There are a variety of different causes of balance problems in older adults, from inner ear issues to nerve damage to certain diseases. Fortunately, family caregivers can learn several easy exercises so they know how to improve balance in the elderly. Many of them can be done from the comfort of your own home, with no equipment, or by using a chair or a wall for extra support. Maintaining good balance is important, as it helps prevent falls which can cause serious injury. Here are a few easy and fun balance exercises for elderly adults to improve stability and get around more easily.
Flamingo StandOne of the more simple balance exercises for elderly adults is the flamingo stand. Much like you would expect, the flamingo stand involves practicing standing on one leg. Start next to a chair or wall you can use for support and stand with your feet shoulder width apart. Slowly raise one foot a few inches off the ground and count to ten. After you reach ten, lower that foot back to the ground and raise the other foot for the same ten count. Repeat this up to five times. As you improve with this exercise, you can try letting go of the chair or wall, lifting your foot higher off the ground, or extending your ten count to fifteen or twenty. When you begin to feel you have mastered the exercise, you can make it more difficult by trying it with your eyes closed. This is one of the easier static balance exercises for elderly adults.Tightrope WalkThe tightrope walk helps you improve your balance while also getting you moving, and is one of the favorite dynamic balance exercises for elderly adults. This exercise works best in a long hallway, so you can take several steps in a row and still have a wall next to you for balance. If you don’t have a long hallway, you can recruit a friend to stand nearby to give you a hand if you wobble. For this exercise, you will take ten to fifteen steps in one direction with your heel touching your toe for each step, the same sort of steps you would take as you walked along a tightrope. Feel free to extend both arms out to the sides, with one touching the wall for support as you walk so you can stay safe. If taking steps like this is too challenging, start by just standing with your feet in the heel-toe position for a count of twenty to twenty five. Practice with each foot in front. Once this feels more comfortable, start taking steps.Back and Side Leg RaisesBack and side leg raises are great exercises for the elderly to improve balance that will also help strengthen the lower back and glutes. Standing behind a chair for support, slowly raise one leg straight backwards until it is four to six inches off the ground, then return it to its starting position. Repeat this ten to fifteen times, then switch to the other leg. Side leg raises follow the same process, lifting the leg to the side rather than straight backwards.Sit to StandsThese sitting balance exercises for elderly adults are more challenging than the rest, as they build core and hamstring strength (muscles that are crucial to maintaining balance). When doing sit to stands, begin seated in a sturdy chair with feet flat on the floor and shoulder-width apart. Without letting your torso move or add momentum, stand up slowly. Pause while you are standing, then slowly return to a seated position. Repeat five to ten times. It may be helpful to have another chair in front of you to help you stand as you begin the exercise. These are just a few high level balance exercises for elderly adults. For a more in depth exercise routine, find a local physical therapist or personal trainer that specializes in older adult workouts. And as always, please consult a doctor before starting any new exercise regime.from https://www.griswoldhomecare.com/blog/balance-exercises-for-elderly-adults/
0 Comments
Written by: Priscella Grant, Chief Happiness Officer of Nurse Next Door Alpharetta Many seniors have hip replacement surgery to repair damage from a variety of conditions, such as arthritis or fractures from a fall. The surgery is usually a planned surgery, giving seniors and their family caregivers time to prepare for it. Being ready for the surgery, hospital stay and recovery period can make the whole process easier and less stressful for your aging loved one. Below are some tips to help you prepare. Educate Yourself About the SurgeryLearn as much as you can about the surgery your loved one is having. Also, there are several different kinds of prosthetic joints, so find out what about the kind of joint the senior is getting. Also, ask for detailed information about recovery. Knowing what to expect can help you to better prepare. Find People to HelpThe senior will need someone to be with them round the clock for at least the first week after they are discharged from the hospital. Talk to other family members and friends about taking on caregiver duties for part of that week. Another good option is to hire home care to assist throughout the recovery period. Home care providers can come for several hours right after the surgery and then reduce the number of hours when the senior no longer needs as much care. Home care providers can assist with things like dressing, walking, using the bathroom, and showering. They can also cook meals, clean the house or even perhaps assist with walking the dog! Pack for the HospitalYour senior loved one will probably spend between 1 and 4 days in the hospital after surgery. Pack a bag that contains essential toiletries and clothing that is loose and comfortable. University of California San Francisco recommends packing items to prevent boredom, such as a book, magazine, tablet or smartphone, and a deck of cards. If the older adult has a walker already, bring it with them to the hospital as the staff will be getting them up to move around before they go home. Make Adjustments to the HomeYou may need to make some changes around the senior’s house until they have recovered. For example, they will likely use a walker for a while, which means you’ll have to make sure pathways in the house are wide enough. Also, if the senior’s bedroom is upstairs, you may need to set up a sleeping area for them on the main floor. It’s also a good idea to install grab bars in the bathroom to prevent them from falling. Check out our other article on some tips to fall-proof your home after hip surgery.
The post Getting Ready for Hip Replacement Surgery appeared first on Nurse Next Door Senior Home Care Services. from https://www.nursenextdoor.com/blog/prep-for-hip-replacement-surgery/
As we age, our digestive system undergoes a number of different changes. Some of these changes are just a natural part of growing old. Some are the result of years of lifestyle and diet decisions becoming more apparent in our health. And some are side effects from one of the numerous medications we may take. But how can you tell the difference between natural changes to the digestive system and potentially dangerous issues that require treatment? Knowing a couple of things about common bowel problems in the elderly can help you know what to expect, and better prepare you to identify the warning signs of more serious digestive complications.
Senior Digestive IssuesAs we grow old, our circulation system may work less efficiently. It’s not uncommon for older adults to have low blood pressure, constricted blood vessels, or to be at risk of blood clots. All of these factors can contribute to the development of bowel problems if it means blood is having a harder time reaching the gut. For example, ischemic bowel disease in the elderly is one possible consequence of a reduction in blood flowing to the bowels. Gastroesophageal reflux disease is among the most common GI disorders among older adults. That’s because a small ring of muscle helps separate the esophagus and the stomach. And it’s not uncommon for that muscle to weaken with age, leading to symptoms like heartburn, difficulty swallowing, regurgitation, and chest pain. Likewise, loss of bowel control in elderly adults can be due to damage of similar muscles around the anus. For many seniors, digestive issues are related to the side effects of medications. Painkillers are among the most common culprits because they actually can slow down the digestive system. When over the counter painkillers are used regularly, like ibuprofen and similar nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID), older adults face greater risk of stomach ulcers and GI bleeding. You should always alert a doctor about the presence of blood in stools.Bowel Obstruction in Elderly PatientsSeniors are also at greater risk of suffering from an obstruction in their bowels. This is usually the result of a bowel impaction, when hardened stool becomes stuck in the rectum or colon. It’s important to be aware of this problem because bowel impaction in elderly people is more common if other bowel problems are present. For example, impaction can occur after unresolved constipation. Left untreated, a bowel obstruction can be life threatening. Someone suffering from an obstructed bowel might experience nausea, vomiting, dehydration, diarrhea, fever, dizziness, confusion, irregular heartbeat, or trouble breathing. If you see these types of symptoms, seek immediate medical assistance.Preparing for Bowel Changes in the ElderlyMany bowel movement problems in elderly adults are at least partially caused by inactivity. Older people tend to be less active, but inactivity has a significant impact on our metabolism. Staying active can help the colon process waste, which can help prevent constipation and a lack of bowel movement in elderly adults. Choosing nutritious foods and getting an adequate amount of sleep has also been shown to help the digestive system to function more efficiently and keep elderly bowel movements more regular. In summary, follow the time honored recommendation of diet and exercise. The CDC recommends seniors should get about 30 minutes of cardiovascular exercise during most days of the week. Older adults should also intermix both muscle and bone strengthening exercises. Though sometimes digestive changes are often just a natural part of aging, taking these small steps can go a long way towards living a happier and healthier life.from https://www.griswoldhomecare.com/blog/bowel-changes-in-the-elderly/
Taking care of your elderly loved one is important. But what about taking care of yourself during this difficult time? Studies have shown that family caregivers have a greater risk of developing anxiety, depression, and overall burnout. Respite care can provide temporary relief for caregivers so they can rest up and give 100% to their loved ones upon return. So, what is respite care exactly? Here’s a look at 8 frequently asked questions.
What is respite care for elderly adults?Respite care allows you, the caregiver, time to recharge and provides help with daily tasks for your loved one. A temporary caregiver assists with tasks such as housekeeping, errands, daily hygiene, and travel to appointments. While this individual takes care of your loved one, you will have the opportunity to get some extra sleep, take care of your personal to-do list, go on a day trip, or even take a long-term vacation. Respite care can take place at home or in a healthcare facility.What does respite mean?Merriam-Webster defines respite as an interval of rest or relief when used as a noun, and as providing or being temporary care in relief of a primary caregiver when used as an adjective. Both of these definitions work hand in hand to describe respite care.How do you pronounce respite?Pronounce respite like ˈre-spət or ri-ˈspīt.Who provides respite care?You can contact a home care provider like Griswold Home Care, hire a temporary caregiver directly, or reach out to trusted friends and family members to provide respite care.Does insurance cover respite care?Insurance plans do not typically cover short-term respite care costs, but you may be able to find long-term care insurance programs to fit your needs.Does Medicare and/or Medicaid cover respite care?Medicare coverage for respite care is often limited to those receiving care in a nursing home, hospice inpatient facility, or hospital. If your family member receives this type of care, there are limitations on respite care coverage. These include the fact that the patient must receive care in a Medicare certified facility. Each state administers Medicaid differently, so you will need to check with your state’s policy for more information. However, under Medicaid, you may be eligible for home and community-based services (HCBS) waivers.How often can you get respite care?For home care services, when paying privately, you can use respite care as often as you like. Under Medicare, you can have one five-day respite period under each billing cycle.How long can someone stay in respite care?For home care, this period is defined by you, the family caregiver. For government-related coverage, it often depends on the state, but respite care can range from a few hours to several days. Have any other questions about respite care? Ask us in the comments below, and we’d be happy to answer your questions.from https://www.griswoldhomecare.com/blog/respite-care-8-frequently-asked-questions/ We previously covered some ways to alleviate senior loneliness and depression. In this article, we identify four risk factors that contribute to isolation and loneliness amongst seniors. Understanding why your senior loved one is more prone to loneliness and to feelings of isolation can help both of you to determine what might help her to overcome those issues. Your loved one might experience a mix of these issues or just one or two. Piecing together what’s affecting them the most is going to give you the best chance at finding an answer. Life ChangesEven small changes that your senior family member wants, like finally retiring completely, can be changes that lead to less social interaction than they expect. Big changes make an even bigger impact. Talk to them about the possibility that these changes they’re planning to make because it can have a bigger reach than they expect. Deteriorating Health IssuesHealth issues are always a problem, but if they’re deteriorating, that can cause your senior loved one to want to stay home more or might make them feel uncomfortable around new people. Some issues, such as hearing loss and mobility issues, might make them feel especially self-conscious, leading to even greater isolation. In many cases, treating those issues correctly can help make them feel more comfortable. Living in a Rural AreaWhere your aging loved one lives makes a huge difference in what types of social engagements they’re able to participate in on a regular basis. Rural areas, small towns, and other areas might not have the same opportunities for social interactions or less people who share their interests. That can get lonely fast. Lack of TransportationOne of the biggest barriers to social interactions, no matter where your senior lives, can be a lack of transportation. If they no longer drive, it limits their access to people and activities. Using a home care service is one of the best ways to solve that problem. They can take over driving, accompany them on any appointments etc. That way the caregiver can ensure your loved one’s safety while they’re away from home. If additional help is needed, such as with mobility, they’re well-versed in how to support in the ways that is needed. Home care companies like Nurse Next Door provides a variety of services to support seniors’ independence and to combat loneliness. Companionship is important–we understand seniors might need help with certain activities and it means a lot to have a friend along the way. Caregivers are specifically chosen to provide and support social interaction for maintaining health and mental well-being. It’s all about happiness! Talk to your aging family member about how much socialization is the right amount for him/her. You might be surprised to find out how they feel about the situation. Everyone has different needs in terms of being around other people, so it’s important that you do what you can to tailor solutions to their emotional and mental needs.
The post Four Risk Factors that Contribute to Senior Loneliness and Isolation appeared first on Nurse Next Door Senior Home Care Services. from https://www.nursenextdoor.com/blog/senior-loneliness-risk-factors/ In one of our previous blog posts, we looked at the differences between palliative care and hospice. Generally speaking, palliative care describes a type of care provided in association with a chronic illness; hospice care is provided at end-of-life. Insurance* only covers a portion of these services. This is where home care and home health companies can come in to play, as it relates to the total Care Plan whether it be palliative or hospice care. Case StudyDavid and his sister have been caring for their Dad and were just told that he now qualifies for hospice care. After contacting several hospice companies, they chose one and were looking forward to the additional care their Dad would be receiving. Care for Dad had increased to several hours a day and even though they shared the responsibilities, it was beginning to take a toll on them. Housekeeping, cooking, bathing, dressing and medication management were surpassing the full-time job mark. You can imagine their shock to learn that insurance would only cover a home health aide 45 minutes a day, 3 days a week. Moreover, the aide will only be able to assist with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs). They expressed their concerns to the hospice company who suggested they consider supplementing Dad’s care with a home care or home health agency. Creating a Care TeamHospice and Palliative care can be provided by several different people and agencies that work in conjunction to provide patient care. Think of it as having a Primary Care doctor who oversees and guides the care, but uses specialists (a cardiologist, a gastroenterologist, etc.) when needed to address very specific needs. Supplementing palliative or hospice care with a home health agency is very similar; the palliative care or hospice team oversees the Care Plan, but companies like Nurse Next Door can be part of the team to provide services that will enhance your loved one’s care. Does your Mom or Dad want a massage? Do you want someone with them 24/7 at end-of-life? In the case study above, David and his sister welcomed support so they could be present simply as a son and a daughter and not worry about things like repositioning, suctioning and mouth care. That’s what Nurse Next Door can do. Depending on the type of care you want (medical or non-medical) will determine what type of supplemental company you go to: A home health company can do everything (medical care, ADL care, IADL care) and a home care company can only do ADL and IADL care. Note: Make sure for ADL care, you ensure you have a home health aide or CNA. Learn more about the different levels of health care professionals that may be involved in the care of your loved one. Care Can Vary and ChangeDifferent palliative and hospice care companies may offer different levels of service. While they all get reimbursed by the same insurance companies, different business models and focuses may change the way that they’re able to care for you or a loved one. For instance, Delaware Hospice has a hospice house in Milford, Delaware where your loved one will go if he/she has uncontrollable pain or symptoms. Seasons Hospice has a hospital wing that they use for this. Vitas Hospice was trialing a system where they would provide 24/7 nursing care in the home if they had clients with uncontrollable pain. So different companies have different resources and models that change how they deal with your loved one. As a patient’s symptoms change or progress, so too should their Care Plan. You know how you make changes to your lifestyle to get a certain result? Like working out and eating healthier if you want to feel better? Care is like that, too; the Care Plan constantly changes to achieve a desired result. Your Mom or Dad’s needs will be constantly evolving. Sometimes they’ll need the same resources for months, and sometimes the Care Plan will need to change every few days. Understanding this will help you not get frustrated every time something needs to change, or you are given a care recommendation that is new. 4 Questions to Ask When Looking for CareIf you’re looking at palliative or hospice care for your loved one, remember that the amount insurance covers will be minimal. When putting together your care team, here are some great questions to ask to help guide your decisions: 1. What is the prognosis?If it’s short and death is imminent, it is easier to handle the cost of 24/7 care. If it’s a longer time-frame, finances may impact your decision. BUT always think “investment” instead of straight cost. There are loan options, reverse mortgage options, and insurance policies that may be able to contribute to covering costs. 2. What does Mom or Dad need help with to maintain a quality of life?Use our Level of Need calculator as a starting point. 3. What are my priorities when choosing a hospice and palliative care company?If keeping your loved one at home is at the top of your list, consider asking a few more questions: – How many hours will they be scheduled for? – How often will a nurse come out? – What else needs to be coordinated? Nurse Next Door has a great Case Management program just for you, assisting to arrange things like medication delivery, lawn care, and transportation to doctor’s appointments etc. 4. What level of home care and supplemental care do I need?Make a schedule of friends and family who want to be involved in your loved one’s care. Who can help often depends on the prognosis. If care is needed for a week, it may be easier for family and friends to cover certain hours. If it’s weeks or months, then asking for long-term commitments is more difficult and additional supplemental care from an outside source may be necessary and/or preferred (read about why a home care agency can be a great thing in your life!). Add home care or home health company based on needs. Nurse Next Door Delaware is a home health company** and can offer everything from administering medication to ensuring your Mom’s lawn is cared for. Finding a company like this can give you great peace of mind. Add additional services such as Meals on Wheels, therapy visits, and grocery delivery. Consider using a pharmacy that has a free delivery service. Nurse Next Door Caregivers can also assist with meal preparation as well.
*Note: Nurse Next Door provides private home care and charge a fee for our services and are not affiliated with any government programs. We do not accept Medicare or Medicaid. You might be reimbursed by Veteran Affairs, please reach out to them directly to confirm eligibility. **Note: Depending on state or provincial regulations, not all locations may be able to or are required to provide medical/skilled care. Please contact us for further information on what services we can provide in your area. The post How a Home Health Company Can Supplement Care appeared first on Nurse Next Door Senior Home Care Services. from https://www.nursenextdoor.com/blog/home-health-company-supplement-care/
Potassium is an essential mineral and electrolyte in the body’s cells, organs, and tissues. You can find potassium in foods such as nuts, bananas, tuna, and many more. Older adults need a certain level of potassium in their diet to thrive. However, too much or too little in your diet could be damaging. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and management of high and low potassium is crucial to your health.
High Potassium in Elderly AdultsWhat Causes High Potassium in Elderly Adults?
What are the Symptoms of High Potassium in the Elderly?High-potassium intake often results in mild and non-specific symptoms, such as muscle tingling, weakness, and numbness. These symptoms develop slowly over several weeks or months. The biggest dangers of high potassium occur when it happens suddenly. Call 911 or head to the emergency room if you experience chest pain, heart palpitations, shortness of breath, nausea, or vomiting.How to Manage High Potassium
Low Potassium in Elderly AdultsWhat Causes Low Potassium in Elderly Adults?
What are the Symptoms of Low Potassium in the Elderly?Potassium deficiency develops slowly in the elderly through symptoms such as fatigue, muscle weakness, cramps, bone fragility, nausea, vomiting, and higher blood sugar. Low potassium can also cause several mood changes in older adults, including confusion, depression, nervous disorders, and erratic behavior.How to Manage Low Potassium
from https://www.griswoldhomecare.com/blog/high-and-low-potassium-in-elderly-adults/ What is Gerontology and Geriatrics?It’s easy to mix up gerontology and geriatrics. At first glance, it might even sound like they’re the same thing. Both involve seniors and are among the most important fields in modern medicine. But there is a big difference, and understanding more about it may help you learn how to better take advantage of specialized medical care. By 2050, the US Census Bureau predicts roughly one in five Americans will be 65 or older. Currently, that figure is closer to one in twelve. As more and more people are entering their golden years, the United States finds itself in the midst of a growing shortage of care specialists focused on the elderly. As a result, an increasing number of seniors are likely to get the majority of their care from their primary care provider. For any nation with a growing population of senior citizens, care providers are facing a number of unique and growing challenges, including the need for more specialization in treating this age group. And since our bodies work differently as we age, the field of geriatrics and gerontology were created.GeriatricsWhat is geriatrics? It’s essentially the field of medicine dedicated to providing care for the elderly. Geriatricians are physicians who have special training to better understand the unique needs of older adults, which is why they typically prescribe care for adults 65 and older. It’s no secret that seniors often need treatment for a variety of different conditions. Having several conditions that require treatment can add complexity to an already difficult puzzle. Some seniors can become particularly challenging to diagnose, or treat, as the symptoms and side effects from previously existing conditions begin to mask other problems. In the home, geriatric training can help caregivers to take on a number of common challenges related to treating seniors, like having patients who struggle to follow outpatient instructions, keep future appointments, or properly handle prescription dose schedules. Geriatric doctors have even further specialties. Some might focus on pain management, physical therapy, nutrition, oncology, general surgery, nursing, or many other areas. For instance, a geriatric psychiatrist is a doctor trained to identify and treat mental health problems among older adults. This is just one example in a field full of highly-trained specialists.GerontologyIf that’s geriatrics, then what is gerontology? A gerontologist studies the problems of aging from a broader perspective. Not only our medical issues, but all the various problems faced by seniors and the elderly. For example, a gerontologist might study the relationship between loneliness and the way seniors use technology, or how genetic risks can change with age. By helping establish a more comprehensive picture of these sort of problems, gerontologists allow us to direct the creation of policies and programs related to older adults.Difference Between Gerontology and GeriatricsTo recap, what is the difference between geriatrics and gerontology? Both are involved with addressing issues related to the aging process, but while geriatric professionals provide immediate care for older adults, gerontologists are focused on studying the aging process in general. You could think of the difference as being a top-down approach versus a bottom-up approach to helping seniors. One’s a doctor who treats problems people are having today. Another is a professional who studies how to create more effective treatments tomorrow. In other words, geriatricians and gerontologists are people who work to make life a little better for your older loved ones. It’s important to have a good understanding of these fields because having the care of specialists can make a world of difference for the seniors who need that care the most.from https://www.griswoldhomecare.com/blog/what-is-gerontology-and-geriatrics/ Aretha Franklin said it right, “R-E-S-P-E-C-T find out what it means to me!” So when I googled the word “Respect”, I learned that it means “a feeling of deep admiration for someone or something elicited by their abilities, qualities, or achievements.” Who came to mind for me immediately? The Caregivers at Nurse Next Door. Caregivers have a tremendous amount of talent. They are multitaskers in that they may care for a client’s emotional and physical needs; they may assist with Activities of Daily Living(ADLs) such as bathing, dressing and walking, and they remember to remind clients to take their medications. Another job that Caregivers take on is taking clients to the grocery store, driving them to their medical appointments and managing to get in activities that align with our Happier Aging philosophy here at Nurse Next Door. Aging doesn’t mean an end to activities that you used to love! Was your dad an avid gardener? Does your mom love window shopping? Having a caregiver doesn’t mean they only assist with Activities of Daily Living. Having a caregiver also provides companionship, allows you to have a friend you share common interests in, which does wonders to alleviate loneliness. Loneliness may negatively impact leading to high blood pressure, depression, stress and stroke. Caregivers are the front-line workers for individuals interested in aging in their own home where surroundings are familiar. The role of the Caregiver isn’t always easy. It takes a dedicated and committed person to be a Caregiver. They are givers by nature. The work is intense, emotional and tiring but incredibly rewarding. In fact, caregiving is a challenging career. It is important that Caregivers practice self-care when they are not on duty. Exercising, having a healthy diet and getting good sleep are critical to success as a Caregiver. Leading a balanced lifestyle So, this is why in terms of R-E-S-P-E-C-T, Caregivers at Nurse Next Door get my vote. As a Franchise Partner, you may become all consumed in running a top-notch business which is important too. That’s the Nurse Next Door way! But it’s also important to remember every day that your caregivers need support, encouragement and admiration every day. They are people too and we all need to know we are appreciated. So #HugACaregiver not just today, but every single day. Note: This blog is a part of Nurse Next Door’s “Caregiving as a Career” education program for our Franchise Partners and Caregivers. These resources are to raise awareness and provide continuing education that will support growth and compassionate care for the heart of our organization — our Caregivers.
Maureen McGrath hosts the Sunday Night Health Show, a live listener call-in radio program on the Corus Radio Network across Western Canada. She is a Registered Nurse, a Nurse Continence and Sexual Health Educator. Her TEDx talk on the No Sex Marriage has received over 17 million views. She is also the Executive Director of the Women’s Health Initiative Network, an organization to raise awareness about women’s reproductive, bladder, vaginal and sexual health. She is the author of the book, Sex & Health: Why One Can’t Come Without the Other. Maureen is the recipient of the 2009 VCH Nursing Excellence Award, a 2013 YWCA Women of Distinction finalist and the 2016 Vancouver Board of Trade Community Catalyst Award. Her website is Back To The Bedroom. Her blog is 50 Shades of Pink. The post Caregiver Appreciation appeared first on Nurse Next Door Senior Home Care Services. from https://www.nursenextdoor.com/blog/caregiver-appreciation/
Many older adults experience problems with balance. There are a myriad of causes of balance issues in elderly adults, some treatable, and some with which seniors must simply learn to cope. So what causes loss of balance in the elderly? People generally think balance is controlled by the inner ear, which sends information to the brain about the location of the head. This system is also connected to the brain, which then connects to the spinal cord and overall nervous system. The eyes, skin, muscles, and joints also send messages to the brain. All these systems are so interconnected that if any one of them are not working correctly it could lead to a loss of balance in elderly adults.
What causes balance problems in the elderly?Many things can cause balance problems in elderly adults. For instance, since the inner ear is so influential when it comes to how the body maintains balance, any inner ear issues can cause problems. Issues like dizziness and vertigo can occur if there are significant vision problems or even after a head injury from a fall. Also, because the spinal cord is connected directly to the part of the brain in charge of balance, any nerve damage will almost certainly cause problems. Nerve damage in the feet and legs can be particularly troublesome. There are many diseases which are prevalent in older adults that can have an effect on balance. Diabetes can causes difficulties due to nerve damage or loss of blood circulation to the feet. Multiple Sclerosis could also lead to a lack of balance in elderly adults with the disease. MS attacks the nervous system, often causing numbness in the extremities, and, ultimately the inability to control the limbs. Parkinson’s Disease is another brain and nervous system-related disease that can lead to stability issues. As the sufferer loses the ability to control muscles, balance can become a challenge. Finally, Ramsay Hunt Syndrome, while more rare than the other diseases mentioned here, can also cause problems. Ramsay Hunt Syndrome occurs when the shingles virus has attacked the vestibular nerve in the ear, one of the most important nerves related to balance. Low blood pressure and other circulation issues can also lead to balance problems. Orthostatic hypotension is particularly concerning here, as it occurs when the brain is deprived of oxygen-rich blood. The condition causes lightheadedness and dizziness, particularly if a sufferer stands up too quickly after sitting for a time, and can lead to a sudden loss of balance in elderly adults. Those who suffer from occasional issues with balance should not rush to diagnose themselves with Multiple Sclerosis or Parkinson’s Disease. There are many things that can cause issues in addition to those listed here. It should also be mentioned that dizziness is a side effect of many medications and combinations of medications, which can lead to problems with balance. If you are concerned about any of these issues, be sure to have a chat with your doctor so you can determine the cause and assess which treatment will be best for you. Have questions about problems with balance in elderly adults? Let us know in the comments below.from https://www.griswoldhomecare.com/blog/what-causes-balance-problems-in-the-elderly/ |