Alabama - Gulf Coast

Mocktails to Replace Your Favorite DrinkTheres nothing wrong with enjoying an alcoholic beverage once in a while, but excessive alcohol use is detrimental to your health. According to the American Addiction Center and a 2018 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, nearly 1 million adults 65 and older reported substance abuse in the last year. Of those substances older adults abused, alcohol was at the top, with 10.7 percent of seniors reporting binge drinking in the previous month. Drinking too much alcohol can lead to serious health concerns, especially for older adults. However, resources and help are available to those who need assistance changing their drinking habits. Sometimes understanding how alcohol affects the body and finding nonalcoholic replacements can be an excellent start to transforming your relationship with alcohol.The dangers of excessive alcohol useAccording to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, excessive drinking includes binge and heavy drinking. Binge drinking, the most common form of excessive drinking, is when you consume four to five drinks on a single occasion. Heavy drinking is when you drink eight or more drinks per week. Even if youre not regularly drinking excessively, alcohol can lead to health concerns in people of all ages. People taking specific prescription or over-the-counter medications should not drink alcohol without their doctors consent, as some medicines may cause life-threatening reactions. Over time, too much alcohol can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and liver disease. Older adults who already have concerns related to the heart may increase their risk of heart-related conditions. Alcohol use weakens the immune system, increasing the chances of getting sick. It also makes it more difficult for your body to fight infections. Drinking alcohol dehydrates the body and can lead to dizziness, headaches, dry mouth, or changes to your bathroom habits. Alcohol is a depressant, and excessive use can lead to depression, anxiety, and other mental health concerns. If used for too long or too often, you may develop an alcohol disorder or dependence.Mocktail RecipesSometimes its challenging to stop drinking because it becomes a regular part of your day or evening. If you enjoy a ritualistic aspect of drinking, you can keep a nightly cocktail in your routine by replacing it with an alcohol-free mocktail. These mocktail recipes are easy to make and great options for family gatherings or other social events when you might feel uncomfortable without a drink in your hand. Mango MuleMuddle a cucumber slice and oz of simple syrup into a cocktail shaker. Add 1.5 oz of mango puree and 1.5oz of fresh lime juice to the shaker. Fill the rest of the shaker with ice and shake until well blended. Pour the mixture into a cocktail glass and top off with 2 to 3oz ginger beer. Garnish the drink with fresh mint and a cucumber slice. Cranberry SpritzerPlace 1-2 ice cubes into a short cocktail glass. Add 1.5oz of cranberry juice and 3oz sparkling water or cranberry-flavored seltzer water. Stir the mix and top off with a teaspoon of honey. You can also add a few orange slices to the rim of the glass for garnish Cucumber Gimlet Muddle a few slices of cucumber and a teaspoon of sugar in a cocktail shaker. Next, add 1.5oz of fresh lime juice and 1oz of simple syrup to the shaker. Fill the shaker with ice and shake. Strain the lime juice and simple syrup mixer into your favorite glass, and top with 3oz club soda. Garnish with a lime or a cucumber slice, and enjoy. How Visiting Angels Can HelpNeed help in the kitchen making a mocktail recipe? Or maybe you need additional assistance at home with tasks like housekeeping, meal prep, and medication reminders. Whatever your nonmedical needs are, Visiting Angels is here to help. Our Mobile office works with seniors in Mobile and the surrounding area. If youd like to learn more about our services or wish to schedule a complimentary consultation, send us a message or call 251.345.4100.

Recognizing Late-Life Depression Dora spent much of her day in bed - in a heavy gray fog.  Many days, she let the phone and doorbell ring without answering them.  In the kitchen, dishes, mail, and trash piled up, but she was too weak to clean or care. Excessive sleep and a lack of energy are warning signs of a serious but treatable disease called depression.Older adults face increased risks for depression. Surprisingly this common illness frequently goes undetected and untreated in late life.  Recognizing Depression Coexisting medical conditions, complicated medication regimes, and painful losses sometimes mask the symptoms of depression in late life, says Janet Linton, M.D, medical director of Senior Behavioral Health at Mobile Infirmary, located in Mobile, and North Baldwin Infirmary, located in Bay Minette. Some of the most visible signs of depression, Dr. Linton says, are significant changes in appetite, sleep, and energy level. These symptoms should always be reported to your physician. A checklist of other warning signs of depression follows. If someone experiences a number of these symptoms for more than two weeks in a row, it is time to see a doctor. Many people - especially those who grew up in times or places where mental health problems were viewed as personal, religious, or moral failingshave difficulty talking about the emotional symptoms of depression. You can start by talking to your doctor about your physical symptoms, says Dr. Linton then move on to changes in moods or thoughts. Getting Help Many people first see their family doctors for help with depression. There are, however, many mental health specialists who also treat depression: PsychiatristsPsychologistsCounselors and therapists To find a mental health specialist, contact your local hospital, community mental health center, or senior center. A little preparation can make that first visit to the doctor or therapist go smoother:Make a list of your symptoms.Write down your questions.Take a list of the medications you take and their dosages. If you feel anxious about the appointment, ask someone to go with you. If possible, take notes during your visit. That way it will be easier to recall your doctors recommendations. Treating Depression Depression can be successfully treated at any age. The most effective treatments are medication and psychotherapy. Medications for depression are safe and effective, with very few side effects. They help improve mood, sleep, appetite, energy, and concentration. Psychotherapy is private counseling with a trained professional. It helps you overcome the effects depression has on your moods, thought, and relationships. These treatments may be used separately or in combination. With proper treatment, says Linton, most people experience relief from the symptoms of depression within a few weeks. Warning Signs of Late-Life Depression Physical ChangesSleeping too much or too littleEating too much or too littleFeeling tired or slowed downRestlessness, pacing, fidgetingPersistent headaches, stomachaches, or chronic pain Mood ChangesSadnessHopelessnessHelplessnessTearfulnessIrritability Thought ChangesExcessive worriesDifficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisionsLoss of interest in hobbiesPreoccupation with death or dyingThis article was submitted by Janet Linton, M.D., Medical Director Senior Behavioral Health at Mobile Infirmary and North Baldwin Infirmary.  For more information contact North Baldwin Infirmary at Infirmaryhealth.org or 251-580-1770

Choosing a Trustee for a Special Needs TrustWhen handled appropriately, special needs trusts can protect your loved ones assets and provide for their needs over time while allowing them to receive government benefits. As the trustee plays an invaluable role in managing the beneficiarys finances, protecting your loved ones interests, and maintaining your loved ones eligibility for benefits programs, selecting the correct trustee is crucial.When establishing a special needs trust, consider the following:Dependable family members or other trusted individuals can serve as trustees, as they know the beneficiary and can protect the beneficiarys interests.An independent trustee, such as a bank or trust company, can also manage the trust, lending specific financial knowledge.Special needs trusts can have co-trustees. Two family members can be co-trustees. A family member and an independent trustee can also collaborate, balancing personal connections and expertise.When a financial institution serves as a trustee, a family member can be a protector or advisor. Although this individual has no legal authority over the trust, the protector can advise the trustee about the beneficiarys needs.Choosing the Best CandidateGiven the power they will have to control your loved ones funds and look after their well-being, the trustee you select must be honest and reliable. Although the law imposes a fiduciary duty on trustees to act ethically, there is little court oversight, leaving beneficiaries vulnerable to dishonest actors. To ensure unselfish decisions, the person should have no conflicts of interest and should not receive personal funds from the trust.Understanding public benefits programs, such as Medicaid and Social Security, can help the trustee provide for the beneficiarys needs while preserving eligibility for these programs. Few family members will come into the role completely understanding public benefits regulations. Those without experience with Medicaid or Social Security should be willing to learn how these rules will affect the beneficiary and how to manage the trust to ensure the beneficiary maintains eligibility. A special needs planning lawyer can explain the law and provide guidance.In addition to solid ethics and a willingness to learn about public benefits programs, the trustee should be responsible, organized, and financially savvy. Handling investments, reports, records, and tax returns are part of the trustees role.The right trustee will also understand and respect the beneficiarys needs. The trustee should recognize the beneficiarys autonomy and strive to allocate funds to support independence while protecting your loved ones interests.Before you or your loved one appoints a trustee, talk to the person you have in mind and ensure that the proposed trustee wants to and can take on the role. Consider the persons health and life expectancy. The ideal trustee should be able to take on the rule for the duration of the beneficiarys life.Including another trusted individual as a successor trustee can protect the beneficiary if the first trustee passes away or can no longer manage the trust.Ashley Day is an Elder Law, Special Needs, Trust and Estate attorney.  Contact Ashley Day to learn more about selecting the best trustee for a special needs trust.  Call 251-277-3377 for more information.

Common Chronic Health Diseases in Older Adults As we grow older, our bodies face new challenges that can affect our overall well-being. For many adults aged 65 years and older, managing chronic diseases becomes an important part of maintaining a good quality of life. In the United States, chronic illnesses like heart disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are common among older adults. Understanding these conditions, their risk factors, and how to manage them can make a significant difference in reducing health complications and improving day-to-day life. Understanding Chronic Diseases in Older AdultsA chronic condition is a health issue that lasts a year or more and requires ongoing medical attention or limits daily activities. These conditions become more prevalent as we age, and for adults age 65 or older, the likelihood of developing a chronic illness increases significantly. Some of the most common chronic diseases in older adults include heart disease, COPD, diabetes, and arthritis. Each condition comes with its own set of challenges, but with proper management, individuals can lead fulfilling and active lives. Risk Factors for Chronic IllnessesA variety of factors can increase the risk of developing chronic conditions in older adults. Some of the most common risk factors include: Age: As we age, the body naturally undergoes changes that can contribute to the development of chronic diseases. Genetics: Family history plays a significant role in conditions like heart disease and diabetes. Lifestyle Choices: Smoking, poor diet, lack of exercise, and excessive alcohol consumption can significantly increase the risk of chronic illnesses. Environmental Factors: Exposure to air pollution, secondhand smoke, and other environmental hazards can contribute to conditions like COPD and respiratory issues. While some risk factors, like age and genetics, are beyond our control, many lifestyle choices can be adjusted to reduce the risk of developing chronic conditions. Common Chronic Health Diseases in Older Adults  Heart Disease Heart disease is the leading cause of death for adults aged 65 and older in the United States. This chronic illness includes a range of conditions, such as coronary artery disease, heart failure, and arrhythmias. Symptoms can vary but often include chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue. Managing heart disease involves medication, lifestyle changes, and regular monitoring by healthcare professionals. For older adults, taking steps like maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and quitting smoking can significantly improve heart health and quality of life.  Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) COPD is a chronic lung disease that makes it difficult to breathe due to obstructed airflow. It is often caused by smoking or long-term exposure to irritants such as pollution. Older adults with COPD may experience frequent respiratory infections, shortness of breath, and chronic cough. Proper management includes medications, oxygen therapy, and pulmonary rehabilitation. Older adults living with COPD can improve their lung function and overall well-being by quitting smoking, practicing breathing techniques, and joining a COPD management program.  Flu and Pneumonia While the flu and pneumonia may not be considered chronic conditions on their own, they can pose serious risks for older adults, especially those with existing chronic illnesses. Older adults are more likely to experience severe complications from these respiratory infections, leading to hospitalization or even death. Annual flu vaccines and pneumonia vaccinations are vital for protecting older adults from these illnesses. For those with chronic conditions like heart disease or COPD, preventing the flu and pneumonia can help reduce the strain on their already compromised systems.  Diabetes Diabetes is another common chronic illness among older adults. This condition affects how the body processes blood sugar and can lead to complications such as kidney disease, nerve damage, and vision problems. Managing diabetes requires a combination of medication, dietary changes, and regular blood sugar monitoring. Older adults with diabetes should work closely with their healthcare providers to create a management plan that keeps their blood sugar levels stable and reduces the risk of complications. Improving Quality of Life with Chronic IllnessLiving with a chronic condition can feel overwhelming, but older adults can take several steps to maintain their quality of life. Joining a chronic disease management program can provide education, support, and resources to help individuals better manage their conditions. Additionally, staying active, eating a balanced diet, and following medical advice are key to improving overall health and reducing the impact of chronic illnesses. For older adults, managing chronic conditions is not just about addressing symptomsits about making lifestyle changes that enhance daily life. Simple steps like staying up to date on vaccinations, attending regular check-ups, and seeking emotional support can have a significant positive effect. Be Proactive and Take Charge of Your HealthChronic diseases are a common part of aging, but with the right knowledge, support, and management, older adults can live full and active lives. Understanding risk factors, staying on top of preventative care, and managing chronic conditions such as heart disease, COPD, and diabetes can make a world of difference. By being proactive, you can take control of your health and continue to enjoy the things that matter most. At VIPcare, we understand the unique challenges that come with managing chronic diseases. Were here to help every step of the way. Our compassionate care team takes a personalized approach, focusing on the whole patient to ensure that each individuals health needs are met. Through comprehensive management programs, we provide ongoing support, from regular checkups to medication management and lifestyle guidance. Whether its heart disease, COPD, diabetes, or another chronic condition, VIPcare works closely with patients to reduce health risks and improve their overall quality of life. By fostering strong patient-doctor relationships, we empower individuals to take control of their health and achieve better outcomes. If youre suffering from a chronic condition, schedule an appointment with a VIPcare provider near you. Get the support and care you deserve and need so you can start living your best life. VIPcare doctors in Alabama cater to the unique needs of seniors who are 65+. Our primary care approach is to help you get and stay healthy is focused on preventive care and managing chronic conditions. Contact VIPcare at 251-257-2886 to find your location and make an appointment.