Older Americans Month

May 18, 2012 at 10:30 am | Posted in Deborah Varisco, GCM | Leave a comment
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Each May we celebrate the contributions and achievements of older Americans. The 2012 theme for Older Americans Month is, “Never Too Old to Play.” This theme encourages older Americans to stay engaged, active, and involved in their own lives and in their communities. Older Americans are living longer and are more active. Since 1963, communities have celebrated Older Americans Month organized by the Administration of Aging through the Department of Health and Human Services. While there is a vast network of programs for older Americans, many still struggle everyday to stay healthy and make ends meet. Many seniors cope with multiple  health conditions and find it difficult to pay for food, utilities and other basic necessities on a fixed income.

To maintain good health, it is important to do something active each day. Older Americans should select activities that they enjoy but also maintain their strength, balance, flexibility and heart health. Activity helps older Americans maintain a healthy weight, prevent or control illness, sleep better, reduce stress and depression, improve balance and feel their best. Being active has also been shown to improve memory.

The theme, “Never Too Old to Play,” is the perfect opportunity for people of all ages to play games together. Younger children or teens can play games with older relatives, neighbors and friends or they can volunteer to play games at area nursing homes. Games can include card games, such as Uno or War and board games, like Monopoly, Clue and Scrabble. Other activities they can participate in are trivia games, video games such as Wii games, bowling, cooking, swimming, going to the movies or a concert, or taking a walk.

Older Americans Month is a great opportunity to show your appreciation for older adults and to thank them for their contributions to our communities. Interactions with older Americans enrich the lives of everyone involved. As part of Older Americans Month, get involved with at least one senior and enjoy an interaction which will ultimately benefit both of you.

Distinctive Care Geriatric Care Management serves Bergen, Passaic, Rockland and Orange County with nurses licensed in New Jersey and New York.   We help families dealing with various issues related to their elderly loved ones and would be happy to discuss any concerns you may have related to long term care.

Please contact us in our Ramsey or Ridgewood Office to schedule a consultation. 201-587-5283.

National Women’s Health Week

May 17, 2012 at 10:30 am | Posted in Amy Shein, GCM | Leave a comment
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May 13th-19th is National Women’s Health Week.  It is a very important week that women really need to look deep into, taking some personal time and care for one’s self.  This week-long health observance was coordinated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office on Women’s Health.  It brings together communities, businesses, government, health organizations, and other groups in an effort to promote women’s health.  The theme for 2012 is “It’s Your Time.”  National Women’s Health Week promotes women making their health a top priority.  It will also encourage women to take the following steps to improve their mental and physical health and lower their risks of certain diseases.  Women need to:

  • Visit a health care professional to receive regular checkups and preventive screenings: mammograms and pap tests, a colonoscopy, and cardiac testing.
  • Get active and start a regular exercise program.  Regular activity can help prevent unhealthy weight gain and also help with weight loss.
  • Eat Healthy: eat lots of fresh fruit and vegetables, fat-free or low-fat versions of milk, cheese, yogurt and other mild products.  Incorporate of fish, skinless poultry, lean red meats, beans, eggs and nuts. Avoid saturated fats and Trans fats. Low sodium and no added sugar are very important to follow in a women’s diet.
  • Pay attention to mental health, including getting enough sleep and managing stress.
  • Avoid unhealthy behaviors, such as smoking and not wearing a seatbelt or helmet when riding a bicycle.

With National Women’s Health Week, we remind women everywhere that they need to visit the doctor, make sure their screenings are up to date, and just take time to think about their own health.

Distinctive Care Geriatric Care Management serves Bergen, Passaic, Rockland and Orange County with nurses licensed in New Jersey and New York.   We help families dealing with various issues related to their elderly loved ones and would be happy to discuss any concerns you may have related to long term care.

Please contact us in our Ramsey or Ridgewood Office to schedule a consultation. 201-587-5283.

National Nurses Week

May 11, 2012 at 10:30 am | Posted in Deborah Varisco, GCM | Leave a comment
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National Nurses Week is celebrated each year from May 6, known as National Nurses Day, through May 12, the birthday of Florence Nightingale the founder of modern nursing. National Nurses Day was first observed in 1954. The year marked the 100th anniversary of the nursing profession pioneer Florence Nightingale’s mission to treat soldiers during the Crimean War. It wasn’t until the early 1990′s that the recognition of nurses’ contributions was expanded to a week-long event each year.

The 2012 theme of National Nurses Week is “Nurses: Advocating, Leading, Caring.” Nursing is a profession encompassing dedicated individuals with varied interests, strengths and passions. Nursing offers many opportunities. Nurses work in emergency rooms, schools, clinics, doctors offices, rehabilitation centers and home settings. Nurses have many roles. They care for the sick, they are advocates for their patients and they are educators. Nurses work to make a difference everyday to countless patients, their families and their community. They are dedicated, compassionate and professional.

Nurses have been ranked the most trusted and respected profession in America since 2001. Nursing is the largest of the health care professions and continues to grow. The education level of nurses has increased significantly over the past three decades and the work force has become more racially and ethnically diverse. More men also are choosing nursing as a career. To celebrate nurses week hold a special celebration or reception to recognize nurses in your community, place an article in your local newspaper about National Nurses Week and the value of nurses, sponsor a community event such as a coloring or writing contest for school children where they acknowledge their favorite nurse, send a greeting card, or just say “thanks.” National Nurses Week is an opportunity to acknowledge and thank a nurse who made a difference in your life. In addition, as nurses we should take the time to celebrate all the good we accomplish as nurses and celebrate our profession!

Distinctive Care Geriatric Care Management serves Bergen, Passaic, Rockland and Orange County with nurses licensed in New Jersey and New York.   We help families dealing with various issues related to their elderly loved ones and would be happy to discuss any concerns you may have related to long term care.

Please contact us in our Ramsey or Ridgewood Office to schedule a consultation. 201-587-5283.

A Week in the Life of a Geriatric Care Manager in Bergen County, NJ

May 8, 2012 at 10:30 am | Posted in Christine Clark, GCM | Leave a comment
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May is National High Blood Pressure Education Month.

High blood pressure (also known as hypertension) usually has no symptoms so it is important to know your blood pressure numbers even when you’re feeling fine. Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of the arteries as the heart pumps blood. If this pressure rises and stays high, over time it can damage the body in many ways.

Approximately one in three adults in the United States has high blood pressure. Untreated, high blood pressure can damage the heart, blood vessels, kidneys and other parts of your body which can lead to heart attack, heart failure, stroke and kidney failure.

High blood pressure is classified as:

  • Normal blood pressure: less than 120/80
  • Prehypertension: 120-139/80-89
  • Hypertension: greater than 140/90
  • Stage 1 Hypertension:140-159/90-99
  • Stage 2 Hypertension: 160 or greater/100 or greater

Anyone with blood pressure readings greater than 120/80 should be encouraged to make lifestyle modifications.

  • Quit smoking.
  • Lose weight if overweight.
  • Eat a healthy diet to include more fruits, vegetables and less saturated fat.
  • Reduce your sodium intake.
  • Exercise regularly, at least 30 minutes a day, several times a week.
  • Limit alcohol to two drinks a day for men and one drink a day for women.
  • Find healthy ways to de-stress such as yoga or caring for a pet.
  • Medication may also be necessary to treat high blood pressure. There are several types of drugs available as well as combination medications to treat hypertension.
  • Know your blood pressure numbers. Keep a blood pressure diary. Talk to your doctor about what you can do to maintain your normal blood pressure or what steps you can take to lower it.
  • Take charge of leading a healthier life; your heart will thank you.

Distinctive Care Geriatric Care Management serves Bergen, Passaic, Rockland and Orange County with nurses licensed in New Jersey and New York.   We help families dealing with various issues related to their elderly loved ones and would be happy to discuss any concerns you may have related to long term care.

Please contact us in our Ramsey or Ridgewood Office to schedule a consultation. 201-587-5283.

Caregiver Burnout

May 4, 2012 at 10:30 am | Posted in Deborah Varisco, GCM | Leave a comment
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Caregiver burnout is a state of physical, emotional and mental exhaustion. Caregiver burnout can occur when caregivers do not get the help they need or if they try to do more than they are able. Caregivers who are burned out may experience fatigue, stress, anxiety and depression. Symptoms of caregiver burn out include withdrawal from friends, family and loved ones; loss of interest in activities; irritability; changes in appetite and weight; changes in sleep patterns and emotional and physical exhaustion. A caregiver will face disruption in work and social life, sleep habits, exercise routines, household management and financial situations.

Some have described the caregiver role as a “roller coaster ride from hell.” Each day brings new challenges, demands and adjustments. Caregivers are often so busy caring for another that they neglect their own needs. They may place unreasonable demands on themselves and may even become sick themselves. Many individuals are confused when they are forced to take on the role of caregivers. It can be difficult for one to separate their role as a caregiver from their role as a spouse or child. Many are additionally frustrated by a lack of money, resources and skills.

To prevent caregiver burnout:

  1. Find someone you trust and talk about your feelings and frustrations.
  2. Set realistic goals. Accept you may need help with caregiving.
  3. Be realistic about your loved one’s disease, especially if it is a progressive disease such as Alzheimer’s disease.
  4. Do not forget about yourself because you are too busy caring for someone else.
  5. Stay healthy by eating right, getting enough exercise and sleep.
  6. Talk to a professional such as a therapist, social worker or clergy member.
  7. Take advantage of respite care services.
  8. Educate yourself. The more you know about the illness, the more effective you will be in caring for the person.
  9. Join a caregiver support group.
  10. Accept your feelings. It is normal to have negative feelings, such as frustration and anger.

Remember you need to balance your caregiver role and personal life. Prevent burnout by recognizing problems you may encounter. Reward yourself for the positive differences you make in your loved one’s life. Do not stress over the things you did not get done, or can not change. Focus on the good things you do and acknowledge the reality that being a caregiver is filled with stress and anxiety. The best way to be an effective caregiver is to take care of yourself.

Distinctive Care Geriatric Care Management serves Bergen, Passaic, Rockland and Orange County with nurses licensed in New Jersey and New York.   We help families dealing with various issues related to their elderly loved ones and would be happy to discuss any concerns you may have related to long term care.

Please contact us in our Ramsey or Ridgewood Office to schedule a consultation. 201-587-5283.

The Goodness of Red Wine

May 3, 2012 at 10:30 am | Posted in Amy Shein, GCM | Leave a comment
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A few years ago there were many publications on research studies on the active ingredient in red wine known as resveratrol. Scientists discovered that red wine could help protect people at high risk from heart disease and diabetes.

Researchers discovered that an antioxidant found in red grapes can lower blood sugar levels and reduce blood pressure. Resveratrol is a phytochemical, which is found in the skins of red grapes, peanuts, blueberries and blackberries is now also being studied for assisting in preventing dementia and as well as decreasing progression of dementia.

A 2007 study of elderly Italians showed that drinking alcohol in moderation may slow the progression to dementia in elderly people who already have mild mental declines. Defined in the study as less than one drink a day, low to moderate drinking was associated with a significantly slower progression to dementia among people with mild age-related cognitive declines, this was compared with non-drinkers.

Resveratrol acts to slow the progression of dementia, as it is explained by a study published in the 2004 “Journal of Neural Transmission.” Researchers explain that memory deficits can be decreased by antioxidants, like reseveratrol, as they are able to do so by decreasing inflammation and oxidative damage to brain cells.

Cornell University neuroscientists published a report in 2009, with direct evidence on how resveratrol produces a neuroprotective effect in Alzheimer’s patients. Cornell’s research group studied mice given an experimental effect in Alzheimer’s patients. The mice were given resveratrol for a period of 45 days. Their brains were evaluated to see if they were suffering damaging inflammatory plaques normally found in Alzheimer’s patients. It was found that the plaque formations had been reduced by 48% to 90%. Accompanying these changes were also increases in brain antioxidant molecules. They felt that this was a successful study that leads to the conclusion that dementia or Alzheimer’s could be delayed or reduced.

I had just completed an article about the Mediterranean diet and how people in that part of the world tend to consume red wine on a regular basis and they live about 10 years longer than any another population. Studies have shown that Alzheimer’s disease is less common in populations that consume moderate amounts of red wine. I heard a Neurologist speak last week about this topic and he believes very strongly of the positive benefits from red wine and resveratrol. He recommends that all his patients drink a glass of red wine every day, as long as they are not on any medications that would be affected by the consumption of alcohol.

Ever since his presentation last week, I have been trying to drink more red wine with dinner. I’ve started to like wine a little more after researching for today’s blog.

Before you go running to the store and purchasing bottles of red wine, please speak to with your medical doctor and make sure it is safe for you consume red wine.

Distinctive Care Geriatric Care Management serves Bergen, Passaic, Rockland and Orange County with nurses licensed in New Jersey and New York. We help families dealing with various issues related to their elderly loved ones and would be happy to discuss any concerns you may have related to long term care.

Please contact us in our Ramsey or Ridgewood Office to schedule a consultation. 201-587-5283

An Aspirin a Day

April 20, 2012 at 10:30 am | Posted in Deborah Varisco, GCM | Leave a comment
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Aspirin is used to reduce fever, relieve mild to moderate pain from muscle aches, headaches or toothaches, and reduce pain and swelling in those with arthritis. Doctors prescribe aspirin therapy to prevent blood clots, which reduces the risk of stroke and heart attack. Nearly a third of middle-aged Americans take aspirin daily, mainly in the hope of preventing a heart attack or stroke. More recently individuals have begun to take aspirin to lower their risk of cancer. New studies suggest that aspirin therapy can decrease one’s risk of many cancers, including colon, esophageal, breast and prostate cancer.

Other research studies, though, demonstrate aspirin is not for everyone and sometimes does more harm than good, particularly in the elderly. Aspirin is a medication and all medications have side effects. Aspirin may cause nausea, vomiting, stomach pain and heartburn. More serious side effects of aspirin include hives, rash, swelling of the eyes, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing, bloody vomit, bright red blood in stools or black, tarry stools.

It has been demonstrated that there exists a potential for life-threatening bleeding in people over the age of 70 years who take aspirin daily, which may be greater than the heart disease protection it may offer. The benefit of aspirin therapy in individuals with heart disease is clear, however, and those taking it under a physician’s supervision should not stop.

The benefits of aspirin in older individuals without heart disease is uncertain.

Age is a strong predictor of cardiovascular risk, with the thinking that the benefits of aspirin would be greater in the elderly than those in other age categories. The elderly, though, also have an increased risk of bleeding from aspirin use. Even low dose aspirin can increase the risk of bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract.

So daily aspirin might not be for everyone. Many individuals decide on their own to take an aspirin a day. Aspirin therapy should be prescribed case by case depending on the individual’s risk factors and family history. Consult with your doctor to decide if the benefits of aspirin therapy outweigh the risks and if you should be one of those taking an aspirin a day.

Distinctive Care Geriatric Care Management serves Bergen, Passaic, Rockland and Orange County with nurses licensed in New Jersey and New York.   We help families dealing with various issues related to their elderly loved ones and would be happy to discuss any concerns you may have related to long term care.

Please contact us in our Ramsey or Ridgewood Office to schedule a consultation. 201-587-5283.

National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day April 28, 2012

April 19, 2012 at 10:30 am | Posted in Amy Shein, GCM | Leave a comment
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The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has scheduled another National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day, which will take place on Saturday, April 28, 2012, from 10:00 to 2:00pm.  With over 377,086 pounds(188.5 tons) of unwanted or expired medications deposited for safe and proper disposal at the over 5,327 take-back collection sites that were available in all 50 states and U.S. territories, the DEA had an unprecedented number of participants in the third National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day on October 29, 2011.

The actual results of the three prior Take-Back Days all combined, the DEA, along with the state and local law-enforcement and community partners have removed 995,185 pounds (498.5 tons) of medication from circulations in the past 13 months.

Here are some reasons why it is so important to dispose of drugs in a safe and proper method;

  • Drugs that are flushed are not removed in sewage treatment facilities and septic tank systems; they enter the soil, surface water and groundwater.
  • Drug resistant bacteria and microbes can result from contaminated water.
  • Animals, adults and children are poisoned by drugs they find on the ground or surrounding trash containers.
  • Increase in drug abuse is seen.
  • Pollution prevention, the elimination or minimization of pollution source can help clean up the environment.

“With the continued support and hard work of more than 3,945 state, local and tribal law enforcement and community partners, these three events have dramatically reduced the risk of prescription drug diversion and abuse and increased awareness of this critical public health issue,” said DEA Administrator Michele M. Leonhart.

So please join in on this very important day on April 28th, 2012.  Help improve our environment and save your community.  Please refer to this link and find a collection site near you.

Distinctive Care Geriatric Care Management serves Bergen, Passaic, Rockland and Orange County with nurses licensed in New Jersey and New York.   We help families dealing with various issues related to their elderly loved ones and would be happy to discuss any concerns you may have related to long term care.

Please contact us in our Ramsey or Ridgewood Office to schedule a consultation. 201-587-5283.

A Week in the Life of a Geriatric Care Manager in Bergen County, NJ

April 17, 2012 at 10:30 am | Posted in Christine Clark, GCM | Leave a comment
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Last week I wrote about the assessment I performed on Mr. P. Newly diagnosed with stage 2 Alzheimer’s disease, his wife and their son did not know where to turn.

I met with Mr. P’s son to review my findings and reassure him that I could help him implement a plan to ensure his dad remains safely at home.

With wonderful doctors already in place, including his Geriatrician, Neurologist and Neuropsychologist, as well as the support and information they had already received from the Alzheimer’s Association, I went to work reviewing the care plan I had developed.

Mr. P’s son agreed that we needed to interview and place a certified home health aide with his dad as soon as possible to assist with bathing and dressing. We talked about supporting his mom and allowing her to be a wife and not a caregiver for her husband.

Just as important was to follow my recommendations to ensure that the house is safe. A full, detailed list was provided with resources to help make the necessary changes.

I provided information to access Veteran’s Administration benefits, long term care insurance, advanced directive, durable power of attorney and contact information for attorneys specializing in elder law.

I included several recommendations, should the need arise, for future placement in a facility that has accommodations for people with memory impairment.

With the care plan in his hand, and a sigh of relief, Mr. P’s son thanked me. He was prepared and looking forward to reviewing my recommendations with his parents.

Distinctive Care Geriatric Care Management serves Bergen, Passaic, Rockland and Orange County with nurses licensed in New Jersey and New York.   We help families dealing with various issues related to their elderly loved ones and would be happy to discuss any concerns you may have related to long term care.

Please contact us in our Ramsey or Ridgewood Office to schedule a consultation. 201-587-5283.

Being Honest

April 13, 2012 at 10:30 am | Posted in Deborah Varisco, GCM | Leave a comment
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Should physicians withhold the truth about a diagnosis in order to relieve a patient’s fears and anxieties?

Honesty matters in the medical profession, but some degree of dishonesty may be excusable in order to avoid more serious patient harm. Doctors and nurses in some cultures believe it is wrong to lie about a bad diagnosis or prognosis. A number of studies have shown that the majority of patients generally want to know the truth about their diagnosis, prognosis and therapy. Individuals need the truth even when it tells them about their death. Without knowing the truth, an individual can be subjected to aggressive treatments, futile interventions and more suffering. To prevent harm from telling the truth, a doctor needs to tell the truth in a certain way and time.

Truth telling must be sensitive and take into account the individual’s personality and history. An individual needs an explanation of their illness. It should be understandable and convincing so they can cooperate in their treatment and be relieved of any fears. Communicating with a patient and being honest is a important way for physicians to foster trust and show respect for their patient. Giving individuals truthful information helps them to become informed participants in their care and in their decision-making.

Many times families will ask a physician to withhold a diagnosis from a patient. The family usually wants to spare the individual the potentially painful experience of learning the truth. If the disclosure is done sensitively, these fears are unfounded. In rare situations though, family members may make the physician aware of something about the patient that causes the physician to worry that the truth may actually cause harm and be justified in withholding the truth. A recent study in the medical journal “Health Affair” found that more than ten percent of doctors admit to not telling their patients the complete truth about their medical conditions.

So what is right? Physicians must strike a balance between respecting an individual’s autonomy and acting in their best interest. What do you think?

Distinctive Care Geriatric Care Management serves Bergen, Passaic, Rockland and Orange County with nurses licensed in New Jersey and New York.   We help families dealing with various issues related to their elderly loved ones and would be happy to discuss any concerns you may have related to long term care.

Please contact us in our Ramsey or Ridgewood Office to schedule a consultation. 201-587-5283.

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