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G eising er orthopedic su rg eon offers
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Press Enterprise n Friday, August 17, 2018
Geisinger doctor offers advice on joint pain By Shawn H. Stair
Press Enterprise Special Editions Editor
DANVILLE — Joint pain — particularly in the knees and hips — may be common as people get older, but you shouldn’t suffer in silence. There are things you can do, as well as many nonsurgical and surgical treatments, that can help. For people over 50, the most common cause of joint pain is arthritis, inflammation and stiffness of the joints. According to Geisinger orthopedic surgeon Dr. David Maish, a hip and knee specialist, the consensus in the medical community was once that arthritis is caused by wear and tear, but it’s now seen as a normal and unavoidable part of the aging process. However, everyone ages differently. Other causes of joint pain include tears in the meniscus of the knee, its shock-absorbing cartilage; osteonecrosis, the death of bone cells due to decreased blood flow that can lead to the collapse of areas of bone, most often in the hips and knees; bone breaks that don’t show up on an X-ray; and ligament tears or sprains. Particularly in older adults, the latter often are caused by falls.
What you can do There are things you can do to help manage joint pain. Maish said that while excessive weight doesn’t cause joint problems, it can make you feel worse. “Exercising, avoiding depression and keeping weight down to a (body mass index) below 30 can help reduce symptoms,” said Maish. “And, for overall health, it’s always a good idea to eat a healthy diet.”
Special to Press Enterprise
Geisinger orthopedic surgeon Dr. David Maish, a hip and knee specialist, consults with a patient. and there are medications with science behind them that can manage the pain. Those include acetaminophen — the active ingredient in Tylenol — and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen and celecoxib. “In 2018, everyone agrees that we should avoid addictive medications like opioids,” Maish said. Maish noted there are several popular supplements taken to treat joint pain that are generally safe, without toxicity concern, and may have a placebo effect. But those compounds like turmeric, glucosamine and chondroitin don’t have solid scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness. “Those supplements are no longer recommended by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. They’re safe and only hurt the pocketbook,” said Maish. “But if you take
them and they help, that’s great.” Typical approaches for joint injuries are rest, physical therapy and knee braces.
Knee injections Another option for knees are injections, usually of the steroid hormone cortisone,
which may help relieve pain and inflammation. Maish said cortisone shots are normally a prerequisite step before surgery. Another possible type of injection is viscosupplementation using hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring sugar molecule in the form of a thick gel that lubricates parts of the body such as muscles and joints as well as connective tissue like the skin. “It’s a greasy fluid that restores lubrication and can make people feel better,” Maish said. “However, it is no longer recommended by the academy. Its effectiveness is in a gray zone, but it can be offered.” Platelet-rich plasma is a new type of injection using stem cells. In the process, fat cells are isolated and injected into the knee. “This regenerative medicine is an innovative new
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who had a bad experience with a treatment option that normally works for most, they are more likely to unnecessarily suffer with pain and problems that could be dealt with. Even post-surgery, there is often more that can be done, he added. Maish advised speaking with specialists at a medical system like Geisinger, where there are whole teams dedicated to various parts of the body. And it can help to get a second opinion from someone who may ofTalk to your team fer a fresh perspective. Maish said it’s important “If you aren’t happy with to be open and honest with the outcome, have someone your medical team about else take a look at things,” what you are experiencing. he said. “They may think they have tried everything, but, Shawn H. Stair can be chances are, they haven’t,” reached at 570-387-1234, ext. he said. 1300, or specialeditions@prIf people know someone essenterprise.net.
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Management options In the case of arthritis and meniscus tears, the medical management options are similar. Often, the most important thing to do is avoid doing things that hurt. But people usually are resistant to change their activities, so it can be hard to adapt, Maish said. In addition, physical therapy can sometimes help,
technology to help people without turning to surgery,” Maish said. He noted that Geisinger is currently in discussions with a company to bring this option to the health system. If these treatments fail to produce sufficient results, then there are various joint-preserving or joint-replacing procedures available. Maish stressed people should know that surgery doesn’t necessarily mean joint replacement.
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Press Enterprise n Friday, August 17, 2018
Important to get regular physical activity
Guest Columnist Don’t let your home be at risk: Take steps to protect family, plan for future
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s there anything that can be done to preserve your assets and shelter them from the nursing home and estate recovery? YES! By following the rules, having the proper documents in place, and planning carefully (whether in advance or in response to an unanticipated need for care), you can often protect assets from being totally depleted by nursing home costs and subjecting them to estate recovery. Planning is the key. Make sure you are taking the right steps. One misstep could jeopardize your assets and your eligibility for some or all of these benefits. • The dreaded penalty period When assessing your eligibility for benefits, the state will look back five years to see if you have gifted anything away during that time frame. If you have, you will have to serve a penalty before receiving benefits. What is a gift? A gift is anything given away for less than fair market value. Let’s say you own a home worth $100,000. If you “soldâ€? your house to your kids for $1 in March 2016, you have gifted away the house and will incur a penalty for that gift if you apply for Medicaid before March 2021. Your penalty is determined by taking the value of the gift ($100,000) and dividing it by the average daily rate of a nursing home in Pennsylvania (currently $330.19). This will give you the number of days of ineligibility — approximately 302 days, before you can get medical assistance benefits. The individual in the nursing home must spend down all other available resources and then begin serving his 302 days of penalty. Somehow, he will
Marissa Marshall and Marianne Kreisher need to figure out how to privately pay for those 302 days. What do you do if this is your situation? Talk to a certified elder law attorney. There are options to enable you to cover the penalty period. The use of long term care insurance, DRA-compliant annuities and other strategies may be available, and a certified elder law attorney who specializes in Medicaid is in the best position to evaluate your circumstances and suggest a plan of action. The Law Offices of Kreisher & Gregorowicz has two certified elder law attorneys, Marianne Kreisher and Marissa Marshall, with the expertise to make sure you are receiving all the benefits available and taking advantage of the various strategies to protect your assets before and even after you enter the nursing home. Attorneys Kreisher and Marshall provide home, hospital or nursing home visits and also have evening hours by appointment. They can be reached at 570-784-5211, ext. 2. The views expressed in this column are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of Press Enterprise Inc.
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According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, regular physical activity is one of the most important things older adults can do to promote their long-term health. The CDC recommends that men and women age 65 or older who are generally fit and have no limiting health conditions need at least two
hours and 30 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity, such as brisk walking, each week. In addition, such people should perform strengthtraining activities that work all major muscle groups at least two days per week. While many fit older men and women with no preexisting health conditions are capable of these activities, those able to push them-
selves a little further can opt for 75 minutes per week of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity, such as jogging or running, combined with the same strength-training regimen. A combination of moderate- and vigorous-intensity aerobic activity coupled with strength training
may also provide adequate physical activity for aging men and women. Before beginning a new exercise regimen, men and women should consult with their physicians to discuss any limitations they may have and how to manage those risks while still being physically active.
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Press Enterprise n Friday, August 17, 2018
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Senses of smell and taste change with age
Guest Columnist Earwax: Why do we have it, how do we take care of it?
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ne of the most common questions I am asked is, “What can I do about my earwax?” I have heard from many of my patients unique ways they have for managing it. Most I would not recommend, such as keys, hair pins, toothpicks, knitting needles, etc. Earwax in the medical Lauren community is known as cerumen. It is a naturally-produced substance in the outer third of the ear canal. Its purpose is to protect the ear canal from foreign bodies, infection and trauma. Blockage or impaction of earwax occurs when the wax gets pushed down into the bony portion of the ear canal where wax is not produced. Most often, this occurs with the use of Q-tips, bobby pins, rolled up tissues/napkins, etc. They may bring some of the wax out, but, more than likely, they will have pushed some wax down into the canal and can tear the delicate skin there. People who wear hearing aids and earplugs are more likely to have a wax blockage. When your ears become blocked with wax, you may experience difficulty hearing, ear pain, itchiness, ringing in the ears, dizziness or a “full” or “plugged” feeling in the ears. Your doctor or audiologist can look in your ears with an otoscope to determine if you have a buildup of earwax. If it is found you have wax impaction, there are a few ways to deal with
it. If you have ever had a hole (perforation) in your eardrum or if you have ever had surgery in your ears, do not attempt to remove it yourself. See your doctor to have it taken care of. If you are sure you do not have a hole in your eardrum, you may attempt to remove the wax yourself. Here are a few home remedies: Gromel • Over-thecounter wax removal drops • Bulb syringe to gently squirt warm water into ear • Use of warm mineral or olive oil to soften the wax • Use of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide Ear candling is not a recommended way to remove wax. There is no proven benefit in the removal of earwax, and it can cause serious injury. In summary, earwax is a protective substance. We should all have some wax in our ears. It usually runs out by itself into the bowl of your ears (where cotton swabs can be used). In general, the best way to prevent earwax problems is to leave earwax alone. Call The Hearing Place at 570-759-1113 if you suspect hearing loss due to wax. Remember; never put anything smaller than your elbow in your ears! Lauren Gromel is an audiologist with The Hearing Place in Berwick. The views expressed in this column are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of Press Enterprise Inc.
Continuing to use one’s sense of smell and taste by cooking, gardening, trying new flavors and experimenting with different aro-
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Aging comes with several sensory changes, many of which people expect. Loss of hearing or diminishing vision are widely associated with aging. But one’s senses of smell and taste may diminish with aging as well. The senses of taste and smell work in concert. The sense of smell is vital to personal health, not only because inhaling pleasant aromas can provide comfort and stress relief through aromatherapy and help trigger important memories, but also because smell enables a person to detect the dangers of smoke, gas, spoiled food, and more. The National Institute on Aging says that, as a person gets older, his or her sense of smell may fade, and that will also affect taste. The Mayo Clinic says some loss of taste and smell is natural and can begin as early as age 60. Adults have about 9,000 taste buds sensing sweet, salty, sour, bitter and umami flavors, or those corresponding to the flavor of glutamates. Many tastes are linked to odors that begin at the nerve endings in the lining of the nose. Medline says the number of taste buds decreases as one ages, and that remaining taste buds may begin to shrink. Sensitivity to the five tastes also begins to decline. This can make it more difficult to distinguish between flavors. Similarly, especially after age 70, smell can diminish due to a loss of nerve endings and less mucus in the nose. With the combination of the reduction of these important sensory nerves in the nose and on the tongue, loss of smell and taste can greatly affect daily life. Changes in these senses can contribute to feelings of depression, diminish one’s enjoyment of food and cause harmful conditions, such as extreme weight loss from disinterest in food to problems associated with overusing salt or sugar. Although aging is often to blame, loss of smell and taste also may be tied to early symptoms of Parkinson’s disease or Alzheimer’s disease. Cancer treatments, medications, lack of saliva, colds, flu, and other factors may contribute to sensory
mas may help slow their decline. Although age-related loss of taste and smell cannot be reversed, some such cases may be treatable.
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Continuing to use one’s sense of smell and taste by cooking, gardening, trying new flavors and experimenting with different aromas may help slow their decline. loss. Changing medications or treatments may help. It’s important to bring up diminished flavors or smells with a doctor to rule out something more serious and to determine what might help restore pleasure from smells and flavors. An otolaryngologist, or a doctor who specializes in diseases of the ears, nose and throat, may be able to help fix the problem, though some people may be referred to a neurologist or another specialist.
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Press Enterprise n Friday, August 17, 2018
Guest Columnist Elder abuse: One call can save day
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o you know that ap- self-neglect: unusual proximately 10 per- weight loss, malnutrition, cent of adults age 60 dehydration, bed sores, and older have experienced unsanitary living condiphysical abuse, psychologi- tions, dirty/unbathed, uncal or verbal abuse, sexual suitable clothing for the weather, unsafe abuse, neglect or living conditions financial exploita(no heat, running tion? Older adults water, faulty eleclose approximately trical wiring) and $2.9 billion a year desertion of older from financial adult at a public exploitation. This often results in a Kathi Lynn place Financial: sigcomplete loss of nificant withdrawals from savings earned through their decades of hard work. accounts; valuable items or cash missing from home; Those who survive any form of abuse often go into suspicious changes in wills depression. They withdraw or powers of attorney; additional names being added from all social interaction and often blame themselves to checking accounts or credit cards; purchase for what happened. Sadly, of unnecessary services, they are three times more goods or subscriptions; and likely to die prematurely. Add to this the opioid cri- ATM withdrawals when older adult is bedridden sis. Older adults rank the • Prevent isolation of highest in being prescribed opioid medications which, older adults by visiting older family, friends and in turn, makes their medineighbors and ask how cine cabinet a target for they are doing. theft. That often leads the • Be that special angel addicted thief to then target the life savings of the older and provide caregivers adult and often become vio- with a much-needed relent when denied access to spite break. • If you work in a bank, medication and/or money. be alert to large or sudden No one can stop elder abuse alone — it takes all of withdrawals of cash. • If you provide reus together to take a stand. ligious services, give a Here are some things talk about elder abuse at we can all do to protect our most valuable asset — your next service and put a message about elder older adults who gave us freedom and the good life abuse in your bulletin. • Volunteer to be a we live today: friendly visitor to a home• Learn the warning bound older adult. signs of elder abuse and Above all, when you neglect. Physical: unexplained suspect elder abuse, pick bruises, welts, scars, bro- up the phone and call the ken bones, sprains, dislo- Columbia/Montour Aging cations, broken eyeglasses Office at 570-784-9272. We and marks on wrists are a are on-call 24 hours a day, few most commonly found 365 days a yea (366 in a leap year). One call can not only Emotional: older save the day of an older adult feeling threatened, adult — it can save their life. belittled or controlled by Kathi Lynn is director an individual Sexual: bruises around of the Columbia/Montour Aging Office Inc. breasts or genitals, unThe views expressed explained vaginal/anal in this column are those bleeding, sexual disease of the writer and do not and torn, stained or necessarily reflect those of bloody underclothing Press Enterprise Inc. Caregiver neglect/
Fainting tied to blood clots drop in blood pressure and more efficiently, physi• certain cancers heart-rhythm disturbanc• cardiovascular disease cal activity, leg elevation, Falls are one of the es. • bed rest that causes anticoagulants, and pneugreatest risk factors for matic compression can blood to pool Risk factors injury among the aging • sitting for long periods help prevent the formation population. When falls Certain risk factors put of time of clots. Because PE can are attributed to fainting people at a higher chance be life-threatening, people • smoking spells, people may be very for DVT and PE. These inexperiencing fainting or • being overweight eager to get to the source clude: Use of compression other symptoms are urged of the fall. Doctors have • prior surgery stockings to move blood to speak with their doctors. found that blood clots may attribute to fainting in the elderly. Information published in the journal Clinical Geriatric Medicine found that the elderly are at a higher risk of blood clots because of their reduced mobility. Blood clots may result in deep vein thrombosis, or DVT, and could lead to a pulmonary embolism if left untreated. DVT is a common problem involving the veins of the legs. Blood poolA Senior Living Community Location ing in the legs may cause Focused Exclusivley a blood clot to form in the coming to deep veins of the lower leg, on Alzheimer’s and Montoursville! impairing blood flow back to the heart. A pulmonary Other Types of Dementia embolism, or PE, occurs when a clot dislodges from the leg veins and travels www.heritagespringspa.com | 570-522-3671 through the bloodstream to reach the heart and lungs. Located at 327 Farley Cir., Lewisburg, PA, 17837 According to the health site Aging Care, as many as one million Americans suffer from blood clots every year, often resulting in hospitalization. While swelling in the legs, cramping in the lower legs, skin color changes, and warmth of the skin where the clot is located can signal a probMaking all of the funeral arrangements in lem, symptoms of a PE advance is one last wonderful gift you can give may vary greatly. Shortness of breath, chest pain, the loved ones who will be left behind. By freeing cough, and rapid or irreguthem from the burden of many details, you give lar heartbeat can all occur, says The Mayo Clinic. them time to do the work of grieving and caring Researchers are finding for one another. Let us help you remember your that, in some cases, fainting episodes also may be loved ones without all of those decisions. indicative of a PE. Italian researchers revealed that, among 560 patients hospitalized for a first-time fainting spell, one in six had a PE. People who are experiencing fainting spells should be on the radar for other symptoms of PE, FUNERAL HOME and advises the American ColCREMATION SERVICES, INC. lege of Chest Physicians. 1024 Market St., Berwick Serving Greater Berwick Area for Over 50 Years However, it’s important to note that fainting can be atJames L. Hinckley, Jr. - Supervisor tributed to dehydration, a Courtesy of Metro Creative Graphics
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Press Enterprise n Friday, August 17, 2018
Develop healthy Guest Columnist habits for brain How to travel with someone with dementia or Alzheimer’s
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ject that brings familiaridementia or Alzheimer’s diagno- ty to them, make sure you sis doesn’t neces- have it while traveling. • Travel during the sarily mean the end of all day travel, but it does mean Daytime travel is taking extra precautions often easier and making for seniors extra prepaliving with rations to dementia, as ensure a safe it illuminates and enjoyable surroundings experience for and allows for all. For those increased visseniors who ibility. This, in are able, travturn, makes el is part of a surroundings healthy balfeel more faanced lifestyle miliar. Many in preventing Andrew seniors also and slowing Hefflinger have problems the onset of seeing and dementia. reading signs at night, Griswold Home Care offers some tips for care- which can increase the likelihood of wandering. givers who are traveling • Place an info card with someone living with Before you begin dementia: • Determine if travel traveling, write out a note card with your loved is appropriate one’s name and informaTravel may simply be tion and the name of the impossible for some, including those with Stage hotel or address where 6 or 7 Alzheimer’s. Signs they will be staying. that travel is impractica- Place this card in their ble include high fall risk, purse or pocket. It may be useful if they wander off unstable medical conditions, severe mood swings or become lost. • Keep essentials or agitation and aggresclose by sion. Before you embark Pack a bag with the eson the trip, evaluate whether travel is right for sentials, including legal documents like identificayour loved one. tion cards and passports, • Simplify the trip a fresh change of clothes, Look for ways to simitinerary, prescriptions plify travel, such as takand medical information, ing direct flights, avoidfood allergies and emering unfamiliar modes gency contacts. Keep this of transportation and bag close by at all times, keeping surroundings whether in the car or on familiar to the largest a plane. extent possible. It’s also Andrew Hefflinger a good idea to cap total travel time to four hours. is with Griswold Home Care’s NorCenPenn Of• Stick with the fafice. For more informamiliar tion, visit www.griswoldUnfamiliar circumhomecare.com or call stances can give rise to 570-752-5552. mood swings, fear and The views expressed anxiety. For example, if your loved one has never in this column are those ridden a subway, it’s best of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of to avoid that situation Press Enterprise Inc. now. If they have an ob-
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Cognitive decline is a condition that is often associated with aging, but even middle-aged people can experience memory loss or cognition issues. The Alzheimer’s Association says that more than five million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. By 2050, that number could rise to as high as 16 million people. Although there is no definitive way to prevent dementia, living a long, vibrant life may be possible by encouraging some healthy habits for the brain. It is never too late or too early to begin health and lifestyle changes.
Exercise Becoming more active can improve brain volume, reduce risk for dementia and improve thinking and memory skills. The journal Neurology found that older people who vigorously exercise performed better on cognitive tests than others of the same age, placing them at the equivalent of 10 years younger. Increased blood flow that occurs with physical activity may help generate new neurons in the hippocampus, an area of the brain involved with learning and memory. The Harvard Medical School says aerobic exercise may help improve brain tissue by improving blood flow and reducing the chances of injury to the brain from cholesterol buildup in blood vessels.
Quit smoking The Alzheimer’s Association indicates that evidence shows smoking increases the risk of cognitive decline. Smoking can impair blood flow to the brain and cause small strokes that may damage blood vessels.
Eat healthy foods Foods that are good for the heart and blood vessels also are good for the brain.
Seniors can include healthy lifestyle habits, such as exercise and balanced eating, to reduce the risk of dementia and other neurological issues.
These include fresh fruits and vegetables, whole
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Press Enterprise n Friday, August 17, 2018
Guest Columnist At back-to-school time, do not forget physical exam
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problems that could be reparing your easily corrected with child to go back glasses or contacts may to school can be result in poor grades and a hectic process. In the classroom frustration. midst of buying new Another important clothes and school suprole of a plies, it is family doctor important to is to stay conremember nected with that schedulhis or her paing a backtients and be to-school familiar with physical exam their health is one of the history. If a most imporpatient is adtant things mitted to the you can do to hospital, the ensure your child is ready ROBIN SPANGLER family doctor can provide to begin the valuable insight and supupcoming year. porting medical records Annual physicals allow a physician to stay up that may lead to more to date on a child’s health informed treatment decisions. as he or she grows and As children become give parents and children a valuable opportunity to teenagers and begin to ask questions. A back-to- deal with new social and school exam can provide physical issues, an annual checkup gives them a the perfect opportunity chance to discuss subjects to ensure your child is current on his or her vac- they may not feel comfortable addressing with cinations. Many schools parents. These topics require children be vacinclude smoking, drugs, cinated against diseases ranging from the measles alcohol, sex and behavioral changes. A doctor’s and mumps to chickeninput on such subjects pox and tetanus before can serve as another posithey can begin classes. While most vaccinations tive voice in the life of a child to point him or her are administered before in the right direction. the age of 2, an annual An annual physical visit to the family doctor ensures your child is exam can be a beneficial visit for you, your child up to date and aware of new vaccines that protect and your family doctor. against diseases such as Be sure to include it as part of your back-tomeningitis. Developing a relation- school routine each year. Robin Spangler, M.D., ship with a family doctor is a family medicine can help shape a child’s physician affiliated with health habits as he or UPMC Susquehanna Sunshe enters adulthood. bury. Her office is at 330 Annual physicals help N. 12th St., Sunbury. To doctors recognize deschedule an appointment, veloping medical issues before they become seri- please call 570-286-0303. The views expressed ous. One example of this is eyesight. Research has in this column are those linked poor eyesight with of the writer and do not poor performance in the necessarily reflect those of classroom. Common eye Press Enterprise Inc.
Reduce confusion after surgery and learn more about to determine if a patient fore surgery. Researchers in anesthe- these conditions and how actually has POCD is to The longer you live the conduct a mental test be- sia care continue to study Please see REDUCE page 11 more likely you will develop a medical condition that requires surgery or a procedure. In fact, half of all people 65 and older will have at least one surgical procedure in their lifetime. And along with common potential side effects from anesthesia during surgery such as nausea, chills or muscle aches and itching, older patients are at risk for confusion or short-term memory loss. But, rest assured, there are steps seniors can take to minimize these side effects. “The aging brain is more vulnerable to anesthesia and surgery, but there is research that provides guidance to decrease these risks,” said James D. Grant, M.D., M.B.A., FASA, president of the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA). “Older patients should talk with their physician anesthesiologist prior to surgery about Free Hearing their entire medical history Exams and and any memory problems they’ve had in the past, Consultations so an anesthesia plan can be developed that ensures Lowest Price their safety and reduces the chance of side effects or Guarantee complications.” Two anesthesia-related Discover better Rechargeable surgery risks more comhearing at mon in older people inHearing clude: Instruments • Postoperative deliri(never buy batteries again!) um — This is a temporary condition that causes the Free Lifetime patient to be confused, disoriented, unaware of their After Care surroundings and have Program problems with memory Here at Mansfield Hearing Aid Center, our clinics are and paying attention. It equipped with the latest technology for evaluating and may not start until a few State of the Art diagnosing each patient’s specific type of hearing loss days after surgery, comes Audiometric enabling us to provide the most appropriate hearing and goes, and usually solutions. We offer the latest in hearing aid technology from Testing disappears after about a Signia, the leading manufacturer in the hearing aid industry week. Equipment and will only make a recommendation based on your • Postoperative cogniindividual hearing loss, lifestyle and any other factors that are C A L L TO D AY FO R YO U R tive dysfunction (POCD) unique to you and your situation. If hearing aids are recommended, we offer a 30-day trial period to ensure you FRE E hearing evalu ation — This is a less well unhave the most appropriate hearing aids for your hearing loss. and consu ltation! derstood but more serious condition that can 1901 Columbia Boulevard lead to long-term memory loss and make it difficult Suite 3 Bloomsburg, PA 17815 to learn, concentrate and think. Because some of these problems are already common in elderly people and may be the sign of an Denny Guffey Mackenzie Boucher underlying long-term cogwww.mansfieldhearing.com Patient Care Coordinator BC-HIS nitive decline, the only way Courtesy of Brandpoint
Mansfield
Hearing Aid Center
570-317-2817
Toll Free: 1-800-264-5685
Press Enterprise n Friday, August 17, 2018
Brain
Guest Columnist Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s
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dealing with Alzheimer’s ith one in 10 and other related demenpeople ages 65 tia. With the opening of our or older suffernew facility in Montoursing from Alzheimer’s or ville in May of 2019, we other types of dementia, the need for memory care recognize the need of support in the comis greater than munity that ever. It’s imwe serve. With portant to note all the knowlthat these indiedge that we viduals require have amassed different types over the years, of care than we are able to the average give you some senior populahelpful tips tion. This can for caring for be a devastatloved ones with ing burden for Alzheimer’s. families going Colleen Fritz • A person through the is more than struggle of livjust their memories or ing with a loved one suftheir specific ability to do fering from Alzheimer’s. The first step in under- certain things. Remember, you are the link between standing how to care for a loved one with Alzheim- your loved one’s identity er’s is to understand how as a whole, including emotion concerns, and spirithe disease progresses. tual or social needs. There are three stages to • Keep it simple. Your Alzheimer’s. The early loved one may get overstage is categorized with lapses in memory, such as whelmed. Just remember forgetting familiar words to keep conversations and tasks simple. It is also or locations of everyday helpful to remember one objects. At this stage, a direction at a time, such person will still function as, “wash your face” and independently. mimic what the person is In the mild stage, you may notice the person with supposed to do. • If your loved one is Alzheimer’s confusing angry or upset with you, words, getting frustrated or angry or acting in unex- don’t take it personally. pected ways, such as refus- Remember that quality of time together is better ing to bathe. Damage to nerve cells in the brain can that quantity. • Avoid conversations make it difficult to express thoughts and perform rou- about the “here and now” and instead focus on tine tasks. This stage can pleasant memories. last for many years. • Consider your loved In the final or late stage of the disease, individuals one’s interests and discus lose the ability to respond what they might enjoy doing. to their environment, to Colleen Fritz, RN, carry on a conversation and, eventually, to control PCHA, is the executive dimovement. It is important rector of Heritage Springs to note that these individ- Memory Care in Lewisburg. The views expressed uals may need around the in this column are those clock care. of the writer and do not At Heritage Springs necessarily reflect those of Memory Care, we know Press Enterprise Inc. all too well the realities of
Continued from page 7 grains, fish-based proteins, unsaturated fats, and foods containing omega-3 fatty acids. Neurologists state that, while research on diet and cognitive function is limited, diets, such as Mediterranean and Mediterranean-DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension), may contribute to a lower risk of cognitive issues.
Consume caffeine Caffeine may help boost memory performance and brain health. A Journal of Nutrition study found people ages 70 and older who consumed more caffeine scored better on tests of mental function than those who consumed less caffeine. Caffeine may help improve attention span, cognitive function and feelings of well-being. Information from Psychology Today also indicates caffeine may help in the storage of dopamine, which can reduce feelings of depression and anxiety. In addition, compounds in cocoa and coffee beans may improve vascular health and help repair cellular damage due to high antioxidant levels.
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Hours: 8am-4:30pm Monday thru Friday Business hours phone: (570) 784-9272 • Toll Free 1-800-598-5001 For Emergencies after business hours, please call (570) 784-0828 or Toll Free: 1-866-448-0141 Senior Centers Benton (570) 925-6533 • Berwick (570) 759-8529 Bloomsburg (570) 784-8615 • Catawissa (570) 356-2219 Montour Co. (570) 275-1466 • Wilburton #2 (570) 339-1386.
Work the brain Engaging in mentally stimulating activities can create new brain connections and more backup circuits, states Dr. Joel Salinas, a neurologist at Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital. Working the brain through puzzles, reading and participating in social situations can stimulate the release of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a molecule essential for repairing brain cells and creating connections between them. A good way to combine these lifestyle factors is to take an exercise class with friends, mixing the social, stimulation and exercise recommendations together. Cognitive decline can come with aging, but through healthy habits, people can reduce their risk of memory loss and dementia.
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10 Press Enterprise n Friday, August 17, 2018
Prepare for visiting elder guests Guest Columnists
Mansfield Hearing Aid Center has a Bloomsburg office
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e are a hearing aid center that focuses on helping everyone live life to the fullest. We have new, state-of-the-art testing equipment to better assist you in reaching your hearing goals. We understand how important it is to enjoy life, and we want you to be hearing to the best of your ability. We want to help you to hear your grandchildren, watch your favorite television shows, talk on the phone or go to those delicious restaurants with your friends and family. Our goal is to provide our patients affordable hearing instruments without sacrificing quality. If you have been putting off getting hearing instruments because of the price, please stop in and visit us. You will be pleasantly surprised to see how much we can do for you. We not only supply quality hearing instruments, but we also carry a full line of custom hearing protection for hunters, swimmers, music lovers, travelers and work place environments. To better assist you, we offer free hearing tests. We also provide free lifetime after care, preventable maintenance, adjustments and cleanings (even emergency visits are free!). We enjoy a stress-free environment with no sales pressure, just honest advice and in-
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Homeowners may find themselves hosting senior guests several times throughout a typical year. These occasions can be wonderful opportunities for making memories, but homeowners may need to take certain precautions to ensure that guests are safe and comfortable. This may involve making some minor modifications around the home. Mobility and comfort needs for seniors may differ those necessary to accommodate other guests. Meeting the needs of senior guests may involve any of the following. • Make sure pathways leading to
and from the home are level, cleared and easy to see. • If possible, add a ramp over stairs that lead to the front door. Ensure handrails are sturdy. • Remove clutter and excess furniture if a guest visiting will be using a walker or a manual/motorized wheelchair. • Remove accent rugs from a home, and be sure that any mats are secured with nonslip material. • Increase lighting in entryways, staircases and hallways, especially areas leading to kitchens or bathrooms. • If guests will be staying overnight, arrange sleeping accommo-
dations on the first floor and/or in a room closest to the bathroom. • Well-placed grab bars in the bathroom can be an asset. See if you can borrow a portable shower seat to make bathing or showering easier for overnight senior guests. • For long-term guests, consider replacing round doorknobs and other pulls with lever-action ones that are easy to grab. • Concessions may need to be made concerning interior temperature, noise levels and television viewing. Several easy modifications can be made to make senior guests feel comfortable when visiting others.
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Denny Guffey formation. If you have been curious about hearing instruments or just want to get to know us better, please call us! Let’s set up your free hearing test today and add you to our family! For more information, call Mansfield Hearing Aid Center at 570-317-2817 (local) or 1-800-264-5685 (toll free) or visit mansfieldhearing.com. Denny Guffey, BCHIS, a Board Certified Hearing Instrument Specialist, is the president and founder of Mansfield Hearing Aid Center, which has offices in Mansfield and 1901 Columbia Blvd., Suite 3, Bloomsburg. The views expressed in this column are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of Press Enterprise Inc.
Our local, reliable and caring professionals in the Trust Department provide the following services: Act as the executor of your estate in the handling of your final affairs. Preserve, grow, and administer your assets for the benefit of your loved ones or a charitable organization. Serve as your Financial Power of Attorney. Manage your personal assets for you. Call the Trust Department and see how we can help. Benton • Berwick • Bloomsburg • Buckhorn Catawissa • Danville • Elysburg • Lightstreet Millville• Orangeville • Scott Township • Wal-Mart®
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Reduce Continued from page 8
to prevent or reduce the effects.
Tips for seniors ASA offers six tips for seniors to help limit confusion after surgery: 1. Ask your physician to conduct a pre-surgery cognitive test — an assessment of your mental function. The physician can use the results as a baseline for comparison after surgery. 2. Be sure your caregiver, a family member or friend stays or can visit with you as you recover, carefully observes your physical and mental activity after surgery and reports anything troubling to your physician. 3. Check with your physician before taking medications after surgery that can affect your nervous system, such as those for anxiety, seizures, muscle spasms or sleep aids. 4. If you wear hearing aids or glasses, ask that they be made available as soon as possible after the procedure. 5. Request a hospital room for recovery with a window if possible, so you can tell whether it’s day or night. 6. If you will be staying overnight in the hospital, pack a family photo, a clock and a calendar, or other familiar objects from home, to help you readjust. In 2016, ASA launched the Perioperative Brain Health Initiative, which has engaged a multidisciplinary group to work with health care providers, payers and the public to create better access to care that minimizes the impact of pre-existing conditions that may impair mental thinking or intellectual abilities, and optimizes patients’ cognitive recovery and their experience before, during and after surgery for adults 65 and older. To learn more about preparing for surgery, visit asahq.org/wscpreparingforsurgery. You also can download and print Preparing for Surgery: An Anesthesia Checklist to take with you to visit your physician anesthesiologist prior to surgery, as well as when you go to the hospital
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or outpatient clinic for the niors and anesthesia is also learn more about the criti- siologists play before, dur- www.asahq.org/WhenSecsurgery. A brochure on se- available for download. To cal role physician anesthe- ing and after surgery, visit ondsCount.
12 Press Enterprise n Friday, August 17, 2018