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Aging 360; Seeing the Signs, having the conversation, and making the call

May 20, 2020

In every edition of The Aging 360 we strive to give a holistic approach to navigating the aging process. We hope you find the information below to be helpful.

Have you seen the signs?

May is Mental Health Awareness month. Being cognizant of our loved one’s mental and emotional status is equally as important as tending to physical challenges. Life is precarious on a good day, and for many living in the world of Covid 19, it is not a good day. We see time and again the impact social isolation and loneliness have on mental health. Sheltering in place has meant cancelled activities, clubhouses and social venues closed, missing medical appointments, postponing elective surgeries, and for the many snowbirds in South Florida, an inability to return north for the summer months. Now is the time to look out for these telltale signs of distress:

  • Not wanting to engage in activities
  • Feeling irritable‚ easily frustrated‚ or restless
  • Irregularities in sleep schedule
  • Eating more or less than usual or having no appetite
  • Not being compliant with medication regimen

When speaking with your loved one, don’t be afraid to ask the difficult questions and know that help is always one phone call away.

Wishing you and your family bright and healthy days ahead.

Warm Regards,

Shari Markowitz Geller, MSW, CMC

President, Senior Options Inc.

Shari M. Geller

 

Difficult Conversations

Lori Dahan, Owner/Director,

Visiting Angels of SE Florida

Conversations with your loved one about home care could be emotionally laden and should be handled carefully.  Here are some tips to ensure the best experience and results: Your loved one should always be part of the central discussions.  Voice your opinions using “I” statements. Be respectful of your loved one’s opinions. Avoid blaming others or using “You” statements. Don’t try to accomplish too much in one conversation. Realize it may take some time and several conversations to come to a consensus.

 

How FAST are you?

Justin Rosenthal, MA, CEAS II, Practice Manager,

Marcus Neuroscience Institute

Strokes are the fifth leading cause of death, and a primary cause of disability in the United States.  The incidence of stroke increases for those over 65 years of age.  Use the letters in “F.A.S.T.” to identify stroke signs, and know when to call 9-1-1.   “F” Face Drooping.  Does one side of the face droop, or is numb? Look for an uneven smile.   “A” Arm Weakness.  Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms.  “S” Speech.  Is the person’s speech slurred?  “T” Time to call 9-1-1 if the person shows any of these symptoms.
 Connection
is Key

Connection is Key

Jan Kinder, RN, BA, HN-BC, HWNC-BC

Nurse Wellness Coach

As we age, preventing feelings of isolation and alienation is essential.

There are ways to stay engaged and positive. Be outside and take a walk in nature. Be mindful of breathing in the fresh air, listening to the sounds around you, and taking in the view as you give thanks. Find and focus on happy stories in the news. Listen to music that brings up joyful memories. Nurture your relationships with family and friends. Listen to your parents’ stories with enthusiasm, even if you have heard them 100 times before. Our elders have much to contribute. Every piece of history is precious.

If you are experiencing challenges in the aging process, help is just one phone call away.

561-372-8026

Categories: Aging 360
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