RetirementHomes.com - Health Guide

The truth about age spots

aadmin — Mon, 16 Mar 2015 18:39:18 +0000

Age spots, sometimes called liver spots, are blemishes that appear on your skin and are typically seen as a normal part of aging.

Caused by your skin's exposure to ultraviolet radiation over time, age spots can range in color from red to black, but most age spots are a light brown or tan color.

Are Age Spots Dangerous?

Age spots can be dangerous if they mask skin cancer or melanomas, yet in most cases age spots are relatively benign.

In fact, even dermatologists suggest that age spots require no treatment or immediate attention from seniors.

Do Only Seniors Have Age Spots?

Not necessarily. Seniors are more prone to having more age spots than their grandchildren because age spots accumulate as we age. Age spots are caused by exposure to the sun over time, which tends to really tally up as we get older.

That said, younger people can and do develop age spots. The more time that you spend in the sun, whether you're just starting in life or comfortably retired, the higher your chances of developing age spots.

Can Age Spots Be Removed?

Many people find age spots to be unsightly and want them removed or covered up cosmetically. Both are options available today.

Skincare products that bleach the skin can certainly mask an age spot, but this is no permanent solution. Surgery is definitely an option for seniors who want to get rid of their age spots once and for all.

Either laser surgery or cryosurgery are the two most frequent kinds of surgery that seniors looking to rid themselves of age spots normally undergo.

A relatively painless surgery, cryotherapy involves applying extremely cold temperatures to the off-color skin tissue. Again, although most age spots are benign, many people simply want them removed.

Are Some More Susceptible?

Age spots tend to develop in those with lighter skin complexions. This is because age spots are areas of enhanced pigmentation that tend to grow on lighter skin that's been exposed to the sun for many decades.

Age (or liver) spots, moreover, normally develop on areas that get a lot of sun exposure. Common areas for age spots to develop are the shoulders and back as well as the hands and the tops of your feet.

Are Age Spots Always Benign?

Usually age spots are benign, but this isn't always the case. If you notice that one or more of your age spots has an especially dark pigmentation, an uneven border or appears to be suddenly increasing in size, then contact a dermatologist right away.

These symptoms could be a sign of skin cancer or melanoma. Talk to a dermatologist, though, before rushing to conclusions.

Can You Prevent Age Spots?

You can prevent or limit the amount of age spots you are predisposed to getting by wearing sunscreen or staying in the shade when the sun's UV rays are most punishing. Wearing a hat or long sleeves could additionally reduce your sun exposure.

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How to know when it's time for a hearing aid

aadmin — Fri, 13 Feb 2015 12:12:41 +0000

Sometimes an elderly family member that's losing their hearing may not even know it, and sometimes they might be too ashamed to admit it. If an elderly family member has experienced one or more of the problems listed below make sure they see an ear doctor because they might just need a hearing aid.

1. Say 'What' A lot

One of the best ways to tell if an elderly family member needs a hearing aid is if they cannot hear what you are saying. If they say the word "what" more often than usual, then they are having trouble processing what you are saying.

2. Misunderstand What You Say

If they cannot follow a conversation then they might need a hearing aid. This is especially true if they are misunderstanding words and have to constantly ask for clarification on what you just said. During a conversation with an elderly family member be on the lookout for if they are frequently starting sentences with "Did you just say..."

3. TV Volume is Set High

Another sign if your elderly family member needs a hearing aid is if they always have the television set at a high volume. If they live alone this could be a hard sign to detect. Whenever you visit make sure to let them set the volume on the television to see if they need it at a high level.

4. Trouble Hearing on the Phone

Talking in person is one thing, but on the phone is a whole different ball park because you can manually set the phone to a high level. If you notice the phone volume is set high that could be a sign they cannot hear the person on the other end at a normal volume. If they live alone, make sure to see what the volume is set to on their personal phone.

5. Become Frustrated During Conversations

If you find that an elder family member becomes frustrated during conversations they might need a hearing aid. The frustration stems from them not being able to fully understand what people are saying. If you find they do become frustrated during conversations take a minute to ask if they are angry with you, or if they are having trouble hearing you.

6. Become Withdrawn

Losing your hearing is nothing to be ashamed of, but sometimes people are and that can lead to them being withdrawn. If an elderly family member begins to lose their hearing that might cause them to avoid social occasions. If you notice they are not attending events or family gatherings like they used too then it could be a sign they need a hearing aid.

7. Complain People Mumble Too Much

When someone begins to lose their hearing they begin to think people are mumbling when they are speaking clearly. If you hear an elderly family member constantly say that people are mumbling or not speaking clearly, they might need a hearing aid.

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How Bamboo Can Help Reduce Pain

aadmin — Wed, 03 Sep 2014 12:34:46 +0000

The braces and supports world is riddled with temporary solutions and exhausted techniques. The most popular products on the market tend to either cause topical discomfort or cannot properly treat internal discomfort. The key to successfully achieving both is to harness the power of natural, truly hypoallergenic materials. “Truly hypoallergenic” means that there are not synthetically infused with chemicals hoping to combat a material makeup destined for skin irritation such as latex and rubbers. Claims from products that they are 100% hypoallergenic usually come with stipulations and limitations, not a quality you want in a product you should be treating as your second skin.

Is Bamboo a Solution?

Bamboo is a natural textile made from the pulp of the bamboo grass, requiring little to no pesticides to grow. Since the fibers are without chemical treatment, they are naturally smoother and rounder with no sharp spurs to irritate the skin, making bamboo fabric hypoallergenic. The fabric is perfect for those particularly sensitive towards allergic reactions to other, even natural fibers such as wool or hemp.

Moisture Controlling, Insulating and Breathable

In fabric form, bamboo retains many of the properties it has as a plant even if washed multiple times. It is highly water absorbent giving it the excellent wicking ability that will pull moisture away from the skin. Since moisture causes skin irritation and odor causing bacteria to grow, this is perhaps the most important quality for your supports, keeping them smelling and feeling great. Bamboo fabric also has an unusual level of breathability, making it incredibly cool and comfortable. Bamboo is naturally anti-bacterial, bacteriostatic and deodorizing

It has only been in recent history that the benefits of bamboo in clothing and medical wear have been brought from Taiwan to North America. This fabric has the potential to revolutionize the pain relief world, naturally.

Synergy Therapeutics is among the first to harness the power of bamboo in their line of braces and support. The products are clinically tested and proven to reduce pain and inflammation through their Far Infrared Technology- an additional benefit of bamboo composition, but perhaps more importantly to the retirement population, this relief comes without skin irritation, or odour.

It is common for braces and supports to wield warning labels that caution against certain limitations of the products. With Synergy this is not the case, they are a fool proof product dependent on the natural healing properties and resilience of bamboo fiber.

The product line is available in London Drugs and the Award Winning Hip Support is now at Shoppers Drug Mart

For more information, visit Synergy's website.

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Signs and Symptoms of a Stroke

aadmin — Tue, 18 Mar 2014 14:15:18 +0000

Every year, approximately 795,000 Americans suffer a stroke. It is the No. 4 cause of death in the United States and also one of the leading causes of long-term, severe disability. But, knowing the signs of a stroke and getting quick treatment can reduce the effects in many cases. Especially from ischemic stroke, which accounts for 87 percent of all stroke cases. Learning what to watch for and getting treatment fast is important. Those who take a clot-busting drug within three hours of the first stroke symptoms can reduce long-term disability from occurring.

Ischemic strokes, the most common, happen when an obstruction occurs within a blood vessel that provides blood to the brain. The obstruction is caused by the development of fatty deposits that line the walls of the blood vessel. This condition is called atherosclerosis and can cause two types of obstructions.

Cerebral thrombosis - this is a blood clot that develops at a clogged part of a blood vessel.

Cerebral embolism - this occurs when a blood clot breaks loose from another part of the body, usually the heart, and clogs a smaller vessel in the brain.

There are other, less common, types of strokes also. A hemorrhagic stroke can occur when a weakened blood vessel bursts and bleeds into the brain. A transient ischemic attack or TIA is a temporary blockage or “mini stroke”. While it does not cause any permanent brain damage, it shouldn’t be ignored as it is usually a sign of bigger problems and risks down the line.

The National Stroke Association recommends that you remember F.A.S.T. as an easy way to recognize the symptoms of a stroke. These stand for:

F - Face: Is there drooping of the face on one side? Ask the person to smile.
A - Arms: Weakness in one arm occurs. Ask the person to lift both arms. Does one arm drift?
S - Speech: Is their speech slurred or strange? Ask the person to say a simple phrase.
T - Time: If these signs are present, it’s time to call 911.

These are just three of the major symptoms that a stroke is happening. But these are not the only symptoms of a stroke. These other signs of stroke include:

Sudden weakness or numbness in your legs, arms, or face
Sudden confusion or trouble understanding things
Sudden trouble with sight of one or both eyes, blurring or double vision
Sudden trouble with walking, a loss of coordination or balance, and dizziness
Sudden severe headache with no known cause

While the symptoms of a stroke may not seem serious when they occur, they should not be ignored. Many people don’t want to be a bother and often brush off the symptoms as not serious. However, with time being of the essence in rapid treatment, it is important to act quickly to prevent serious damage or death.

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Seven Ways for Mature Adults to Find Fun in the Snow

aadmin — Wed, 12 Feb 2014 11:58:17 +0000

The torch has been passed to Sochi, Russia. The 2014 Winter Olympics opened on February 7 and will continue until the last event on February 23. Against the backdrop of the majestic Caucasus Mountains, countries from across the globe will be competing for the podium.

The Winter Olympics showcase talented athletes at peak performance. But the true story is the global spectator reach of the games to a world-wide audience. Millions of TV viewers will be glued to their sets. Couch surfing through winter sports abounds though health experts counsel against inactive lifestyles, especially for older and middle-aged adults, who are still able to engage in an easy-going Olympics. Here are some possibilities for an aging population with access to colder climes, the snow, and higher terrain.

1. Snowshoeing

It's a low-impact hiking alternative, less expensive than cross-country or downhill skiing, and a sound aerobic work-out with cardio-vascular benefits. Organizers can decide on a snowy path and let older participants compete for medals. On the other hand, athletic contests can be put aside for the outdoor fun of tramping through the snow.

2. Ice Fishing Derby

55+ enthusiasts can join in with experienced ice fishers, after finding a proper hand saw and an expert ice cutter with know-how. Equipment is minimal: a small, light fishing rod with brightly colored lures and bait such as worms or minnows. Fishing derbies are good fun and offer worthwhile competition. Alaska, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Vermont, New Hampshire, Ohio, New York and Canada are the major North American ice fishing areas. Participants need proper layered outerwear. Storytelling, jokes and conversation are recommended because ice fishing is a social and recreational event.

3. Curling
The Olympics feature curling as an event. Curling enthusiasts around North America can gear up as if they are Olympians. The United States Curling Association lists 13,000 curlers in the country and more than 135 curling clubs. Amateurs can watch for TV tips from Sochi and get back on the ice to compete in their communities.

4. Senior Hockey
Hockey may be a sport for young men or women with lots of checking and fast bursts of speed up and down the ice, but aging people can play within their limitations. USA Hockey or Hockey Canada can direct you to an appropriate league. Many community centers will provide hockey information and ice time for older players. It's never too late to form a team and play a loose game. Remember. No checking or heavy hitting. Hockey fights are a TV spectacle.

5. Adapted Nordic Skiing, Nordic Walking, and Adapted Downhill Skiing
Keep the fun aspect uppermost for 55+ people. Trails and slopes should be of reasonable difficulty. Forget about the Caucasus Mountains, Whistler, or the French Alps. Realistic ski runs exist near most North American metropolitan areas. Competition can be based on predicted times rather than on best results, wherein winning participants compete against themselves.

6. Adapted Speed Skating
The concept of predicted times holds true for speed skating for 55+. Winners can be those who calculate their finishing time rather than the actual fastest finishers.

7. Post activity rewards

Winter sports and recreation are good fun and exercise for older people, although they often like after-activity rewards, too, like good food and drink. Socializing is an important part of winter activities for the 55+ crowd who want to combine good cheer and bonhomie along with outdoor sporting experiences.

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Everything You Ever Needed to Know About Sundowner's Syndrome

aadmin — Fri, 07 Feb 2014 11:52:53 +0000

When patients experience periods of extreme agitation and confusion between the late afternoon hours and into the evening it is often referred to as 'sundowning' or Sundowners Syndrome. The patient affected will appear confused and agitated, restless. Irritability is often directed towards caregivers or nursing staff. Your patient may also have difficulty sleeping or staying asleep. Scientists are not entirely sure what causes the flare up of symptoms in the evening hours, but since it follows such a predictable pattern, caregivers can take steps to alleviate some of the stress and aggravation connected with this syndrome.

Triggers for Sundowners Episodes

Patients most commonly affected by Sundowners Syndrome are those afflicted with Alzheimer's or dementia, though the symptoms can also appear with other conditions such as degenerative eye conditions. Some medical experts believe Sundowners is closely linked to the natural day and night cycle of the human body and the changing lighting conditions of later afternoon and early evening are often cited as a trigger. Staff shift changes at the nursing home or even simply dinner time can become triggers for an episode during these hours of heightened agitation.

It can be heartbreaking to see your patient suddenly feel the urge to get up and wander, or engage in erratic behavior such as removing all of their clothes in public. Often it is difficult to persuade them from following their course of action. This is when the patient tends to get irritated and at times even violent. Shouting and even lashing out physically is not uncommon in patients afflicted with sundowning. Confusion and memory loss only increase stress on the patient and those that care for them. It is important to remember that unfortunately they seem to have no control over their actions at these times.

Possible Solutions for Sundowners Syndrome

While there is no known cure for Sundowners Syndrome, treating the illness that causes it can go a long way towards alleviating the symptoms. You can observe the patient and find out what will most likely trigger an episode, then work on a solution. If it’s a change in lighting, for example, perhaps an additional lamp will help. If a lot of commotion at certain times of the day, which may occur during a shift change, try to keep it as far from the patient as possible. Since the disorder is linked to sleep disorders as well, a mild sedative may be prescribed to help the patient through these challenging hours. Changes in diet and routine to keep stimulus such as exercise and caffeine intake restricted to the morning hours only can also make a difference.

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6 Benefits of Senior Centers for Seniors

aadmin — Fri, 07 Feb 2014 11:21:48 +0000

Whether you are enjoying retirement or still working, senior centers are fast becoming the “it” places to go for seniors. A senior center is a non-profit or for-profit community center where individuals who are 50 years or older can go to enjoy many things including wellness programs. Although you may consider the major benefit of senior centers is getting away from the social media- and text-obsessed younger generation, there are some other benefits as well.

1. Staying Social

Whether you are living alone or with family, senior centers allow you to stay socially active. Even when you’re living with someone, it is easy to isolate yourself away from people. Senior centers are definitely a way to enjoy much of what life has to offer. You will meet new people and participate in community events. There are plenty of educational and arts programs to participate in:

Volunteer opportunities.
Recreational activities.
Programs that offer information and assistance.
Civic engagement opportunities.
Exercise classes.
Art classes.
Social club meetings.

Don’t worry. If your kids are begging to join you at your senior center, there are some intergenerational programs they can attend.

2. Communication

Going to a senior center is a way to stay up-to-date on the latest happenings in your area. This can be a big help during election time when you want to know more than what the local media is saying about a candidate. In addition, you can just go there to talk and socialize with other people whether they are other senior members or staff.

3. Financial Advantage

This benefit is probably not discussed a lot because people don't usually discuss their finances unless they have to. If you are on a tight budget due to paying for your medication or other bills, you don’t have to choose medicine over food. Senior centers are usually open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. or later. This means you can stop by during breakfast, lunch or dinner for a low cost or sometimes even free meal.

4. Services

Services offered depends on the specific senior center. However, a majority of the centers offer services like:

Public benefits counseling.
Transportation services.
Employment assistance.
Nutrition programs.
Meal programs.

5. Improved Emotional Health

Sometimes when you’re at home without anything to do, you start thinking about the past or feeling useless. What can make things worse is your family’s good intentions. Maybe your children nag you about getting out of the house. Maybe they think you should move into an assisted living community. Their good intentions can make you feel even worse. With so much to do at your local social center, you will experience a vast improvement in your emotional health.

6. Staying Healthy

Why pay for a fitness center or gym when you can have a more affordable and enjoyable time at a senior center? Senior centers offer a great way to stay healthy because of the wide range of fitness and exercise programs they offer. Each program is tailored to meet your fitness level and abilities.

According to the National Council on Aging (NCOA), research shows that older adults who go to senior centers learn to delay and manage the development of chronic disease. In addition, they experience an improvement in their mental, emotional, physical, spiritual, social and economic wellbeing. So join your peers and enjoy what senior centers have to offer. You’ll definitely find more benefits than listed here.

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Great New Sport for Active Baby Boomers: Pickleball

aadmin — Thu, 23 Jan 2014 09:49:53 +0000

Maybe it's true that life begins at 50 ... but everything else starts to wear out, fall out, or spread out. Phyllis Diller

Fitness and sports are mainstays for baby boomers. They pursue active lifestyles to feel better and look younger, meeting up at the traditional spots: Yoga and Tai Chi studios, the gym and weight room. Then, there’s the customary golf course and tennis court.

The Rise of Pickleball

Now, there’s a competitor sneaking up for attention for athletic middle-aged people – Pickleball. The combination of tennis, badminton and ping pong is played across North America in all 50 US states and in 6 Canadian provinces. Pickleball racquets are designed in the shape of oversized table tennis paddles. The net is lower than badminton and the court is smaller than in tennis. The big difference is the use of the wiffle ball.

“The wiffle ball is light so there’s less impact on wrists and other joints and the Pickleball racquet is easy to use,” said Hilary Young, a Senior Health and Wellness Expert and writer for Medical Guardian.

Benefits of Pickleball

Young cited Pickleball as a low-impact sport for aging bodies, especially for people with arthritis and other joint issues. As well, it offers an effective cardiovascular workout and a social aspect with healthy competition. “Participants don’t have to run long distances,” said Young, “and it helps with reflexes, balance and agility.”

Pickleball is an alternative to established boomer sports like golf and tennis. “Golf is not for everyone and tennis is hard on older bodies” said Young. She described the upstart sport as beneficial for boomers who aspire for energetic, youthful activities but have lost flexibility. “It’s a wonderful mix of competition that’s kinder for the body,” said Young.

The Invention of the Game

The game’s invention in 1965 is credited to former Washington State Representative Joel Pritchard at his home on Bainbridge Island, WA, near Seattle. The spread of the sport has led to the formation of the US Pickleball Association (USAPA) which lists rules and regulations and offers official equipment. The global governing body is the International Federation of Pickleball (IFP).

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Traditional and Alternative Oral Health Care for the Elderly

aadmin — Fri, 03 Jan 2014 09:00:35 +0000

Periodontal disease is cited as the number one cause of tooth loss after the age of 35.

According to Dr. Steve Bornfeld, DDS, from Brooklyn, NY, periodontal disease – often referred to as gum disease – is an oral condition characterized by inflammation of the supporting structures of the teeth: the gums, bone, and periodontal ligament.

The Bacterial Origin of Periodontal Disease

“It is bacterial in origin, but also depends on the immune reaction of the individual,” said Bornfeld. “Loss of teeth is related mostly to depletion of the bone surrounding the roots. The teeth loosen until they have to be removed or fall out on their own.”

Gum recession is characteristic of periodontal disease in the elderly. “The most common health effects are sensitivity and decay,” said Bornfeld. The root surface becomes exposed to gum recession. Root decay can be very difficult to control, especially in the presence of poor oral hygiene. Bornfeld recommended more frequent checkups for older adults with periodontal disease.

Alternative Treatments for Aging Teeth

Carrie Ibbetson, Registered Dental Hygienist, founder of Oralhealthcoaching.com and Natural Gumption seeks out alternative treatment and products for the care of aging teeth. The Orange County resident has contacted many nearby retirement facilities to assist them with residents’ oral health, especially plaque issues.

A specialist in homecare oral health, Ibbetson offers alternative dental products for older adults and caregivers. “Teaching older adults to take care of their teeth is more important than scaling to reduce plaque buildup.”

Home Remedies for Older Adults

Ibbetson has devised home remedies for elderly people with arthritic dexterity issues. She recommends cutting a hole in a tennis ball and inserting the brush into it for a bigger handle. Or wrap a wash cloth around a tooth brush to make a larger handle to get in between the teeth more effectively.

The California hygienist refers to the 2001 Guinness Book of World Records which recorded periodontal disease as the number one disease affecting mankind. Ibbetson said that the Surgeon General’s report shows that 23% of people aged 64 to 74 years-old have severe periodontal disease.

“As we get older we lose our thin saliva,” said Ibbetson. “Thicker acidic saliva replaces it and retains bacteria.”

The result is ‘dry mouth’ syndrome in older adults. “Eighty per cent of medications cause dry mouth,” she said, “and multiple medications in the elderly community lead to an increase of dry mouth.”

Report from the US Surgeon General

The US Surgeon General backs Ibbetson’s assertion, revealing that most older Americans take both prescription and over-the-counter drugs. The inhibition of salivary flow increases the risk for oral disease because saliva contains antimicrobial components as well as minerals that can help rebuild tooth enamel after attack by acid-producing, decay-causing bacteria. Individuals in long-term care facilities are prescribed an average of eight drugs. 1. The US Surgeon General National Call To Action To Promote Oral Health 2013.

“There is a huge deficit of oral health care in retirement communities,” agrees Ibbetson.

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How to Choose the Right Hearing Aid

aadmin — Wed, 11 Dec 2013 14:46:04 +0000

Whether you are looking for an upgrade from your current hearing aid or you are just starting to address hearing loss, choosing the right hearing aid can be a daunting task without all of the information available.

Get a Check-Up

There are several steps to take in your search for the perfect hearing aid, most important of which is going to see your doctor to assess your degree of hearing loss. If you are experiencing sudden hearing loss it may be a result of excessive ear wax or a tumor.

If your hearing loss is natural and can be helped with a hearing aid, your next stop should be a visit with an audiologist. This specialist will find how severe your hearing loss is and what strength of hearing aid would be right for you.

Weigh your Options & Pick a Style

There are numerous styles of hearing aids, each with its own positives and negatives. Some hearing aids are quite discreet and better for mild or moderate hearing loss, while others are more visible but last longer and are more powerful. Depending on what your needs are, you can pick from any of the following:

(RIE) Receiver-in-Ear: The RIE hearing aid is extremely discreet and carries sound through very small wires from the casing on the outer ear to the receiver in the ear canal.
(BTE) Behind-the-Ear: This is the most popular style hearing aid (more than half of the aids sold in the U.S.) — and is made up of a discreet flesh or hair-colored tube that hides behind the ear and connects to the ear canal. It is ideal for mild to moderate hearing loss.
(MIC) Microphone-in-Concha: This style of hearing aid consists of a microphone that rests in the curved part of your outer ear, a tube which directs the sound from the microphone to your ear canal, and a custom-fit receiver that stays hidden inside your ear canal.
(CIC) Completely-in-Canal: By taking a mold of the ear canal, the CIC is not visible to the naked eye and can be helpful to those with some hearing capabilities. Small batteries can make this device trickier for those with big fingers and poor vision.
(ITC) In-the-Canal: Slightly more discreet than the ITE, it rests in the low outer ear near the ear canal and has an impressive battery life.
(ITE) In-the-Ear: For excessive hearing loss, this device completely fills the outer ear and has a long battery-life, large receiver, and has some special features (directional microphones, for instance).

There are also some helpful offers including adapters to make telephone hearing easier, directional microphones, remote controls, and bluetooth-enabled devices.

Test and Adjust

It will take some time to adjust to your hearing aid, and it will not return your hearing to what it once was. Allow several weeks (sometimes months) to get used to how it feels and figure out if it is right for you. Many hearing aids offer a trial-period and you should take advantage of this.

Be sure to schedule a follow-up appointment with your audiologist to assess how your new hearing aid is helping you and what adjustments need to be made. Wear it consistently to get an accurate feel for what your needs are and if they are being met.

Hearing aids can cost anywhere from several hundred dollars to several thousand. While you may not be able to afford the best, your hearing is important and you should spend the money necessary to your safety and health.

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