Telehealth, or telemedicine, is a remote healthcare service provided by doctors and specialists. You can talk with your physician over the phone or via video chat to discuss your symptoms or receive ongoing evaluations. Learning how to navigate remote healthcare can help you make the most of your sessions.

 

 

Essential Technologies and Tools for Virtual Appointments

There’s various video technology that’s beneficial for seniors, including:

• Zoom
• Google Meet
• Microsoft Teams
• Skype

Your doctor will likely recommend which platform you should use to connect with them. You’ll need a reliable internet connection for telehealth appointments to avoid video and audio disruptions during your meeting. Ask your physician how they secure electronic health records and if they offer patient portals where you can access them.

Multi-factor authentication may be necessary to secure your connection. That typically includes a confirmation email, call or text message to verify your identity.

Common Telehealth Services for Seniors

Telemedicine is an effective option as it allows you to attend primary care appointments and consultations from the comfort of your home. You can schedule routine checkups, get your prescriptions refilled or plan follow-up visits after a procedure or hospitalization. Telehealth is especially helpful if you have mobility or transportation issues.

Remote monitoring services are also available via telemedicine. Using wearable devices to take your vitals, you can send information such as your blood pressure, blood sugar, oxygen levels and heart rate to your physician virtually. That service is crucial if you have a chronic disease like diabetes, heart disease or hypertension.

Other telehealth services include:

• Counseling
• Physical therapy
• Caregiver support
• Urgent care

Preparing for Your First Telehealth Appointment

Set up your technology: Make sure you have an established internet connection with enough broadband to support clear audio and video. Contact your provider to inquire if your current service is suitable for telehealth. Select a device that suits your needs, whether it’s a desktop computer tablet or smartphone.

Practice using the platform: Download the appropriate app from the Apple Store if you use an iPhone or iPad or Google Play if you own an Android device. You may need to go to a website and log in if your provider doesn’t use an app for virtual sessions. Practice accessing the platform and starting a video or audio conference ahead of time so you can troubleshoot any issues. Doing so can support efficiency during your appointment.

Gather health information: Compile a list of your symptoms, medication and questions so you have it ready if your physician requires it. Having your medical records on hand also reduces your chance of forgetting important details your doctor may need for a diagnosis.

Find the right setting: A quiet, well-lit space is the ideal setting for a telehealth appointment. Eliminating auditory and visual distractions allows for a productive meeting so your physician can provide a personalized care plan. Avoid backlighting as it makes it difficult to see your face clearly on camera. Turn off your TV and radio and close windows to eliminate background noise.

Involving Family and Caregivers in Telehealth Visits

Ask a family member, friend or caregiver to help you prepare for a telemedicine appointment if you’re unsure how to get started. Involving your loved ones can also support positive health outcomes and strengthen communication between you, your family and your doctors. Your caregivers may also provide additional insight into your symptoms and treatment, which is crucial for optimized care. Work with your loved ones to practice setting up and connecting to a telehealth appointment if you’re unsure how to get started.

Staying Connected to Comprehensive Healthcare

Ohioans Home Healthcare offers comprehensive in-home skilled nursing services. You’ll receive customized care and treatments in the comfort of your home, so you don’t have to worry about coordinating schedules and transportation. Contact us to learn about our services and schedule a consultation.

Ageism is a type of discrimination that involves stereotyping, mistreating or judging someone based on their age. That may include applying preconceptions and generalizations to a specific age group from children to seniors.

Ageism can affect your mental well-being, physical health and workplace dynamics. It may be blatant or subtle, but learning to identify ageist remarks, actions and policies can help you push back on negativity.

 

Common Types of Age Discrimination

Interpersonal ageism: This type of ageism occurs between individuals, including family, friends and coworkers. It can include dismissive language and actions that leave you feeling embarrassed, frustrated and undervalued.

Self-directed ageism: If you hold an internalized negative attitude toward yourself due to your age, you’re likely experiencing self-directed ageism. Those feelings are often influenced by interpersonal and institutional ageism and can create feelings of self-doubt.

Institutional ageism: This form of ageism includes social norms, practices and laws that perpetuate ageism. That may include mandated retirement based on age, underrepresentation and policies that create a systemic shift in how a certain age group is treated.

Reverse ageism: Discrimination directed at younger generations can present as beliefs of inexperience and lack of qualifications due to their age.

The Impact of Ageism on Mental and Physical Health

Ageist actions and comments could affect your sense of self-worth and confidence, especially if they come from those you love. You may question your value to your family and friends, leaving you feeling like you lack social support. That can lead to isolation and increase your risk of depression, anxiety and cognitive decline.

And because your mental and physical health are closely linked, a decrease in emotional well-being influences your body, too. You may be more likely to engage in unhealthy habits such as smoking and drinking to cope with negative emotions.

If you’re depressed due to exposure to ageism, it may be more difficult to find the motivation to adhere to healthy practices, including eating well and taking medication properly. If you have a chronic health condition, those actions can become dangerous.

Societal Consequences of Ageism

According to a study published in The Gerontologist, ageism in healthcare costs the United States roughly $63 billion annually. Inadequate care and dismissive practices can lead to health complications that could have been prevented with proactive care. Feeling undervalued due to age makes seniors less likely to seek medical attention, worsening health outcomes and increasing medical costs.

Disregarding the importance of seniors to society also creates missed opportunities for intergenerational learning and traditions. It’s important to share knowledge, experience and life lessons with younger generations to build emotional bonds and establish a more inclusive mindset.

Age diversity is also important for the workplace as it combines wisdom and perspective with innovation and idea generation. There are also chances for mentorship when different age groups come together.

Elderly Friendly Organizations and Programs

American Association of Retired Persons (AARP): The association offers services and resources for people 50 and older. Learn about health programs, social activities and financial assistance opportunities from their blog.

Meals on Wheels America: This meal service provides two daily meals at your home. They also make trips to the grocery store and can help you regain financial independence.

Alzheimer’s Association: This group publishes information and practical assistance tips to help you and your caregivers address memory loss.

National Council on Aging: The council focuses on healthy aging, economic security and social support. Their programs include BenefitsCheckUP and the Aging Mastery Program.

Salvation Army of America: This non-profit organization offers benefits and programs for low-income households, including feeding services and supplying medicine.

Pets for the Elderly Foundation: Animals offer a variety of emotional health benefits for seniors. Pets for the Elderly can help you find rescues and shelters to foster and adopt pets in your area.

Building an Inclusive Future for All Ages

Your insight, experience and opinions matter, regardless of your age. The Ohioans Home Healthcare team has a deep respect and passion for life stories and perspectives. We incorporate that into our home healthcare by providing opportunities for discussion and assessments to ensure you get the skilled in-home care you need. Contact us to learn about our services and schedule a consultation.

Coordinating your medical records can help you and your loved ones find necessary health information. Whether you use a physical filing system or store documents online, keeping paperwork organized reduces the risk of loss and misplacement.

Obtain Copies of Your Medical Records

Ask your primary care provider, specialists, therapists and other medical professionals for copies of your medical information. It may be more difficult to obtain your hospital records as hospitals don’t often retain documents for extended periods.

Your doctor may require a signed request before they copy and release your records. They might also require a fee to make duplicates of your paperwork.

Ask for records including:

• Diagnoses
• Test and lab results
• Referrals
• Treatment reports
• Progress notes
• Insurance statements
• Prescribed action and medication
• Attending doctor or physician

Organize Hard Copies in a Binder or File Cabinet

Use a three-hole punch and store your documents in a binder from oldest to most current so you can quickly flip through your records. If you don’t have a binder, put your paperwork in folders in a file cabinet to sort them by date or ailment. You may also consider putting essential information in a fireproof box or safe to preserve it in case of a fire, flood or natural disaster.

Tips for Physical File Systems

Choose a location: Whether you put them on a shelf, in a filing cabinet or stowed in a safe, keep all your medical records in one spot.

Use durable folders or binders: Heavy-stock and plastic folders and binders can better withstand wear and tear than flimsy paper alternatives.

Add subcategories for complex cases: If you have multiple conditions, subdividers allow you to organize your information by provider, date and treatment to avoid confusion.

Educate others about your system: Make sure someone else knows how to search through your file system and access your documents in an emergency.

Sorting Methods

Organize by category: If you see multiple doctors or specialists, organizing your files by category can help you avoid mix-ups. Sort your records conditions or provider, then break those categories down further by treatment, procedure, surgery or medication.

Organize chronologically: Storing your hard copies in chronological order makes it easy to find information by date. That’s helpful for doctors as they use timelines and medical history to provide appropriate prognoses and treatment options. Store your records from oldest to newest document or vice versa, depending on your preference.

Create a Table of Contents

Outline your sections by explaining tabs and categories so you, your loved ones and your doctor can search your records efficiently. You could even go the extra mile of numbering your documents and including the page numbers in your table of contents. Use large, legible font that’s easy to read.

Make Digital Copies of Your Medical Records

Most printers come with a scanner to make digital copies that you can store on a hard drive, third-party server or USB drive. Smartphones also allow you to scan documents and upload them to specific folders. You’ll need to move your scanned files to an appropriately labeled folder to find the information later. Add folders within folders to further categorize your records.

If you’re not comfortable scanning your medical information, create a digital copy by typing the details into a Word document and saving it. Keeping a digital record allows you to save and secure your paperwork in case it’s lost, destroyed or stolen.

Types of Medical Records to Organize

Family health history: Keep your family health history documented to provide doctors with information such as genetic allergies, health conditions and risk factors.

Personal health history: Your individual health history, including any conditions you’ve been treated for, should always be in your files. You should also note all prescription drugs that you currently take or have used previously.

Doctor and hospital visits: A log of your doctor and hospital visits helps summarize your personal history, disease progression and treatment.

Test results: Include a list of test results, including biopsies, blood work, X-rays, urine tests and any other clinical results.

Legal permissions: Finally, always keep a copy of legal permissions with your records, including documents such as your living will or power of attorney details.

Financial records: Maintain records and receipts of all medical billing and payments to resolve insurance disputes and protect your finances.

Personalized In-Home Skilled Nursing Services from Ohioans

Organizing and providing your medical information helps our team learn more about your clinical and personal needs so they can deliver the best care possible. Learn more about our in-home healthcare services and schedule a consultation.

Scams are on the rise, and fraudsters continue to find new ways to target vulnerable individuals. Roughly 50% of reported fraud cases come from people 65 and older, particularly retirees.

Scammers frequently target older individuals based on their assumption that seniors have accumulated wealth. They also operate on the belief that seniors are more isolated and less familiar with current technology and scam tactics.

Types of Scams That Target the Elderly

Investment scam: A scammer contacts your senior over the phone or online promising investment opportunities with high returns and little risk.

Funeral scam: Individuals pretend to work for funeral homes to get seniors to pay for a funeral ahead of time, often pressuring them to choose the most expensive options and services.

Tech support scam: Your loved one may receive a call, text, email or pop-up message on their computer warning them of a technical issue. Typically, they receive a fake number to call so a hacker can gain access to their computer, steal information or download malware.

Grandparent scam: A scammer poses as a grandchild, relative or friend in distress, pretending to be stranded, in an accident or in jail to acquire funds quickly.

Romance scam: Fraudsters create fake dating and online profiles to build trust and develop relationships by requesting money to pay for an emergency, buy a ticket or help a friend. Once they receive the funds, they usually delete the profile.

Government impersonation/Medicare scam: Often done over the phone, someone pretending to work for a government agency contacts your senior in an attempt to convince them to pay for a non-existent issue. A scammer may ask for their Medicare information, personal details or Social Security number.

Charity scam: This type of scam is common following a natural disaster or war. An individual claiming to be from a real or fake charity requests urgent donations.

Lottery/sweepstakes scam: Your loved one may be lured into paying a “processing fee” to receive a prize, sweepstakes or money.

Reverse mortgage scam: A reverse mortgage allows homeowners to access home equity based on the difference between the current market value of their home and their mortgage balance. Scam artists claim to be able to provide a reverse mortgage so they can steal the equity.

Robocallers: Phone scammers use pressure to encourage seniors to act quickly and send money via wire or app transfer or even mailing funds. They can even take your loved one’s voice signature to authorize fraudulent charges.

Warning Signs of Fraud and Scams

Beware the following tactics and behaviors employed by scammers:

• Unsolicited contact via call, text, email, social media or mail
• A sense of urgency or fear
• Pressure to act quickly
• Requesting personal information, like Social Security number, bank accounts and address
• Unusual payment methods, such as gift cards and cryptocurrency
• Poor grammar and spelling on websites and in emails
• Refusal to answer questions
• Pressure to not involve family, friends and financial institutions

Role of Technology in Elderly Fraud Schemes

Aside from tech support scams, fraudsters employ a variety of methods to con seniors out of information. Phishing is one of the most common types of online fraud. A scammer or hacker impersonates a legitimate organization via text or email, providing a link or attachment that contains malware.

Online shopping also presents fraudulent opportunities. Seniors may encounter fake online stores or listings on platforms such as Facebook Marketplace or eBay that offer low prices. Scammers can steal payment information or provide an item of lesser value.

How Seniors Can Protect Themselves from Fraud

Here are some tips to help seniors protect themselves against scams:

• Be skeptical. If something sounds too good to be true, it usually is.
• Don’t share sensitive information unless you’re sure of the validity of a website, app or individual.
• Use secure payment methods that offer fraud protection features.
• Hang up on unsolicited calls and block the number.
• Create strong passwords for personal accounts, and don’t reuse them.
• Don’t make rushed decisions.
• Contact family, friends and financial institutions to verify claims.
• Don’t open emails from unknown senders or click suspicious links.
• Install security software.
• Enable two-factor authentication on online accounts.

Raising Awareness About Elderly Fraud

Discussing potential fraud with your loved one can help them stay vigilant and protect their personal information and assets. Embarrassment may prevent your senior from addressing a scam, so encourage your loved one to be honest about financial matters and suspicious activity.

If your loved one suspects they’re a victim of fraud, report it to the police as soon as possible. They should also notify their financial institution to protect their accounts. You can file a fraud claim with the Federal Trade Commission online or call 1-800-382-4357.

In-Home Medical Care from Ohioans Home Healthcare

Our skilled in-home care staff are committed to providing your loved one with the clinical and personal support they need to live well. Learn about our services and contact us to schedule a consultation.

November was named American Diabetes Month in honor of Frederick Banting, who discovered insulin in 1921. This month serves to raise awareness and educate those affected by the disease.

According to the American Diabetes Association, approximately 1.2 million Americans are diagnosed with diabetes every year. Understanding the causes and symptoms of diabetes can help you lower your risk and learn to manage your health.

 

What is Diabetes?

When you eat, your pancreas produces the hormone insulin to convert sugar from the food into glucose to energize your cells. If you have diabetes, your body doesn’t produce enough or can’t regulate insulin to control your blood sugar. Without insulin, your body will turn to other cells for energy by breaking fat and muscle.

Key Differences Between Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes: This type of diabetes is classified as an autoimmune disease that causes your body to attack the insulin-producing cells in your pancreas. Type 1 diabetes typically develops during childhood but can affect people of all ages.

Type 2 diabetes: If you have type 2 diabetes, your body may not produce enough insulin or is resistant to its effects. It’s the most common type of diabetes among adults and can develop due to genetic and lifestyle factors.

What Causes Diabetes?

The exact cause of diabetes is unknown. Type 1 diabetes is believed to be influenced by genetic factors, a family history of diabetes and pancreatic diseases. Type 2 diabetes can develop due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors, including genetics, lifestyle choices, eating habits and comorbidities, such as heart disease and high blood pressure.

Symptoms of Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes symptoms:

• Increased thirst or appetite
• Weight loss
• Frequent urination
• Dehydration
• Dry mouth or skin
• Blurred vision
• Drowsiness or fatigue
• Tingling or numbness in your hands and feet
• Slow wound healing
• Nausea and vomiting (due to ketoacidosis)
• Abdominal pain

Type 2 diabetes presents many of the same symptoms as type 1. Additional signs include:

• Weight loss or gain
• Irritability or mood changes
• Yeast infections in women

Risk Factors for Diabetes

• Obesity
• High fat distribution around the abdomen
• Diet high in sugar, salt and trans and saturated fats
• Lack of exercise
• High cholesterol or blood pressure
• Age (varies between type 1 and 2)
• Autoimmune conditions, including Celiac disease, Addison’s disease and autoimmune thyroiditis
• A family history of diabetes
• Chronic high blood sugar, also known as prediabetes
• Gestational diabetes
• African American, Asian and Hispanic ethnicities

Diabetes Treatment Options

If left untreated, type 1 and type 2 diabetes can damage your heart, kidneys and eyes. Diabetes is also the most common cause of limb amputation due to circulation issues. It’s crucial to contact your doctor as soon as you experience symptoms. Type 2 diabetes doesn’t always produce noticeable symptoms, so getting an annual physical exam and blood test will help you monitor your blood sugar level.

While there is currently no cure for type 1 or type 2 diabetes, they can be controlled with medication or injections to regulate your insulin and blood sugar. Type 1 diabetes requires daily glucose testing and insulin therapy to prevent adverse symptoms.

You can manage type 2 diabetes through a combination of lifestyle changes, oral medication, blood sugar monitoring and insulin use. In some cases, bariatric surgery can reduce obesity and lead to diabetes remission.

How to Get Involved During American Diabetes Month

You can participate in raising awareness during National Diabetes Month by making healthy lifestyle choices to reduce your risk of or manage diabetes.

Here are some tips to consider:

• Eat a well-balanced diet of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins.
• Avoid processed foods, prepackaged snacks and sugary beverages as much as possible.
• Practice portion control to prevent overeating.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Exercise for 30 minutes a day or 150 per week.
• Find effective ways to manage your stress.
• Take your medication as prescribed.
• Check your blood sugar daily or per your physician’s instructions.
• Schedule routine eye exams
• Protect your feet from infection.

In-Home Diabetic Care from Ohioans Home Healthcare

Ohioans Home Healthcare specializes in creating personalized care plans based on your unique needs. We combine comprehensive evaluations with your preferences and insight to design a routine to help you regulate chronic conditions, including diabetes. Contact us to learn about our services and schedule a consultation.

You may feel uncertain about your first in-home physical therapy session, and that’s okay. Understanding what to expect can ease any anxiety or anticipation you may feel. Your first appointment is mostly about collecting information, conducting assessments, establishing a prognosis and creating a plan for future sessions.

Comprehensive Health Evaluation

Once your physical therapist arrives at your home, they’ll begin with a thorough review of your medical history, health status and specific issues or injuries. It’s helpful to have a list of your medical conditions, history of problems and medications to give the therapist a complete picture of your current condition.

You’ll discuss your lifestyle and activity level to determine where you’re at and how you want to progress. It’s also important to talk about any pain you experience, including the intensity and location.

Personalized Assessment

The physical therapist will conduct a series of assessments and measurements to evaluate your symptoms and see how your joints and muscles move. You’ll need to wear comfortable clothes and shoes that allow free movement and can be moved and adjusted.

Functional assessments are used to review your:

• Range of motion
• Posture
• Strength
• Balance
• Endurance
• Gait
• Joint flexibility

Physical therapists also check palpation to identify tenderness and abnormalities that could cause discomfort. A pain evaluation is another important component of your in-home therapy assessment. You’ll need to describe your pain on a scale and characterize the intensity.

Goal Setting

Reviewing your goals allows your physical therapist to develop an appropriate treatment plan to help you achieve them. That may include pain relief, increased mobility, better coordination and enhanced independence. Understanding your goals also helps your physical therapist establish a monitoring system to track your progress and adjust as needed.

This portion of your first physical therapy session is also a time to set expectations. Your therapist will talk about what you can achieve through therapy and detail a potential timeline for reaching your goals.

Customized Treatment Plan

The exercises in your physical therapy plan will address your specific condition and rehab goals based on your assessment.

They may include:

Strength training: Working on muscle groups supports your joints and improves your balance.

Flexibility exercises: Stretching is good for joint mobility and can reduce stiffness.

Balance exercises: Your therapist can help you improve your coordination to reduce your risk of falls and further injury.

Functional movements: This type of training helps you learn how to move safely while performing daily functions, such as sitting, bending and lifting.

Posture correction: Practicing good posture while seated or standing can help alleviate pain and body strain, especially if you have a spinal injury.

Daily living exercises: Techniques like gait training can help you learn to walk and climb stairs comfortably. You’ll also work on daily activities such as dressing and cooking.

Education on Condition and Therapy

A physical therapist can teach you how to move safely in your home environment. They also provide patient and caregiver education to ensure you and your loved ones can practice between appointments. That begins with a clear understanding of your therapy plan to ensure you know what needs to be addressed. Learning about your diagnosis and the healing process can help you reach long-term success and achieve your wellness goals.

Safety and Comfort Measures

Your physical therapist will review safety measures during your first session. You may not get to the exercises during that appointment as some therapists focus the time solely on evaluation and education.

It’s important to begin slowly and gradually introduce resistance, intensity and complexity to your routine to avoid unnecessary strain. You’ll undergo supervised movement assessments. Your therapist can also use a gait belt to assist you if necessary. They will set up an open space so you have plenty of room to conduct your therapy session.

Use of Therapy Equipment

Physical therapists can employ assistive equipment such as canes, walkers and braces to help you during training. You may also require supportive devices like cushions, stretch bands and pillows to complete certain exercises or movements. Using therapy equipment can help you ease into your program and regain strength and mobility.

In-Home Physical Therapy from Ohioans Home Healthcare

Home is where the heart is. That’s why Ohioans Home Healthcare brings comprehensive skilled nursing care to your doorstep. Our expert team can help you recover from illness, injury and surgery and assist in managing chronic conditions. Contact us to learn more about our in-home physical therapy services.

Good nutrition is essential for healthy aging. Getting the right vitamins and minerals supports physical and cognitive wellness and reduces your risk for chronic health issues.

As you age, your body’s ability to absorb and use nutrients changes, and you may not know which foods to eat to support your dietary needs. Nutrition counseling can help identify nutrient deficiencies and create healthy meal plans.

Who Provides Nutrition Counseling?

Nutrition counseling is provided by a registered dietitian or a registered dietitian nutritionist. Those professionals work in hospitals, clinics, skilled nursing facilities and private residences. A registered dietitian must complete extensive training and meet certification guidelines provided by the Commission for Dietetic Registration.

What to Expect During Nutrition Counseling

Nutrition counseling is available as an in-home health service. A registered dietitian can come to your home and assess your medical history, eating habits and lifestyle factors.

That may include:

• Food allergies
• Digestive issues
• Chronic conditions
• Medication and supplements

A dietitian will explain the basics of good nutrition and can teach you to read food labels, assess serving sizes and make mindful meal choices. Nutrition counseling also addresses behavioral factors that can lead to nutrition troubles, such as a lack of exercise, compulsive eating and unsafe dieting.

During your assessment, a dietitian will also ask if you experience symptoms like hair loss and muscle cramps as those are signs of nutrient deficiencies.

Your dietitian will work with you to create a meal plan that accommodates your budget, medical needs and food preferences. They can provide sample meal plans and recipe ideas that simplify cooking. Changes are implemented over time to track which strategies are effective and whether more steps need to be taken.

Benefits of Nutrition Counseling for Seniors

Prevent or manage chronic diseases: Poor nutrition can increase your risk of developing high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, cancer and stroke. It can also worsen your symptoms if you live with those conditions. Nutrition counseling teaches you to identify the nutrients your body needs, allowing you to make healthy choices and lower your likelihood of chronic illness.

Reach a healthy weight: Obesity can affect your cardiac and respiratory health and strain your joints. Conversely, being underweight can weaken your immune system, decrease bone mass and slow the healing process. Working with a registered dietitian provides you with essential insight so you can develop a customized meal plan. Eating a balanced diet can help you shed pounds or put on weight, depending on your wellness goals. You’ll also learn strategies to maintain long-term weight management success.

Improve overall wellness: Feeding your body the nutrients it needs can improve your quality of life. Good nutrition boosts your energy levels, strengthens your immune system and improves your cognitive function.

Develop long-term healthy habits: Take advantage of nutrition counseling to identify obstacles to good nutrition and find ways to mitigate them. A dietitian can provide you with resources and information to support long-term dietary wellness.

How Can Seniors Receive Nutrition Counseling?

Consult your primary care physician if you’re interested in receiving nutrition counseling. They can provide you with information on local services to help you get started. Senior and community health centers may also have educational sessions and resources on nutrition counseling to help you find a registered dietitian.

Nutrition Services from Ohioans Home Healthcare

Nutritious meals can support strength and independence, allowing your loved one to stay in the comfort of their home. Ohioans Home Healthcare offers comprehensive in-home care and therapy to optimize a well-balanced diet with clinical support. Contact us to learn more about our services and schedule a consultation.

June marks National Safety Month—a crucial time to prioritize the safety of your senior loved ones by assessing and addressing hidden risks in their home. Ensuring a safe living environment is key to maintaining their health, well-being and independence.

Why Are Seniors More Likely to Sustain Injuries at Home?

Physical and mental abilities change with age, including:

• Vision
• Hearing
• Strength
• Balance
• Cognition
• Memory recall

Activities of daily living that were once simple may be more difficult for your senior. They may overestimate their abilities and hurt themselves.

According to the CDC, 14 million older adults fall every year. About 37% of those falls resulted in an injury that required medical treatment or restricted activity.

Recovery also alters with age. A minor cut or burn could take longer to heal and pose an increased threat of infection. A hip fracture from a fall could have long-term implications for your loved one’s mobility.

Home Safety Tips by Room

Living Room or Den

Clutter: Remove items that could pose a fall risk, such as pillows, blankets, clothing, shoes and other personal items. Clear coffee tables and entertainment consoles so your loved one doesn’t knock objects over.

Furniture: Move armchairs and couches against walls to prevent your loved one from bumping into furniture and getting bruised or falling. Opt for smaller pieces of furniture to open up the living space.

Rugs: Secure rugs with non-slip backing. Get rid of worn rugs with holes or frays so your loved one’s feet don’t get tangled or stuck.

Electrical cords: Keep electrical cords out of walkways to limit tripping hazards. Check them for fraying as well to avoid electrical fires.

Kitchen

Appliances: Move appliances away from the sink and other water sources. Label the on/off switch for easy use.

Cutlery: If your loved one struggles with fine motor skills, consider getting them a dicing or chopping tool to simplify cutting foods. Keep carving knives covered or stored in a drawer.

Lighting: Install bright lighting in the kitchen so your loved one can read labels and prepare and cook food safely.

Floor mats: Lay mats in front of the sink and refrigerator to reduce the likelihood of slipping if there’s a spill.

Meal prep: Label and date food in the fridge so your loved one knows when to throw it away. That helps lower their risk of food poisoning.

Hallways and Entryways

Lighting: Well-lit hallways and entryways allow your loved one to navigate their home safely. Swap soft lighting with brighter bulbs, especially if your parent has vision impairments.

Stairs: Steep stairs pose a particular fall risk if your senior lives in a multi-story house. Make sure there are sturdy railings and non-skid mats to create traction. Consider placing ramps over porch steps and in rooms with different elevations to ease movement.

Handrails: Grab bars will help your loved one move down hallways safely, especially if they don’t use a walker or cane. They also provide something to grab if your loved one needs to pull themselves up.

Bathroom

Bathtub and shower: Getting in and out of the shower or tub can be tricky if your loved one has mobility issues. A shower seat and grab bars can help your senior move around. Installing a walk-in tub or shower is another option.

Medication: Improper medication management could lead to illness or hospitalization. Write reminders and use a pill organizer to remind your loved one to take their medication. Keep the bathroom well-lit for reading dosage and directions.

Toilet: Raised toilet seats ease the transition from seated to standing. Some also have armrests that allow your loved one even more leverage.

Non-slip flooring: Place rubber mats in the shower or tub and bath mats on the floor to keep your senior steady.

Comprehensive In-Home Healthcare from Ohioans

Be proactive about your loved one’s safety. Our dedicated team provides in-home assessments to help you and your loved one identify and mitigate potential safety issues. Call 855.600.0806 to learn about our services and schedule a consultation.

It’s important to consider your physical, emotional and mental health when optimizing your stroke recovery process. Paying attention to your mind and body will help you improve your quality of life after a stroke.

The Importance of Consistency

Your brain can rewire and reorganize itself following a stroke. That ability is known as neuroplasticity and allows your brain to continue to create new neural pathways. Your brain relearns skills through repetition and requires stimulation to recover. The more consistent you are with physical and mental rehabilitation, the better your chances of recouping lost skills because of a stroke.

6 Stroke Recovery Tips

#1: Eat Healthy

Your body needs a balance of carbohydrates, proteins, healthy fats, vitamins and minerals to support cell regeneration and function. Eating well helps you manage your blood sugar, cholesterol and blood pressure, which reduces your risk for another stroke. Focus on eating whole foods like fresh fruits and vegetables, lean and plant-based protein, whole grains, nuts and seeds.

Here are some brain foods to include in your diet:

• Avocadoes
• Eggs
• Quinoa
• Legumes
• Blueberries
• Pomegranates
• Citrus fruits
• Apples
• Salmon

#2: Move Often

A stroke can cause paralysis or weakness and affect your coordination and mobility. Implementing a consistent exercise routine helps you regain strength and balance as well as improve your respiratory and cardiovascular systems.

Exercise also enhances neuroplasticity as your brain relearns movements and lost skills. Aerobic exercises get your heart pumping and oxygenate your cells. Go at your own pace and start slowly, increasing the intensity and duration of your routine over time.

Here are some cardio exercises to try:

• Walking
• Jogging
• Swimming
• Dancing
• Cycling
• Yoga

#3: Interact with Others

Socializing reduces your risk of isolation, anxiety and depression. Spending time with your family and friends also provides a much-needed mood boost if you feel frustrated with your recovery.

Engaging with others provides your brain with visual and auditory stimulation, which contributes to cognitive recovery following a stroke. Your loved ones can help you through your rehabilitation process and offer essential emotional support, too.

#4: Keep Your Brain Active

Mental rehabilitation can prevent cognitive decline, maintain emotional well-being and improve long-term brain health. As with any other type of injury, it’s important to keep your brain active to maintain its agility.

Mental exercises that include problem-solving, memorization and reasoning skills that engage different parts of your brain. Board games, crossword puzzles and brain training apps keep your mind active. Reading, learning new skills and practicing a hobby are also effective cognitive exercises.

#5: Get Enough Sleep

A good night’s sleep allows your body to eliminate toxins that negatively affect your brain. Your brain undergoes processes that promote regeneration and memory formation during REM cycles. Information moves from your cerebral cortex to your hippocampus where it remains before becoming a long-term memory. Sleep eases the effects of stress associated with stroke recovery, too.

Consider these tips:

• Go to bed at the same time each night.
• Limit exposure to screens and blue light.
• Keep your environment dark and cool.
• Limit naps in the evening.

#6: Schedule Regular Health Checkups

Your doctors and specialists will track your progress as you recover from a stroke. They will monitor for adverse symptoms and provide recommendations to improve your rehabilitation.

Your physician may also assist with medication management and prescribe prescriptions to help you manage your blood pressure and cholesterol.

In-Home Rehabilitative Services from Ohioans Home Healthcare & Hospice

If you or a loved one has suffered a stroke, Ohioans Home Healthcare & Hospice can help. Our comprehensive in-home physical, occupational and speech therapies are designed to optimize your physical and cognitive abilities. We strive to provide personalized care plans that enhance your quality of life. Learn more about our services, and call 855-600-0806 to schedule a consultation.

You may feel apprehensive about using digital technology if you don’t have much experience with it, but it can provide several lifestyle benefits. Smart devices allow you to connect with your loved ones, stay safe and access a wide variety of entertainment.

Social Engagement

According to the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, 25% of adults 65 and older are at risk for social isolation which can increase the chance of cognitive decline, memory loss, dementia and depression.

Make video calls and phone calls on your computer, phone or tablet to connect with your friends and family. That technology is especially helpful if you have limitations with mobility or transportation.

And you can use social platforms like Facebook and X to stay up to date on your loved ones’ lives and interact with their posts.

Access News

Set up alerts on your smartphone or tablet to receive news updates as they happen. You can filter your content for local or world headlines, politics and trending topics. Stream from a tablet or phone to watch the news from your bed, in your kitchen or on your patio while you unwind.

Entertainment and Hobbies

Download and play games, listen to music and watch videos, sports and movies on a smartphone or tablet.

There are brain teasers, games and puzzles available online and through the app store on your device. The mental stimulation they provide can help you maintain your cognitive skills by keeping your brain challenged.

Are you considering a new hobby or maybe picking up an old one? You’re likely to find tutorials and how-to guides online that can help you get started.

Health Monitoring

Tracking your vitals allows you to identify changes that could negatively impact your health. Smartwatches and fitness trackers can monitor your heart rate, blood pressure, blood sugar and oxygen levels. You can also set reminders for medication management.

Your doctor can address concerns and make necessary changes to your care plan with the information collected by health monitoring technology. You can even schedule remote medical appointments and talk with your doctor from the comfort of your home at your convenience.

Safety and Emergency Systems

Safety technology can help you feel more comfortable living on your own. For example, a video doorbell will send an alert to your mobile device allowing you to see who’s outside without opening the door.

Some smart home systems let you adjust your thermostat, turn lights on and off and open curtains with a voice command. That gives you the freedom to manage your home regardless of your mobility.

Fall detection systems are wearable devices that send notifications to your loved ones and emergency services if you fall. That can improve response times and reduce your likelihood of sustaining serious injuries.

Home Health Care Services from Ohioans

Ohioans Home Healthcare and Hospice is committed to helping you feel safe and comfortable in your home. We offer a variety of in-home skilled nursing and therapy services designed to suit your unique medical needs. Call 855-600-0806 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.