Wednesday, July 30, 2014

Best Gift for Elderly Mom on Mother's Day!


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Best Gift for Elderly Mom on Mother's Day!

What Could Be a Perfect Gift for Her?

Does your mother have difficulty driving and shopping?
Rather than buying her a gift card, drive her to shop for her Mother's Day gift. Drive her to her next doctor, dental or eye appointment. Pick up her prescriptions for her. Drive her to a hair or nail appointment. Better yet, wash and style her hair, and give her a manicure and pedicure in her home! Check the oil, air and gas in her car. Get her car washed. Buy Mom postage stamps for bill paying. Buy Mom a bus ticket if she still uses public transportation. Make Mom a gift; nothing is more personal than something hand-made!
Does your mother have difficulty with household chores?
Change Mom's air conditioning filters. Replace light bulbs. Vacuum her carpet. Mop her floor. Clean her refrigerator. Change her bed linens weekly. If you can afford it, buy Mom a cleaning service. Alter Mom's clothes. Move furniture. Replace batteries in the smoke alarm. Plant veggies or flowers in her garden or patio pot. Paint a scuffed wall. Hose off her patios. Help Mom hang family photos. Help Mom create family scrapbooks and albums.
Does your mother now have difficulty cooking for herself?
The Meals on Wheels program provides healthy meals for seniors with mobility issues. Give them a call. Take her a favorite meal. My mother loved green bean casserole, homemade chili and brownies, so every few weeks, I'd prepare and take them over to her.
Personal contact is important
Give Mom hugs. Tell Mom you love her often. Hold her hand. Document her personal stories in writing or on a tape recorder. Years from now, the stories can be played, or added to on-line genealogy trees. Make her an album of her favorite photos. Enlarge the photos if Mom's eyesight is failing.
The list of personal things to do for an aging mother can go on and on..just pick one to get started! Enclose a handmade "Good for...coupon" in her Mother's Day card. When a mother receives the personal touch from her Daughter or Son, it can mean so much more than any purchased gift! You'll think of special ways to make Mom happy!
Mom passed away this February, so we three kids no longer have personal gifts to give her. But our memories remain and console us in knowing that she received the personal touch!
References:
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Ease the Burden of Planning a Funeral



Ease the Burden of Planning a Funeral

Funeral pre-planning is best
If loved ones indicate, either verbally or in writing, their preferences for a funeral in advance, family tasks can be significantly lessened. A prepaid funeral or cremation package, with a list of favorite flowers, colors, songs, scriptures, minister, church, preferred pallbearers and other specific details often eliminate many family questions. Unfortunately, Many times advance planning doesn't occur, and the family is left to make arrangements. It's difficult to broach the subject, but asking questions of your loved ones now, can save critical time in the future.
Creating a phone number call list of relatives, co-workers, neighbors and friends is invaluable in saving time once notification is necessary.
Make a list of tasks to be completed for a funeral Jot down everything that comes to mind involving funeral arrangements (i.e. location, date, time, obituary preparation, flowers, music, minister, who will give the eulogy, pallbearers, and food to serve after the service).
Many times family and friends will coordinate potluck dishes to bring to a reception following the service. You may also receive offers to call others, relaying pertinent information. If no one offers, ask for help, and most will gladly assist. If out-of-towners need rides from the airport, don't hesitate to ask!
Stay focused during funeral arrangements A funeral/burial is usually held within three to five days after death. Time is of the essence. Following a funeral, there will be opportunity to grieve, reflect and reminisce. If the deceased is cremated, a memorial service can be held weeks or even months later.This is not the proper time or place for family strife!
Individuals grieve differently. My Sister and I couldn't begin to imagine having enough composure to give an address at the memorial service for our Mother. Our Brother came to our rescue, providing a wonderful eulogy to honor her, and we handled flowers, songs, and other arrangements, with concurrence from our Brother, so the burden was lovingly shared.
Share detailed assignments for the funeral
Members of the immediate family can share in completing arrangements. The load need not be placed on just one person. If an elderly surviving spouse is wrought with emotion, a close family member or dear friend needs to accompany this person, offering help and consolation the days before and directly after the funeral. Decisions will be hard to make alone, so a shoulder to lean on, and sound advice is key.
Manage time and health while making funeral arrangements During the days before a funeral or memorial service, immediate family members need privacy. Funeral arrangements must be tended to, and clothes readied . By appointing a representative, this "go to" person can be a direct conduit between immediate family members and well-meaning relatives and friends. Resting and eating properly also helps each member of the immediate family to better cope with the loss.
Defer big decisions for at least six months following a funeral Don't rush into major decision-making right away. Let matters return to as normal a routine as possible. Matters such as estates, deeds and permanent re-locations can best be handled after six months or more, and with sage advice from professionals.
Nothing can ease the emptiness felt for the departed loved one. However, knowing they were memorialized thoughtfully, lovingly, and with dignity, gives the family lasting comfort.
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Ease the Burden of Planning a Funeral


Ease the Burden of Planning a Funeral

Funeral pre-planning is best
If loved ones indicate, either verbally or in writing, their preferences for a funeral in advance, family tasks can be significantly lessened. A prepaid funeral or cremation package, with a list of favorite flowers, colors, songs, scriptures, minister, church, preferred pallbearers and other specific details often eliminate many family questions. Unfortunately, Many times advance planning doesn't occur, and the family is left to make arrangements. It's difficult to broach the subject, but asking questions of your loved ones now, can save critical time in the future.
Creating a phone number call list of relatives, co-workers, neighbors and friends is invaluable in saving time once notification is necessary.
Make a list of tasks to be completed for a funeral Jot down everything that comes to mind involving funeral arrangements (i.e. location, date, time, obituary preparation, flowers, music, minister, who will give the eulogy, pallbearers, and food to serve after the service).
Many times family and friends will coordinate potluck dishes to bring to a reception following the service. You may also receive offers to call others, relaying pertinent information. If no one offers, ask for help, and most will gladly assist. If out-of-towners need rides from the airport, don't hesitate to ask!
Stay focused during funeral arrangements A funeral/burial is usually held within three to five days after death. Time is of the essence. Following a funeral, there will be opportunity to grieve, reflect and reminisce. If the deceased is cremated, a memorial service can be held weeks or even months later.This is not the proper time or place for family strife!
Individuals grieve differently. My Sister and I couldn't begin to imagine having enough composure to give an address at the memorial service for our Mother. Our Brother came to our rescue, providing a wonderful eulogy to honor her, and we handled flowers, songs, and other arrangements, with concurrence from our Brother, so the burden was lovingly shared.
Give detailed assignments for the funeral
Members of the immediate family can share in completing arrangements. The load need not be placed on just one person. If an elderly surviving spouse is wrought with emotion, a close family member or dear friend needs to accompany this person, offering help and consolation the days before and directly after the funeral. Decisions will be hard to make alone, so a shoulder to lean on, and sound advice is key.
Manage time and health while making funeral arrangements During the days before a funeral or memorial service, immediate family members need privacy. Funeral arrangements must be tended to, and clothes readied . By appointing a representative, this "go to" person can be a direct conduit between immediate family members and well-meaning relatives and friends. Resting and eating properly also helps each member of the immediate family to better cope with the loss.
Defer big decisions for at least six months following a funeral Don't rush into major decision-making right away. Let matters return to as normal a routine as possible. Matters such as estates, deeds and permanent re-locations can best be handled after six months or more, and with sage advice from professionals.
Nothing can ease the emptiness felt for the departed loved one. However, knowing they were memorialized thoughtfully, lovingly, and with dignity, gives the family lasting comfort.
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Tuesday, July 29, 2014

Aging Eyes: Macular Degeneration


Aging Eyes: Macular Degeneration

Age-related Eye Disease May Double Within the Next Three Decades

This subject hits close to home since my mother suffered from age-related macular degeneration (AMD) for the last 15 years of her life. She was my hero because with every setback, she accepted the challenge of dealing with it.
What is macular degeneration?
The macula is the central part of our retina, and lets us see fine details. Once the macula progressively degenerates, central vision develops blurring, distortion and dark spots. Senior activities such as driving, reading, cooking, recognizing faces and performing daily living routines become increasingly difficult. Usually peripheral vision is not affected; light and forms can still be seen.
Two forms of macular degeneration exist: Dry (atrophic) which is more common and accounts for 90% of all AMD, and Wet (neovascular) , which accounts for just 10% of all AMD but comprises 90% of all cases resulting in blindness.
Who does AMD affect?
Seniors who have soft, indistinct drusen (a small yellowish macular lesion) and pigment changes run a 42% higher risk of developing AMD within five years of diagnosis. Seniors under age 60 have only a .7% risk; however, the risk is increased by 22.5% for those over 80 years of age. If AMD develops in one eye, risks increase by 55% that the other eye will develop AMD.
Macular degeneration Risk Factors Aging, smoking, family history, and people with a variant of the CFH gene, run a strong risk of developing AMD. Other possible risk factors include: exposure to sunlight (especially blue light), hypertension, high cholesterol, obesity, females, whites, and those with hyperopia (far-sightedness).
What can be done to combat macular degeneration? Get regular eye checkups (the likelihood of developing AMD is nearly 2.5 times higher if a first degree relative has the disease).
Quit smoking (risk is decreased 6.7% after five years, 5% after another five years, and 4.2% after another five years).
Wear hats and sunglasses (some sunglasses called "blue blockers" are designed to protect against harmful "blue light").
Control blood pressure. Include physical activity by walking, jogging or bicycling regularly. Keep Body Mass Index (BMI) below 30.
Take a daily eye health supplement containing lutein and Zeaxanthin,
Use canola oil for cooking, which is high in Omega-3 fatty acid, and low in Omega-6 fatty acid. Avoid more than 1 serving of beef, pork or lamb per week, Avoid or cut down on high-fat dairy food (whole milk, ice cream, hard cheese, butter). Avoid or cut down on meat food (hamburger, hot dogs, processed meat, bacon). Avoid or cut down on processed baked goods (commercial pies, cakes, cookies and potato chips). Eat more fish (especially tuna); those who eat fish more than 4 times a week have a lower risk of AMD that those who consume it less than 3 times per month. One serving of nuts per day reduced the risk of progression of AMD by 40%. The average American diet consists of 42% fat daily. Limit fat in the diet to 20-25 %
If you have AMD, use assistive devices to aid in preserving your remaining vision. And, be optimistic that one day a treatment for macular degeneration will be found.
References:
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Medicare Now Covers Weight Loss Surgeries!


Medicare Now Covers Weight Loss Surgeries!

How a Dream Became a Reality for This Obese Senior


I was morbidly obese at age 63, when I read an important article by Rob Stein of the Washington Post in my local newspaper. Medicare had just endorsed certain Bariatric surgeries On February 21, 2006. Since private health plans follow Medicare's endorsements, I was encouraged to think that, perhaps, my insurance would one day cover such a surgery.

I kept this article tucked away in my wallet until I was within nine months of my 65th birthday. I began making calls to my insurance provider, and completed hours of online research concerning Bariatric surgery, and the three types of weight loss surgeries endorsed by Medicare: Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, laparoscopic gastric banding and biliopancreatic diversion with a duodenal switch.
What I learned helped me to pursue the hope of finding a surgically permanent answer for a safe and effective method to rid myself of the unhealthy 90 pounds I carried around! I had developed several medical conditions that might qualify me for the surgery, so the sky was the limit! Nothing was going to deter me from trying.
Over the past several years, I had amassed quite a good collection of medical reports from doctors and specialists, MRI's, and supporting documentation to make my case when needed. August 1, 2008 was my official first day on Medicare.
During the research phase, I was particularly interested in the REALIZE™ Adjustable Gastric Band (by Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc). I completed and mailed in Benefit Verification and Authorization to Share Health Information forms, and signed up online to attend an information seminar on September 16, 2008.
Within a month, I visited my new primary care physician, began initial routine tests and exams, and mentioned to her that I was extremely interested in having laparoscopic gastric banding surgery, hoping that we could work together to submit a request through my insurance. She was supportive. I provided her with my previous medical reports, and supplied her with information on every diet I had ever embarked upon. She was instrumental in preparing an effective letter to my health care provider, requesting approval, and referred me to one of the Bariatric surgeons within my health network.
Following various required tests and clearances which took me through December 2008, I called my insurance provider one day in early January 2009, and learned that I had been approved for weight loss surgery back on December 29, 2008.
The rest is history. I had the REALIZE™ Adjustable Gastric Band surgery on February 13, 2009 at the Banner Good Samaritan Bariatric Center, and went home the same day. There were no complications, and I was up and walking within a couple of days. I've since lost 20 pounds on my travel toward improved health.
My dream became a reality!
                                                          Twenty pounds lighter! The journey continues.

 With more than 400-million people worldwide who are obese, weight loss surgery is the most effective method to shed the extra weight and keep it off.

 Many seniors resign themselves to think they will stay overweight. But, with medical advances in laparoscopic gastric banding, it doesn't have to be. Popularly known as the Realize Band and the Lap-Band, they can now improve health and quality of life.
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How Senior Women Can Cope with Alopecia


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How Senior Women Can Cope with Alopecia

Overcome the Stigma of Alopecia and Boost Self-esteem

Why do people lose their hair?Many factors contribute to hair loss: age, hormone imbalance, psychological disorders (trichotillomania), genetics (you can thank your Mother and Father for this), high fever, severe illness, extreme stress, childbirth, chemotherapy drugs, blood thinners, acne and skin medications, beta-adrenergic blockers for controlling blood pressure, birth control pills, burns, X-rays, scalp injuries. ringworm, frequent shampooing, perms, bleaching, and dyeing hair. By eliminating some of the latter practices, hair growth may return.

Women suffer most with the stigma of alopecia According to Wikipedia and the American Hair Loss Association, hair loss in women can devastate their emotional well-being and self-esteem. Society more readily accepts men's baldness (and many women like me think that bald men are sexy!). Doctors pay little attention to the concern women express over hair loss because it isn't life-threatening. Such disregard can take an emotional toll, and can directly affect physical health.
Believe me when I say, losing your hair is awful! I once had long, thick hair until my early forties, when both hair and color began thinning and fading. I no longer felt as feminine or confident.
What types of treatments are available for alopecia? Many treatments for hair loss exist, with some FDA-approved and others available in other countries. Drug treatments include: Minoxidil (Rogaine), Spironolactone (Aldactone), Cimetidine (Tagamet), Cyproterone Acetate, Estrogen and Progesterone pills and creams, oral contraceptives, Ketoconazole (Nizoral), Finasteride (Propecia, Proscar), and Cyproterone Acetate with Ethinyloestradiol (Diane 35, Diane 50). Hair extensions and hair replacement surgery may also be considered.
Unfortunately, for some seniors, the cost may be prohibitive, and success may be limited. Side effects may also appear, or interact with existing medication regimes.
My alopecia solution I gave Women's Rogaine a try, but couldn't afford its continuous treatment costs, in addition to coloring, cutting and styling my hair. My wonderful, talented daughter, a hair extension specialist, coifed my head with hair extensions for a couple of years, and it helped my self-esteem very much.
Eventually, the expense of keeping my hair up to par far exceeded my ability and time to pay for it. I had reached age 65, and now joined the "fixed income" brigade. It was time for me to find a workable solution.
I had a friend who wore wigs. She always looked dazzling and as cute and neat as a pin. I decided to try on a monofilament wig at a local wig salon inside the shopping mall. I was pleased with the thicker look, the compliment of colors available for various skin tones, the comfort, style, and the ability to care for it myself. I bought it, found wig care supplies at a nearby beauty supply store, and never looked back since!
I would highly recommend anyone who has never worn a wig, to try on various styles and shades at a wig salon before purchasing one. This visit will help you decide which is best for you! I now save money buying my wigs on-line for as much as 50% less than prices in wig salons. Several leading wig manufacturers offer good deals, and all styles and colors are available on-line.
I can afford to purchase a new wig every 4-5 months for less than what it had cost me to have my hair colored, cut, and styled monthly! If I want to have a short hairdo one day, and a flip the next, I don't have to wait for my hair to grow out! I've received compliments from family, friends and strangers! My self-image is again restored, and I feel much more feminine.
One reminder I learned the hard way is: avoid getting too close to the heat when opening hot oven doors. My bangs were "fried" twice! Keep an older wig to wear around the house .
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Before and after photos of a mini-facelift




Jul 23, 2010

Before and after photos of a mini-facelift


Having lost 70 pounds of weight, my facial appearance before surgery looked "tired and saggy." As a 66-year-old woman, I wondered if a cosmetic procedure might be beneficial.

Investigate thoroughly before cosmetic surgery 
Caution must be exercised when considering any type of cosmetic surgery. I found numerous online websites explaining mini-facelift options. The QuickLift™ was extremely informative, and I knew a friend who had cosmetic surgery performed by Dr. Thomas Kotoske at the Cosmetic Surgery Institute. I decided to make an appointment for a free consultation.
Consultation recommendations 
Dr. Kotoske took ample time to study my facial structure, and explain what he thought would be most beneficial to remedy droopy facial skin and sagging jowls. He recommended the minimally invasive QuickLift™, which includes neck liposuction, and an eyebrow lift to eliminate the heaviness above my eyelids. I readily agreed.
Preparations for the QuickLift™ 
A physician's appointment, blood work, elimination of blood-thinning medications, financial arrangements and paperwork were necessary. Once approved for surgery, arrangements were made within two weeks after my consultation. I found all staff at CSI to be courteous, well trained and answered all questions and concerns. The QuickLift™ was performed on a Friday morning, with a day-after follow-up appointment on Saturday. That's why it's called a weekend facelift!
After QuickLift™ surgery 
I was slightly uncomfortable for just two days, and took it easy. I looked like I had slammed into a door face first on Week 1, with some swelling and bruises. I should have known that my skin would be ultra-sensitive since I have rosacea and a fair complexion. I'm sure there are women who have different complexions and skin types, and may never swell or bruise.

At the end of Week 2, I had a follow-up appointment for the sutures to be taken out. I felt nearly normal again, however, I still didn't look that way. However, my husband, the doctor and I could definitely see the improvements to my facial appearance, and especially the neckline! I was encouraged enough to go to dinner that weekend with our friends!
Was the QuickLift effective? 
I'm glad to say that I'm overjoyed with the outcome. I don't necessarily feel younger, but I feel so much better about myself. I would do it all over again to be rewarded with the self-assurance I've gained. I would encourage older women and men, especially those who have lost weight recently, to consider a QuickLift™. Just 2-1/2 months following my procedure, we were present for our daughter's wedding, and we also attended a high school reunion!


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                                                       Viewing 1 of 10 | © Joy Schantz

This was the evening before the QuickLift, January 21. Don't be scared; it's only me looking forward to a "fresher" look!


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Viewing 2 of 10 | © Joy Schantz
Just after surgery, January 22. Yikes! I look like an extra-terrestrial! The wrap stayed on until the next afternoon's follow-up. (5:00 p.m.)

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Viewing 3 of 10 | © Joy Schantz
Day 1 after surgery, January 23. This was taken around 9:00 a.m. before my follow-up appointment.

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Viewing 4 of 10 | © Joy Schantz
Day 2, January 24, after the head wrap was removed. It's funny now, but my ears even swelled! What a bad hair day, too... (8:00 a.m.)

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Viewing 5 of 10 | © Joy Schantz
Day 3, January 25...a better hair day. (8:00 a.m.) My life was back to a normal routine.

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Viewing 6 of 10 | © Joy Schantz
Day 4, January 26. I didn't feel bad, but if we had filled the doctor's prescription right away, I think the swelling would not have been as severe. Notice bruises are beginning to yellow and fade. (11:00 a.m.)

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Viewing 7 of 10 | © Joy Schantz
Day 6, January 28. By this time, I could begin to see the improvements! (9:00 a.m.)

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Viewing 8 of 10 | © Joy Schantz
Day 8, January 30. Facial coloration returned, and bruises and swelling were almost gone. Time again for makeup and a hairstyle! (10:15 a.m.)

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Viewing 9 of 10 | © Joy Schantz
Week 6, March 5. Look out World, here I come again! (8:00 a.m.)

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Viewing 10 of 10 | © Joy Schantz
Week 7, March 13. We traveled to California to visit dear friends. 


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Reasons Many Seniors Don't Follow Medical Advice


Reasons Many Seniors Don't Follow Medical Advice

Why is Grandpa so Stubborn? Why Won't Grandma Take Her Medicine? These Perplexing Questions Creep Up when a Senior Tends to Resist Medical Care

Progression of health conditions in seniors
If medical tests indicate an underlying health problem, the doctor will provide guidance and a medication regime. Mom had been extremely healthy for most of her life, eating beneficial foods, walking everywhere (she never had a driver's license), possessing an optimistic attitude, keeping her weight under control, and never smoking or drinking. She grew up using home remedies during the Great Depression. The only time she went to a hospital was to deliver her babies. Mom's first serious medical condition surfaced with the onset of cataracts, and eventually macular degeneration around age 75.
Factors affecting a senior's ability to heed medical advice
Many times, seniors deny they have a medical problem, and refuse to see a doctor. With ageing, the psyche (mind, self, soul and spirit) is being constantly tested. Comprehension and memory issues may surface. Vision or hearing can interfere with ability to follow medical advice. Frustration, depression, stress, anger, anxiety, helplessness, lack of motivation, limited finances, and without helpful information, a senior may avoid seeking medical help.
Are medications being forgotten? Are appointments and annual check-ups being missed? A senior may put on a "good act" for doctors, family and friends. When a senior sees the doctor face-to-face, it's only for eight to 15 minutes. I found that accompanying Mom into her appointments aided both of us by hearing first-hand and remembering what the doctor said. Tread lightly, however, because Mom adamantly wanted the doctor to speak directly to her, not to me! I always carried a card with all of Mom's medications listed, and her dates of surgeries and procedures for recall when requested. Eventually, Mom softened and deferred most questions to me.
Seniors need a team to step up in their behalf
Every senior needs an advocate, whether it is a spouse, daughter, son, relative, caregiver, or good friend. The primary care doctor, and, perhaps an eye specialist, dietitian, pharmacist, hearing specialist, fitness therapist, housekeeper, and a food preparer may need to be consulted to coordinate and optimize care for your loved one. Certainly, difficulties with every day living must prompt family members to seek medical assistance. It's time for a family conference!
Once mobility issues creep up, seniors can't go to medical appointments, pick up prescriptions, drive to labs for tests, shop for groceries, nor experience quality of life enjoyment (attending movies, going out to eat, attending social and sports events) without assistance. A plan to accomplish these tasks for your loved one must be discussed. Dividing tasks makes everyone's job easier.
Senior stubbornness must be overcome
Arguments never accomplish true cooperation. Control over an elder is not love. However, with education, friendly persuasion (a.k.a. tact), patience and praise, most elderly loved ones can be won over if they understand why the medications were prescribed, and why they must keep their appointments with doctors. A parent sometimes tries to maintain a "power play" over a son or daughter caregiver, but it may be time to trade roles...the parent becomes the child, and the child becomes the parent!
When I filled Mom's pillbox and put it on her food tray with each meal, it kept her on track every day with medications. Sometimes she'd have trouble swallowing her pills, so we'd use applesauce, ice cream, pudding or Ensure to help them go down.
Senior loved ones can educate themselves on-line if they are computer savvy. Helpful sites likeWebMD and Senior Health offer plenty of information. Visually impaired seniors can listen toaudiobooks on health issues. Television and radio may also offer medical information. Friends and family can also supply pertinent articles.
A Senior's peace of mind and safety first
Make sure your loved one lives in a safe location. Mom once lived in a townhouse where next-door neighbors had teens who were awake all night long and made lots of noise; Mom suffered from continual lack of sleep until we moved her out to a 55+ adult gated community near us.
Nothing replaces a family's ability to help a loved one enjoy their remaining years, whether it means living independently, living with a family member, or living in an assisted living facility; in Mom's case, she experienced all three. Giving time, comfort and love will suffice your loved one to the end.
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Seniors - Beware of Dehydration and Other Heat-related Conditions!


Seniors - Beware of Dehydration and Other Heat-related Conditions!

Be Able to Identify Symptoms and Seek Treatment Before Life-threatening Situations Develop

News articles will report heat waves across the nation this summer. We'll also read about elders who die because they had no cooling in their homes. No one knew they had utilities turned off for non-payment, or they had physical or mental limitations preventing them from paying the bill. Alert neighbors and relatives need to check on vulnerable elderly to prevent such disasters.
How can seniors become dehydrated?
Sickness can bring on dehydration from flu, fever, diarrhea, vomiting, and bowel disorders which move fluids through the body too fast. Dehydration can be caused, also, if seniors are on dialysis, or can't communicate due to Alzheimer's or stroke. Many seniors don't drink enough liquids during the day because of the inability to control their bladders (incontinence), or physically can't hold a glass, get up from a chair, exhaust themselves getting to the bathroom, or have too much pain to walk.
What other factors can increase the risk of problems with dehydration?
Medicines like antihistamines, prednisone, blood pressure prescriptions, diuretics, and those used for psychiatric, organ transplant, and cancer treatment can interfere with the aging body's ability to fight infection. Alcohol and smoking could also increase risk of dehydration. Certain diseases can increase the risk of problems with dehydration. Addison's, cancer, cystic fibrosis, diabetes, gallbladder, kidney liver and heart disease, HIV, hyperthyroidism, pancreatitus, ulcers and gastritis can make elders susceptible by changing the way their body gets rid of heat. Working in the yard or exercising can cause rapid over-sweating and loss of body fluids. Even obesity can contribute to dehydration because the overweight have less blood flow to the skin, heat is held in due to the insulated layer of fat tissue, and there is more body mass to cool. Wear one layer of lightweight, light-colored clothing when outdoors.
What are the signs of dehydration? According to WebMD, early symptoms to watch for in seniors include: dry mouth and sticky saliva; reduced urine output and dark yellow urine and listlessness or irritation.
How can seniors prevent dehydration?
Drink plenty of water or hydrating drinks before, during and after exercise and activities. Don't drink coffee, cola or other caffeine drinks because urine output is increased and dehydration occurs faster. Alcohol, beer and wine also increase dehydration. Drink 10 glasses of water daily to replace lost fluids in the body during hot weather. Don't use salt tablets; our diets have plenty of salt.
Stop working outdoors or exercising if dizziness or lightheadedness occur, and: get out of the sunlight;
lie down in a cool spot; prop up your feet; remove extra clothes; drink 2 quarts of cool liquids during the next 2 to 4 hours. Rest and take it easy for the next 24 hours.
Other heat-related illnesses
Heat rash (prickly heat)develops when sweat ducts are blocked or swell, causing discomfort and itching.
Heat cramps occur after exercise due to loss of water, salt and minerals.
Heat edema (legs and hands swelling) occurs when sitting or standing at length in a hot environment.
Heat teteny (hyperventilation) is caused by short periods of stress in the heat.
Heat syncope (heat prostration) develops when working or exercising without replacing lost body fluids.
Heatstroke (sunstroke) occurs when the body can no longer regulate its own temperature and rises to 105 degrees or higher.
Heatstroke is a medical emergency, can be life-threatening, and can cause long-term, serious problems! Call 911 or have someone drive you immediately to an emergency room.
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