October 2017
PATIENT POWER Health Info for Seniors, Caregivers and Health Pros
Can U Hear Me? If you’re not sure (even when we yell) or have other ear issues, like tingling, contact an audiologist, the hearing experts. October is Nat’l Audiology Awareness Month.
Test 4 Depression Oct. 5th is Nat’l Depression Screening Day. If you’re ready to admit you’re feeling down, or suspect a loved one is suffering, take this quick online screening.
photo: heraldpost via Flickr.com
Check Your Rx
Recognizing Domestic Violence in Seniors
Up to 98,000 Americans die from medication errors each year. Seniors often can’t read labels correctly due to vision issues. More than half don’t take meds according to MD’s orders. Some have trouble swallowing. Some can’t afford what’s prescribed. Make sure to admit to doctor or loved one any problems. There are solutions, from generics to financial assistance.
It took over 20 years in my career of reporting for/about older adults before I heard about them facing domestic violence. It happened while reporting on PTSD in WWII vets. Wives age 70+ let me know how verbal, even physical, abuse occurred as their beloveds of over half-century let their memories come barreling up front, instead of staying hidden.
For info on more health-related holidays, check Ginger marketing guide.
Patient Power
Marks’ holiday
Few domestic abusers stay quiet for any length of time. The Nat’l Census of Domestic Violence Services (NCDVS) tracked ONE DAY last year and found almost 73,000 victims were served overall that day, including about 20,000 hotline calls.
Seniors of All Ages A “senior” victim of domestic violence can be a 50-year-old still at home with teens…and the kids and/or partner can be abusive. Or WM Medical Communications
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Famous Birthdays Still Going Strong… …alive or in our memories • Julie Andrews: Oct. 1, 1935, Singer, Actress, Award-winner • Ray Kroc: Oct. 5, 1902, Led McDonald’s to global chain. • Jerome Robbins: Oct. 11, 1918, Dancer, award-winning choreographer • Carrie Fisher: Oct. 21, 1956, Actress, author
October 2017
it might be those trapped in nursing homes or even their own beds. The general number of 1 in 10 elders suffering abuse refers scientifically to those starting at age 60! As dementia sets in, so can abuse. One study showed nearly 89% of dementia patients experienced psychological abuse, 20% were physically abused and 30% were neglected.
Recognize and ACKNOWLEDGE Violence… …whether against you or a loved one. Check various sites and you’ll discover not all abuse is physical, though that’s what we think of most often when talking domestic “violence.” Consider these warning signs:
• Benjamin Netanyahu: Oct. 21, 1949, Israeli Prime Minister
Physical—Visible marks from punches, burns, cuts, etc.
• Jane Pauley: Oct. 31, 1950, American journalist
Emotional—A loved one seems depressed, very nervous, becomes less alert, withdraws from regular activities.
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Financial—Issues start arising re paying bills, showing debt and other financial irregularities. The abuser may have insisted on controlling money. Neglect—Is the home getting dirtier (e.g., overflowing laundry, dishes piling in sink)? Does the senior’s hair seem unclean or skin show bedsores? Is the pill box or bottle(s) unopened? Verbal—This is often the most common. Grandma’s dating and a new partner’s constantly belittling her, telling her to shut up, angers quickly (even over minor things). Remember, those seniors dropping into Alzheimer’s or who’ve always lived with communication disabilities may not be able to call for help or even tell loved ones who ask questions. So be alert!
Wendy Meyeroff is president of WM Medical Communications, based in Baltimore, MD, but serving clients throughout the U.S., Canada and overseas for over 20 years. Her writing/ghostwriting specializes in America’s aging population in print and then one of the first called online. See her at www.wmmedcomm.com
Patient Power
Quick call: the Nat’l Sexual Assault hotline, 800-656-4673. Also consider providing help, personal or financial. Almost 12,000 requests for help went unanswered the date explored by NCDVS ‘cause there weren’t enough resources. About 66% of those callers were seeking shelter…and it wasn’t available. I trust this gives you a few ideas. Don’t forget to explore online, ask family, friends, neighbors, even health professionals. WM Medical Communications
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