Vietnam and PTSD – 40 Years Later

Posted on March 30, 2016 by Tracy Wayne Mitchell

Vietnam and PTSD - 40 Years Later

Vietnam and PTSD – 40 Years Later

May 7, 2015 | by Valerie Michel Buck

40 years ago – May 7th – marked the end of the Vietnam War. Many of those alive 40 years ago can still easily recall where they were on the 7th of May and what they were doing on that memorable day. Some are still mourning those who didn’t return home. Many of those who did return home, returned to bitter feelings towards the war. Public opinion of the war was very negative. So negative, in fact, that service members (even cadets) were told to not wear their uniforms in public places. [1] Many were afraid to reveal their service to strangers. The negative public sentiment surrounding Vietnam Veterans remained for years. 58,000 brave men and women gave their lives and those who returned, though just as brave, were forced to hide one of the most traumatic events of their lives.

Imagine joining the service in the 1960s or being drafted for a war that very few people knew the U.S. was fighting. Now imagine (after joining), fighting a war in a foreign country, being far away from home, surviving the war, then being forced to feel shame for fighting and having to quietly endure the mental hardships caused by the war for years.

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, or PTSD, was not officially recognized until 1980 when the American Psychiatric Association added PTSD to the Third Edition of its Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. Unfortunately, it wasn’t until 1989 that a Congressional Mandate (PL 98-528) addressed the needs of Veterans and other trauma survivors with PTSD. [2] Then in 2010, VA Secretary Shinseki reduced the medical evidence needed by Veterans who were seeking health care and disability compensation for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Shinseki simplified the application process which allowed for faster and more accurate decisions and quicker access to medical care for Veterans with PTSD. [4] For years, Vietnam and pre-Vietnam Veterans had very few resources and struggled to access the healthcare and financial resources that are readily available to veterans today.

PTSD has existed in many forms throughout the ages. Though fictional, Shakespeare’s many characters displayed symptoms of PTSD. Before the official term of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, those with combat experience were deemed “Shell Shocked”. Many times, Shell Shock / PTSD was mistaken for cowardice. In 1943, Lt. General Patton encountered and American Soldier at a hospital in Italy, this soldier was recovering from what was then called “nerves.” Patton slapped the soldier and called him a coward. [3] An even more saddening account was uncovered more recently when, in 2006, the British Ministry of Defense (BMD) pardoned 300 soldiers who were executed for cowardice and desertion during World War 1. The BMD concluded that many of these soldiers were probably crippled by PTSD. [3]

Not only were Vietnam Veterans coming home from war not allowed to talk about their service but they were told what they did was wrong. Unable to understand their feelings and unable to talk about it, many returning service members relationships struggled, they were unable to get work and life became increasingly difficult. This hits home for me, my father in-law was drafted for Vietnam. He returned home and although he married almost immediately after, the marriage didn’t last. He ended up married multiple times and had two children. He remains a person who would rather not talk about the war and prefers not be around others who have been in the war. He was diagnosed with PTSD in the last few years but refuses to believe the diagnoses and get any treatment. Though he believes he does not have PTSD he cannot watch movies with violent war scenes or be around video games with life-like war situations.

In 2011, 476,515 veterans with primary or secondary diagnosis of PTSD received treatment at Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical centers and clinics. [4] According to the VA about 5.2 million adults have PTSD during a given year and only a small portion of those who have endured a trauma. [5]

Our history books are littered with thousands of cases of PTSD. Fortunately, veterans in today’s society have more resources and have vastly more emotional, verbal and physical support than those who served during Vietnam Era. Many of us rarely remember how brave Vietnam Veterans were and still are.

Do you suspect you or a loved one may have PTSD? Find out symptoms and treatment options here or contact your mental health provider for more information: ptsd.va.gov/PTSD/public/PTSD-overview/basics/index.asp

Vietnam War Memorial: thewall-usa.com

Look up friends or family members on the Vietnam War Memorial: vvmf.org/Wall-of-Faces

If you are a Veteran and need help with benefits: veteransaidbenefit.org

[1] atwar.blogs.nytimes.com/2013/05/20/r-o-t-c-returns-to-new-yorks-city-college-more-than-four-decades-after-removal/

[2] ptsd.va.gov/about/mission/history_of_the_national_center_for_ptsd.asp

[3] patheos.com/blogs/unequallyyoked/2013/01/what-should-we-be-hurt-by.html

[4] va.gov/opa/issues/ptsd.asp

[5] ptsd.va.gov/public/PTSD-overview/basics/how-common-is-ptsd.asp

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Seniors and caregivers search online everyday for eldercare services and frequently find longtermcarelink.net. Each month, we provide online resources to over 40,000 unique visitors. Our site also offers a place for professionals to offer assistance to the public.

Senior Services

Long Term Care The NCPC is dedicated to helping families deal with issues and challenges seniors face. We offer free help locating eldercare and senior services in your area. Some of these services include Care Management, Elder Law, Estate Planning, Funeral Planning, Home Care, Medicaid Planning, Placement, Reverse Mortgage, and Veterans Benefits.

BOOK: “How to Apply for VA Benefits for Senior Veterans and Their Survivors“

This 2015 edition is a tremendous resource for veterans, their families, and those who assist veterans. There is no other book available that incorporates VA’s newest claims procedures with detailed instructions on submitting applications for 25 different types of disability claims including Pension, Aid & Attendance, DIC, Compensation, Burial Benefits, and more.

BOOK: “How to Deal with 21 Critical Issues Facing Aging Seniors“

Aging seniors and their families are often confounded by the complexity of issues they face (including declining income, increased debt, poor investment returns, declining health, medical crises, complex insurance programs, long term care challenges, etc…). This book (published in 2014) takes a comprehensive approach to address these challenges and provide solutions.

The National Care Planning Council and its affiliated members are dedicated to helping families recognize the need for long term care planning and to helping implement that planning. Integrity, honesty, and a genuine concern for those who are in need of (or may need) long term care are at the heart of our services.
Our Statement of Purpose:
(1) To promote a public awareness of the need for long term care planning(2) To provide materials to educate the public on how to plan for long term care(3) To provide support to member eldercare experts who help the public plan for long term care(4) To promote the services and expertise of our members

How Elder Law can Help You

Posted on March 30, 2016 by Tracy Wayne Mitchell

Elder Law Can Help You

How Elder Law Can Help You

September 18, 2015 | by Lynda Neuenschwander

The specialty of Elder Law is becoming more important as our population ages. People are living longer, but in many cases, are not living better. “The number of older individuals in the population is projected to increase to 71.5 million in 2030, representing nearly 20 percent of the U.S. population. As a result, the need is growing for specialized legal advice about aging-related issues.” [1]

First, let’s define exactly what Elder Law is and why it might be of interest to you.

What is Elder Law?

The National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys states the following about defining Elder Law:

“Elder Law is a specialized area of law that involves representing, counseling, and assisting seniors and their families in connection with a variety of legal issues, from estate planning to long term care issues, with a primary emphasis on promoting the highest quality of life for the individuals. Typically, Elder Law attorneys address the client’s perspective from a holistic viewpoint by addressing legal, medical, financial, social and family issues.”

Does this sound like something that would be valuable to you or someone you know?

“Every day, 10,000 Americans celebrate their 65th birthday. While the U.S. is experiencing a longevity revolution, at the same time our aging nation is triggering a Silver Tsunami of chronic age-related disease that bring with it increased national health care spending, high rates of morbidity and mortality, and declines in quality of life.” [2]

What are some specific examples of how Elder Law can help you?

Overcome the Potential for Financial Exploitation

The trusting nature of many elderly people makes them vulnerable to financial exploitation.

All elderly should be made aware of and told to avoid any financial transactions that require up front deposits. No contracts are to be signed without two or three days of consideration in consultation with knowledgeable family members. All dishonest schemes promulgated through the mail are guilty of mail fraud and appropriate complaints should be filed. All states have consumer-reporting departments to take complaints on consumer fraud. Again a good source for help is your local area agency on aging.

Here are some examples of the most common types of financial exploitation:

Telephone Solicitations for Dishonest Charities or Fraudulent Investments
Identity Theft to Get Credit Card Numbers and Other Information
Pay in Advance Prize-Winning Schemes
High-Pressure Door-To-Door Sales
Dishonest Home Improvement Contracts
Dishonest Miracle Health Cures
Unnecessary Living Trusts through a Trust Mill
Dishonest Funeral Arrangement Plans

Settle Family Disputes

“For some lucky families, having a bunch of adult siblings gather around and plan how to take care of Mom and Dad as their parents’ health begins to fail is a great comfort. For some families, siblings who never got along as kids and have had little to do with each other as adults being thrown together to make touchy decisions is disastrous.” [3]

It is becoming more common to use an attorney, an arbitrator or a mediator in solving disputes among family members relating to the care of elderly parents. For instance, one child may have stolen assets and the rest of the family wants that person brought to justice. There may be a disagreement over the final disposition of property in an estate plan and it may take an attorney to solve that. A lawyer may be necessary to settle the differences either through the courts or through mediation.

“Ideally, before things get to this stage, you’ve had conversations with your parents about how they want their needs met during their later years. They’ve made out the papers naming a Power of Attorney for Health Care (a health directive indicating who will make health decisions if they can’t and detailing their preferences for treatment) and a Power of Attorney for financial affairs. A will should be part of this, as well as other personal papers. Ideally, as well, all siblings are aware of these papers, what they contain and all are in agreement. Ideally – taking care of the elders becomes a family affair. However, life is seldom ideal.” [4]

Age Discrimination in the Workplace

The “Baby Boomers” will cause a significant increase in the older population until 2030, when the last of this group reaches old age.

The Age Discrimination In Employment Act protects people who have been laid off or fired because of age discrimination. Some companies consider older employees less valuable than younger employees. As baby boomers approach their 60s, many will be opting to continue employment or find employment with another company. Age discrimination issues will become more prevalent in the coming years.

“Nine Signs of Age Discrimination:

Biased comments
Comparisons
Disparate discipline
Promotions
Favoritism
Hiring younger employees
Suddenly stupid
Harassment
But the boss is older” [5]

Help with Medicare and Medicaid

Qualified legal help is available from elder law attorneys to help individuals in applying for and accelerating payments for Medicaid. An elder law attorney can also help with disputes with Medicaid. Likewise attorneys who specialize in Medicare can help with disability claims and sometimes this help is the only way claims are ever granted. The local area agency on aging has an advisory service for help with understanding Medicare, Medicare supplements, Medicare advantage and Medicare part D.

“People with Medicare, family members, and caregivers should visit http://www.Medicare.gov, the official U.S. Government site for people with Medicare, for the latest information on Medicare enrollment, benefits, and other helpful tools.”[6]

If you feel that you or someone you know could benefit from having Elder Law services, one place you could look to find elder law attorneys is on the National Care Planning Council’s Website at longtermcarelink.net.

Sources:

[1]: http://www.naela.org

[2]: http://www.silverbook.org

[3], [4]: http://www.agingcare.com

[5]: http://jobs.aol.com

[6]: http://www.cms.gov

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Senior Services

BOOK: “How to Protect Your Family’s Assets from Devastating Nursing Home Costs: Medicaid Secrets“

This book, written by attorney Gabriel Heiser in 2014, is a financial and legal guide to the ins and outs of the only government program that will pay for the long term nursing home care of your family member: MEDICAID.

The National Care Planning Council and its affiliated members are dedicated to helping families recognize the need for long term care planning and to helping implement that planning. Integrity, honesty, and a genuine concern for those who are in need of (or may need) long term care are at the heart of our services.
Our Statement of Purpose:
(1) To promote a public awareness of the need for long term care planning(2) To provide materials to educate the public on how to plan for long term care(3) To provide support to member eldercare experts who help the public plan for long term care(4) To promote the services and expertise of our members

Arthritis Among Seniors

Posted on March 30, 2016 by Tracy Wayne Mitchell

Arthritis Among Seniors

January 5, 2016 | by Valerie Michel Buck

Arthritis affects millions of people of all ages, including children (1 in every 250 children in the United States each year). From 2010-2012, nearly 50% of adults 65 years or older in the U.S. were told by a doctor that they have some form of arthritis in their joints. Although osteoarthritis is the most common form of the disease, there are over 100 different types of arthritis including gout, fibromyalgia, and rheumatoid arthritis.

What is Arthritis?

Although very common, arthritis is not well understood. Arthritis is an informal way of describing pain due to inflammation of one or more of your joints. Although most common among women and the elderly, arthritis can affect anyone regardless of race, sex or age. In fact, arthritis is the leading cause of disability in the U.S.

Symptoms might include decreased range of motion, pain, stiffness and swelling. These symptoms can be frequent or infrequent and range from mild to severe. Arthritis symptoms can last for a number of years and even worsen over time.

Common Types of Arthritis

Degenerative Arthritis (Osteoarthritis) [1]

As cartilage wears away, bone begins to rub against bone. This can cause pain, swelling and stiffness. Risk Factors include weight gain, excessive weight, family history, previous injury, and old age.

Inflammatory Arthritis [1]

Rheumatoid and Psoriatic Arthritis are two examples of inflammatory arthritis. When the immune system mistakenly attacks a joint, inflammation and joint erosion develop which may lead to complications with internal organs, eyes and other parts of the body. Smoking is a strong risk factor.

Infectious Arthritis [1]

This unique type of inflammatory arthritis is caused when bacteria, virus or fungus enter the joint and triggering inflammation. Food poisoning, some sexually transmitted diseases ,and Hepatitis C can cause Infectious Arthritis.

Metabolic Arthritis [1]

Uric acid is commonly formed in the body to break down purines, found in cells and foods. Having excessive levels of uric acid can cause needle-like crystals in the join, which can result in sudden spikes of extreme joint pain or gout.

Arthritis Symptoms Checklist

Arthritis.com provides a symptom checklist to help you and your doctor determine if arthritis could be the cause of your symptoms. Visit: arthritis.com/arthritis_symptoms_checklist

What can I do to manage arthritis? [2]

Ways to help manage arthritis include staying moderately active (strengthening muscles around your joints) with rest between activities, hot and cold therapies, eating a healthy balance diet, maintaining a healthy weight, improving sleep habits, and avoiding smoking and alcohol. If you think a medication is causing painful side effects in your joints make sure you discuss it with a professional.

When Should I See A Doctor? [2]

If joint pain persists, going to the doctor for a diagnosis and getting treatment is recommended. Many people can develop significant joint and other serious issues if arthritis is not treated over an extended period of time. Visiting your doctor may also help determine whether you have other diseases similar to arthritis such as:

Lyme Disease, which not only gives you Arthritis but may in fact cause heart, brain, and nerve problems. [3]

Lupus, which does not cause erosive, deforming arthritis. Symptoms rather tend to be milder overall. [4]

Reiter’s Syndrome, also know as reactive arthritis. It can last from three months to a year, in cases, longer. [4]

Reactive arthritis, which affects a few larger joints usually only on one side of the body. Inflammation of tendons, ligaments and muscles can happened as well. This can cause inflammation of other parts of the body such as eyes, head, skin, and mouth. [4]

Fibromyalgia, a chronic pain condition in the muscles and soft tissue. [5]

Pseudogout, a sudden with swelling and intense pain most common in the knees ( flares can last for weeks or months). [5]

Chicungunya, a virus spread by mosquitoes. One can experience high fever, joint pain, and rashes. Though the rash lasts up to 10 days, joint pain can last up to a year or more. [5]

Still’s Disease, which starts with a salmon-colored rash, high fever, joint pain can occurring after weeks of the initial symptoms. In those younger than 16, it is called Systemic-onset Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis. This can appear in both adults and children. [5]

Summary

Arthritis is a disease that affects millions but with the right treatment, plenty of rest and a balanced diet, arthritis doesn’t have to ruin plans or stop you from doing what you want to do. Going to your doctor and diagnosing arthritis early can limit damage and give you many years of happy, healthy activity.

References

[1] arthritis.org/about-arthritis/understanding-arthritis/what-is-arthritis.php?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc

[2] arthritis.org/about-arthritis/understanding-arthritis/early-arthritis-treatment.php

[3] webmd.com/rheumatoid-arthritis/arthritis-lyme-disease

[4] everydayhealth.com/rheumatoid-arthritis-pictures/health-conditions-that-mimic-rheumatoid-arthritis.aspx#02

[5] healthcentral.com/slideshows/conditions-that-mimic-rheumatoid-arthritis/#slide=6

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Senior Services

BOOK: “How to Deal with 21 Critical Issues Facing Aging Seniors“

The National Care Planning Council and its affiliated members are dedicated to helping families recognize the need for long term care planning and to helping implement that planning. Integrity, honesty, and a genuine concern for those who are in need of (or may need) long term care are at the heart of our services.
Our Statement of Purpose:
(1) To promote a public awareness of the need for long term care planning(2) To provide materials to educate the public on how to plan for long term care(3) To provide support to member eldercare experts who help the public plan for long term care(4) To promote the services and expertise of our members

Home, the Desired Setting for Elder Care

Posted on March 30, 2016 by Tracy Wayne Mitchell

Home Care

Home, the Desired Setting for
Elder Care

August 4, 2015 | by the NCPC

Most of those receiving long-term care and most caregivers prefer a home environment. Out of an estimated 10 million older Americans receiving care, about 7 million are in their own home or the home of a family member or friend. The National Association for Home Care & Hospice reports that over 12 million individuals currently receive care from more than 33,000 providers (for causes including acute illness, long-term health conditions, permanent disability, or terminal illness).

Most older people prefer their home over the unfamiliar proposition of living in a care facility. Family or friends attempt to accommodate the wishes of loved ones even though caregiving demands might warrant a different environment. Those needing care feel comfortable and secure in familiar surroundings and a home is usually the best setting for that support.

Often the decision to stay in the home is dictated by funds available. It is much cheaper for a wife to care for her husband at home than to pay out $3,000 to $6,000 a month for care in a facility. Likewise, it’s much less costly and more loving for a daughter to have her widowed mother move into the daughter’s home than to liquidate mom’s assets and put her in a nursing home. Besides, personally taking care of our parents or spouses is an obligation most of us feel very strongly about.

For many long term care recipients the home is an ideal environment. These people may be confined to the home but continue to lead active lives engaging in church service, entertaining grandchildren, writing histories, corresponding, pursuing hobbies or doing handwork activities. Their care needs might not be that demanding and might include occasional help with house cleaning and shopping as well as help with getting out of bed, dressing and bathing.

Most of the time these people don’t need the supervision of a 24/7 caregiver. There are, however, some care situations that make it difficult to provide long term care in the home.

It is precisely the ongoing and escalating need for help with activities of daily living or the need for extended supervision that often makes it impossible for a caregiver to provide help in the home. Either the physical demands for help with activities of daily living or the time demand for supervision can overwhelm an informal caregiver. This untenable situation usually leads to finding another care setting for the loved one.

On the other hand if there are funds to hire paid providers to come into the home, there would be no need for finding another care setting. By planning for eldercare in advance and providing the funding necessary to remain in the home, no one need go to a facility to receive long term care. With enough money, anyone who desires, can remain at home to receive the necessary care.

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Senior Services

BOOK: “How to Apply for VA Benefits for Senior Veterans and Their Survivors“

BOOK: “How to Deal with 21 Critical Issues Facing Aging Seniors“

The National Care Planning Council and its affiliated members are dedicated to helping families recognize the need for long term care planning and to helping implement that planning. Integrity, honesty, and a genuine concern for those who are in need of (or may need) long term care are at the heart of our services.
Our Statement of Purpose:
(1) To promote a public awareness of the need for long term care planning(2) To provide materials to educate the public on how to plan for long term care(3) To provide support to member eldercare experts who help the public plan for long term care(4) To promote the services and expertise of our members

Maximize Your Retirement Income – Tracy Mitchell, Federal Employee Benefit Advisors

Posted on March 30, 2016 by Tracy Wayne Mitchell

The FERS employee pension will grow by 1% each year, adding
about $40/month in retirement income. In addition, the FERS employee
who delays drawing Social Security until age 66 will generally
add $300-400/month in retirement income. Working 2 or 3 extra
years also gives time to add to TSP and other investment funds, which
will increase future income. Working into your retirement years may
not be your first choice, but sometimes it simply becomes a necessity.
No matter what your situation, the closer we get to retirement, the
more important it becomes to get the most out of every dollar. I have
already suggested that the best way to grow your TSP account is to
contribute the amount needed to receive the 5% match. Don’t miss
out on free money, it’s probably the only free money you will ever
Maxing Your Retirement Income
Chapter Eight:
The Informed Fed
80
receive in your lifetime! When taking the funds out you need to seek
the highest return with little or no risk.
During your separation and retirement process, Shared Services
will offer you two options for distributing funds out of your TSP account.
First, you can cash it out and pay the total amount owed in
taxes in one year. Depending upon the TSP value, this can put you
into a higher tax bracket and further reduce any gains. High taxes and
lump sum can negatively affect your retirement income.

Fall Prevention and Coping after a Fall

Posted on March 30, 2016 by Tracy Wayne Mitchell

Fall Prevention

Fall Prevention and Coping after a Fall

June 25, 2015 | by Jed Winegar

American writer and poet Gertrude Stein once said, “We are always the same age inside.” I couldn’t agree more. I still feel young even though I am far beyond my twenties. When I dream, I am always much younger. When I look in the mirror, I am often surprised by the reflection of my older self.

I will, however, readily admit that I am no spring chicken. My body isn’t what it used to be and sometimes my age attacks when I least expect it. It is frustrating. I get myself into all kinds of messes, including an occasional injury.

Age related physical changes, mental conditions, health conditions, and even medications increase the risk of injury. Falling is the leading cause of injury among seniors ages 65 and older. In fact, each year one in three seniors will have a fall. As we age, a serious fall can be the difference between freedom of movement and wheelchair, or worse, the difference between living comfortably at home and moving to a care facility. One serious fall can be life changing.

Unfortunately, 2 million seniors will be treated in an emergency setting for fall-related injuries this year alone. For seniors, fractures are one of the most serious consequence of falls. Serious falls may cause hip fractures or even life-threatening head injuries. In 2013, the direct medical costs of older adult falls, adjusted for inflation, were $34 billion. 1

While the aging population continues to increase, both the number of falls and the costs to treat the associated injuries will also increase. Even when there’s no serious injury, a fall can still be scary enough that we choose to avoid certain activities because we are fearful of another fall. Falls can have an adverse psychological impact on the aging. For example, after having a fall some can lose confidence, become withdrawn and feel as if they have lost their independence entirely.

The fear of falling doesn’t need to control a life. Below we have compiled some useful information to help you or a loved one prevent falls and cope after a fall.

Make an Appointment with your Doctor if You Fall or have a “Close Call”

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, fewer than half of seniors who experience a fall will actually talk with their doctors about it. Many will rationalize and conclude that the fall “wasn’t serious enough.” It is important to remember that ALL FALLS ARE POTENTIALLY SERIOUS. You or your family member should see their health care provider if they have fallen, even if they are not hurt. Remember to record the details of the fall, including when, where and how.

It is also important to discuss instances when you almost fell. For example, you were caught by someone, were able to brace yourself just in time, or you became so dizzy that you rushed to a chair or bed before it was too late. These types of details may help you and your doctor identify fall-prevention strategies to protect you.

Review your Medication(s) and Eye Sight with Your Health Care Provider

If you have fallen, have been feeling dizzy, or your sense of balance has declined, consider reviewing the medications are you taking with your health care provider. Some medicines (or combinations of medicines) can have side effects such as dizziness or drowsiness. This can make falling more likely. The Mayo Clinic recommends that you:

Make a list of your prescription and over-the-counter medications and supplements, or bring them with you to the appointment. Your doctor can review your medications for side effects and interactions that may increase your risk of falling. To help with fall prevention, your doctor may consider weaning you off certain medications — such as sedatives and some types of antidepressants. 2

Poor vision can make getting around safely very difficult. Aging seniors should have their eyes checked annually and wear glasses or contact lenses with the proper prescription strength to ensure clear eye sight. The Mayo Clinic adds:

Certain eye and ear disorders may increase your risk of falls. Be prepared to discuss your health conditions and how comfortable you are when you walk — for example, do you feel any dizziness, joint pain, numbness or shortness of breath when you walk? Your doctor may evaluate your muscle strength, balance and walking style (gait) as well. 2

Eliminate Home and Clothing Hazards

Over one half of all falls happen in the home or yard. A safety check in the home (including exits), garage and yard can identify hazards that need to be removed, changed or upgraded. To make your residence safer, consider:

Moving, downsizing, or eliminating coffee tables, book shelves, electrical and phone cords, or plants from high-traffic walkways outside and inside.
Securing rugs and doormats with tape, nails or a slip-resistant backing (or remove the rugs entirely from the home).
Swapping out chairs and couches that are unsafe or difficult to stand up from.
Using nonslip mats in the shower or bathtub.
Repairing loose tile, stairs, sidewalks, floorboards and carpeting.
Storing tools, clothing, dishes, food and other necessities in areas that are easy to reach.
Avoiding wearing loose clothing. Regardless of how comfortable they might be, baggy clothing can make a fall more likely.
Consider changing your footwear (shoes, socks, and slippers). Properly fitting, sturdy footwear with nonskid soles can prevent falls.

This safety check should include a review of your clothing and foot apparel. There is a myriad of outer garments, underwear, leisure wear, footwear and other specialized clothing available for elderly people with Alzheimer’s, arthritis, mobility issues, foot problems, incontinence, scoliosis or obesity issues.

Medical Equipment and Assistive Technology

Medical equipment is a term often used to refer to a larger category of services called assistive technology. Assistive technology is a broad term and may mean different things to different people but for our purposes we will define it as devices or systems to help the elderly function safely at home. Assistive technology can include:

Hand rails for entrances and stairways
Lifts and ramps
Nonslip treads for the floor
Raised toilet seats with armrests
Grab bars and nonslip treads for the shower or tub
A sturdy plastic seat for the shower or tub
Elevated toilet seats
Wheelchairs and scooters
Oxygen equipment

If you or a loved one spends a substantial amount of time at home, and is at increased risk of falling, consider subscribing to a personal emergency response system. This service, which operates through your home phone line, provides a button or bracelet to wear at all times in your home. Carrying a cell phone in your pocket while you are at home can also make it easier to call someone if you need assistance.

Great care and consideration should be used for those who are at a fall risk and have been diagnosed with dementia. Although many of the items mentioned above can be very helpful, those with memory issues may forget to utilize them properly.

Physical Activity

The Mayo Clinic recommends that:

Physical activity can go a long way toward fall prevention. With your doctor’s OK, consider activities such as walking, water workouts or tai chi — a gentle exercise that involves slow and graceful dance-like movements. Such activities reduce the risk of falls by improving strength, balance, coordination and flexibility. Lack of exercise can lead to weak legs and this increases the chances of falling. Exercise programs such as Tai Chi can increase strength and improve balance, making falls much less likely. 2

Practice Getting up from the Floor

Can you get up from the floor on your own right now? The answer to that question may depend on your age, health, past injuries and what is available to grab to help you up. Knowing whether or not you can get up from the floor by yourself is important. You might consider testing your ability. If it is difficult, can practicing with a stand by assistant help you develop this skill? Don’t wait until you fall down to work out how to get up. If you practice getting up and down from the floor on a regular basis, you might be surprised by the results.

If You Fall

A sudden fall can be startling and upsetting. Knowing what to do if a fall occurs can help you or a loved one be less afraid of falling. Whether you are at home or somewhere else, the steps below, provided by NIH Senior Health, can help you know how to get up from a fall. 3

Remain still on the floor or ground for a few moments. This will help you get over the shock of falling.
Decide if you’re hurt before getting up. Getting up too quickly or in the wrong way could make an injury worse.
If you think you can get up safely without help, roll over onto your side.
Rest again while your body and blood pressure adjust. Slowly get up on your hands and knees, and crawl to a sturdy chair.
Put your hands on the chair seat and slide one foot forward so that it is flat on the floor. Keep the other leg bent so the knee is on the floor.
From this kneeling position, slowly rise and turn your body to sit in the chair.
If you’re hurt or can’t get up on your own, ask someone for help or call 911. If you’re alone, try to get into a comfortable position and wait for help to arrive.

When someone has a serious fall and, for example, breaks their hips, they can feel that the situation is the beginning of the end. A fear of become increasingly frail and incapacitated can set in. Care.com has offered some helpful suggestions to help the elderly cope with depression after a fall. Here are some things you can do. 4

Empathize with your parent’s feelings.
Don’t minimize the situation, but remind your parent that it is temporary and that he or she will become more fully mobile little by little.
If your parent continues to feel depressed, tell the doctor and make sure the depression gets treated and starts to improve.
Any exercise that your parent is able to do will help improve his or her mood.

Conclusion – Address the Fear of Falling, Eliminate Risk, and Find Ways to Cope after a Fall

Each year one in three seniors will have a fall. Unfortunately, there is a common pattern when it comes to falls among the aging: risks increase, fear of falling ensues, the fall and subsequent injury, followed by hospitalization, rehabilitation, decreased independence and mobility, and often relocation to a nursing or residential care facility. One serious fall can be life changing.

Simple home modifications, the use of assistive devices, wearing sensible footwear, and removing hazards can reduce the risk of falling and the injuries that come with it.

If you’re worried about falling or having another fall, talk with your doctor or another health care provider. Getting rid of your fear of falling can help you to stay active, maintain your physical health, and prevent future falls.

References:

Stevens JA, Corso PS, Finkelstein EA, Miller TR. The costs of fatal and nonfatal falls among older adults. Injury Prevention 2006a; 12:290–5)
Mayo Clinic – Fall prevention: Simple tips to prevent falls http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/healthy-aging/in-depth/fall-prevention/art-20047358
NIH Senior Health – Falls and Older Adults http://nihseniorhealth.gov/falls/ifyoufall/01.html
Care.com – Helping Seniors with Depression http://www.care.com/senior-care-helping-seniors-with-depression-p1144-q87600.html

Join our Council

Senior Services

BOOK: “How to Deal with 21 Critical Issues Facing Aging Seniors“

The National Care Planning Council and its affiliated members are dedicated to helping families recognize the need for long term care planning and to helping implement that planning. Integrity, honesty, and a genuine concern for those who are in need of (or may need) long term care are at the heart of our services.
Our Statement of Purpose:
(1) To promote a public awareness of the need for long term care planning(2) To provide materials to educate the public on how to plan for long term care(3) To provide support to member eldercare experts who help the public plan for long term care(4) To promote the services and expertise of our members

Maximize Your Retirement Income – Tracy Mitchell, Federal Employee Benefit Advisors

Posted on March 29, 2016 by Tracy Wayne Mitchell

Certification in Long-Term Care

Posted on March 29, 2016 by Tracy Wayne Mitchell

A native of Springfield, Missouri, retirement expert, Tracy Wayne Mitchell, operates two businesses in the region. Tracy Mitchell oversees the companies, Mitchell & Associates Financial LLC and Federal Employee Benefit Advisors LLC, which guide clients on preparing for retirement and offer benefit counseling. Author of The Informed Fed: A Survival Guide to Federal Employee Benefits, Tracy Wayne Mitchell also possesses Long-Term Care certification.

The Certified in Long-Term Care program is offered by The Corporation for Long-Term Care Certification, Inc. It provides professionals with the knowledge they need to prepare clients for entry into long-term care. The program consists of six core components, including one on payment for extended care services and another on the implementation of long-term care insurance solutions.

The program modules highlight various skills. These include discussing all available options with clients, helping them identify plans that meet their needs, and creating appropriate financing solutions for them by looking at existing coverage options. The program also shows professionals how to best address long-term care while considering its potential emotional, physical, and financial toll on clients’ families. Lastly, the program offers an in-depth look at the history of long-term care insurance and at regulation relating.

Fall Prevention and Coping after a Fall

Posted on March 29, 2016 by Tracy Wayne Mitchell

Fall Prevention

Fall Prevention and Coping after a Fall

June 25, 2015 | by Jed Winegar

The fear of falling doesn’t need to control a life. Below we have compiled some useful information to help you or a loved one prevent falls and cope after a fall.

Make an Appointment with your Doctor if You Fall or have a “Close Call”

Review your Medication(s) and Eye Sight with Your Health Care Provider

Make a list of your prescription and over-the-counter medications and supplements, or bring them with you to the appointment. Your doctor can review your medications for side effects and interactions that may increase your risk of falling. To help with fall prevention, your doctor may consider weaning you off certain medications — such as sedatives and some types of antidepressants. 2

Certain eye and ear disorders may increase your risk of falls. Be prepared to discuss your health conditions and how comfortable you are when you walk — for example, do you feel any dizziness, joint pain, numbness or shortness of breath when you walk? Your doctor may evaluate your muscle strength, balance and walking style (gait) as well. 2

Eliminate Home and Clothing Hazards

Moving, downsizing, or eliminating coffee tables, book shelves, electrical and phone cords, or plants from high-traffic walkways outside and inside.
Securing rugs and doormats with tape, nails or a slip-resistant backing (or remove the rugs entirely from the home).
Swapping out chairs and couches that are unsafe or difficult to stand up from.
Using nonslip mats in the shower or bathtub.
Repairing loose tile, stairs, sidewalks, floorboards and carpeting.
Storing tools, clothing, dishes, food and other necessities in areas that are easy to reach.
Avoiding wearing loose clothing. Regardless of how comfortable they might be, baggy clothing can make a fall more likely.
Consider changing your footwear (shoes, socks, and slippers). Properly fitting, sturdy footwear with nonskid soles can prevent falls.

Medical Equipment and Assistive Technology

Hand rails for entrances and stairways
Lifts and ramps
Nonslip treads for the floor
Raised toilet seats with armrests
Grab bars and nonslip treads for the shower or tub
A sturdy plastic seat for the shower or tub
Elevated toilet seats
Wheelchairs and scooters
Oxygen equipment

Physical Activity

The Mayo Clinic recommends that:

Physical activity can go a long way toward fall prevention. With your doctor’s OK, consider activities such as walking, water workouts or tai chi — a gentle exercise that involves slow and graceful dance-like movements. Such activities reduce the risk of falls by improving strength, balance, coordination and flexibility. Lack of exercise can lead to weak legs and this increases the chances of falling. Exercise programs such as Tai Chi can increase strength and improve balance, making falls much less likely. 2

Practice Getting up from the Floor

If You Fall

Remain still on the floor or ground for a few moments. This will help you get over the shock of falling.
Decide if you’re hurt before getting up. Getting up too quickly or in the wrong way could make an injury worse.
If you think you can get up safely without help, roll over onto your side.
Rest again while your body and blood pressure adjust. Slowly get up on your hands and knees, and crawl to a sturdy chair.
Put your hands on the chair seat and slide one foot forward so that it is flat on the floor. Keep the other leg bent so the knee is on the floor.
From this kneeling position, slowly rise and turn your body to sit in the chair.
If you’re hurt or can’t get up on your own, ask someone for help or call 911. If you’re alone, try to get into a comfortable position and wait for help to arrive.

Empathize with your parent’s feelings.
Don’t minimize the situation, but remind your parent that it is temporary and that he or she will become more fully mobile little by little.
If your parent continues to feel depressed, tell the doctor and make sure the depression gets treated and starts to improve.
Any exercise that your parent is able to do will help improve his or her mood.

Conclusion – Address the Fear of Falling, Eliminate Risk, and Find Ways to Cope after a Fall

Simple home modifications, the use of assistive devices, wearing sensible footwear, and removing hazards can reduce the risk of falling and the injuries that come with it.

References:

Stevens JA, Corso PS, Finkelstein EA, Miller TR. The costs of fatal and nonfatal falls among older adults. Injury Prevention 2006a; 12:290–5)
Mayo Clinic – Fall prevention: Simple tips to prevent falls http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/healthy-aging/in-depth/fall-prevention/art-20047358
NIH Senior Health – Falls and Older Adults http://nihseniorhealth.gov/falls/ifyoufall/01.html
Care.com – Helping Seniors with Depression http://www.care.com/senior-care-helping-seniors-with-depression-p1144-q87600.html

Join our Council

Senior Services

BOOK: “How to Deal with 21 Critical Issues Facing Aging Seniors“

The National Care Planning Council and its affiliated members are dedicated to helping families recognize the need for long term care planning and to helping implement that planning. Integrity, honesty, and a genuine concern for those who are in need of (or may need) long term care are at the heart of our services.
Our Statement of Purpose:
(1) To promote a public awareness of the need for long term care planning(2) To provide materials to educate the public on how to plan for long term care(3) To provide support to member eldercare experts who help the public plan for long term care(4) To promote the services and expertise of our members