SE C T I O N T W O - C O M M O N H E A L T H PR O B L E MS I N SE N I O RS
C hronic Diseases As people age, they can experience various health problems including chronic diseases. A chronic disease has one or more of the following characteristics: It is permanent and leaves a disability. It is not reversible. It requires special rehabilitative training. It may require a long period of supervision, observation or care. KLamples of chronic diseases are arthritis, stroke, Parkinson:s disease and diaBetes. Generally, they are treated with medication, exercise and diet. These diseases can limit the mobility of older adults. Seniors can also fall victim to other health problems such as cancer and heart attack. It is helpful if Home Care Assistants are familiar with some of the health conditions that plague seniors to improve the quality of care they provide. This section will take a cursory look at the more common health problems and outline how they may affect the lives of those they strike.
A rthritis Arthritis is an inflammation of the joints of the body due to cartilage wearing down. (Cartilage is the substance that pads the ends of the bones and reduces friction during movement.) The joints that are affected most often in women are the hands, knees, ankles and feet. In men, they are the hips, spine, and wrist. The severity of the condition can range from mild to severe. The following table outlines some of the traits, which are common to various types of arthritis: C auses/Risk F actors age extra weight insufficient exercise hereditary factors injuries certain exercises, occupations & sports
Symptoms
Consequences
stiffness in joint difficulty moving joint pain in joint pain around joint swelling of joint fatigue
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pain disability loss of joint function loss of movement restricted activities
T reatment medications joint replacements rest exercise diet heat & cold therapies water therapy surgery
There are two main types of arthritis: Osteoarthritis Rheumatoid Arthritis Osteoarthritis Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease. In osteoarthritis, cartilage breaks down and the bones rub together. The joint then loses shape and alignment. As they thicken, bony growths (spurs) form on the bone ends and pieces of cartilage and bone float in the joint space. Osteoarthritis can affect any joint and may only involve a couple of joints. Joints most often affected are knees, hips, back, fingers and feet. Its severity can range from mild to severe. C auses/Risk F actors age obesity joint injuries resulting from sports or workrelated accidents cartilage breaks down & causes bones to rub against each other due to aging irritation of the joints, wear & tear of the joints, overuse in professional sports hereditary factors
Symptoms
Consequences
inflammation redness swelling heat pain
pain disability loss of joint function loss of movement
T reatment no cure relieving pain relieving stiffness application of heat application of cold weight loss assistive device to carry out activities of daily living surgical joint replacement
Rheumatoid A rthritis Rheumatoid Arthritis is a chronic disease wherein the immune system attacks the lining of the joint. This causes an inflammation, which can result in deformity. The disease can be severe and can involve not only the joints but also the whole body including the heart, lungs, kidneys, skin and eyes. C auses/Risk F actors actual cause is unknown inflicted person:s own immune cells attack the body (autoimmune disease) possibly playing a role are: o infections o genes o hormones
Symptoms
Consequences
inflammation redness swelling heat pain joint stiffness limited joint motion weight loss aching muscles anemia
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painful & swollen joints disability loss of joint function loss of movement cartilage destruction bone erosion tendon inflammation
T reatment control pain maintain joint motion prevent deformities range of motion exercises medications surgical joint replacement
How Home C are Assistants C an H elp C lients W ith A rthritis be flexible and open to treatment choices; accept encouragement and praise; maintain a positive attitude; ask their Doctor or Physical Therapist which exercises are best and for guidelines on exercising when joints are sore or swelling; ask their Doctor about medications to stop or reduce pain so they can function better; rest when their body needs to rest, as too much activity or over exercising can cause more pain; protect their joints and take pressure off them; lose weight, which can reduce stress on joints and slow down further injury; break down activities into small tasks that can be managed more easily; develop a daily routine that schedules both rest and activity; ask their doctor about joining a self-help and education program; develop a support system of family, friends, and health caregivers; focus on their abilities instead of disabilities; focus on their strengths instead of their weaknesses, use assistive devices (canes, grab bars, larger handles); find new ways to carry on and enjoy their favorite activities; apply heat to relieve joint pain; and, apply cold compresses to reduce swelling.
Osteoporosis Osteoporosis is a disease wherein there is an accelerated loss of bone mass and a reduction in bone quality. If not prevented or if left untreated, it can progress painlessly until a bone breaks, usually in the hip, spine and/or wrist. Fractures to the hip and spine are of greatest concern, although any bone can be affected, A hip fracture usually requires hospitalization and major surgery. It can affect a person's ability to walk unassisted and may cause prolonged or permanent disability or even death. When fractures occur in the spine, spinal or vertebral fractures also have serious consequences, including loss of height, severe back pain and deformity. C auses/Risk F actors
Symptoms
Consequences
Specific causes are not known but there are risk factors: o older age o female gender o Caucasian or Asian race o small, slender bones o low calcium diet
often there are no symptoms fractures if vertebrae break, there is severe back pain, loss in height & spinal deformity
bones become fragile and are susceptible to fracture loss of height severe back pain deformity
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T reatment eat a calcium rich diet take in enough Vitamin D estrogen replacement therapy (to be determined By client:s PhysicianN do weight bearing exercises wear a back brace or corset (determined by Physician)
C auses/Risk F actors
Symptoms
Consequences
past menopause low physical activity ovaries removed cigarette smoking too much alcohol & caffeine family history excessive use of medications such as cortisone & prednisone previous fracture certain diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis & lupus
T reatment use walking aids medications surgery
How Home C are Assistants C an H elp C lients W ith Osteoporosis Encourage clients to: do some physical activity everyday; avoid cigarettes and other forms of smoking; establish an exercise program with the help of a Physical Therapist avoid falling: o walk carefully O be alert for uneven ground; o wear good shoes; o don:t hurry when conducting activitiesC o reduce risk of accidents by making the home safe; o eat a diet with sufficient calcium and Vitamin D; and, o discuss hormone therapy with their Doctor.
manage pain: o o o o o o o o
apply ice and heat compresses; take medications (consult with Doctor); positive thinking; relaxation; meditation; acupuncture; visualization; and, surgery.
Stroke A stroke occurs when the supply of blood and oxygen to the brain is interrupted. It can be caused by a blood vessel breaking, with blood bleeding into the brain or it can be caused by a blood clot blocking the blood supply to the brain. Whichever type of stroke it is, the death of brain cells may occur. When this happens, the parts of the body, which the dead cells once controlled, do not function.
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C auses/Risk F actors smoking high blood pressure hardening of the arteries heart disease diabetes
Symptoms
Consequences
sudden weakness, numbness &/or tingling of the face, arm or leg sudden temporary loss of speech or trouble understanding speech sudden loss of vision, particularly in one eye, or double vision unsteadiness or sudden falls, especially with the above signs sudden severe headache for no apparent reason
paralysis or weakness on one side of the body vision problems trouble using or understanding language inability to recognize or use familiar objects tiredness depression expression of emotional responses that are exaggerated or inappropriate difficulty learning & remembering new information changes in personality slow or slurred speech changes in sight, touch movement & thought behavioral changes mobility problems functional limitations
Home Care Assistants might help clients, who have had a stroke by: learning as much as possible about the stroke; learn what affects the stroke has had on the senior; helping the senior to cope with his/her situation; using humor appropriately; being patient and kind; being optimistic but realistic; maintaining the senior:s dignity and privacyC and, not being condescending or juvenile when interacting;
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T reatment/Prevention Treatment medications surgery rehabilitation prevention control high blood pressure eat a high fiber, low salt and low fat diet do regular, moderate physical activity avoid alcohol & tobacco take medication the doctor prescribes
5ar6inson0s 7isease Parkinson:s Disease is a progressive neurological condition. The cells in the part of the brain, which control movement, are damaged. The rate of progression and the symptoms of the disease vary considerably from individual to individual.
C auses/Risk F actors Underlying cause is unknown but it has several possible causes: o brain tumor o head injury o degeneration of the nerve tissue o poisoning o strokes o medications
Symptoms
Consequences
tremors rigidity causing muscle pain & stiffness slowness of movement difficulty with posture or poor balance mask-like appearance drooling
shuffling walk hesitant speech abnormal posture slow movement slowed mental function (in some people) impaired memory (in some people)
T reatment medication surgical techniques physical therapy exercise
How Home C are Assistants C an H elp C lients W ith 5ar6inson0s 7isease Encourage them to: accept the disease as part of their lives; take advantage of supportive measures, which will help them remain in control of the disease; consult with a physiotherapist to develop a physical therapy program that is tailored to their needs; exercise consistently and regularly -- consult with doctor before starting an exercise regime; eat a balanced and healthy diet; promote normal bowel elimination; practice safety measures to prevent injury; and, maximize their well being. Note: The Home Care Assistant should always treat clients as adults and give them dignity and respect.
Diabetes The pancreas produces a hormone (insulin), which is responsible for regulating the level of sugar in the blood. When the level of sugar becomes abnormally high, the resulting condition is known as diabetes.
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There are two main types of diabetes which affect seniors: T ype 1 Diabetes, which used to Be called “insulin-dependent” or “;uvenile diaBetes”, is caused By the lack of insulin production by the pancreas. T ype 2 Diabetes, which used to Be called “non insulin-dependent” diaBetes, is also known as “adult onset”. It is Believed to Be related to life style haBits.
C auses/Risk F actors Type 1 Cause is unknown but possibilities include: interaction between genes & environmental factors viral infections
Symptoms
Consequences
excessive thirst frequent urination weight loss lack of energy
Type 2 Cause believed to be related to life styles. Susceptible people are: those with a family history people between 40 & 75 people of Asian or African/Caribbean origin people who are overweight women who have given birth to large babies.
blindness kidney failure electrolyte imbalance insulin shock diabetic coma heart disease stroke
T reatment Type 1 - insulin therapy Type 2 O depends on what part of the body has defects (e.g. pancreas, liver, muscle) medications monitoring blood sugar levels
Note: Not all people who develop diabetes display symptoms; hence, it may go undetected for years.
T hings Home C are Assistants Should K now A bout Diabetic Emergencies People with Type 1 diabetes and some people with Type 2 diabetes are at risk for developing insulin shock or going into a diabetic coma. Therefore, a Home Care Assistant should be alert for signs of either of these conditions: Insulin Shock Insulin shock occurs when there is too much insulin in the body. This condition rapidly reduces the amount of sugar in the blood and brain cells suffer. It can be caused by taking too much medication, failing to eat, by heavy exercise and by emotional factors.
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Signs and symptoms include rapid breathing, dizziness, weakness, fast pulse, vision problems, sweating, headache, numbness in hands or feet, hunger and changes in the level of consciousness. A person in insulin shock needs sugar, quickly. If the person is conscious, give sugar in any form such as candy, fruit juice or a soft drink.
Diabetic Coma This condition occurs when there is too much sugar and too little insulin in the blood and body cells do not get enough nourishment. It can be the result of eating too much sugar, by not taking prescribed medications, by stress and by infection. To tell the difference between insulin shock and a diabetic coma, look for the symptoms listed in each category listed above. If the client is awake ask: o
Have you eaten today? A person who has eaten but has not taken their medication may be in a diabetic coma.
o
Have you taken your medication today? A person, who has not eaten but did take their medication, may be having an insulin reaction, which is a real emergency. Note: When in doubt, give sugar in any form, as it can be life saving for a person in insulin shock and it won:t cause himGher further harm. (See Section Eleven for care procedures in diabetic emergencies.)
C ardiovascular Diseases Cardiovascular disease is a disease of the heart and blood vessels often caused by a narrowing of the blood vessels. This is often due to accumulation of plaque in the lining of the blood vessels C auses/Risk F actors high blood pressure high blood cholesterol previous heart attacks coronary artery disease heart arrhythmias heart valve disease congenital heart defects inflammation of the heart muscle alcohol & drug abuse lack of exercise obesity
Symptoms
Consequences
shortness of breath fatigue persistent cough fluid build up in veins swelling of feet legs and ankles frequent urination at night weight gain due to fluid buildup chest pain 19
congestive heart failure heart attack circulation to extremities is decreased
T reatment diuretics to remove excess fluid medications surgical procedures adopting a healthy diet
C auses/Risk F actors diabetes stress
Symptoms
Consequences
T reatment
loss of appetite indigestion swollen neck veins cold, sweaty skin restlessness, confusion & decreased attention span & memory
How Home C are Assistants C an H elp Seniors W ith C ardiovascular Disease Encourage them to lead a healthy lifestyle which includes: participating in a medically supervised aerobic exercise program; quitting smoking; controlling high blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes; limiting consumption of alcohol and fluids; eating a heart healthy diet which is low fat and low salt; and; weighing daily to monitor fluid retention. Signs and Symptoms of a H eart A ttack The main symptoms and warning signs of a heart attack are: Chest pain: o fullness or burning o heaviness, pressure or squeezing o tightness, discomfort or crushing Pain spreading from center of the chest: o down one or both arms o up to the neck, jaw, shoulders or back Additional Signs o nausea, vomiting and/or indigestion o anxiety or fear o denial, refusing to admit that anything is wrong o paleness, sweating or weakness or shortness of breath Note: If a client displays these symptoms, the Home Care Assistant should ensure that he/she gets medical attention immediately, ideally by calling for an ambulance.
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A nemia Anemia is a condition in which there aren't enough healthy red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen to the tissues of the body. It is not a disease but is a symptom of an underlying health problem. Anemia can be temporary or long-term and can range from being mild to severe.
C auses/Risk F actors blood loss from accident, surgery, bleeding ulcer & hemorrhoids increased destruction of red blood cells toxins or diseases inherited disorders acquired condition chronic illness vitamin deficiency
Symptoms
Consequences
tiredness or easily fatigued weak or unable to exercise prone to breathlessness even with little exertion lightheadedness pale in appearance
congestive heart failure decreased cognitive function functional impairment falling
T reatment treatment varies depending on cause & include: iron vitamin supplements blood transfusions bone marrow transplant
Note: Seniors may not display the common symptoms of anemia. Instead anemia may present itself in the form of confusion, fainting spells, falls, chest pain or congestive heart failure.
How Home C are Assistants C an H elp C lients, W ho A re A nemic Encourage them to: take treatments and medications as prescribed; eat a balanced diet consisting of several small meals, even when tired, as several small meals will provide more energy; eat foods that contain iron (eggs, red meat, liver and spinach); get more rest i.e. sleep more hours overnight and take naps during the day; don:t try to do many things in the same one day O save some for the next day and/or get help; lie down flat when feeling dizzy and when time to get up, rise very slowly; and, consult with doctor, nurse or dietician about taking vitamin supplements.
Respiratory Conditions The Respiratory system brings oxygen into the lungs and expels carbon dioxide. When this function is interfered with, a person is said to have a chronic obstructive lung disease. C auses/Risk F actors smoking genetic abnormalities low level infection environmental pollutants
Symptoms
Consequences
progressive shortness of breath phlegm producing cough 21
early death temporary flare ups respiratory
T reatment quit smoking medications inhalers oxygen therapy
C auses/Risk F actors allergies
Symptoms rapid labored breathing blue tinge to skin breathing difficulties when lying flat
Consequences failure which leads to heart rhythm irregularities
T reatment surgery
There are three main types of chronic obstructive lung disease: C hronic B ronchitis Bronchitis is an inflammation of the air passages (bronchi) which connect the windpipe with the sacs of the lungs. This results in excessive mucous production and swelling of the bronchial walls. E mphysema Emphysema is a disease in which there is destruction of the walls of the air sacs of the lung. It is frequently preceded by chronic bronchitis. Asthma Asthma is an inflammation of the lower airways, which obstructs air flow. It is characterized by wheezing, coughing, chest pain and chest tightening. Often it is allergy related.
Pneumonia Another common respiratory ailment that affects seniors is pneumonia. It is a general term, which refers to an infection of the lungs, which can be caused by a variety of microorganisms including bacterial, viruses and parasites. Like the flu, pneumonia can cause serious problems for the elderly. C auses/Risk F actors bacteria viruses gender (men are more susceptible) smoking & second hand smoke heart problems lung problems diabetes, dementia prednisone (medication) alcohol & drug abuse medical conditions age environmental factors
Symptoms
Consequences
fever chills cough rapid or labored breathing vomiting chest pain sore throat
fluid around the lungs pus in the plural cavity low blood sodium abscess in lung
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T reatment antibiotics bed rest plenty of fluids therapeutic coughing breathing exercises pain relieving medication fever reducing medication
How Home C are Assistants C an H elp Seniors A void Pneumonia HCAs can help seniors reduce their chances of coming down with pneumonia by advising them of prevention techniques, which include: avoid smoking; asking doctor about relevancy of a flu shot every fall; asking doctor of relevance of pneumonia vaccine; eating proper diet; getting enough exercise; and, obtaining enough sleep. T hings a Home C are Assistant Should K now W hen Wor king A round O xygen Home Care Assistants are not responsible for administering oxygen. However, there are some things that they should be aware of when working with a client who is on oxygen therapy: Never smoke or allow others to smoke when oxygen is in use. Signs should be posted on doors of home to indicate that oxygen is in use. Keep flammable objects such as cleaning fluids, aerosols and alcohol containing sprays away from oxygen. Avoid using anything greasy around oxygen equipment. Do not use any electrical appliance which has a motor around oxygen (e.g., electric razor), If a fire starts, turn the oxygen off immediately. Keep a fire extinguisher within easy reach. Keep the oxygen container away from open flames (e.g. fireplaces, candles). Be alert for oxygen leaking from its container (hissing sound) O open windows to clear out excess oxygen. Don:t leave oLygen cords lying around in places where someBody can trip over them. Store oxygen containers in an upright position O don:t let them fall horiPontally. Don:t adapt a 2 hole electrical outlet to accommodate a R prong plug. Do not use an extension cord to plug in oxygen. If area around client:s nose Becomes dry and irritated, apply padding or a water Based product Ie.g. K Y Jelly) Do not use oil based products (e.g. petroleum jelly). Paralysis Paralysis is a complete loss of strength in an affected limb or muscle group. While it can affect a single body part, it usually affects an entire body region. The types of paralysis are classified by region: Monoplegia, which affects only one limb; Diplegia, which affects the same body region on both sides (e.g. both arms); H emiplegia, which affects one side of the body; Paraplegia, which affects both legs and the trunk; and, Q uadraplegia, which affects all four limbs and the trunk. 23
C auses/Risk F actors stroke tumor trauma Multiple Sclerosis Cerebral Palsy metabolic disorder herniated disc Rheumatoid Arthritis
Symptoms/Consequences loss of movement in affected parts. pain numbness & tingling speech difficulties balance problems vision changes breathing difficulties loss of bowel & bladder function loss of sexual function
T reatment treatment of underlying cause physical therapy to strengthen muscles that still work use of assistive devices such as canes, braces, wheelchairs occupational therapy to develop tools & techniques to facilitate self care depending on the impairment, assistance may be needed (e.g. Respiratory Therapist Counselor, Social Worker, Speech Pathologist)
How Home C are Assistants C an H elp Seniors W ith Paralysis provide emotional and psychological support; encourage senior to undergo therapies recommended (e.g. physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy); assist with exercises or perform range of motion exercises to maintain muscle function; follow bladder and bowel training programs; use devices such as pillows and footboards to maintain good body alignment at all times; give good skin care to prevent bed sores; turn and position the senior at least every two hours; prevent burns by ensuring temperatures are within safe limits; and, prevent falls.
C ancer Cancer is any malignant growth or tumor, which is caused by abnormal and uncontrolled cell division. It may spread to other parts of the body through the lymphatic system or via the blood stream. Many types of cancer are curable, if caught early. Treatment varies depending on the type and classification of cancer an individual has. People diagnosed with the disease make the choice as to whether or not to undergo treatment. Some choose to let the disease run its course, without medical intervention to prolong life, whereas others will opt for any and all types of treatment available. It is an individual decision and the inflicted person needs to Be supported in whichever option heGshe chooses. Home Care Assistants need to respect their clients: wishes and not pass judgment on the choices they make.
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C auses/Risk F actors General risk factors: food/diet genetics hormones radiation tobacco physical activity/weight workplace/environment
Symptoms/Consequences General Symptoms: a lump or thickening in the breast or testicles a change in a wart or mole a skin sore or a persistent sore throat that doesn't heal a change in bowel or bladder habits a persistent cough or coughing blood constant indigestion difficulty swallowing change in bowel or bladder habits unusual bleeding or vaginal discharge chronic fatigue Consequences: some forms of cancer are fatal some forms of cancer are curable some cancers can be put into remission some cancers are painful
T reatment chemotherapy hormonal therapy radiation surgery pain management combination of above
How Home C are Assistants Should Interact W ith C lients W ho A re Battling C ancer Be yourself and don:t worry aBout whether things are Being done right or wrong. Be a good listener i.e. hear what the client is saying. Let the client take the lead in conversations. It is not necessary that interactions always involve conversation. Silence is okay as it allows clients to collect their thoughts. Try to maintain eye contact with the client. Be careful what emotions and body language you project to avoid upsetting the client. Clients are not seeking advice, so don:t offer any. Don:t say you know how the client feels when you really haven:t eLperienced what heGshe is going through. Don:t visit with the client if you lack control over your own emotions. Bring some levity to the conversation. i.e. Talk about humorous things and other topics. Don:t dwell on the cancer, unless this is what the client wants to talk about. Try to involve clients in as many activities as they would like to Become involved in. Don:t Be a human shield for the client. Kmpathy and concern are the Best “gifts� you can give to clients. E ye Problems Vision can be affected at any age. Sight problems may develop suddenly or they can evolve over a period of years. Two of the more common eye disorders that affect seniors are:
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G laucoma is a disease of the eye, which is marked by increased pressure within the eyeball. If it is left untreated, glaucoma can damage the optic nerve and cause loss of vision. A C ataract is a clouding of the lens of the eye. The majority of cataracts are related to age and take years to develop. If left untreated, cataracts will eventually cause blindness. Disorder
Glaucoma
Cataract
Symptoms
T reatment
difficulty adjusting to dark rooms difficulty focusing double vision tearing of eyes sensitivity to light or glare sudden loss of vision blurred vision seeing white or black spots seeing a halo around light
Can be controlled but not cured with: surgery medication eye drops laser treatments
blurry vision double vision sensitivity to light & glare colours appear “dimmer
surgical removal of lens & implantation of an artificial lens
How Home C are Assistants C an H elp Seniors W ith V ision Problems Encourage them to consult with their Doctor regarding treatment options. Protect their eyes from ultraviolet light. Avoid smoky environments, as smoking increases the rate of cataract formation. Determine to what degree their vision is impaired by asking them to describe how much they can see. Help them to learn Braille, if that is their wish. Become familiar with the techniques for helping the blind. (See Section Four on Communications) E ar Problems The two primary functions of the ear are hearing and balance. Many people experience some hearing loss, as they age, which ranges from mild to total deafness. Common ear problems that can be found in seniors are: Hearing Loss Meniere:s Disease
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H earing Loss C auses damage to the nerve fibers in the inner ear obstruction or infection in the ear canal perforation of ear drum
Symptoms difficulty hearing sounds hearing the wrong words problems hearing in a group setting trouble hearing higher pitched voices responding inappropriately to questions turning up volume on tv, radio or stereo perception that others mumble a lot
T reatment hearing aids are helpful when hearing loss is a result of nerve damage medical treatment is used for most other types of hearing loss (e.g. surgery, medication)
1eniere0s 7isease Meniere's disease is a disorder of the inner ear, which affects balance and hearing. It is characterized by dizziness, loss of hearing in one or both ears and ringing in the ear. C auses Exact cause is unknown but possibilities include: middle ear infection head injury syphilis genetic disposition certain medications
Symptoms intermittent dizziness intermittent hearing loss in one ear intermittent ringing in the ears intermittent feelings of a “plugged� ear nausea vomiting sweating uncontrollable eye movements
T reatment No known cure but treatment is focused on treating the symptoms and lowering the pressure in the middle ear (e.g. medications, surgery, hearing aid)
How Home C are Assistants C an H elp Seniors W ith H earing Problems Be aware that hearing loss is a deBilitating condition and can affect seniors: relationships, social involvement, emotional stability and communication. Encourage seniors to seek medical attention quickly if an ear infection is suspected. Be aware of senior:s tendency to lose Balance and Be ready to provide immediate assistance. Check to ensure the senior has his/her hearing aid turned on. Learn the techniques for communicating with the hearing impaired. (See Section Four.)
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Common H ealth C are M istakes M ade by Seniors The most common health care mistakes made by seniors are being presented to enable Home Care Assistants to help seniors deal with their health problems. The goals are: to improve communications between seniors and their doctors; help seniors gain a better understanding of how the health care system works; and, to inform seniors what they can do themselves to stay healthy Following are the most common healthcare mistakes seniors make: not asking family/friends for help; not participating in prevention programs; not seeking medical help when warning signs occur; not having one main Doctor who oversees the medical treatment plan; not taking measures to guard against falls; not understanding information the Doctor has given to them; not having a plan for managing medications; not discussing intimate health problems with their Doctor or health care provider; not accepting assistive devices which will help them cope with the aging process; and, not giving up driving when doing so is no longer safe.
Summary Aging brings with it a series of chronic conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease and nervous system disorders. The development of these conditions is a normal process and can inflict many seniors. While chronic problems are not usually life threatening, they do affect lifestyle, functionality and sense of purpose. They bring with them physical, mental and emotional challenges, the likes of which many seniors have never faced before. Learning to accept these unwanted realities takes time, patience and understanding. Along with chronic conditions, seniors are also susceptible to more serious and life threatening diseases, such as cancer, which can be devastating to them and their families. By being supportive and knowledgeable about the causes, symptoms and treatment of these conditions/diseases, Home Care Assistants can help their clients cope and ease into their golden years with as little stress as possible.
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