Staying Steady: Fall Prevention Strategies for Older Adults

In the month of December, our attention turns to a widespread health concern affecting millions globallyChronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Bringing awareness to COPD prompts a collective effort to deepen our understanding of this progressive lung disease. This blog emphasizes the critical importance of understanding this disease and its characteristics. What is COPD?COPD is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by the obstruction of airflow in the lungs, making it challenging to breathe. This umbrella term encompasses three main conditions: emphysema, chronic bronchitis, and asthma. Understanding these disease differentials and processes is vital in taking proactive steps towards prevention.Emphysema, unlike chronic bronchitis and asthma, is characterized as the deconstruction of the alveolar walls, often leading to permanent damage to the airways. Loss of elasticity in the alveolar walls leads to impaired expiration and barrel chest characteristics. Individuals with emphysema often display a slight cough with little sputum production.    Chronic Bronchitis and asthma are both characterized as inflammation of the bronchi, which are the major air passages in the lungs. Inflammation of these passages leads to increased mucus production and obstruction. People who have one of these diseases often present with a consistent cough and large amounts of sputum production.     Although chronic bronchitis and asthma may exhibit similar symptoms, there are significant differences in their disease characteristics. Paying attention to sputum, also known as the mucus that is coughed up, is crucial. Chronic bronchitis often presents with a large amount of discolored sputum, while asthma results in the production of thick, constant, and tenacious mucus. Monitoring sputum is essential for overall lung and bronchial health. Individuals who notice a change in their sputum production should notify their healthcare provider.   Environment and COPD:There are several factors that can exacerbate the symptoms of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Air pollutants play a vital role in bronchial health. Any significant exposure to dust, fungal spores (molds), harsh chemicals, and cigarette smoke can contribute to the development of COPD. While genetic factors are also a contributing player in the diagnosis of COPD diseases, most cases are found in populations of people who are cigarette smokers. If you are a cigarette smoker, you are at a much higher risk of COPD. According to the CDC, smoking accounts for as many as 8 out of 10 COPD-related deaths. However, for nonsmokers, the risk of death due to COPD-related diagnoses is significantly lower. How COPD and its Severity are identified:The severity of COPD is often classified based on the degree of airflow limitation and the impact of symptoms on an individual's daily life. The Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) provides a widely used classification system. Healthcare providers use this classification stage system, as well as take account of the patients FEV1 and FCV levels to help identify the severity of the disease/diseases. The FEV1 measures how much air you can exhale in one second; the FVC measures the total amount of air you can exhale forcefully in one breath.GOLD Stage 1 (Mild): Characterized by mild airflow limitation, with a forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) of 80% or more of the predicted value. Symptoms may include chronic cough and sputum production.GOLD Stage 2 (Moderate): Moderate airflow limitation, with an FEV1 between 50% and 79% of the predicted value. Individuals at this stage often experience increased shortness of breath, cough, and sputum production.GOLD Stage 3 (Severe): Severe airflow limitation, with an FEV1 between 30% and 49% of the predicted value. Symptoms are significantly worsened, and exacerbations become more frequent.GOLD Stage 4 (Very Severe): Very severe or end-stage COPD, with an FEV1 less than 30% of the predicted value or FEV1 less than 50% with chronic respiratory failure. Quality of life is severely impacted, and exacerbations can be life-threatening.Management of COPD not only involves addressing the respiratory symptoms but also managing the associated conditions. Comprehensive care often includes medications, lifestyle modifications, and coordination with other healthcare professionals to address the various aspects of the disease and its impact on overall health. Regular medical check-ups and open communication with healthcare providers are crucial for effective COPD management, especially when comorbidities are present.Why Awareness Matters:Raising awareness concerning COPD is essential for several reasons. Firstly, early detection can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals living with COPD. Secondly, increased awareness prompts individuals to adopt preventive measures, such as smoking cessation, paying attention to active symptoms, and reducing exposure to environmental pollutants. Lastly, a well-informed community is better equipped to support those affected by COPD. Having a community involved can help embrace and advocate for policies that promote respiratory health. If you have any questions, please call us at 720-727-1141.

Isolation and loneliness are not new concepts to those who work in the field of aging. And, as a result of the COVID pandemic, almost everyone, regardless of age, experienced some form of isolation and loneliness. Many of us were separated from family, friends, and coworkers for so long that the isolation left a nearly permanent mark. As a senior service provider, Cultivate has seen, firsthand, the negative effects isolation has had on our senior clients. We have also seen the power of healing that the volunteers provide when they take time to build connections with our clients. According to the CDC, loneliness and social isolation in adults can lead to serious health conditions beyond the effect it has on mental health. The senior population has been disproportionately affected by isolation for years, and it is only in the aftermath of the pandemic that much of the population can begin to understand. Society saw a surge in volunteerism during the beginning of the pandemic because many people were struggling with the loneliness of quarantine while becoming very aware of the fact their neighbors needed help. However, that surge ended, and non-profits are finding a significant reduction in the number of new volunteers. Many forget that just because most of the population is no longer quarantined, this does not mean that the issues of isolation have disappeared. There are different ways that the community can get involved to help reduce isolation and loneliness in seniors. This work can start by reaching out to family, friends, and neighbors. You never know how much of an impact your time and words can have on someone. Volunteerism is also a good way to reach people who need the most help. Often the volunteers get as much out of their experience as those they are helping do. Whatever you choose, remember that we all know what it feels like to be lonely, and we all have the power to relieve the loneliness of others. Editors Note: This article was submitted by Carly Marquis. Carly is the Director of Volunteers with Cultivate and may be reached at 303-443-1933 or by email at cmarquis@cultivate.ngo.

The first time I heard this I was immediately confronted with my own failure to plan.  Having helped hundreds of families find the right fit senior living community for their loved one has confirmed this axiom.  Im not the only one who didnt think about planning for long term care!  70% of people 65 or older will need long term care. Only around 30% of the population will not need additional healthcare to live to the end of life at home. That means most of us will need to do some planning. Start now!  Connect with a Senior Placement Company and begin the planning process.  The service is FREE and Placement companies are a rich source of information regarding community costs, spend-down and care options.  You dont have to plan to fail!   Editors Note: This article was submitted by Walt and Britt Roberson who are co-owners of Harmony Senior Referrals. They may be reached at 303-667-2420 or by email at harmonyseniorreferrals@gmail.com