparking creativity, and promoting reflection. Seniors, in particular, can find great comfort in journaling as it provides a quiet space to process emotions, navigate life changes, and even explore new possibilities.In this article, well dive into how journaling can be a lifeline for seniors, helping them find emotional balance, gain perspective, and strengthen their sense of self. By writing down their thoughts, seniors can tap into a wellspring of inner peace, joy, and personal growth.What Is Emotional Wellness?Before we explore how journaling supports emotional wellness, lets first understand what emotional wellness truly means. At its core, emotional wellness is about being able to recognize, understand, and express emotions in healthy ways. Its also about managing lifes challenges, handling stress effectively, and adapting to the inevitable changes that come with age. Emotional wellness is closely linked to better overall healthresearch shows that emotionally balanced individuals are less likely to develop physical illnesses, recover from sickness more quickly, and enjoy stronger relationships with those around them. For seniors, maintaining emotional wellness can lead to improved mental health, a greater sense of purpose, and enhanced overall quality of life.How Journaling Boosts Emotional Wellness for SeniorsWhile journaling is often seen as a personal hobby or creative exercise, for seniors, it can be a transformative tool that nurtures emotional wellness. Below are some of the key benefits of journaling for seniors:1. Clarifies EmotionsAs we age, we often experience a wide range of emotionsfrom joy and nostalgia to sadness or frustration. Journaling provides a safe and effective outlet to understand these feelings. Writing about ones emotions helps seniors identify exactly what theyre going through, allowing them to process complex feelings in a constructive way. This can be particularly helpful during times of grief, loss, or significant life changes, such as retirement or a move to a new living situation.2. Enhances Problem-Solving AbilitiesOne of the most valuable aspects of journaling is that it can help seniors uncover solutions to personal challenges. Sometimes, just putting thoughts on paper can clarify a situation, highlight new perspectives, and reveal potential answers that might have otherwise gone unnoticed. Writing can serve as a mini brainstorming session, allowing seniors to reflect on their options and make thoughtful decisions, whether its about daily tasks or long-term plans.3. Fosters Self-AwarenessBy revisiting past journal entries, seniors gain insight into their own emotional and mental states over time. This practice of reflection can increase self-awareness and help seniors recognize patterns in their thinking, behavior, and emotions. Whether its noting progress on personal goals or simply recalling the ups and downs of the day, journaling provides a clear window into ones inner world, which can boost confidence and clarity.4. Unleashes CreativityJournaling doesnt have to be limited to reflecting on the past or analyzing emotions. It can also serve as a creative outlet. Many seniors find joy in expressing themselves through fictional writing, poetry, or even sketching. Creative journaling offers a break from routine thoughts and invites a playful exploration of the imagination. Whether its creating stories, drawing pictures, or experimenting with new writing styles, creativity can be a source of both joy and healing.5. Helps Set and Track GoalsAs people grow older, it can sometimes feel like their dreams or goals are no longer within reach. Journaling provides seniors with a way to think about the futuresetting both short-term and long-term goals, and tracking their progress. It can be something as simple as writing down a weekly goal, like taking a daily walk, or something larger, such as planning a trip or learning a new skill. Journaling can reignite the spark of purpose and motivation.Tips to Start Journaling: A Guide for SeniorsStarting a journaling practice can feel intimidating at first, especially if youre not used to writing regularly. However, the process doesnt have to be overwhelming. Here are some helpful tips for seniors to make journaling a fun and rewarding part of their routine:1. Choose Materials That Bring JoyThe right materials can turn journaling from a chore into a delight. Choose a journal that feels good to write in, whether its a beautiful leather-bound notebook or a simple spiral-bound pad. Invest in pens that glide smoothly and feel comfortable in your hand. The more you enjoy the process, the more likely you are to stick with it.2. Set a Consistent Time for JournalingLike any new habit, the key to journaling regularly is consistency. Schedule time each day to write, whether its in the morning with your cup of coffee or before bed to reflect on the day. Keeping a consistent routine helps journaling become an easy and enjoyable part of your daily life.3. Use Prompts to Get StartedIf youre not sure where to start, journaling prompts are a great way to spark inspiration. Whether youre reflecting on the past, writing about your future hopes, or exploring your thoughts on a particular subject, prompts can guide your writing. There are plenty of resources online with free prompts, or you can even make up your own.4. Set Achievable GoalsWhen first starting out, dont pressure yourself to write an essay every day. Start smallaim for writing a few sentences or a short paragraph each day. As you get more comfortable, you can gradually increase the length or frequency of your entries. Dont worry about perfectionjust focus on making journaling a regular part of your life.5. Be Patient and Enjoy the ProcessRemember, journaling is about the journey, not the destination. Its okay if you dont see immediate benefits or if your writing doesnt always come out as youd like. Keep going, and enjoy the act of writing itself. Over time, youll begin to notice subtle shifts in how you feel and think.Journaling with the Support of Visiting AngelsAt Visiting Angels in Daphne, Gulf Shores & Mobile, Alabama, we understand that the emotional well-being of seniors is just as important as their physical health. Our caregivers are here to support seniors in many ways, including encouraging and assisting with journaling. Whether its helping select the perfect journal, setting reminders, or engaging in writing prompts together, our team provides compassionate guidance to help seniors enjoy the benefits of journaling. To learn more about how our services can help you or a loved one begin the journey of emotional wellness through journaling, contact Visiting Angels today at 251-517-9700. Together, we can help nurture a peaceful, creative, and fulfilling life through the power of the written word.

Embrace the Winter Season: Stay Safe, Warm, and Healthy with These Essential Tips!As the cold winter season approaches and temperatures begin to plummet, its natural to feel a little apprehensive. But instead of dreading the chill, why not prepare for it with confidence? With a few simple strategies, you can safeguard your health, stay cozy, and even enjoy the beauty of winter. Heres how to stay safe, warm, and healthy all season long!Warm Up with a Comforting Drink Theres nothing quite like wrapping your hands around a steaming mug of your favorite beverage on a cold day. Sipping a hot drink not only warms your body from the inside out but also lifts your spirits. Herbal teas, hot chocolate, or warm apple cider are perfect choices. Try to avoid excessive caffeine, as it can lead to dehydration. Opt for decaffeinated or herbal options that provide warmth without the jitters.Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate! Its easy to forget about drinking water when its cold outside, but staying hydrated is just as important in winter as it is in summer. Indoor heating and dry, chilly air can quickly lead to dehydration. Make a habit of drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Warm lemon water or broths are excellent alternatives that keep you both hydrated and warm.Cover Up Your Head and Neck Did you know that a significant amount of body heat escapes through your head and neck? Keep these areas protected by wearing a cozy hat and scarf when venturing outside. Not only will you feel warmer, but youll also reduce your risk of catching a chill. And dont forget a good pair of gloves to keep your hands toasty!Layer Up for Maximum Warmth The secret to staying warm outdoors isnt one thick coatits layering! Wear multiple thin layers of clothing that trap warm air close to your body. This method is more effective at maintaining warmth than wearing a single bulky layer. Plus, layers are easy to remove if you start to overheat indoors.Maintain a Cozy Indoor Temperature To keep your home warm and comfortable, set your thermostat to at least 65 Fahrenheit. If heating your entire home isnt feasible, focus on keeping the rooms you use most often at a cozy temperature. Space heaters, electric blankets, and thermal curtains can also help maintain warmth without overloading your heating system.Stay Active to Beat the Chill Cold weather often makes us want to hibernate, but staying active is one of the best ways to keep warm and healthy. Indoor exercise like yoga, stretching, or even walking in place can get your blood flowing and help prevent muscles from becoming stiff in the cold. Take short movement breaks throughout the day to stay energized and warm.Know the Signs of Hypothermia Understanding the warning signs of hypothermia is crucial during the winter months. Early symptoms include pale skin, swollen face, slurred speech, irritability, confusion, and cold extremities. If these symptoms progress to difficulty walking, clumsiness, a slow heartbeat, or shallow breathing, seek medical help immediately. Call 911 if you suspect hypothermia in yourself or a loved one.Winter Wellness: Mental Health Matters Too Winter isnt just hard on the bodyit can take a toll on mental health as well. The National Institute on Aging reports that up to 20% of older adults experience seasonal depression or mood changes due to shorter days and colder weather. Feelings of sadness, loneliness, or fatigue are common, but they dont have to take over the season.If you care for an aging loved one, watch for signs like a lack of interest in activities, lower energy levels, and social withdrawal. These could indicate that they need extra support. Seniors face a higher risk of depression and anxiety, but mental health often goes unchecked.Finding Support with Trinity Health PACE The good news? There are ways to combat winter blues and keep spirits high. Trinity Health PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly) offers seniors a vibrant community where social interaction and mental stimulation thrive. Activities like pet therapy, dance classes, bingo, and trivia provide connection and fun, helping to reduce feelings of isolation.Veronica Guidry, a Recreation Coordinator at Trinity Health PACE Alexandria in Louisiana, sees the positive impact these activities have on participants' mental health. Some say that at first they never wanted to leave the house, but now they are ready to get up, start their day at the center, and do activities, Veronica shares.Not only do the seniors benefit from these interactions, but Veronica herself finds fulfillment in seeing their joy. It is a blessing to work with participants and see their mental health improve. It makes me smile to see them happy, and little do they know, they help me just as much as I try to help them! I have received so much wisdom from them, and I love being part of their day.Caring for the Whole Person Mental health is a key piece of overall well-being. When seniors join a PACE program, they receive comprehensive care for both their mental and physical health. A dedicated team of expertsincluding registered nurses, physical therapists, and dietitiansworks together to treat the whole person, ensuring each participant feels supported and valued.Stay Warm, Stay Well, and Make the Most of Winter Winter may bring snow and chilly winds, but with a little preparation, it can also be a season of warmth, connection, and joy. Whether youre sipping a hot cup of tea, bundling up in cozy layers, or sharing a laugh at a PACE center activity, embracing the season can help you stay healthy and happy. If you have any questions for us or would like to sign up for emails about health and wellness, please reach out to Mercy Life of Alabama at 251-287-8420. Lets make this winter a season of comfort, care, and community!