The Use and Mis-Use of Antibiotics

In Delta, Montrose, and the surrounding Colorado area, many older adults are choosing to age in placeright in the comfort of their own homes. But with that decision comes an important responsibility: making sure their homes are as safe as possible. Falls are one of the leading causes of injury among seniors, and even a minor fall can have lasting consequences.1 in 4 adults age 65 and older falls each year in the United States.At Comfort Keepers of Delta and Montrose, CO, were committed to helping families create safe, supportive environments for their aging loved ones. In fact, we are a leading provider of in-home senior care services within the community and have helped many seniors navigate aging-in-place. Whether you're caring for a parent, spouse, or other senior loved one, these seven simple tips can go a long way toward preventing falls and giving everyone peace of mind. Clear the Clutter and Remove Tripping HazardsSometimes the biggest risks are the simplest to fix. Everyday items like area rugs, cords, or even a pet toy in the hallway can cause a serious fall. These hazards often go unnoticed because they're part of the daily routinebut for seniors, one misstep can lead to injury. Taking time to clear these obstacles can make a huge difference in their ability to safely age-in-place. Things to look for:     Loose rugs that could slip or bunch up      Electrical cords stretched across walkways      Narrow or cluttered hallways and furniture arrangements      Pet bowls or small items left on the floor      Frequently used items stored out of reach, leading to dangerous reaching or climbing      Slippery socks or shoes without proper tread Doing a room-by-room walk-through can be a great first step toward fall prevention. Make the Bathroom Safer for SeniorsBathrooms are one of the most common places for senior falls, especially with water and smooth surfaces involved. A few smart additions can make a big difference. Installing grab bars, using non-slip mats, and adding a shower chair can greatly improve safety and reduce the risk of slipping. Since so many daily routines happen in the bathroom, making it safer is one of the most impactful steps you can take.A few bathroom changes that can make the bathroom safer for seniors, include:     Grab bars near the toilet and in the shower or tub      A shower chair or bench for stability during bathing      Handheld showerheads for easier, safer bathing      Non-slip mats or adhesive strips on floors and in tubs 3. Rearrange Furniture for Safer MovementThe way a home is set up matters. If furniture blocks the flow of movement or is unstable, it increases the chance of a fall.Suggestions for a safer layout:     Keep walkways open and free of clutter      Choose chairs with arms and firm cushions for easier sitting and standing      Avoid furniture with sharp corners or glass surfaces      Adjust bed height to ensure it's easy to get in and out of Improve Lighting Throughout the HouseAs we age, it becomes harder to see clearly in dim or uneven lighting. Making sure the home is well-lit, especially in the evening, can help prevent missteps. Hallways, stairs, and bathrooms should be equipped with bright, accessible lighting to guide the way. Simple upgrades like night lights or motion-sensor bulbs can go a long way in helping seniors feel more confident moving aroundespecially when they wake up during the night. Tips for better visibility:     Swap out dim bulbs for brighter, more energy-efficient ones      Install night lights in bedrooms, bathrooms, and hallways      Add motion-sensor lights for nighttime trips to the bathroom      Make sure light switches are easy to access, particularly near entryways and bedsides At Comfort Keepers in Delta, CO, our professional in-home caregivers can help change light bulbs and do other light housekeeping tasks around a senior's home. Use Non-Slip Flooring SolutionsSome types of flooring, especially tile, hardwood, or linoleum, can be slippery underfoot. Tackling flooring issues can help seniors feel more confident as they move around. Adding non-slip mats, securing loose rugs, or applying anti-slip coatings are simple changes that make a big impact. Even small upgrades can reduce the chance of slips and create a steadier, safer surface for daily movement.Simple fixes include:     Applying non-slip coatings to hard surfaces      Using non-slip mats in places like the kitchen and bathroom      Removing or securing throw rugs to prevent bunching or curling edges      Avoiding thick or uneven rugs that could catch a foot or mobility aid Make Stairways Safer for Senior Navigating the HomeIf the home has stairs, its important to give them extra attention. One missed step can quickly lead to injury. Adding sturdy handrails on both sides, improving lighting, and using non-slip treads can make stairs much safer. For those with limited mobility, it may also be worth exploring options like ramps or stair lifts to reduce the risk of falls altogether.Helpful stair safety measures:     Add secure handrails on both sides of the stairs      Install bright lighting along staircases      Use contrast tape or tread strips to highlight steps      Consider adding a stair lift if stairs are frequently used and mobility is limited      For small thresholds or steps, ramps may be a better solution Create a Safer, More Accessible KitchenThe kitchen is a high-traffic area with a lot of activity, and plenty of opportunities for slips or strains.A few small updates can help:     Store everyday items within easy reach to avoid bending or climbing      Use pull-out drawers and turntables in cabinets      Set up a seated workspace for preparing meals     Add non-slip mats in front of the sink and stoveThese changes help reduce risks while allowing seniors to stay active, independent, and confident in their own homes. For more helpful advice, check out these additional kitchen safety tips for seniors on the Comfort Keepers corporate blog. Taking the First Step Toward Fall Prevention for Seniors in Delta, Montrose, and the Surrounding CO CommunitiesIf you're caring for an aging loved one in Delta or the surrounding area, remember that you dont have to make all these changes at once. Start by addressing the most noticeable safety concerns, then gradually add improvements over time. Including your loved one in the process not only helps them feel more comfortable with the changes but also empowers them to take an active role in their own safety. If you have immediate concerns, it may be time to explore senior care services as an option to help.  Comfort Keepers of Delta Is Here to HelpAt Comfort Keepers, we specialize in more than just in-home care, were focused on helping seniors live confidently and joyfully in their own homes. Our caregivers are trained to spot fall risks, support mobility, and provide companionship and assistance with daily tasks that can become more difficult with age.If youre ready to explore how Comfort Keepers of Delta and Montrose, CO can support your loved one through compassionate in-home senior care, were just a phone call away. Call Comfort Keepers of Delta today at 970-241-8818 or visit https://www.comfortkeepers.com/offices/colorado/delta-montrose/contact/contact-us/to schedule your free in-home consultation

As adult children, we often notice the small memory changes in our parents first: maybe Mom forgets a birthday shed always remembered, or Dad seems more withdrawn than usual. While occasional forgetfulness is a normal part of aging, consistent memory issues can be a sign of something more seriouslike dementia or Alzheimers disease.At Comfort Keepers Grand Junction, we understand how difficult it can be to watch a parent change in ways you dont fully understand. Spotting the early signs and taking action early can open the door to proper support, potential treatments, and peace of mind for the entire family.Here are seven early signs of memory loss that may indicate it's time to take a closer lookand how you can help your aging loved one feel safe and supported along the way. Personality Changes or Mood SwingsHave you noticed your aging parent becoming more irritable or withdrawn? Emotional changes such as increased anxiety, signs of depression, or a tendency to isolate from others may be more than just a normal part of aging. These behavioral shifts are often among the earliest indicators of cognitive decline.What you can do: Begin by observing and documenting any patterns or changes in behavior. If these changes persist or seem out of character, it may be time to consult with a healthcare professional for further evaluation. Repeating Themselves OftenIf Mom is asking the same question several times in a short span or forgetting conversations entirely, it could indicate short-term memory loss.Tip: Try using calendars, written notes, or simple routines to support memory without causing frustration. Tracking how often this happens can help a doctor better assess the situation. Getting Lost in Familiar PlacesGetting turned around in a neighborhood theyve lived in for years or feeling disoriented in a regular grocery store is cause for concern.Safety comes first: Consider technology like GPS-enabled devices or check-in calls. Comfort Keepers caregivers can also provide reliable companionship and transportation around Grand Junction to help reduce stress and confusion. Making Poor or Risky DecisionsHave you noticed unexpected purchases, missed bills, or poor hygiene? These may be signs that your parents judgment is affected.Next steps: Offer to help with finances or mail in a supportive way. You might also consider speaking with an elder law professional about protections like a durable power of attorney. Difficulty with Daily RoutinesStruggling to cook meals, take medications correctly, or keep up with laundry may indicate its time for extra help. These routine activities, known as activities of daily living (ADLs), are essential to maintaining health and quality of life. When these tasks become challenging, it can put your loved one at risk for malnutrition, missed medications, or unsafe living conditions.How we can help: Comfort Keepers caregivers in Grand Junction can assist with everyday tasks while encouraging your parents independence and dignity. From preparing nutritious meals and organizing medications to light housekeeping and laundry, our compassionate team is here to provide reliable support, always with a focus on safety, respect, and preserving your loved ones sense of autonomy. Trouble Managing FinancesStacks of unpaid bills, late payments, or confusion over basic transactions might be signs your parent is struggling with memory-related issues.Your role: Offer to go over finances together, suggest automatic payments, or set reminders. If the issues persist, it might be time for more hands-on help or professional advice. Communication ChallengesAre they struggling to find the right words, follow conversations, or losing interest in talking altogether? While occasional communication lapses are common with age, consistent difficulty with communication may signal something more serious than typical senior moments. These changes can be early signs of cognitive decline and may lead to feelings of frustration, isolation, or withdrawal if not addressed.Offer support: Create a comfortable environment by speaking slowly, allowing extra time for responses, and encouraging conversation without pressure. Comfort Keepers caregivers are specially trained in compassionate, respectful communication techniques that help seniors feel heard and valued. By fostering regular, meaningful interaction, we help your loved one stay socially connected and emotionally engagedkey elements in maintaining cognitive health and overall well-being.  What to Do If Youre Concerned About Memory LossIf any of these signs sound familiar, start by documenting what youre noticingdates, behaviors, frequency, and context. This record can be helpful during a visit to your loved ones doctor and provide a clear picture of any changes.Be open and compassionate in your conversations. Express your concerns with love, focusing on their well-being. Involving family members, scheduling a medical evaluation, and asking about cognitive assessments can help you take the right next steps.Starting home care early can be the best option, as it allows for timely support and ensures your loved ones needs are met while promoting independence and dignity. Youre Not Alone, Comfort Keepers Grand Junction Can HelpWatching a loved one struggle with memory loss can be emotional and overwhelming. But you dont have to go through it alone. The earlier you reach out, the more options youll have, whether thats in-home support, memory care services, or simply someone to talk to.At Comfort Keepers Grand Junction, we specialize in Alzheimers and dementia care that goes beyond basic assistance. Our caregivers are trained to support seniors with memory challenges through Interactive Caregiving, our unique approach that emphasizes joy, connection, and engagement in daily life. We believe in doing things with our clients, not just for them, because every senior deserves to feel valued and included no matter where they are on their journey. If youre concerned about a loved ones memory, were here to help. Contact Comfort Keepers Grand Junction today to learn more about how our personalized care plans can bring peace of mind to your family and dignity to those you love.

It is a sad commentary on our current cultural worldview that sunlight is widely perceived to be harmful, a cancer-causing threat. But what does the research actually say? And does this research affect older adults differently than other people?Spectrum: For starters, we should understand that sunlight is a complex combination of photons, with different wavelengths and properties. The sun is the original full-spectrum illumination, while both incandescent and LED lights emit, as one might expect, mostly visible-spectrum light.Intensity: The other important variable is the intensity of light, measured in LUX units (a foot away from one candle): direct sun comes in at 100,000; a cloudy day at 1,000; a kitchen or office measures 500; and a living room only 50. Thats why you need to get outside.UV: At one extreme is ultraviolet light (UV), whose wavelength is slightly shorter than visible violet. With regard to our health, UV is a mixed bag.It does cause sunburns, damages DNA, and triggers the aging of skin. It is also statistically associated with malignant melanoma, although, curiously, not with increased deaths from melanoma (because these cancers are mostly treatable).On the other hand, there are numerous health benefits: UV lowers the risk of hypertension, diabetes, atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), blood inflammation, and COVID infections. UV also stimulates Vitamin D synthesis in the skin. A large-scale study of 500,000 Brits, with a 12-year follow-up, found that frequent UV exposure lowered all-cause mortality by 14%, with cardiovascular deaths down 21% and total cancer mortality decreased by 13%. It gives one pause to reconsider the vast sums spent on sunscreen lotions. Just wearing light summer clothing blocks 80% of UV.IR: UV radiation represents only about 3% of the sunlight that strikes the surface of the earth, while about 50% is infrared (IR), whose lightwaves are just beyond (longer) than visible reds. IR radiation is more predominant at the beginning and end of days, while UV is strongest when the sun is overhead. A thick cloud cover reduces IR significantly more than UV. In a recent superb Huberman Lab podcast, Dr. Roger Seheult touted the many benefits of IR radiation. Most severe and chronic diseases also involve mitochondrial dysfunction (mitochondria are the small organelles within a cell that produce the energy-generating chemical ATP). One aspect of aging is that we lose 70% of our mitochondrial functioning after age 40. Unlike UV, IR radiation passes through light clothing and the surface of the skin to penetrate deep into body tissues, where it significantly stimulates mitochondrial ATP synthesis.Effects: The effects of improved mitochondrial functioning are pervasive, correlated empirically with sun exposure. Dr. Seheult cited statistics demonstrating that the greatest number of all-cause mortality comes soon after the shortest day of the year, and the lowest number of deaths occurs close to the longest days.People who live far north or south of the equator where days are particularly short in winter have higher overall mortality rates, particularly in mid-winter. In a study of almost 30,000 Swedish women, avoidance of sun exposure carried the same risk of premature death, as did smoking.There is well-replicated rigorous research that moderate IR exposure lowers the risk of cancer, heart disease, diabetes, hypertension, and it reduces blood lipids and chronic inflammation. IR increases immune system response to infections, such as influenza, COVID and pre-cancerous cells.On a sunny day, just 15 minutes outside can make a big difference. If youre in a green space with lots of grasses, leaves, bushes, and trees, you can receive two to three times the IR dose because plants reflect much of the IR that strikes them (notice that most leaves dont get hot in the sun because of these reflective properties).Red Light Therapy: There are many red-light therapy devices now available if you are considering them, be sure to carefully research IR wavelengths, dosage, safety, and therapeutic benefit. One study, utilizing an IR desk unit shining only on face, neck, and hands, proved to be quite therapeutic.Forest Bathing? Dr. Seheult delighted in reminding us of the wisdom of the ancient beliefs that sunlight and fresh air promote convalescence. Forest bathing has become a thing the air around trees is infused with phytoncides that defend plants from bacteria, fungi, and insects. When inhaled by humans, they up- regulate immune functioning and lower stress levels, and reduce stress hormones. The beauty and serenity of such an environment further enhances these benefits, some of which are detectable by lab tests a month later. Furthermore, getting up with the sun (and out from behind the filtering effects of plate glass windows) helps to set your circadian rhythm, which can improve sleep patterns. Take home message: forests, parks and even golf courses soothe the soul, and the body. And early morning and late afternoon may be particularly beneficial.Sweat Benefits: Dr. Seheult is a pulmonologist who treats many respiratory infections he also reminded us about how previous generations treated patients with hot baths and hot packs, as if to sweat out infections. Its been recently discovered that body temperatures a little over 100 degrees Fahrenheit actually accelerate the production of interferon, a powerful anti-viral protein. Maybe weve been a little too quick to reduce our fevers with aspirin, Tylenol, and Advil. And maybe the saunas so favored by Scandinavians and Russians are more therapeutic than weve realized.Conclusion: As spring has sprung, we encourage everyone to get away from your screens, go outside and enjoy the benefits of the sunshine that so amply surrounds us. Residents at Kavod Senior Life have a myriad of ways to get outside, whether it be on the sunlit patio areas, in the resident gardens, on the nearby walking paths in Cherry Creek or on the many benches and sitting areas surrounding the campus. Come for a visit and see for yourself!Ben and Scott  https://theagingwiselyproject.com/