You may have wondered why it is as you have gotten older; you seem to bruise more easily and find bruises that you do even remember getting. There is a scientific explanation for why the problem occurs more commonly in the elderly, and generally bruises do not require treatment and are not serious. However please keep in mind that significant bruising can be a sign of medical problems and should be discussed with your health care provider.
According to the Mayo Clinic, a bruise, know in medical terms as a contusion, occurs “when small blood vessels (capillaries) near the skin's surface are broken by the impact of a blow or injury — often on the arms or legs.” This impact causes blood to leak out of the vessels and look like the black-and-blue-mark we are all familiar with. As we age, our skin becomes thinner and loses some of the fatty layer that protects our blood vessels from injury, thus making it easier to bruise. While most bruises do not require a doctor’s care, Dr. Aarthi Anand, a board certified geriatrician and family medicine practitioner in Los Angeles, suggests applying a frozen compress for up to twenty minutes at a time. Also if you elevate the bruised area higher than your heart during the first 24 hours of the injury, it will help to reduce swelling and inflammation. There are several steps you can take to try to eliminate getting bruised in the first place. To start, make sure your living space has a clear path to move around in so you can avoid bumping into things as well as help prevent falls. Another thing you may want to do is to use a cane or walker if you are unsteady when you stand up or while walking. This post is intended for informational purposes only. Please contact your health care provider with any questions or concerns you have regarding your health. MorningStar at Arrowhead represents the best in senior living with a unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We have built our foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve to create a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. To experience firsthand the finest senior living in the Phoenix area, contact us to schedule a tour. Sources:mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/healthy-aging/in-depth/easy-bruising/art-20045762 aplaceformom.com/senior-care-resources/articles/elderly-bruising Being physically active on a regular basis is one of the healthiest things you can do for yourself, so says the National Institute of Health (NIH). They go on to say that, “even moderate exercise and physical activity can improve the health of people who are frail or who have diseases that accompany aging.”
One of the benefits of staying physically active is that it not only provides long-term health benefits, but also can improve the health of older adults who are already suffering from diseases and disabilities. In fact, researchers have discovered that regular exercise is an effective treatment for many chronic conditions such as arthritis, heart disease and diabetes. It can also be beneficial for those dealing with conditions such as high blood pressure, balance problems and walking difficulties. The NIH advises that being inactive is in itself risky for your good health. While you need to consult your health care provider before you begin to exercise, studies show that if seniors take it “too easy” it can impact their ability to do things on their own. They state that, “lack of physical activity also can lead to more visits to the doctor, more hospitalizations, and more use of medicines for a variety of illnesses.” Another reason why it is important to exercise regularly is it can help to elevate your mood and relieve stress. Furthermore, research points to the fact that exercise may help seniors improve or maintain cognitive function. The NIH says the type of mental activities that improve with exercise is the ability to shift quickly between tasks and an easier time with planning activities. This post is intended for informational purposes only. Please contact your health care provider with any questions or concerns you have regarding your health. MorningStar at Arrowhead represents the best in senior living with a unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We have built our foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve to create a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. To experience firsthand the finest senior living in the Phoenix area, contact us to schedule a tour. Source: nihseniorhealth.gov/exerciseforolderadults/healthbenefits/01.html Many of us may have missed the news regarding the historic funding bill signed into law late last year by President Obama which provides a $350 million increase to Alzheimer’s disease research in FY 2016. Not only is this a 60% increase from the 2015 budget but is the greatest increase in federal spending to-date.
In June of this year, the Senate Appropriations Committee approved an additional $400 million increase for research funding. Then in July the House Appropriations Committee approved an additional $350 million for Alzheimer’s disease research funding at the NIH. If additional amounts near these levels are signed into law, it would be a very important step in the fight for new treatments or an ultimate cure. Finding a way to prevent or cure Alzheimer’s is now more important than ever. The Alzheimer’s Association cites projections that state, “Today, more than 5 million people are living with the disease, and, without medical breakthroughs, by 2050 this may be as high as 16 million people at a cost of $1.1 trillion per year to Medicare and Medicaid.” Add to that the fact that Alzheimer’s is the only top ten cause of death that is not preventable, curable or the progression slowed. With the number of Americans living with Alzheimer's set to triple in just over a generation, it is not a small problem. While there are currently several drugs used to treat the disease, none of them treat the underlying cause of the disease. However with this new funding from the federal government, we can only hope that scientists will be able to discover new treatments to advance the fight. Bill Thies, PH.D., Senior Scientist in Residence for the Alzheimer’s Association states that, “Investing in research now will cost our nation far less than the cost of care for the rising number of Americans who will be affected by Alzheimer's in coming decades." This post is intended for informational purposes only. Please contact your health care provider with any questions or concerns you have regarding your health. MorningStar at Bear Creek is a memory care community that uses progressive methods to palliate symptoms and revive joy. Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve, and is devoted to creating a true home for residents within a serene setting. Please contact us to schedule a visit to experience firsthand our loving community. Sources: alz.org/research/science/alzheimers_treatment_horizon.asp alz.org/news_and_events_102432.asp, alz.org/news_and_events_103667.asp We know that each year more than one-third of people age 65 or older suffer a fall and many of those incidents cause serious injuries or in some cases even death. This is why preventing falls is extremely important for the elderly, and balance as well as strength excises can help to prevent falls.
The National Institute of Health (NIH) recommends 5 simple exercises that do not require any special equipment other than a chair (and someone to assist you if needed) that can improve balance and increase lower body strength. The series of exercises include the following: standing on one foot; walking heel to toe; balance walk; back leg raises; and side leg raises. These easy-to-do exercises can be done throughout the day and only take a few minutes to do each of them. For further instructions on how they should be done, the NIH website offers a video on each exercise. In addition the NIH recommends that seniors try to do three other types of exercises that focus on improving endurance, strength and flexibility. At MorningStar at Arrowhead, we recognize the importance of exercising, and as such, provide our residents with a full calendar of daily activities that includes a variety of well-designed exercise programs. We encourage you to take a look at our fun-filled calendar to see all of the different activities and outings MorningStar residents participate in. This post is intended for informational purposes only. Before beginning any exercises, please consult with your health care provider. MorningStar at Arrowhead represents the best in senior living with a unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We have built our foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve to create a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. To experience firsthand the finest senior living in the Phoenix area, contact us to schedule a tour. Source:nihseniorhealth.gov/exerciseandphysicalactivityexercisestotry/balanceexercises/01.html MorningStar at Bear Creek offers respite care stays to provide a safe haven for someone with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Respite stays give family caregivers an opportunity for a well-deserved vacation or to just take a break from their ongoing responsibilities. Our respite stays are typically 30 days or less, and while your loved one is with us, they will partake of all the amenities that our long-term residents receive. Their days with us will be filled with recreational and meaningful activities, including music, life skills, art, entertainment and physical exercise. With our secure courtyards, patios and strolling paths, your loved one will also have the chance to safely enjoy the beautiful Colorado Springs’ weather.
Additionally we provide a comprehensive day program for individuals with Alzheimer’s. As a day program participant, the person will join our wellness activities and enjoy benefits from the gentle, resident-directed approach we take to calm and awaken memories and support capabilities. Bear Creek’s program includes using multi-sensory cues such as aromatherapy, music, art, animal and dance therapies. Both our respite care and day programs also provide the opportunity for companionship and socialization. Furthermore, we cannot forget to mention the wonderful, tasty meals residents and our special guests are served each day family-style in our warm and inviting dining area. Designed by the award-winning firm of Thoma-Holec Design, specialists in senior interiors, our community includes amenities such as a bistro, message room, fitness center, and salon. You can feel comfortable trusting your family member into our care as we are one of the Alzheimer’s Association’s “Recognized Leaders in Dementia Care.” For a senior living community to receive this honor, at least 75% of its staff must complete eight hours of training that include brain pathology, communication techniques, and methods of lessening agitation with non-pharmaceuticals. MorningStar at Bear Creek is a memory care community that uses progressive methods to palliate symptoms and revive joy. Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve, and is devoted to creating a true home for residents within a serene setting. Please contact us to schedule a visit to experience firsthand our loving community. At MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Arrowhead, we provide high-quality assisted living and memory care as well as respite care. Respite or temporary care is a great option for seniors who are recovering from surgery or an illness and require some day-to-day support services. In addition communities such as ours allow recovering seniors the opportunity for socialization and meaningful activities.
As a respite resident of MorningStar, you will receive a quiet suite and personalized care to comfortably recover your health, as well as companionship and community, which can be just as important in the healing process. Respite stays are typically 30 days or less and your spouse is welcome to join you. Of course since our suites are subject to availability, it is important to contact us when you know you will require respite care in the foreseeable future. Respite or temporary care also offers a solution for seniors whose regular caregiver is taking a much needed vacation or is busy with other priorities. However regardless of why you have come to temporarily join our community; we will make you feel right at home. Along with providing a fully furnished suite, our respite residents are treated to three healthy and delicious daily meals prepared by our Executive Chef, 24-hour care and medication management. In addition you are invited to take advantage of MorningStar of Arrowhead’s on-going activities, entertainment and scheduled outings. Newly opened in September 2015, we have our own onsite library (with computer), theatre, fitness room, outdoor fireplace patio and porches as well as a general store and group transportation. For an additional charge, you can enjoy a massage or visit our salon. Contact us to learn more about our respite care services and how they can help you or your loved one to make a speedy recovery. MorningStar at Arrowhead represents the best in senior living with a unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We have built our foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve to create a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. To experience firsthand the finest senior living in the Phoenix area, contact us to schedule a tour. The good news is that today’s seniors are living longer than ever before. New data suggests that if you reach the age of 65 years old, you can expect to live on average another 20 years. Another encouraging survey reports that as many as 41 percent of people over age 65 say that they are in very good or excellent health.
However, experts want to remind seniors that by making some lifestyle changes, they can make their senior years even better. Jeanne Wei, MD, the director of the Reynolds Institute on Aging at the University of Arkansas Medical School in Little Rock, notes that, “You need to be physically active and eat a healthy diet." She further adds that individuals must “make healthy lifestyle choices, like quitting smoking and losing weight, to avoid senior health risks.” Furthermore, doctors recommend that if you are a senior coping with a chronic medical condition that a geriatrician may help you to better manage your disease and improve your quality of life. Arthritis, heart disease, and cancer are the three most common diseases facing seniors. Dr. Marie Bernard, deputy director of the National Institute on Aging in Bethesda, Maryland, reports that arthritis affects almost 50 percent of those 65 and over. Also while the severity of the disease varies, for some seniors the condition and associated pain lowers their quality of life. If you have arthritis, experts suggest that you work closely with your doctor to develop an activity and treatment plan. The CDC reports that heart disease is the leading killer of adults over age 65, and that 37 percent of men and 26 percent of women 65 and older are afflicted with chronic heart disease. Dr. Bernard advises those with heart disease to “exercise, eat well, and get a good night’s rest.” In addition she recommends maintaining a healthy weight. The third most common disease among seniors is cancer, which is the second leading cause of death in individuals over 65. The CDC reports that 28 percent of men and 21 percent of woman over 65 are living with cancer. They recommend that seniors get routine screenings including mammograms, colonoscopies, and skin checks, as many cancers detected early are treatable. This post is intended for informational purposes only. Please contact your health care provider with any questions or concerns you have regarding your health. MorningStar at Arrowhead represents the best in senior living with a unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We have built our foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve to create a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. To experience firsthand the finest senior living in the Phoenix area, contact us to schedule a tour. Source: everydayhealth.com/news/most-common-health-concerns-seniors/ At MorningStar Memory Care at Bear Creek, we are an outstanding example of a community constructed to specifically handle the many facets of specialized care for those afflicted with Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related disease. So what do memory care communities like Bear Creek offer families searching for solutions for a loved one with Alzheimer’s?
To start with, the best memory care communities are designed to provide residents with a safe and secure space to freely move about in their surroundings. For example in our community, we have a unique figure-eight floor plan so that wherever a resident chooses to explore they will find their way back to an open area with people and activities. Another thing memory care provides is to not only meet the daily personal care needs of a resident but also to offer specially trained staff to provide a therapeutic approach to care. At Bear Creek, our resident-directed approach uses music, dance, art, aromatherapy, and animals as a way to heal and provide comfort for our residents. In fact A Place for Mom website notes that memory care programs report “a higher quality of life in a number of different areas, including reduced medication and medication side effects; fewer falls, injuries, and hospital visits; increased nutrition and wellness; and greater independence and social interaction.” They add that seventy-five percent of residents experience an “improvement or maintenance of mental functioning.” Finally memory care provides the families of those suffering from Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia peace of mind knowing that their loved one is being cared for in the best possible way. Furthermore, many memory care communities offer outreach to families. At Bear Creek we offer an 8-hour dementia care course for free to area families and professionals that follows the dictates of the Alzheimer’s Association. MorningStar at Bear Creek is a memory care community that uses progressive methods to palliate symptoms and revive joy. Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve, and is devoted to creating a true home for residents within a serene setting. Please contact us to schedule a visit to experience firsthand our loving community. Source:aplaceformom.com/blog/2013-11-4-memory-care/ |
AuthorMorningStar Senior Living’s distinct mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living options. Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve. Archives
March 2018
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