Why is Arthritis Common in the Older Population?

It seems the most common health condition that people over 70 have to deal with in the United States is arthritis. In fact, according to the CDC, 1/4 of the adult population and nearly half of the adults over 65 years old say that their doctor has diagnosed them with arthritis. 

The Elderly Have Difficulty Standing Up from a Sitting Position. Why???

 Muscle atrophy (or loss of muscle tissue) and limited flexibility are two factors that can make it difficult for older adults to get out of a chair. But they aren't the primary reason. There are a few other things to consider as well.

One is the height of the chair. If it's too low to the ground, its going to be a lot harder to get up from. That's why you'll often see older adults using chairs with higher seats, or even special risers that can be added to existing chairs to make them taller.

But the main reason why seniors find it difficult to get up from a chair is because they are using the wrong technique from the wrong position.  Both of these combined make it extremely difficult to stand up from a chair.

Why and How Strengthening Exercises Will Help Seniors With Mobility and ADLs

 Resistance training is the most effective way to prevent progressive muscle loss and is backed by scientific evidence. In resistance training, you move your body against resistance provided by weights or resistance bands, increasing muscle size and strength. It's the best treatment for sarcopenia, and research has shown that regular resistance training in combination with adequate dietary protein intake will slow sarcopenia and keep you healthier and more independent as you age.

Will Medicare Cover Home Physical Therapy Services?

 Medicare Part A provides coverage for home health care services that are medically necessary for the treatment of a medical condition. This includes coverage for physical therapy, and other necessary medical services that are provided in the home. In order to be eligible for Part A coverage of home health care services, the individual must be homebound and require intermittent or part-time care.

If you have it, Medicare Part B also provides coverage for certain home health care services, including physical therapy. However, in order to be eligible for Part B coverage, the individual must have a doctor's order for the services and the services must be deemed medically necessary. Additionally, Part B coverage is limited to services that are provided on a part-time or intermittent basis.

Steps to Take That Make Aging in Place Easier

 Aging in place is becoming a more popular option for seniors who want to maintain their independence and live in their own homes or communities for as long as possible. As a college student, you may not be thinking about aging in place yet, but it's never too early to start planning for the future. Here are some steps that you can take to help ensure that you are able to age in place:

Start planning early: It's never too early to start planning for your future. Start thinking about the types of modifications you may need to make to your home as you age, and begin looking into home health services that may be available in your area.

Stay physically active: Staying physically active is important for maintaining good health as you age. Make sure to engage in regular exercise and activities that you enjoy.

Stay socially active: Staying socially active can help prevent isolation and depression as you age. Join clubs or organizations that interest you, and make an effort to stay connected with friends and family.

Make your home safe and accessible: Consider making modifications to your home to make it safer and more accessible. This may include installing grab bars and handrails, adding a ramp to the front entrance, or widening doorways.

Have a plan in place: Make sure to have a plan in place for emergencies or unexpected events. This may include having a list of emergency contacts, ensuring that important documents are easily accessible, and having a plan for how to access medical care in the event of an emergency.

Consider technology: Technology can be a useful tool for aging in place. Consider using a medical alert system, installing smart home devices, or using telehealth services to receive medical care remotely.

Have a plan in place: Seniors should have a plan in place for emergencies or unexpected events. This may include having a list of emergency contacts, ensuring that important documents are easily accessible, and having a plan for how to access medical care in the event of an emergency.

Who Qualifies for Home Health Services?

Home health services provide a convenient and cost-effective way for individuals to receive medical and personal care in the comfort of their homes. To qualify for these services, individuals must meet certain criteria, such as requiring skilled care and being homebound.

Some Caregivers Use This Technique to help the Elderly Up From the Floor After a Fall

Falls are a common health problem in our elderly population here in the US. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), one in four Americans aged 65 and older has a fall each year. In fact falls are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries in the elderly. 

Let's take a look at some additional statistics: 

-Every 11 seconds, an older adult is treated in the emergency room for a fall-related injury.
-Every 19 minutes, an older adult dies from a fall-related injury. 
-In 2018, the total cost of fall injuries for older adults was $50 billion, with Medicare and Medicaid covering 75% of these costs.

People have implemented programs to prevent falls that include exercise for balance programs, Strengthening exercise programs, steps and educational programs that help with managing chronic conditions because theses can affect mobility. Proper medication management, home safety assessments and modifications, and regular vision and hearing check-ups.

Help Elderly Off The Floor