On a recent episode of ABC’s “What Would You Do”, the TV show setup a scenario to determine how bystanders would react to an elderly driver exhibiting signs that he shouldn’t get behind the wheel of a car. The aging driver, an actor, aged 92, approaches people on the street asking for help getting out of his parking spot (his car is parallel parked on the street) since his son who was supposed to meet him has failed to appear. Three of the four people featured in this first segment of the episode, which tests what people would do when faced with an elderly driver with impaired abilities, help the senior into his car. The bystanders help the senior driver with starting his ignition and putting his car in reverse; only to direct him from the spot to have him run down the motorcycle parked in the spot behind.

Watch “Driving While Disoriented”

What would you do when faced with the same situation? While statistics show, that apart from drivers under 25, drivers over 70 are involved in the most driving related accidents; family members in particular are very reluctant to take away a senior’s main source of independence. And while some states do mandate stricter licensing standards for drivers who have reached old age, very little mandatory testing is in place to ensure that older adults can drive without impairment so the decision of when to take away the keys is often left up to the family to determine.

If you’re starting to wonder whether it might be time to take away a senior’s right to drive, look at the following factors to determine if they might be a hazard behind the wheel:

• Does a loss of hearing acuity affect their ability to respond to sirens or honking horns?
• Has the old driver’s sight been tested? Do they have trouble seeing lines on the road, especially during night driving?
• Is the senior driver physically able to control the vehicle safely? Do they have any conditions, like arthritis, which might affect their reflexes?
• Do they take any medications that could affect their driving abilities? Do any medicines interact to make driving unsafe?

Sources: http://www.abcnews.go.com/whatwouldyoudo - February 17 (Driving While Disoriented) Episode
http://www.troubledwith.com/Relationships/A000000656.cfm?topic=relationships%3A%20caring%20for%20elderly%20parents

Q1 – Fact or fiction; seniors are at a greater risk for cancer?
A1 – As we grow old, the risk of developing cancer does increase slightly. The aging process lowers stress tolerance, which can impact the functioning of major organ systems and seniors may have weaker immune systems which puts them at a higher risk for cancer than younger generations. Statistics indicate that the elderly are at a much greater risk for certain types of cancer than younger Americans.

Q2 – Are there specific times of cancer that are more prevalent in seniors?
A2 – The number one form of cancer that elderly women are at risk for is breast cancer. Statistics show that by age 80, 1 in 10 women are likely to be exposed to breast cancer; a great increase compared to 1 in 2,212 at age 30. For every decade of life, the risk of developing breast cancer increases in women. Studies have also shown that men with diabetes are more likely to develop rectal or colon cancer. Since the risk of contracting diabetes increases with age, especially in senior men who struggle with obesity, the risk of colorectal cancer also increases with age. Other types of cancer, like cervical cancer, are actually more prevalent in younger generations; however the risk does still exist for women and seniors over the age of 40, with an increased risk for those struggling with other health problems.

Q3 – Is there any way for seniors to determine if they have risk factors that could contribute to the development of cancer?
A3 – Family history and overall health both play a major role in preventing cancer. Older adults should be aware of their relatives’ history with cancer so a physician can setup appropriate screening. Seniors can reduce their risk factors with diet and exercise; maintaining a healthy weight and keeping their immune system strong. Seniors can reduce the likelihood of cancer with knowledge and healthy living.

Sources: http://www.imaginis.com/cervical-cancer/risk_factors.asp
http://seniorhealth.about.com/od/cancer/a/br_cancer_age.htm
http://chealth.canoe.ca/channel_section_details.asp?text_id=3701&channel_id=12&relation_id=30096
http://www.springerlink.com/content/l7630l71t816g513/

While there’s no guarantee that cancer won’t touch the life of someone you love or your own life, no matter what your age, the secrets to cancer prevention relate to diet, lifestyle and knowledge. Follow these simple tips for the prevention of cancer to reduce your chances of experiencing the life altering disease.

1. No Smoking – avoid cigarette smoke at all costs; both first and second hand smoke increase your risk of contracting many types of cancers that relate to cigarette smoking, and makes you more susceptible to cancers that are not caused by the unhealthy habit.

2. Be Aware of Affects of the Sun – Many seniors believe that after years of sun exposure, they no longer require protection from the sun. Proper sun protection at any age is important for cancer prevention. Children, older and younger adults should wear sunscreen during time spent in the sun, protective eyewear (UV sunglasses), and head coverings like hats. It’s also important that individuals remain aware of any changes to their skin, like moles or other marks, and discuss any changes to skin conditions with a doctor immediately.

3. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle & Weight – a healthy lifestyle for cancer prevention includes eating a well-balanced diet rich with fresh fruits and vegetables and exercising regularly. Fruits and vegetables which are high in antioxidants, like those green, red or orange in color can help regenerate damaged cells for cancer prevention. Smoked and cured meats which are high in fat also increase the risk of cancer and should be avoided. Since obesity greatly increases the risk of cancer, regular exercise which is appropriate for your age and physical abilities, especially if you’re an older adult; should be incorporated into your routine.

4. Limit Alcohol Intake – consumption of alcohol not only increases the risk of certain types of cancer, it contributes to overall poor health and obesity in adults. Alcohol intake should be kept to a minimum, since men who consume 2 or more alcoholic drinks a day are at a greater risk for cancer, as are women who have 1 or more alcoholic drinks per day.

5. Know Your Families History – Knowledge plays a major role in cancer prevention. Understanding your family history with cancer can help your doctor make decisions relating to testing and screening for cancer. Many types of cancer are genetic, so it’s important to understand your family risk so you can make informed healthcare decisions.

http://cancer.about.com/od/causes/tp/topreventcancer.htm
http://www.cancer.org/docroot/PED/ped_1.asp?sitearea=PED&level=1

According to US Resolution 252, passed by the US Senate, February is officially designated National Prevention Month in the United States.  As one of the most devastating diseases, that impact the lives of approximately 550,000 Americans each year, including many older adults, the government clearly grasps the importance of promoting postive ways to enhance wellness and ultimately prevent cancer.

Sponsored by the American Institute of Cancer Research (AICR) the National Cancer Prevention Month resolution promotes making small lifestyle changes which can prevent cancer, in senior citizens and the rest of the population, by up to 70%.  Since diet and lifestyle play such a major role in cancer prevention, February is as good a time as any for people to understand what they can do to prevent the onset of or fatality from cancer and begin implementing exercise, smoking cessation, and well-balanced diets into their regular routines. 

The AICR recommends preparing daily meals that are 2/3 plant based foods, and 1/3 animal protein, since dietary fats will be reduced from your diet, which can help to maintain a healthy weight; a critical component in cancer prevention since 20% of all cancers relate to obesity.  Seniors should also engage in regular weekly physical exercise to help increase blood flow and control weight gain which can contribute to the onset of cancer, they should pick a routine that incorporates stretching, balance and strength training and that is suitable for their physical limitations.

National Cancer Prevention Month also aims to make people more aware of the screening techniques available that can lead to prevention, proper diagnosis and treatment of the various types of cancer.  During the month of February health institutions are encouraged to distribute information about cancer prevention to seniors and people of all ages and information is available on the AICR website regarding information sessions on cancer prevention.

Sources:
http://www.cancerwise.org/february_2004/display.cfm?id=B6EO5740-1F9C-4DC2-ADD57C9020
7F413D&color=blue&method=displayfull&color=blue
http://www.healthline.com/blogs/health-obsevances/2007/02/february-is-national-cancer-prevention.html

In most cases, seniors and decision-makers wait too long before addressing the need for senior care.  The result of this is that health may decline either quickly or progressively because the senior may not be taking their medications correctly, eating a well balanced diet or following the orders of their health care professionals.  The other possibility is that they will grow weak and have a fall causing them to be hospitalized.  All of these problems can be avoided if families see the signs of decline and move swiftly to ensure they have the help they need at home.

Two-thirds of seniors report obtaining care after they have what they describe as a “pivotal incident.”  A pivotal incident is commonly defined as a fall or other kind of accident.  However, in most cases the incident is actually the result of a chronic condition sucn as arthritis or dementia that should have been addressed much sooner.

In the course of dealing with chronic and persistent conditions, there is a tipping point where decision-makers decide that care has grown beyond their capacity.  The age of the senior when this tipping point is usually reached may be anywhere between 70 and 90, depending on a wide variety of individual factors.  A relatively small number of seniors, 10 percent are under 70 when they are recommended for senior home care.

Average Age Recommended for In-Home Senior Care:

Age:                          % Recommended:

50-60                        2%

60-70                        7%

70-80                        43%

80-90                        49%

90+                            0%

By working with either an independent care manager or a professional, who understands the changes that seniors go through that lead up to needing either assisted living or assistance at home, families can stay ahead of their seniors needs.  Home Instead Senior Care can conduct in home assessments to help with the process of understanding the maze of options available.

Thirty-three percent of current seniors have accidents each year. The annual number of hip fractures alone is 350,000. But, Baby Boomers are healthier and more active than previous generations. More than 70 percent report good mental and physical health, but precisely because they are more active. Boomers have more accidents than previous generations. Biking, running, skiing and other activities send Boomers to the emergency room far more frequently than previous generations.
And despite the overall good health of their generation, 30 percent of Boomers are already suffering from debilitating health issues that are usually associated with old age, such as Alzheimer’s disease and arthritis.

Arthritis is the most common condition that affects seniors. Another emerging area of concern is obesity. In 2002, 30 percent of Boomers were reported as obese. That number is expected to grow to 42 percent by 2025. Obesity makes daily activities much more difficult and increases the likelihood of other health problems, such as diabetes and stroke.

Most Common Conditions Impacting Senior:

10% General Dementia
3% Parkinson’s Disease
12% Orthopedic Condition
12% Depression
12% Alzheimer’s Disease
30% Multiple Sclerosis
12% Arthiritis
23% Other

Today we are presenting some more information that came out of the largest study that was conducted on the state of senior caregiving in America.  These results just came out recently and if you would like a full copy of the report contact us to receive an electronic version.

The Importance of Home was another factor they looked at and the study found that an overwhelming majority (86 percent) of elderly want to be cared for at home for as long as possible. This is consistent with several other studies, including an AARP survey that found 89 percent of elderly would prefer in home care as opposed to assisted living or nursing homes.

There are surveys that examined the views of family decision-makers about the desirability of their relatives continuing to age in place. The study found a strong correlation: 76 percent of decision-makers believe it is important for their loved one to be able to stay at home and to have in home care when the time comes that they need extra help.

So why are so many elderly people moving from their homes or being advised to move from their homes into Assisted Living Communities?  We would love to hear your thoughts on this question - please leave us a comment.

Source:  When the Age Wave Hits: The State of Senior Caregiving in America by Home Instead Senior Care, January 2009.

Senior rights need to be protected, and since 1973 The Silver Haired Legislature has been doing just that by offering government help for aging Americans in many states across the US by giving seniors a voice.

The Silver Haired Legislature ( SHL) are a group of citizens aged 60 and older, who are formally elected in each participating state to ensure there is a legislative involvement that focuses upon the needs of aging adults, while providing an open discussion forum for senior issues. The TSHL was first founded in Missouri in 1973, and has now been adopted by 31 states in the US, including Texas, Alaska, California, Florida, Louisiana, New Jersey, Utah and many others.

Elected volunteer officials of each state’s branch of the SHL are elected upon 2-year terms, and sworn in by the Secretary of State to become formal members of the organization. In the state of Texas, these elderly advocates select ten priority issues faced by older Americans and present them to the Texas Legislature for support when they’re in session during odd-numbered years. The 31 other states involved with the SHL follow a similar format to the Texas branch, and regularly provide advocacy support to senior issues that are occurring within their jurisdictions, while providing educational resources through the partnership with the Area Agency on Aging for senior citizens who are living with these problems.

The SHL tries to ensure that its senior representatives are approachable by both elderly members of the communities they represent and their families who are concerned about their welfare. Since the SHL members can be voted in to serve multiple consecutive terms, they often become recognized members of the senior community, which creates an open dialogue about the concerns and needs of senior citizens who feel they finally have someone to represent their voice and listen to their concerns.

To learn more about the SHL representatives in your area or approach them with an aging issue that requires government support and advocacy, visit the website of your local branch or contact your local Area Agency on Aging for more information about the SHL and how they can help you.

Sources: http://www.txshl.org/index.cfm
http://www.txshl.org/about.cfm
http://www.nemoaaa.com/shlfacts.htm

The Silver Haired Legislature, present in 31 states across the US, advocates the needs of aging adults, which includes providing guidance and support to their family members. One of the major issues that has been on the minds of the SHL relates to the sandwich-generation; those family caregivers who provide assistance to any aging relative, while raising their own young families and managing careers. Not only can providing care for an elderly parent or other relative take a physical toll on the lives of these Americans, but it can also carry a serious financial burden which only grows as life expectancy continues to rise. The Oklahoma SHL is trying to pass Senate Bill 725, which has been cleared by the Senate, but has not yet been heard by the House. This Bill will provide a tax deduction to families providing care and support for its elderly members.

Not only is The Silver Haired Legislature in many states focused upon legislation that will provide family caregivers financial support, they provide community resources through the Area Agency on Aging to help educate seniors and their families about rights, care issues, and other factors which can impact the lives of older adults. The Texas Silver Haired Legislature offers online courses for family caregivers; understanding that when balancing responsibilities, it’s important to offer educational resources which can be accessed at their convenience. These courses provide useful tips relating to care techniques, provide community support for common care-related issues, and makes them aware of the resources available.

Once per session, the elderly advocates of The SHL meet to discuss and vote upon which issues faced by older Americans that they will present to the Senate. First, however, the groups in each state reach out to the senior community to learn about what issues the population believes requires government support. Every year, when the SHL and Senate are in session, the Texas Senior Advocacy Coalition organizes Senior Day at the Capitol. This took place at The Capitol in Austin on February 10th. Seniors and their families were invited to attend independently or with the groups they’re involved with where they had the opportunity to mingle with representatives of the SHL and of the state legislature to voice their concerns and learn about senior living resources. Seniors and their families are also welcome to contact SHL representatives directly by phone or email, or approach other state advocacy groups which will present the issues before the SHL.

The Silver Haired Legislatures across the United States exist to represent the needs of older adults.  So Families, it’s time to get yourselves and the seniors in your lives involved in advocacy for senior welfare.

Sources: http://www.oksenate.gov/news/press_releases/press_releases_2007/pr20070925b.html
http://www.txshl.org/training.cfm
http://www.txshl.org/calendar.cfm

Caring Today is a quarterly magazine that has been developed to educate readers about the trends in aging and what families like yours are doing to help loved ones age in place gracefully.  Caring Today is often seen in physicians’ offices around the nation.  Articles featured include:  Managing Medication, Handling Finances and Legal Matters, Long-Term Care Planning, Arranging Respite Care, and Reducing Stress.  Home Instead Senior Care is regularly featured in Caring Today as a reputable resource for respite care, home care, senior companion services, home helpers, and as a trusted information source for senior issues.  If you cannot find a copy in your Doctor’s office, contact your local Home Instead Senior Care offce and share any questions or concerns you may have with us.  Our mission is not just to be a provider of Home Care but a source of information to the communities that we serve.