Did you know that Seniors are much more prone to the dangers of dehydration than the general population?  It is one of the main reasons Seniors are hospitalized every year, and the death rate within a year of hospitalization is almost 50%. How unfortunate that so many Seniors are lost to something so preventable.

It seems that Mother Nature plays a few tricks on Seniors that make it more difficult for them to maintain healthy fluid levels.  The first trick is that their sense of thirst diminishes as they get older, making them think they are drinking enough, when in fact they aren’t.

Another trick is that as they age, they lose muscle, which is 70% water, and gain fat, which is 0% water. Since the body draws on reserves in and around tissues when needed, there are fewer of those reserves as we become Seniors. 

And finally, as Seniors may sometimes experience urinary incontinence, they may try to prevent accidents by cutting back on how much they drink. This just exacerbates the problem.

With all of the above contributing to Seniors being less hydrated than they should, potentially dangerous situations may arise if they are exposed to extremely warm weather conditions, or if they should get sick and begin to experience vomiting or diarrhea.

So it is very important that you have someone who can keep an eye on your Seniors to make sure they are getting sufficient water in both their food and beverages, and closely monitor them when they are sick. 

Here are a few suggestions to help keep your Seniors’ fluid intake at safe levels:

·        Keep a small pitcher of water near their favorite chair, and by their bedside

·        Add foods containing liquid, such as soup, fruit, and ice cream, to every meal

·        Remind them to drink a glass of water before each and every meal

·        Keep a filled water bottle tucked away in a bag when out getting fresh air 

Remember, a refreshing beverage is always nice to enjoy, especially when it keeps your loved one well!

For more information, go to http://search.usa.gov  and search “Dehydration in Seniors”

Ahhh, the long days of summer are almost here. We will soon be out doing the things we love, like swimming, jogging, and just plain sitting on the porch enjoying the sunsets.

The Seniors we care for will likewise be able to enjoy the fresh air by getting reacquainted with nearby neighbors, family outings and……………. the dreaded mosquito!

Not that the mosquitoes themselves aren’t bad enough, but every year, we hear about the effects of West Nile Virus which is spread by mosquitoes.

Most people who get West Nile Virus do not get sick; others may have mild symptoms such as fever, headache, and feeling tired.

Did you know that people older than 65 (even as young as 50) are more likely to get very sick if they get West Nile Virus?  It can cause serious infections of the brain, spinal cord and nerves. If Seniors already have health problems they are at greater risk. So, in order to protect yourself and the Seniors you care for, it is wise to follow some simple guidelines to lower the risk of infection.  The best protection is prevention.

Mosquito Bites Prevention

• Use bug spray. Look for permethrin or DEET on the label. Read & follow the directions.
• If you use bug spray, wash your clothes before you wear them again.
• Get rid of standing water (flower pots, buckets, barrels, and tire swings) Mosquitoes can breed in standing water. Change water in outdoor pet dishes and bird baths often.
• Keep children’s wading pools empty and on their sides when not in use.
• Stay inside during times when there are a lot of mosquitoes (evening or dusk until dawn).
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
• Put screens on your windows and doors.
• Don’t wear perfume or cologne when you go outside for a long time.
• Check to see if there is a mosquito control program in your area.

If you have taken all of these precautions and you notice that you or your Senior loved one displays any of the following symptoms, call your doctor right away.

• bad headaches
• muscle weakness
• high fever
• loss of eyesight
• stiff neck
• numbness
• confusion
• coma
• shaking and/or jerking movements

Remember, in rare cases, West Nile Virus can cause death or lasting health problems. In 2003, the FDA approved a blood test to help doctors find out if a person has West Nile Virus.  So getting prompt medical attention will ensure prompt treatment.

Finally, to help control the spread of the disease, please call your state or local health department if you find a dead bird.

With the above simple precautions, we can all look forward to an enjoyable summer outdoors!

For more information go to www.CDC.gov.

Spring is here, and along with it come Spring Showers!   Once in awhile, though, the showers evolve into storms and tornadoes. 

We all know how to prepare for these emergencies.  But have you considered whether your senior loved-ones are ready to deal with a bad storm and its aftermath?

Something as simple as having the lights go out can cause much distress for the elderly, even for those that are still quite independent.   By planning ahead, you can reduce any fear and anxiety they may experience in the event something happens.  So here are some simple precautions to take for the ones we love.

First, make sure there are flashlights handy anywhere they may find themselves should the power go out, such as their bedroom, kitchen, bath and living room.

Second, take time right now to help them pre-determine the safest place to wait out a severe storm (such as a safe room, basement, storm cellar, or the lowest building level) and remind them to go there at any hint of severe weather.  Remember, if there is no basement, the next best place is on the lowest level, with as many walls between them and the outside as possible (usually an interior closet, bathroom, or hallway). If possible, prepare the spot with a comfortable chair, and a battery powered radio, flashlight, and warm blanket, so that they can sit out the storm in relative comfort.

Third, make sure there are smoke detectors in or near the attic, as lightning can strike well before the storm, and many homeowners are unaware their house has been struck until too late.

Fourth, if you are quite a distance away, make sure you keep handy the phone numbers of some neighbors who would be happy to help fix the aforementioned tripped breaker, and check in to make sure they are well.

And finally, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security recommends every household have a Basic Emergency Supply Kit for ANY emergency.

It should include:  Water: one gallon of water per person; at least 3 days worth

                              Food: at least a 3 day supply of non-perishable food; and Can-opener!

                              Radio: Battery powered (with extra batteries) or hand-cranked

                              Flashlight (and extra batteries)

                              First Aid Kit

                              Whistle: to signal for help

                              Dust mask: to filter contaminants from the air

                              Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation

                              Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities

                              Local Maps

In addition to the above, we would remind you to include 3 days worth of any prescription medications they are taking.

By taking a little time now and planning ahead, you and your elderly loved-ones will have more peace of mind, and be able to face whatever Spring may bring!

For more information please visit  www.ready.gov

Tax breaks for caregivers…it is true.

Almost half of baby boomers are finding themselves caring for one or both of their parents whether it is health related or offering financial support while raising their own families. The new term for the above baby boomers…the sandwich generation.
If you are assisting your Parents or loved ones with housing, food, transportation, medical or dental care, you may be eligible for a $3,600+ relative exemption. There are a number of qualifications involved; we suggest contacting your certified CPA for assistance.
The following are just some of the dependent qualifications for claiming adults:

• You must provide more than 50 % of your loved ones support costs
• You must either live with the taxpayer year round or be related
      (Loved one: parent, grandparent, stepparent, aunt or uncle)

For more information or to read more “Tax Breaks Available for Parents Helping Their Parents Sandwich Generation Feeling the Squeeze of Supporting Elderly Parents, Boomerang Kids go to:

http://money.cnn.com/news/newsfeeds/articles/marketwire/0592795.htm

While we still have a couple of months away before the filing deadline, somehow it always seems to sneak upon us and before you know it April 15 is here. Here are some tips for seniors that will help filing taxes run easier.

• Collect all your records early. Start by gathering all your documents, records and receipts that you may have that will help with your return.   

• Contact your current/past company to make sure you are getting your W2s. Follow up with your statements from any investments that you may have i.e. Roth IRA’s, 401k etc. 

• Consider E-File. Filing electronically will lessen the math mistakes, the software will handle all your math calculations for you.  

• Get your refund quicker and hassle free by considering direct deposit.

• Educate yourself, know your tax credits. Be aware of all the tax code changes. Seniors may qualify for the credit for the elderly or disabled if you are 65yrs. old. There is a certain income requirement to be eligible and the long form 1040 or 1040A has to be completed.   

•  Don’t rush! Be thorough… One of the most common mistakes that seniors make is overlooking  something and they end up missing out on a credit that they were entitled to.  

• Make sure it’s legible, if you aren’t able to write because of a disability ask someone to help you. 

•  Double check everything.  A simple mistake on your social security number can slow the process of getting your refund quicker. 

•  Know that you have options. If you don’t feel comfortable filing your own taxes contact a professional. There are many different establishments that seniors can go to. H & R Block,  Jackson Hewitt to just name a few. If it’s a simple return you might be able to get a discount of the processing fee. Also consider TCE Tax Counseling for the Elderly. They provide free tax help to people over the age of 6o years old.   

• Visit IRS.gov for a FREE file. If your income is limited you may be eligible for free tax preparation software and free electronic filing.

The Township of Lyons is sponsoring a FREE H1N1 shot clinic on Saturday, February 13 from 9am-1pm at the LTHS Corral, 4940 S. Willow Springs Rd., LaGrange. Community Nurse will administer the vaccines to those 18 years and older.

Those interested must be a Lyons Township resident which includes: Bedford Park, Bridgeview, Brookfield, Burr Ridge, Countryside, Hickory Hills, Hinsdale, Hodgkins, Indian Head Park, Justice, LaGrange, Lyons, McCook, Riverside, Summit, Western Springs, Willow Springs. ID for proof of residency is required.

Information provided by Aging Care Connections

Caring for your parents when you are far away can be quite a task to manage. It is even harder when you don’t live in the same city, let alone the same state. There are caregivers that can do it all from a distance and ones who are eager to lend a hand even when they aren’t the ones that are in charge.

Below are some helpful tips for the caregivers that live long distance who wants to try to do it all:

• Avoid the relocation reaction.  Before moving your elder to your home allow extra time for them to consider other options.
• Do an on-site comprehensive assessment of your elder’s situation.
• Arrange for home health care providers and special programs like Meals on Wheels and transportation services for the frail elderly.
• Ask for help from family members, friends and even neighbors.
• Ask neighbors, friends, or relatives to visit your elder regularly to spot problems that are impossible to know over the phone, such as mail or newspapers piling up outside the home.
• Contact the local post office, informing the local letter carrier that a frail elder is on his/her route and to report any worrisome signs on the property.
• Tell the local police department that an elder lives alone in the community. This may encourage officers to give a little extra attention, especially during heat waves, cold spells, earthquakes and any other natural disasters.
• Check with local utility companies as they may have “elder watch” programs

Tips for the far-away caregiver that isn’t quite the one in charge but nevertheless wants to help:

• Save vacation days and personal holidays for emergency visits.
• Set aside emergency money for those unexpected travels.
• Call often and visit often, don’t wait until the last minute.
• Offer the primary caregiver a welcome break. 
• Be diplomatic. Offer your help and let the primary caregiver know that you are there to lend a helping hand. Don’t overstep your boundaries, the primary caregiver knows the situation more than you do.

Article provided by Rachele Zukerman

Americans are often faced with having to make difficult decisions, therefore  we do our best to prepare for all the unexpected things. The decision to place a  loved one in someone else’s care or a long term facility is a struggle in every family. We strive to always be there for our loved ones and help them with whatever we can do. When it is out of our reach and when we no longer can help them, the decision to seek for help can be quite a struggle.  We want to make sure that they are ok and are getting the best care. So when we hear of new report done by USA today that 1 IN 5 NURSING HOMES GET LOW STARS,  it concerns a lot of family that are struggling to make an already tough decision.  

USA Today found  that nearly all of the nursing homes that were awarded one or two stars are owned by for-profit corporations.  This finding however was not well received with Medicare’s Thomas Hamilton, who spearheaded the rating system.  He would like to see more improvements. Thomas did say that one positive thing with the data finding is that there was a decrease in the number of one star nursing homes.   

When you are considering of placing your loved ones in a long term care facility, do your research.  Better yet,  choose an alternative option. 

 Choose for your loved ones to stay home surrounded by the people and memories they love. 

 Choose Home & Hearth Caregivers…….

For more on this article visit www.cbsnews.com

MS is a potentially debilitating disease in which your body’s immune system eats away at the protective sheath that covers your nerves. This interferes with the communication between your brain and the rest of your body. Ultimately, resulting in deterioration of the nerves themselves, a process that’s not reversible.

For decades, MS researchers have been forced to make their best guess as to what causes this disease, which affects 300,000 Americans, mostly women, between their 20s and 40s.  

Researchers report that they have identified two new genes that may contribute to the immune disorder multiple sclerosis (MS). The hope is that the discovery will someday lead to the development of more efficient and much-needed MS drugs, as today’s therapies carry serious side effects and address the disease’s symptoms, but not its cause.

The new genes are the first to be linked directly to MS since the 1970s, when researchers initially identified a cluster of DNA on chromosome 6 associated with immune system function. Doctors believe MS is an autoimmune disease, in which the body mistakenly attacks its own healthy cells. But they have never been able to figure out why the body turns on itself, and they hope these new genes may offer a clue. “This is by no means the final, whole answer, but we’ve gotten an incredible glimpse into the cause of the disease,” says Dr. David Hafler, professor of neurology at Harvard Medical School.

As exciting as the discovery is, it’s a small part of the story: the new genes account for less than 1% of the risk of developing MS.  

For more on this article and findings http://www.time.com/time/health/article

The holidays are over and 2009 has come and gone and what a year it was!! There were many events that occured and some we would like to not have happened. A new decade is here and as we reflect on the year we also want to start the new year off with resilience and a positive attitude…  Here are some tips on helping seniors get a jump start to 2010. 

• Give the gifts that seniors will treasure most; your time and companionship.  If your loved one doesn’t live with you, make your visits more frequent. No matter how big or small, a simple gesture will go a long way.

• Get energized. If your loved one is still able, involve them in some form of exercise.  Strength exercises are a great way for helping build muscles and prevent bone loss with age. Exercising will not only keep them active but will give them an overall positive feeling of mind, body and soul.

• Encourage healthy eating.  In most cases seniors are already taking many different types of medications and are recommended by their doctor to eat a well balanced meal. Suggest   taking multi-vitamins and make sure that a good amount of fruit and vegetables are mixed in with their diet. Create new dishes and make healthy eating fun and not a chore.

• Avoid red meat and substitute by eating fish.  Studies show that eating fish such as:  salmon and tuna are beneficial for the heart and brain.

• Keep a positive environment.

• Call often and see how they are doing. Even if you live close by or out of state a phone call can bring a simple smile to their face. Keep the conversation light and always positive. It will give them something to look forward to.

                          Happy New Year!!!  Welcome to the new decade!!