Life Care Center of Pueblo

We all have emotions that can be difficult to understand. But those occasional blues can turn into something more serious if they are not addressed.Around six million Americans over the age of 65 suffer from depression, but only 10 percent seek professional help for it. Depression can be a part of aging, but prolonged depressive symptoms should not be ignored. Below are ways you can recognize and treat depression in yourself or a loved one to keep your later years truly golden.A first look at depressionDepression is recognized as feelings of sadness, helplessness and hopelessness that can affect ones ability to function. The National Institutes of Health cites three main forms of depression:Minor depressiona milder form that lasts two weeks or less.Major depressiona severe form that can last up to six months while disrupting life functions, such as working, sleeping, eating and finding fulfillment.Dysthymic disorder (dysthymia)a form of depression with moderate symptoms that typically last 2 years or more.Depression is often linked to genetics, brain chemistry and stress levels. And the The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention highlight the connection between depression and other illnesses. Seniors are at a higher risk since about 80 percent have chronic health problems that can cause stress and trigger depressive symptoms.And because depression shares symptoms with other conditions, seniors are often misdiagnosed. It is important to recognize the signs of depression to treat it effectively.Depression varies from person to person, but common symptoms include:Bodily pains, headaches and digestive issues that lingerDecreased interest in activities once enjoyedFeelings of sadness, hopelessness and emptinessImpaired ability to focus, recall details and make decisionsReduced appetite or overeatingThoughts of self-harm and/or suicideTrouble sleeping or sleeping too muchKeep in mind that family history, chronic pain, medical conditions, such as diabetes, cancer, dementia, hypertension, and medication side effects can increase your risk of depression. Knowing these risk factors and the above symptoms may help you shed light on how treatment can help you.Treating DepressionAfter recognizing signs of depression, you should educate yourself to get a deeper understanding of your situation. Then talk to friends and family members. Loved ones who are aware of your problem can offer support and advice.With friends and family backing you, talk to a physician about what you are experiencing. Your doctor can conduct exams, tests and interviews to determine possible causes. Be as open as possible to ensure the best treatment.Think of treatment for depression in three stages. The first stage involves lifestyle changes. Take a look at your life and see what you can improve on your own and with the help of friends and family. Surround yourself with people you find inspiring and supportive.Revisit activities youve always loved; that spark of enjoyment youve been missing may show up like an old pal. Try relaxing or engaging activities, such as gardening, exercise, bird watching, reading, and fishing.  In the second stage, you might seek the help of a counselor or psychologist through a referral from your doctor. In this type of therapy, you can learn to recognize and change behaviors or thought patterns that can contribute to depression.Lastly, an antidepressant may be necessary after you have tried counseling and changing your lifestyle. If you are prescribed an antidepressant, be aware of the possible side effects and how the drug may interact with your current medications.While treating your depression, stay in communication with your doctor to let them know how treatment is working for you.Recognizing the signs of depression can help improve your life and the lives of others. Dont let depression diminish your quality of life. You have the power to keep your years truly golden.To learn more please call Life Care Center of Pueblo at 719-564-2000

There is a new and exciting technology that is allowing seniors to get on the path to recovery in record time! It is called the AlterG Anti-Gravity Treadmill and it is a revolutionary approach to rehabilitate from surgery without pain. This unique unweighting technology reduces the impact of walking and running like you're on the moon while your body goes through the normal healing process.Physically frail elderly persons who received supervised functional rehabilitation therapy that included strength training improved in function, strength, balance, mobility, and quality of life measures, according to studies conducted by Yale researchers reported in The New England Journal of Medicine. Researchers saw a 45% decrease in impairment after 7 months of balance and strength training. Further, this treadmill has been FDA cleared for strengthening and conditioning in older patients.There are numerous benefits of implementing a senior rehabilitation and mobility program that is comfortable and safe. It can inhibit or postpone bone loss, diabetes and heart issues. It can also reduce arthritis pain, anxiety, and depression. It also prevents functional decline which allows for independence in essential activities of daily living, such as walking, bathing, dressing, getting up from a chair, and using the toilet.For the first time, senior rehabilitation and mobility are easily monitored and progress verified in the most needed exercise areas:Endurance - walking strengthens muscles and improves the health of the heart and circulatory systemStrengthening - increase muscle tissue mass and decrease age-related muscle atrophyRange of Motion keep the body flexible and maintain good joint healthBalance reduces the likelihood of falls by training in a controlled environmentI believe the AlterG will become the standard in rehabilitation says Dr. Amol Saxena, Foot and Ankle Surgeon for Palo Alto Medical Foundation. Removing the physical burden of weight bearing has remarkable results, said Bryan Nadeau of Muir Orthopedic Specialists, also an AlterG customer.Editors Note: The AlterG is available in Pueblo at Life Care Centers Springbridge Physical Rehab & Wellness Center. For further information you can contact them at 719-564-2000

When winter arrives, it is not as easy to get out and engage in many activities, especially for seniors. So mental health often takes a negative turn. Seniors can face isolation and loneliness from lack of interaction and activity during the winter months. COVID-19 has also prevented many seniors from living an active and social life. But with a little planning and creativity, you can help brighten up your loved one's everyday life with fun adventures.Find FlavorFood is a love language for many of us. Whether it be a favorite recipe or a dish from a new restaurant, taking time to seek out cuisine can put a smile on your loved one's face. By resurrecting a recipe from grandmas' old cookbook, ordering takeout or having a simple picnic in the backyard, making memories from everyday meals is inexpensive and can bring connection, joy and inspiration.Keep it LocalExtravagant vacations are not always realistic for seniors. But you don't have to break the bank or cross time zones for an adventure. Are there historical landmarks or markets to explore? A simple internet search can help you learn sites of interest in your loved ones community. Perhaps a unique museum or antique shop is in the neighborhood. A day trip to the public park, senior center, animal shelter or cinema can be just the pick-me-up to brighten their week. Even a drive through the countryside or scenic boulevard can be a memorable adventure.Memories MatterWhen is the last time you asked your senior loved one about their earlier life? What keepsakes and mementos do they have tucked away that are asking to be dusted off and explored? Ask your loved one for a tour down memory lane to learn their story. Photos, hobbies, music, collectibles and even clothing can hold immense meaning to them. Even taking the time to restore or digitize their memories could become a priceless gift.Get Hands-OnMany seniors enjoy a variety of hobbies that can be enjoyed in their own living space. Ask your loved one what they enjoy or if there is something new they would like to learn, such as needlepoint, crochet, cross-stitch, embroidery, quilting, or gardening and wildlife watching. Woodworking and collecting are other practical activities to consider. Scrapbooking, reading, playing music, and watching classic movies offer fun for the whole family. Finding and investing in hobbies can greatly enrich your loved one's quality of life and connect them with others who also enjoy the same activities.The winter months during a global pandemic have changed our lifestyles significantly, but also they have provided more opportunities to prioritize quality of life and connection with those we love. Everyday adventures can be found just around the corner, and seniors deserve the highest quality of life possible.

This time of year is all about family gatherings, holiday treats, and reflections on another year past. But behind these seasonal delights lurks a menace poised to pounce on your health and happiness: the flu.Amid the recent concerns over COVID-19 variants and RSV, the flu doesnt get as much coverage as it once did. And for most people, an attack of the flu or influenza is just a miserable inconvenience. But for others, especially those ages 65 and older, the flu can be a life-threatening affliction. So, as you get into the swing of the holidays, its important to remember the following tips so you can avoid the frightful flu!Wash and be watchfulAccording to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the flu virus can survive on some surfaces for up to 48 hours. Just imagine how many surfaces you touch in two days! After spending time in public, its important to wash your hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based sanitizer. And always refrain from touching your eyes, nose and face to avoid infection, from the flu or otherwise.Pay attention to people around you when you are out in public. If someone is showing signs of a sickness, such as sneezing, coughing, or a runny nose, respectfully avoid direct contact with that person. And never eat or drink after anyone, even friends or relatives.Stay fortifiedYour immune system is your bodys security system against illness. But many people forget that a healthy lifestyle can positively impact your bodys defenses. To help your immune system function at its best, you should:Achieve and/or keep a healthy weightEat a vitamin-rich diet high in fruits and vegetablesEstablish an exercise regimenGet the recommended seven to nine hours of sleep each nightManage your blood pressureStay hydratedBe wary of immune system boosters and other trendy health supplements. Many of these havent been tested by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and could lead to further health complications. Always talk to your doctor before adding any supplements to your diet.Get vaccinatedA recent study shows that the flu vaccine could reduce your risk for a flu infection by 40 to 60 percent. And those who still get the flu after receiving the vaccine are more likely to experience mild, non-life-threatening symptoms. Talk to your doctor or visit your local vaccination clinic to learn more about the flu vaccine.Schedule regular health screenings so you can be aware of your condition and how susceptible you may be to infections. And always consult your doctor before making any changes to your diet or exercise routine.This is the time of year for gratitude and good cheer. Dont let a flu infection foil your holiday joy!To learn more please call Life Care Center of Pueblo 719-564-2000