Right at Home - Daphne

Caring for a Loved One With AphasiaOur ability to communicate with others is something most of us take for granted on a daily basis. From small interactions, like asking someone to pass the salt, to more extensive conversations about complicated feelings, the ability to verbally communicate our wants and needs is a large part of the human experience.Aphasia, however, occurs when someone loses their ability to communicate due to damage to the part of the brain that impacts language.What Is Aphasia?Aphasia can result from a trauma to the brain, such as a stroke, head injury, tumor, or even an infection. It impacts all modes of language including speech, writing, gesticulating and comprehension. Aphasia impacts roughly 2 million people in the United States, and an estimated 180,000 cases are diagnosed each year. Strokes are the most common cause of aphasia, and as a result, older people are the most affected by aphasia.If you are caring for a loved one with aphasia, you may feel frustrated and overwhelmed at times. This may be especially true during the early stages of a diagnosis, but tapping into the tips listed below can help guide you through this new reality with patience and grace.Expand Your ToolboxBy learning more about aphasia and the limitations your loved one is experiencing, you can begin to alter your behavior and expectations. Once you have a better understanding of the brain and how aphasia impacts communication skills, you can learn some new techniques and strategies for how to communicate with your loved one, including facilitative conversations. For example, according to APTUS Speech Therapy, the temptation to fill all the silences, and to ask a question when they already know the answer (a test question) can serve as a barrier to communication instead of a facilitator. Instead, the company recommends leaving space to talk, prompting writing or gesture, and offering comments instead of test questions.Limit DistractionsIf you or your loved one are used to having background noise on in the home, such as television or radio, turning it off in order to reduce distractions while trying to communicate can also help improve the experience for both of you. Providing your loved one with your undivided attention is an ideal way to try to connect with themthis is a good piece of advice both when loved ones are able to communicate clearly and when they are struggling with language after an aphasia diagnosis.Take Advantage of Nonverbal CommunicationLingraphica, a technology company that creates devices to help improve speech impairments after a stroke or brain injury, encourages caregivers to use a pen and paper or dry erase board to help bolster communication with loved ones. Its not uncommon for someone living with aphasia to know the first letter of the word they want to use, so having something nearby that they can write on provides a jumping-off point for them to communicate their thoughts. The benefit, as the company describes it, is that as you draw and write, you can end up with a complete story at the end of the conversation.Practice Self-CareNo matter your loved ones condition, as their caregiver, its important to replenish your own energy throughout your caregiving journey. The best way to do this is to make time for yourself. Whether that means you make time every day to listen to your favorite podcast or audiobook, exercise, talk with a friend, meditate, or simply take a bubble bath, doing something kind for yourself isnt selfishits a necessity.Bring in a ProfessionalThere are a variety of resources you can tap into when you are feeling overwhelmed about caring for your loved one with aphasia. From bringing in a professional speech language pathologist to work with you and your loved one on tools and techniques for improved communication, to hiring a professional caregiver to provide you with some respite from your caregiving duties, knowing that you are not alone on this journey can make all the difference.  Hillary Young is a writer dedicated to helping older Americans live healthier, more fulfilling lives. She currently blogs for HuffPost50 and Medical Guardian. You can find her on Twitter as @hyoungcreative.For home care assistance, call Right at Home located in Daphne and Mobile, Alabama.

Tough Conversations: When Is It Time for Seniors To Stop Driving?Driving is more than just a mode of transportation; its a symbol of independence that many cherish. However, as we age, it becomes crucial to recognize when driving may no longer be safe. The decision to stop driving is significant and depends on a persons ability rather than age. The decision can be influenced by a gradual change in ability or a sudden shift due to illness or other factors.Typical changes caused by aging often affect driving abilities. For example, changes in depth perception are very normal as we age. And many people lose the flexibility that allows them to, for example, turn their head quickly to check the roadway. Others may find their reaction time slowing down. None of these changes are about the personthey are strictly about the aging body.How do we know when its time to stop driving or for our older loved one to stop? Asking this question gets to the heart of the matter: Is it better to keep society safe or for this person to continue driving? Whether youre answering that question for yourself or asking your loved one about their driving, it will help guide the thought process and the conversation. Here are some more tips.Thinking About Ones Own Driving AbilitiesFor some seniors, the realization that its time to hang up the keys comes from self-awareness of their diminishing driving skills. Recognizing signs like difficulty seeing at night can lead to voluntary decisions to limit driving. Many older adults choose to start making changes by avoiding nighttime driving or busy highways. They might also limit themselves to familiar routes or shorter trips, using alternatives for longer distances.Self-regulation is a smart way to stay safe while keeping some independence and a feeling of control. It also makes it easier for seniors to get used to other ways of getting around besides driving.Starting the Conversation With an Older Loved OneTalking to an older loved one about reducing or stopping their driving can be very challenging and should be planned with care. If someone were to tell you that you should stop driving, your natural reaction would likely be that you are losing your independence, and you might become defensive about the issue. You might worry about becoming dependent on others to do the things you want and need to do, and when. After decades of driving, the conversation probably wouldnt sit well with you.A gentle way to start this dialogue with an older loved one is by asking reflective questions that encourage self-assessment. You might ask them, Would you feel comfortable driving your grandchild? Such questions can help older adults realize the potential risks without feeling pressured. Other questions can focus on the car rather than the person. Ask questions about dents or scratches not by asking, How did you do that? but rather, How did that happen? or even Can I help you arrange to get that fixed?Right at Homes RightConversations guide can be an invaluable resource for approaching this sensitive subject. It provides structured advice on how to have important discussions like this without causing offense or distress.Exploring Alternative Transportation OptionsBear in mind that you do want to encourage your older loved one to keep getting out of the house. Losing the ability to drive can have disastrous effects on the social connections and activities we all need for our mental health.Fortunately, giving up driving doesnt mean giving up mobility. Seniors have various alternatives to driving themselves:Public transportation: Buses, trains, and subways can be excellent options for seniors, especially in cities with robust transit systems.Community senior services: Many communities offer shuttle services specifically for seniors, which can be a convenient and safe way to get around.Ride-hailing services and taxis: Services like Uber and Lyft offer convenient, door-to-door service at many locations.Family and friends: They are often more than willing to help by providing rides, especially for important appointments or events. Walking: If health permits and distances are manageable, walking is both practical and healthy.The transition from driving can be challenging, but it opens up new opportunities to explore different and potentially rewarding modes of transport. With the right approach and support, older adults can navigate this change smoothly, maintaining their independence and safety.      Right at Home offers a wide range of services to help seniors remain independent. This includes transportation to appointments, leisure outings, and running errands. Other services include a myriad of homemaking/companion and personal care services. Contact Right at Home in Alabama at 251-459-8672 for more information.

Osteoarthritis: Risk Factors and Care for Older Adults Its unfortunate but true that as most people get older, their likelihood of getting arthritisa condition that causes pain and inflammation in the jointsincreases. Whats more, according to the Arthritis Foundation, there is no sure way to prevent arthritis. The best anyone can do is to be aware of their risk factors and learn how to manage the effects of this disease. What is Arthritis?Arthritis is not a single disease, but rather a term that covers over 100 different conditions. The most common type, osteoarthritis, affects mainly the hands, lower back, neck, and weight-bearing joints such as the knees, hips and feet. In osteoarthritis (OA), the cartilage that cushions the ends of bones wears away. This loss of cushioning between bones causes soreness, stiffness and pain.Risk Factors for Osteoarthritis In 2019, approximately 528 million people globally were living with osteoarthritis, marking a 113% increase since 1990, according to the World Health Organization. About 73% of those with OA are over 55 years old, and 60% are female. In the U.S., about 32.5 million adults have OA. The most commonly affected joints are the knee, hip and hand. Genetics plays a big role in who will get osteoarthritis. People who have family members with OA are more likely to develop it. Other risk factors include:          Joint injury or overuse. Injury or overuse, such as knee bending and repetitive stress on a joint, can damage a joint and increase the risk of OA in that joint.         Age. The risk of developing OA increases with age.         Gender. Women are more likely to develop OA than men, especially after age 50.      Obesity. Extra weight puts more stress on joints, particularly weight-bearing joints like the hips and knees. This stress increases the risk of OA in those joints. Obesity may also have metabolic effects that increase the risk of OA. Your joints are meant to withstand a certain amount of force. But every pound of excess weight adds two to four pounds of pressure on your knees, says Chad Deal, MD, of the Cleveland Clinic. By losing 20 pounds, youre taking 40 to 80 pounds of force off of them. Losing weight can help to at least slow down the progression of osteoarthritis. Dr. Deal adds, It may not be possible to completely stop the underlying cause of osteoarthritis, but that does not mean theres nothing you can do. How Seniors Can Manage OsteoarthritisWith the right preventive measures and care techniques, older adults can manage arthritis effectively, allowing a more active and pain-free lifestyle. Discuss these possible ways to manage the pain and discomfort with your doctor. 1. Stay ActiveRegular physical activity is vital in preventing and managing arthritis. Activities like walking, swimming or gentle yoga can help maintain flexibility, strengthen muscles around the joints, and reduce overall pain. Remember, its about movement, not about setting athletic records! 2. Eat a Healthy DietA balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean protein can help manage arthritis. Foods rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins can reduce inflammation and support joint health. Remember, a healthy weight reduces the strain on your joints. 3. Mind Your JointsUse your larger or stronger joints to carry loads. For example, use a backpack or a trolley instead of carrying groceries with your hands. Ergonomic tools can also ease the strain on your joints during daily activities. 4. Use Medications and Other TreatmentsOver-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications can help, but always consult with your doctor before starting any new medication. Heat treatments, like warm towels, hot packs or a warm bath, can soothe stiff joints. Cold treatments, such as ice packs, can reduce joint swelling and pain. 5. Stay HydratedStaying hydrated helps keep the cartilage in your joints healthy and lubricated. Aim for at least eight glasses of water a day, more if youre active or its hot. 6. Get Enough SleepA good nights sleep can help reduce arthritis pain and fatigue. Create a restful environment, stick to a regular sleep schedule, and avoid caffeine and electronics before bed. 7. Manage StressChronic stress can exacerbate arthritis symptoms. Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation or gentle yoga can help keep stress levels in check. 8. Get Regular CheckupsRegular visits to your health care provider are crucial. They can track the progression of your arthritis and adjust your treatment plan as needed. Dont Let OA Limit Your LifestyleLiving with arthritis in your senior years doesnt mean giving up on your hobbies or an active lifestyle. By incorporating these prevention and care tips into your daily routine, you can manage arthritis effectively and continue to enjoy a fulfilling and active life. Remember, the key is to stay proactive about your health. With the right approach, you can minimize the impact of arthritis and keep moving comfortably. Contact a Right at Home office near you to learn how Right at Home can help you manage OA at home.  This article was submitted by Right at Home.  Contact the local Right at Home office in Mobile at 251-459-8671 or in Daphne at 251-402-5121