McKenney Home Care

Anybody whos ever weeded a row of turnips, planted petunias, or mowed a thriving lawn knows that gardening can be hard work. That hard work pays off in more ways than having the best roses on the block or a tasty salad. Gardening in its various forms has a multitude of benefits:Increase hand strength, body strength, and flexibility[1]Improve hand-eye coordination[2]Burn calories. If it makes you sweat, it counts as exercise.Promote mental and physical stimulation and may help preserve cognitive health[3]One of the biggest benefits is if youre a vegetable gardener, you get to eat what you sowGardening is a way to socially connect across generations and with the great outdoors. Introducing children or grandchildren to gardening with their own little plot or even just helping with the watering (what kid doesnt like to play with the garden hose?) can create a bond.While gardening, people also need to keep safety in mind by rotating garden tasks to avoid repetitive movements. An example might be after 15 minutes of raking, change to pruning for a while. This helps to prevent aggravating muscles by using the same ones over and over. Grab a trowel and get growing![1] Park, S., & Shoemaker, C.  Observing body position of older adults, while gardening for health benefits and risks.  Activities, Adaptations & Aging, 33; 31-38.[2] DAndrea, S. J., Batavia, M., & Sasson, N. (2007). Effect of horticultural therapy on preventing the decline of mental abilities of patients with Alzheimers type dementia. Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 18, 917.[3] Infantino, M. (2004). Gardening: A strategy for health promotion in older women. Journal of the New York State Nurses Association, 35(2), 1017.  

Younger people may perceive urinary tract infections (UTIs) as a nuisance, but for the elderly, it can be a serious condition with unexpected symptoms.  It is important to seek medical attention promptly.The urinary system is the bodys drainage system for removing wastes and extra water. It includes two kidneys, two ureters, a bladder, and a urethra. UTIs are the second most common type of infection in the body.In some elderly people, mental changes and confusion may be the only signs of a UTI. Older adults with a UTI are more likely to be tired, shaky, and weak or have muscle aches and abdominal pain.Many things can affect bladder health. We cant control everything that affects bladder health, but there are many bladder health behaviors that can be controlled. Here are some things that may affect bladder health.DiabetesBeing OverweightLow Physical ActivitySome MedicinesGetting a UTI diagnosed and treated quickly in the elderly is essential otherwise there can be serious consequences.

Cheese lovers can celebrate! According to a recent, decade-long study, cheese was associated with a reduction in all-cause mortality. Yes, cheese.Cheese is a food thats full of contradictions. Most everyone can agree that it is one of the most delicious foods known to man. Whether its a creamy slice of American cheese melted over a burger or freshly grated Romano over a favorite pasta, cheese adds flavor to any dish. For a long, time cheese has been seen as a fattening, calorie-filled ingredient, but is cheese considered healthy or is it the kind of thing that should be enjoyed occasionally? A recent study had surprising findings on the health benefits of cheese.According to a study led by Dr. Maciej Banach of the Medical University of Lodz, Poland, cheese was found to protect from total mortality. Banach and colleagues analyzed national survey data from the 1999-2010 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The researchers found eating any kind of dairy was associated with a 2% lower rate of total mortality. The study also found a 4% lower rate of stroke from dairy intake, along with a 7% lower rate for stroke with milk alone. Cheese reigned supreme with an 8% decrease in total mortality risk.To those of who live and breathe cheese, rejoice. Study authors suggest that recommendations to limit cheese consumption be relaxed.Break out the Brie! Its time to celebrate.

Studies suggest a large portion of seniors with dementia have unrecognized, severe pain. A recent study out of the University of Rochester suggests that nearly a third of severe pain cases go unrecognized when seniors have dementia.1-3 Pain in dementia can lead to other problems such as agitation, aggression, hallucinations, delusions, depression, impaired physical function, and increased mortality risk. What can we do?It can be difficult for family caregivers to recognize pain, even severe pain, when loved ones have dementia. Doctors and nurses often rely on reports from family caregivers. When it comes to questions about pain, clinicians should take a moment to try to engage a patient directly. They also need to do observational assessments. Tools such as the Pain Assessment in Advanced Dementia (PAINAD) scale can be used to standardize, quantify, and rate pain assessments. Importantly, tools such as these can guide clinicians in observation techniques that can improve the detection of pain among patients with dementia. Family caregivers can try free tools such as these themselves. Moreover, they can prompt their clinicians to use a pain assessment scale specifically designed for patients with dementia.Pain Assessment in Advanced Dementia Scale (PAINAD): http://dementiapathways.ie/_filecache/04a/ddd/98-painad.pdfReferencesWang J, Monroe TB, Simning A, Conwell Y, Caprio TV, Cai X, Temkin-Greener H, Muench U, Yu F, Ge S, Li Y. Pain management in home health care: relationship with dementia and facility admissions. Pain Management Nursing. 2021 Feb 1;22(1):36-43.Paulson CM, Monroe T, Mion LC. Pain assessment in hospitalized older adults with dementia and delirium. Journal of Gerontological Nursing. 2014 Jun 1;40(6):10-5.Wu N, Miller SC, Lapane K, Roy J, Mor V. Impact of cognitive function on assessments of nursing home residents pain. Medical Care. 2005 Sep 1:934-9.

Hoarders, clutterers, pack rats, and collectors are a few terms used to describe people with a lot of items in their home, office, car, storage unit, and maybe overflowing into the yard.  The accumulation of objects can become a safety and health problem, often interferes with daily living and/or violation of housing codes that can lead to eviction or homelessness.  It can be difficult to know if a loved one is truly hoarding or merely attached to their personal possessions. According to a study published in Journal of Affective Disorders, about 2.5% of the general population falls into the criteria for hoarding disorder.[1]  Hoarding behaviors often emerge during adolescence or early adulthood, and tend to worsen with age. Hoarding behavior may focus on items such as books, papers, clothing, and even pets.The reasons why someone begins hoarding are not fully understood according to the National Health Service.  Mental health problems such as depression, psychotic disorders or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) have been associated with hoarding. Other possible reasons for hoarding may be associated with self-neglect such as living alone, family history of hoarding, and growing up in a cluttered home environment.Hoarding can create significant health and safety risks for older adults. Clutter can cause falls or fire hazards. The inability to access the kitchen can lead to problems with nutrition and food contamination. Medication is easily lost. In addition, there are infestations of insects and rodents.Hoarders are emotionally attached to their belongings and lack the ability to set priorities and make informed decisions. People who hoard can comprise their own safety and relationships just because they are afraid to throw anything away. If a family member or loved one is experiencing hoarding tendencies, contact a general practitioner or mental health professional. In many communities, public health agencies can help address problems of hoarding and get help for individuals affected.[1]  Postlethwaite A, Kellet S, Mataix-Cols D. Prevalence of Hoarding Disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Affective Disorders. 2019 Jun. doi.org/10.1016/j.jad.2019.06.004.

Well drink to this: according to research, hot chocolate makes us smarter and faster thinkers. A study finds drinking cocoa is not just a popular choice, but it may also be a smart choice as well. A team at the University of Birmingham discovered that people given a cocoa drink containing high levels of flavanols were able to complete cognitive tasks more efficiently than when drinking a non-flavanol drink.The study examined 18 healthy men between 18 and 40 years old. The participants underwent a standard procedure to challenge the brains circulation that involved breathing 5% carbon dioxide about 100 times the normal concentration found in the air. This produces an effect called hypercapnia. The men were subjected to a non-invasive method which uses light to see changes in the blood oxygenation levels. The researchers tracked how the group responded to the carbon dioxide after drinking flavanols. Each man received these tests twice, before and after having their cocoa.The study revealed that the participants drinking a flavanol-enriched beverage had the highest levels of blood oxygenation after experiencing hypercapnia. The cognitive exams revealed flavanol-enriched cocoa helped people perform better in mental challenges. The study found improvements in speed and accuracy when flavanol-enriched drinks were consumed over regular cocoa.So, sit back, relax, and enjoy a cup of hot chocolate. But for a fun note: as for the tiny, little marshmallows that so many of us dump into our hot chocolate, they do not factor into the health benefit.Source: Socci V, Tempesta D, Desideri G, De Gennaro L, Ferrara M. Enhancing human cognition with cocoa flavonoids. Frontiers in Nutrition. 2017 May 16;4:19.Can drinking cocoa make you smarter? [Internet]. Birmingham.ac.uk. [cited 21021, Dec 02]. Available from: https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/news/latest/2020/11/can-drinking-cocoa-make-you-smarter.aspx

nsufficient or low-quality sleep may be more than an annoyance. It can be a major health concern meriting a visit to your general practitioner or a sleep specialist. Difficulty sleeping that impairs activities of daily living and lasts greater than three months meets the clinical definition of insomnia. One of the more prevalent causes of insomnia is obstructive sleep apnea, which is a major reason for snoring. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) means an obstructive episode resulted in respiratory effort and at least a 30% decrease in airflow for 10 seconds or greater resulting in oxygen desaturation in the blood of 4% of greater.The problems from OSA are associated with a host of negative health, social, and occupational consequences, some of which include:Daytime sleepinessReduced work productivityReduced concentrationSocial isolation and lonelinessRisk factor for DementiaExercise has long been associated with better sleep. [1] Despite surprisingly little experimental research involving patients with significant sleep disturbance or sleep disorders, the available evidence suggests that exercise holds promise as a nonpharmacologic therapy for adults with poor or disordered sleep. [2]Exercise seems to improve sleep quality and sleep continuity. Even in the case of OSA, exercise can reduce the symptoms. If chronic problems with sleep are an issue, please consider getting evaluated. Remember that exercise is good medicine.[1] Youngstedt SD, Kline CE. Epidemiology of exercise and sleep. Sleep Biol Rhythms. 2006; 4:215221.[2] Buman MP, King AC. Exercise as a treatment to enhance sleep. Am J Lifestyle Med. 2010; 4:500514.  

Adopting a pet comes with some surprising health benefits for the new owner. For those who truly consider a dog to be mans best friend, it helps to know the health benefits dogs can bestow on a human being. In fact, some studies show that dog ownership during a health crisis can be just what the doctor ordered.[1] Studies have shown that human-animal interaction increases the oxytocin levels in the brain. [2] Oxytocin levels in the brain cause many physiological changes, such as:a slower heart rate and breathing,lower blood pressure,inhibits stress hormones, andcreates a sense of calm, comfort, and focus.One study published in the journal Hypertension analyzed the effects of pet ownership on cardiovascular responses with people in high-stress positions and suffering from hypertension. The results showed that those who owned pets have a less dramatic response to stress than those who did not own pets. The study measured heart rate, blood pressure, and stress levels. The researchers hypothesized that owning pets helps people to understand what matters in life and put problems into perspective.The presence of animals and the need for their care produces psychological stimulation to induce people to take better care of themselves.Having a dog really can improve our health according to science. Whether its boosting our mood, giving us a reason to go outside, or simply keeping us on schedule. Your dogs got your back!Sources:Allen K, Shykoff BE, Izzo Jr JL. Pet ownership, but not ACE inhibitor therapy, blunts home blood pressure responses to mental stress. Hypertension. 2001 Oct 1;38(4):815-20.[1] Odendaal, J. S. J. Animal-assisted therapymagic or medicine? Journal of Psychosomatic Research 49.4 (2000): 275-280.[2] Miller, Suzanne C., et al. An examination of changes in oxytocin levels in men and women before and after interaction with a bonded dog. Anthrozos 22.1 (2009): 31-42.    

Today, about half of all American adults 117 million people have one or more preventable chronic disease. Seven out the ten most common diseases are influenced by regular physical activity. Yet nearly 80% of adults are not meeting the physical fitness guidelines.[1]The good news is that regular physical activity can help prevent and may improve chronic conditions.  Barriers to physical activity can be small or large. If you are not active, most likely there is at least one barrier or reason why.Have you thought about what is keeping you from being active? Here are some of solutions to the most common barriers to physical activity.Not enough time in the day to exercise Try to create a 30-minute slot of time or even (2) 15 minutes slots.Ive never been active You maybe more active than you realize.  Housekeeping and mowing the lawn counts towards daily activity.Are you too tired after work? May be take a brisk walk during lunch breaks a few days a week.Afraid of getting sore muscles?  Start slow and enjoy. 

Diabetes is a chronic condition affecting millions in the US and is often associated with a myriad of health complications.  The increased risk of stroke is a grave concern, especially for women. Understanding the relationships between diabetes and stroke risk is crucial for effective prevention and management strategies.Several mechanisms contribute to the heightened stroke risk in women with diabetes. Diabetes is known to accelerate the progression of atherosclerosis. In women, hormonal fluctuations, particularly during menopause, can exacerbate this process, leading to stiffening of the arteries and greater susceptibility to stroke.Women with diabetes are more likely to have additional risk factors such as obesity, hypertension, and dyslipidemia, further compounding their stroke risk. Additionally, diabetes-related complications such as diabetic retinopathy and nephropathy can serve as early indicators of vascular damage, signaling an increased risk of stroke in affected individuals.Hormonal factors, including fluctuations in estrogen levels during different stages of life, can influence vascular health and clotting mechanisms, potentially increasing the likelihood of stroke. Additionally, women are more likely to experience atypical stroke symptoms, leading to delays in diagnosis and treatment.Signs and symptoms of diabetesExcessive thirstFrequent urinationDramatic, unexplained weight lossTingling in toes or feetWounds seem to be very slow in healingExtremely and chronically fatiguedHospitalizations for strokes are 1.5 times higher in people with diabetes.Risk Factors for DiabetesA parent or family member with diabetesWomen who have given birth to babies weighing more than nine pounds or have a history of gestational diabetesIncreasing ageOverweightInactive lifestyleAfrican Americans, Latinos, Asian and Pacific Islanders and Native AmericansLow HDL cholesterol or high triglyceridesWhat to do about DiabetesMcKenney Home Care specializes in Chronic Disease Management especially Diabetes. Our specially trained nurses and aides can assist with diet, glucose monitoring, insulin injections and more.  Contact McKenney Home Care to day for more information.

Looking for a heart-healthy way to eat a balanced, flexible diet that requires no special foods? The DASH eating plan might be for you! DASH stands for Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension. Researchers developed it more than 20 years ago. It is an eating plan that is based on research sponsored by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI). Studies show that DASH lowers high blood pressure and improves levels of cholesterol. This reduces the risk of getting heart disease. According to the NHLBI, adults who follow DASH without altering sodium intake can lower their blood pressure within weeks.The DASH diet plan is all about filling our plate with healthy, wholesome foods.Emphasizes vegetables, fruits, and whole-grainsIncludes fat-free or low-fat dairy products, fish, poultry, beans, nuts, and vegetable oilsLimits foods that are high in saturated fat. These foods include fatty meats, full-fat dairy products, and tropical oils such as coconut, palm kernel, and palm oils.Limits sugar-sweetened beverages and sweetsThe DASH eating plan is just one part of a heart-healthy lifestyle. Other lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and not smoking can also help lower blood pressure.Learn more:NIH supported DASH diet tops rankings for heart-healthy and healthy eating. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. [cited 2022 Jan 11] Available from: https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/news/2021/nih-supported-dash-diet-tops-rankings-heart-healthy-and-healthy-eating

When deciding who to hire for in home care in Florida, a licensed, accredited Home Health Agency is the best way to ensure Privacy, Security, Consistency and Knowledgeable, Compassionate Care.Home Health Agencies hire their own W-2 employees who are scheduled to care for clients under the management and supervision of a licensed Registered Nurse. The Agency is responsible for workers compensation and all employer taxes. Agencies carry general liability insurance and a dishonesty bond. Agencies assure that the employee has the right to work in the US, is free of communicable diseases, has the requisite training to perform services and has a background free of criminal offenses. The Agency is responsible for all risks associated with work performed by the employee.Nurse Registries on the other hand arrange for services of home care workers on an independent contractor basis. The workers are directed to care for clients, they are not employed by or supervised by the company. The registry is not responsible for workmens compensation or other employer taxes. Clients have exposure to risk when they employ individuals from a Nurse Registry and it is unclear exactly who the employer is, in fact the client may be responsible for all taxes and liability of the caregiver.Hiring a caregiver independently through an online service presents the same and even greater risks than hiring a Nurse Registry.When in need of care for yourself or a loved one in Florida, be certain to hire a licensed, accredited Agency.  McKenney Home Care has been licensed by the ACHA and accredited by ACHC for over ten years.  As a family owned Agency we provide a standard of care we would expect for our own families.

It is a popular belief that the wear and tear of running causes osteoarthritis of the knees and other joints. Doctors now know this is not true. According to exercise scientist Paul Williams, studies show quite the opposite. [1] Williams heads up the National Runners Health Study as well as the National Walkers Health Study. These projects have followed close to 90,000 runners and walkers since their inception in 1991 and 1997, respectively. An analysis of these studies was published in the journal Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise. Williams studied the rates of osteoarthritis and hip replacements of the participants and found that runners were only half as likely to develop osteoarthritis or need a hip replacement as walkers. Running actually strengthens joints and is associated with a lower BMI (body mass index), keeping you stronger and healthier. Recreational running benefits the knees and hips, in addition to overall health. Only 3.5% of runners develop hip or knee arthritis. A sedentary lifestyle increases the risk of hip or knee arthritis by 10.2% to 13.3%. [2] On the other hand, one point of caution is needed.  These findings do not mean that people who have arthritis should take up running. Running with pre-existing arthritis can actually worsen symptoms. Exercise is an important part of treating osteoarthritis, but that exercise must be professionally prescribed to be safe and effective. Always check with a physical therapist or health care provider before starting any exercise program. [1] Williams P. Effects of running and walking on osteoarthritis and hip replacement risk. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise. July 2013; 45(7): 1292-1297. [2] Alentorn-Geli et al, The Association of Recreational and Competitive Running With Hip and Knee Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis (J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2017;47(6):373390. doi:10.2519/jospt.2017.7137).

A study finds that half of people who suffer with a heart attack fail to immediately call an ambulance for help. This delays the diagnosis which could potentially worsen their odds of survival. People who found another way to the hospital or delayed calling an ambulance increased their average diagnosis time from 81 minutes to 119 minutes. The researchers analyzed treatment timelines for about 450 people suffering a severe heart attack caused by a prolonged period of blocked blood supply that affects a large area of the heart. Among the study participants who didnt immediately call for an ambulance, 30 percent didnt think they were sick enough to go to the hospital.  The study authors believe the reluctance to call an ambulance comes from uncertainty about whether the symptoms are really a heart attack.Heart attack and stroke are life-and-death emergencies. Every second counts. It is important to quickly assess the symptoms and immediately call 911. The symptoms of heart attacks are: Chest pain or discomfort Feeling weak, light-headed, or faint Pain and discomfort in the jaw, neck, or back Pain or discomfort in one or both arms or shoulders Shortness of breathOther symptoms may include unexplained tiredness and nausea or vomiting.Calling 911 is one of the fastest ways to get lifesaving treatment. Minutes matter!Sources:Thylen I, et al. First medical contact in patients with STEMI and its impact on time to diagnosis. BMJ Open, 2015: e007059 doi:10.1136/bmjopen-2014-007059.Centers for Disease and Prevention. Heart Attack Symptoms, Risk, and Recovery. Retrieved 28, October 2020. https://www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/heart_attack.htm.

Thirty-five percent of people report getting less than the recommended seven to nine hours of sleep nightly.[1] People who dont get enough sleep are prone to health problems, including type 2 diabetes. How sleep or lack of it affects diabetes is still being investigated, but its possible that for some people, preventing or controlling diabetes is as simple as getting an extra hour or two of zs each night. People who suffer from sleep disturbances are at risk for obesity, diabetes, and coronary artery disease, according to research from the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania. The research analyzed data of over 130,000 people and indicated that general sleep disturbances such as difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or sleeping too long may play a role in the development of cardiovascular and metabolic disorders.[2] The study discovered a clear relationship between sleep disturbance and diabetes. The findings suggest that getting a better nights sleep may lead to better blood glucose control. Researchers at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center found that just one night of sleep deprivation can decrease insulin sensitivity equal to the effect of six months of a high-fat diet.[3] This could mean that for type 2 diabetics, getting enough rest could contribute significantly to managing blood sugar. Diabetes and sleep have a complicated relationship. The better we can manage the symptoms of diabetes the better our sleep should be. Exercise, healthy eating habits, proper rest, and regular doctor visits could be part of the process in managing the symptoms of type 2 diabetes.[1] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2016, February 16). 1 in 3 adults dont get enough sleep. Retrieved July 15, 2020, from https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2016/p0215-enough-sleep.html[2] Grandner MA, Jackson NJ, Pak VM, Gehrman PR. Sleep disturbance is associated with cardiovascular and metabolic disorders. J Sleep Res. 2012;21(4):427-433. doi:10.1111/j.1365-2869.2011.00990.x[3] Obesity Society. Insulin sensitivity: One night of poor sleep could equal six months on a high-fat diet, study in dogs suggests. ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 4 November 2015. www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/11/151104134039.htm.

According to the United States Census Bureau, by the year 2030, the number of individuals in the United States 65 years and over will reach 70 million, and all baby boomers will be over 65.It is important to note that muscle mass decreases as we age. Declining muscle mass means declining balance and weakening bones. It is essential to work on increasing exercise to maintain muscle mass because, without it, we can lose mobility and thereby independence.  Good news is that muscle mass can be increased at any age with exercise.Older adults need to participate in strength building exercises at least two days of the week.[1]  The exercises can include walking, running, working out with exercise stretch bands, or light weights. The activity should be relative to physical ability and intensity should increase over time.Learn more:Older People Projected to Outnumber Children for First Time in U.S. History [Internet] United States Census Bureau. Available from: https://www.census.gov/newsroom/press-releases/2018/cb18-41-population-projections.html

Wonder Woman is a fictional super heroine, published by DC Comics since 1941. She is based on Diana of Themyscira, a warrior princess of the Amazons of Greek mythology who is gifted with a wide range of superhuman powers and superior combat skills.Wonder Woman has left her mark on the psyche of many of us, especially those who have a desire to be all things to all people and to do it all by ourselves. Caregivers are particularly susceptible to this syndrome, as loved ones become increasingly reliant on them. We caregivers, without superhuman powers, are at a high risk of burnout and illness; yet we often have difficulty asking for assistance.Researchers have long known that caregiving can have serious negative effects on the caregivers themselves. Here are some facts:43.5 million adult family members care for someone 50+ years of age and 14.9 million of them care for someone who has Alzheimer or other dementia.The close relationship between caregiver and recipient is a shared relationship with involved emotions, experiences, and memories, which can place a caregiver at high risk for psychological and physical illness. (2011 Alzheimer's Disease Facts and Figures, Alzheimer's and Dementia, Vol. 7, Issue 2) 17% of caregivers feel their health has gotten worse as a result of their caregiving.Among working caregivers, 69% report having to rearrange their work schedules, decrease working hours or take unpaid leave in order to meet their care-giving responsibilities. (AARP Public Policy Institute Valuing the Invaluable: 2008 Update)Caregivers, regardless of employment status, report that positive activities in their daily life are reduced by 27.2% as a result of caregiving, and the effect on their personal life is 3 times more than the effect on employment.(Coughlin, J., (2010). Estimating the Impact of Caregiving and Employment on Well-Being: Out-comes & Insights in Health Management, Vol. 2; Issue 1)None of us are blessed with Wonder Woman's superhuman abilities; how-ever, we can take steps to make caregiving a positive and healthy part of our lives.Spread the load, share the joy!Develop a team approach to caregiving.Give yourself the gift of time to take care of yourself, thereby allowing you to embrace your caregiving activities with the spirit of love and devotion that inspired you to take on the role in the first place.Contact ccc to start building your team at 239-325-2273 or info@mckenneyhomecare.com.

Atrial fibrillation (A-fib) and heart failure are increasing in prevalence worldwide and often associated with poor outcomes. However, some people are not aware they have atrial fibrillation until it is detected when a doctor is listening to the heart with a stethoscope. If you have difficulty breathing, or have chest pains lasting more than a few minutes, it is recommended to seek medical help.  Someone with A-fib can still live a long and active life with treatment from their doctor and self-management.Treatment may include medications, therapy, surgery, or catheter procedures, in order to reset the heart rhythm, control heart rate, and prevent blood clots that can lead to strokes.Self-management includes following a heart-healthy lifestyle with changes such as:Eating heart-healthy foodsExercising regularlyQuit smokingMaintain a healthy weightLimit alcoholKeep blood pressure and cholesterol under controlGet follow-up careLearn more:Atrial fibrillation [Internet] Mayo Clinic. Available from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/atrial-fibrillation/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350630  

Doctors at Northwestern Medicine and others have been working with Google to develop ways to apply artificial intelligence (AI) to improve many areas of health screening and subsequently, overall improved health. Future health screening could be as simple as using your phone.Imagine the ability to use AI to check for:heart rate and respirations ordiabetic retinopathy, a complication of diabetes that can cause blindness if undiagnosed and untreated.Someday, these could be real possibilities that could result in more timely diagnoses and better healthcare outcomes.Using the smartphone does not give a diagnosis but can let someone know if there is an elevated risk. This enables people to know better when to talk with their healthcare provider. It could also aid the provider in giving patients more background information to understand better how things have been progressing.With increasing health checks that might be monitored using a smartphone and AI, it could help close the challenging gap regarding where people live and access to routine healthcare. The unified goal is to develop a number of disease detection monitoring programs, using methods that are less invasive, accurate, cheaper, and more readily available.Learn more:The Check Up: Our Latest Health AI Developments. [Internet] Available from: https://blog.google/technology/health/check-up-ai-developments-2022/Using AI to Prevent Blindness. [Internet] Available from: https://health

May 6, 2024Is your elderly parent or spouse showing signs of mental illness? Dementia can look like mental illness because there are common symptoms and they often coexist. For example, depression and anxiety are common the early stages of Alzheimers disease, affecting around half of those with a diagnosis. Some mental illnesses are actually a symptom of dementia itself.When we look at the symptoms of dementia, we see the similarities clearly:memory lossdifficulty concentratingfinding it hard to carry out familiar daily tasks, such as getting confused over the correct change when shoppingstruggling to follow a conversation or find the right wordbeing confused about time and placemood changesOther common symptoms of dementia, such as disinterest in once-enjoyed activities, or feelings of paranoia, restlessness and agitation, make it easy to mistake for other mental illnesses. Dementia does affect an individuals mental health, but in itself, it is not a mental illness.It is important to get an accurate diagnoses.  If diagnosed early enough, there are treatments that can mitigate the symptoms and ensure the wellbeing and independence of the person suffering.McKenney Home Care nurses are able to work with you to find resources and determine whether your loved one is suffering from mental illness, dementia or a little of both.

McKenney Home Care announced the relocation and expansion of its corporate headquarters to a new office on Bonita Beach Road.Expanding to 5,000 square feet is a substantial upgrade from the Companys prior offices and will provide the necessary infrastructure for the Company to continue to build on its current momentum and to advance the operations and growth of the company.According to Michele McKenney, co-owner of McKenney Home Care, We plan to utilize the new corporate space to accelerate training for our home health aides and nurses and to institute several new Agency programs designed to accommodate the needs of the community.

Eye problems can lead to vision loss and blindness in older adults. Many have few or no early symptoms. Regular eye exams are your best protection. If your eye care professional finds a problem early, often there are things you can do to protect your vision.Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) can harm the sharp, central vision needed to see objects clearly and to do common things like driving and reading. Your eye care professional will ask about your family history and look for signs of AMD during a dilated eye exam. Treatments are and special dietary supplements are available to help lower your chances of it progressing.Diabetic retinopathy may occur if you have diabetes. It develops slowly, often with no early warning signs. If you have diabetes, be sure to have a dilated eye exam at least once a year. Keeping your blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol under control can prevent diabetic retinopathy or slow its progress in early stages. Laser surgery in later stages can sometimes prevent it from getting worse.Cataracts are cloudy areas in the eyes lens causing blurred or hazy vision. Some cataracts stay small and dont change your eyesight much. Others become large and reduce vision. Cataract surgery can restore good vision and is a safe and common treatment. If you have a cataract, your eye care professional will watch for changes over time to see if you would benefit from surgery.Glaucoma is usually caused by too much fluid pressure inside the eye. If not treated, it can lead to vision loss and blindness. People with glaucoma often have no early symptoms or pain. You can help protect yourself by having dilated eye exams yearly. Glaucoma can be treated with prescription eye drops, lasers, or surgery.Poor vision is a common cause of isolation and loneliness in the elderly.  If you suspect your loved one might be having trouble with vision, contact McKenney Home Care to talk to one of our nurses.  We can help manage diseases that affect Vision, we also provide transportation services to help your loved one get to the doctor.

Studies suggest a large portion of seniors with dementia have unrecognized, severe pain. A recent study out of the University of Rochester suggests that nearly a third of severe pain cases go unrecognized when seniors have dementia.1-3 Pain in dementia can lead to other problems such as agitation, aggression, hallucinations, delusions, depression, impaired physical function, and increased mortality risk. What can we do?It can be difficult for family caregivers to recognize pain, even severe pain, when loved ones have dementia. Doctors and nurses often rely on reports from family caregivers. When it comes to questions about pain, clinicians should take a moment to try to engage a patient directly. They also need to do observational assessments. Tools such as the Pain Assessment in Advanced Dementia (PAINAD) scale can be used to standardize, quantify, and rate pain assessments. Importantly, tools such as these can guide clinicians in observation techniques that can improve the detection of pain among patients with dementia. Family caregivers can try free tools such as these themselves. Moreover, they can prompt their clinicians to use a pain assessment scale specifically designed for patients with dementia.Pain Assessment in Advanced Dementia Scale (PAINAD): http://dementiapathways.ie/_filecache/04a/ddd/98-painad.pdfReferencesWang J, Monroe TB, Simning A, Conwell Y, Caprio TV, Cai X, Temkin-Greener H, Muench U, Yu F, Ge S, Li Y. Pain management in home health care: relationship with dementia and facility admissions. Pain Management Nursing. 2021 Feb 1;22(1):36-43.Paulson CM, Monroe T, Mion LC. Pain assessment in hospitalized older adults with dementia and delirium. Journal of Gerontological Nursing. 2014 Jun 1;40(6):10-5.Wu N, Miller SC, Lapane K, Roy J, Mor V. Impact of cognitive function on assessments of nursing home residents pain. Medical Care. 2005 Sep 1:934-9.   

Good nutrition is important for all ages. It provides energy and can helps control weight. It may also help prevent some diseases, such as osteoporosis, high blood pressure, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers. But as we age, our bodies and life changes, and so does what we need to stay healthy. For example, we may need fewer calories, but we still need to get enough nutrients and usually older adults need more protein in order to maintain muscle.Some changes that can happen as we age can make it harder to eat healthy. Some of these changes may include: Home life, such as suddenly living alone or having trouble getting around Health, which can make it harder to cook or feed oneself Medicines, which can change how food tastes, causing a dry mouth, or causing lack of appetite Sense of smell and taste Problems chewing or swallowing foodAs we age, we should eat foods that promote good health and provide lots of nutrients without the extra calories. Some of these may include: Fruits and veggies of bright colors Whole grains, like oatmeal, whole-wheat bread, and brown rice Fat-free or low-fat milk and cheese, or soy or rice milk that has added vitamin D and calcium Seafood, lean meats, poultry, and eggs Beans, nuts, and seedsAvoid foods that are high in calories but contain few nutrients such as candy, baked goods, soda, and alcohol. NIH:National Institute on Aging

According to research at UCLA, changes in a section of the brain that is critical for memory are associated with sitting too much.[1] The study involved people ages 45 to 75. An MRI of each person provided a look at the region of the brain involved with the formation of new memories. The study did not conclude that sitting causes thinner brain structures, but that it is associated with having thinner regions.Growing evidence from research suggests that physical exercise is a promising intervention for delaying the onset of dementia and Alzheimers disease.[2]It is recommended to move for three minutes every 30 minutes to improve both physical and mental health. Some of the simple ways to encourage movement are:Park farther away from the store entrance in the parking lot.Stand up and do jumping jacks.While on the phone, walk around.Walk on a lunch break.Take a break every commercial while watching TV. Get up and clean or put something away.Do more gardening or yard work.Dance to a favorite tune.Skip the elevator; take the stairs.At the office, stand or walk while reading.[1] Siddarth P, Burggren AC, Eyre HA, Small GW, Merrill DA (2018) Sedentary behavior associated with reduced medial temporal lobe thickness in middle-aged and older adults. PLoS ONE 13(4): e0195549. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0195549[2] Beckett MW, Ardern CI, Rotondi M. A meta-analysis of prospective studies on the role of physical activity and the prevention of Alzheimers disease in older adults. BMC Geriatr. 2015;15:17   

It probably comes as no surprise that people find themselves to be wider at the age of 40 or 60 than they were at the age of 20. What may surprise us is why. A study published by the Journal of Orthopaedic Research shows that hip bones continue to grow with agein both women and men. By age 20, most people have achieved their maximum height. But researchers at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine have now found that while people dont grow taller after age 20, they do grow widerwell into their 70s. This growth is not fueled simply by an increase in body fat, as was previously thought.The researchers randomly selected 246 male and female patients in various age groups ranging from age 20 to age 79.  Using CT scans, they determined that the width of peoples pelvises continued to grow after skeletal maturity was reached at age 20.  Specifically, the pelvic inlet widenedevidence of actual pelvic growth.The results: on average, the pelvic width of the oldest people in the study was nearly 2.5 cm larger than the youngest patients. This one-inch increase in pelvic diameter could lead to an approximately 7.6 cm increase in waist size from age 20 to age 79, whether or not body fat increases.While its nice to be able to blame expanding girth on your bones, it is still important to maintain a healthy weight through diet and exercise. We cant stop our pelvises from growing, but we can prevent an unhealthy increase in body fat.  Excess body fat raises the risk for illnesses ranging from diabetes to heart disease.  Source: Berger AA, May R, Renner JB, Viradia N, Dahners LE. Surprising evidence of pelvic growth (widening) after skeletal maturity. Journal of Orthopaedic Research. 29(11):1719-23. 

McKenney is delighted to announce three new hires in the Naples office who are eager and prepared to support its growth and the new home healthcare programs recently rolled out by McKenney.Laura Harrison, RN is Director of Nursing, Taryn Chappell is Human Resources officer and Katherine McNally, RN is Clinical Care Coordinator.  Each have exceptional backgrounds and reflect the culture and commitment McKenney has to its clients and employees.We couldnt be happier to have the new staff in the Naples office.  Each brings a level of experience, professionalism and commitment to our culture and client care that make us proud noted Patrice Magrath, Co-Owner of McKenney Home Care.  We look forward to working with our new DON and HR professional to continue our work in training our employees to provide the best home care services in SWFL.

While most people are winding down or relaxing as the day comes to an end, those with sundowners syndrome are becoming increasingly active.  Late afternoon and early evening can be difficult for some people with Alzheimers disease. Sundown syndrome, or sundowning as its often called, can produce a range of behaviors, including confusion, anxiety, and aggression. This can be distressing for both the individual as well as the family or caregivers. While there is no cure for sundowners, there are ways to lessen its effects.According to the Alzheimers Society, sundowning may continue for several months and often happens in the middle and later stages of dementia. Here are some of the triggers that may cause sundowning:Disturbance to the body clock that tells our bodies when to sleepToo much or too little lightToo little or disturbed sleepLots of noiseMedications wearing offThe National Institute on Aging suggests a few tips to help prevent sundowning:Try to distract the person with a favorite snack, object or activityPlay soothing music Close curtains or blinds at dusk to minimize shadowsAvoid caffeine late in the dayDont plan too many activities during the day, as they can be tiringIf sundowning continues to be a problem, seek medical advice. While sundowning may simply be occurring alongside dementia, there may be other causes such as pain, sleep disorders, or other illnesses.

Many older adults have spent decades raising families in their homes where theyve created so many cherished memories. While it may not be possible for a loved one to live independently forever, making a few home modifications can keep the home safe and comfortable.Home modifications for older adults reduce fall risk and help loved ones stay in their homes for as long as possible. Falls are one of the top reasons why many lose their independence and mobility. Many home modifications are easy and can likely be done without needing to call in a professional, while others require careful planning to install.Basic Home Modifications: Remove anything thats a trip hazard Install an elevated toilet seat Add extra lighting Add traction slips to the bathroom floorAdvanced Modifications: Install grab bars Install a bathroom heat lamp Add a stairlift Install a walk-in tub Install a rampAssistive Technology: Medical Alert Systems Smart Home Devices including cameras Assistive seating including lift chairsWhile some home modifications can be expensive, they can help save money overall in comparison to the cost of health expenses associated with a fall or nursing home. Proper home modifications provide peace of mind knowing that loved ones are safe in their own home.

The impulse to accumulate things may be a genetic leftover from the days of our ancestors, when survival depended on having enough food to get through lean times and the necessity of making everything by ones self. When shopping for a new winter coat involves hunting down a mammoth, you re probably more inclined to hang on to it for a while.In the elderly, clutter can present significant risks.  Health issues or even the simple process of aging may make it harder for them to keep the house as neat and organized as they once did. They may trip over objects on the floor or have trouble negotiating a room crowded with too many things, leading to dangerous falls. Declining eyesight or depth perception issues due to Alzheimers may make it more difficult to see potential obstacles, or find essential items like eyeglasses or medication. Blocked electrical outlets, exits, and piles of flammable material represent a fire hazard. Loneliness may make some seniors more prone to buying things they dont need to compensate for the lack of companionship, leading to more clutter.If you notice a new level of clutter in the home of someone you love, it could be a sign that something serious is going on.  Call McKenney Home Care for a free home safety and nursing assessment.