Today's seniors are more healthier and active than ever before. But, like everyone, they need to pay attention to health and safety risks. Below are warning signs and prevention tips for common problems facing older adults.
HYPOTHERMIA
Hypothermia is a life-threatening condition that occurs when body temperature falls below normal, usually when someone is exposed to severe cold. Some seniors can develop hypothermia after exposure to mild cold. Warning signs:
unusual behavior
slow, irregular heartbeat
slurred speech
shallow, slow breathing
sluggishness
confusion
Treatment consists of rewarming the patient under a doctor's supervision, preferably in the hospital.
To prevent hypothermia:
dress warmly even when indoors
eat enough food
stay active
keep warm in bed with extra blankets
ask friends or neighbors to check in on the elderly during particularly cold days
HEAT RELATED ILLNESSES
Heat stroke requires immediate attention and treatment by a doctor.
Warning signs:
fainting or dizziness
headache, nausea, or loss of consciousness
body temperature of 104 degrees F or more
rapid pulse
flushed skin
Heat exhaustion results from a loss of water and salt.
Warning signs:
weakness
heavy sweating
nausea
giddiness
To prevent heat-related illnesses:
stay out of direct sunlight and avoid strenuous activity
Today, early diagnosis and treatment can dramatically improve recovery for stroke victims. Many strokes can be prevented.
Warning signs:
numbness, weakness or paralysis of face, arm or leg -- especially on one side of the body
sudden blurred or decreased vision in one or both eyes
difficulty speaking or understanding simple statements
loss of balance or coordination when combined with another warning sign.
To help prevent stoke:
control your blood pressure
stop smoking
eat a health diet
exercise regularly
control diabetes
HEART ATTACKS
Heart attacks are the nation's leading killer. Prompt treatment can often minimize or even prevent a heart attack entirely, but time is a critical factor.
Warning signs:
chest discomfort, such as pressure, aching, burning, or a feeling of indigestion
similar discomfort in the left arm, frequently the inner side, and sometimes the right arm, jaw, and teeth
sweating
shortness of breath
general ill feeling, similar to the flu
Heart attack symptoms come and go, get worse with activity, are relieved with rest, and last longer each time, with shorter intervals in between attacks. Doctors warn that if you experience any of these symptoms, you should call an ambulance immediately.
WHEN IT'S AN EMERGENCY
The warning signs of an emergency include:
difficulty breathing and shortness of breath
chest or upper abdominal pain or pressure
fainting
sudden dizziness, weakness, or change of vision
confusion or change in mental status
any sudden, severe pain
bleeding that won't stop
severe or persistent vomiting
coughing or vomiting blood
suicidal or homicidal feelings
As people age, changes in vision, hearing, muscle strength, coordination and reflexes may make them more prone to accidents, falls, or other injuries.
FALLS AND FRACTURES
Preventing falls is especially important in the elderly since their bones are more fragile and break more easily.
To reduce the likelihood of falling and fracturing a bone:
have regular vision and hearing tests
ask whether medicine you are taking will affect your coordination
limit your intake of alcohol
don't get up too quickly after eating, lying down, or resting
use a cane, walking stick or walker to help maintain balance on uneven or unfamiliar ground, or if you feel dizzy (Note: Prolonged exposure to cold can cause dizziness)
wear supportive rubber-soled or low-heeled shoes
maintain an exercise program to help keep joint flexible
clear pathways in your home
make sure there is good lighting in your hallways and stairwells
use nonskid bathmats and carpets
BURNS AND FIRES
Burns can be particularly disabling for older people and recovery is slow.
Take these steps to help prevent burns and fires:
never smoke in bed or when tired
don't wear loosely-fitted or flammable clothing when cooking
set water heater thermostats to no more than 140 degrees F
plan an emergency exit to use in case of fire
use caution with all appliances, especially space heaters
DRIVING SAFETY
Older people are more likely to be injured or killed in a motor vehicle crash since their bones are more fragile. And, older adults have a higher accident rate per mile driven than other drivers. The best way to prevent injuries is to wear a safety belt. In fact, wearing a safety belt every time you ride in a car reduces your risk of injury by more than half.
Air bags provide extra protection in head-on crashes, but only if used in conjunction with your safety belt.
ONE FINAL THOUGHT ...
Now is the time to relax and enjoy life. Remember, an ounce of prevention is worth even more in your golden years.
