Public transit is a great way for seniors to get around Phoenix even if they do not drive, but even taking the bus, subway or streetcar can come with the risks that can sacrifice a senior’s safety. Seniors always need to be cautious to ensure that they do not have an accident or fall when traveling on transit, and should focus on implementing these 10 ways to remain safe on public transit:

1. Get on and off transportation with caution – when getting in or out of a vehicle, like a bus, be aware of uneven pavement or other hazards that could result in tripping, falls, or twisting of ankles

2. Have bus fare ready – fumbling around for change when a bus is starting to move can result in losing balance, have it ready before you get on the bus
3. Brace yourself – when a bus, subway or streetcar is turning or stopping, make sure you’re sitting or brace yourself to ensure you don’t lose your balance
4. Watch the gap – when stepping off the curb onto a bus, or a subway platform into the vehicle, be aware that there might be a gap between where you’re standing and the vehicle
5. Let others go first – before getting onto a bus or subway, let others exit first. You can also let others get ahead of you at the vehicle’s doors when waiting to get off so you don’t get pushed
6. Watch for closing doors – on a subway or streetcar where doors automatically open and close, never try to go through doors as they’re closing
7. Don’t get on if it’s too crowded – if public transportation is too crowded, wait for the next one. Or when getting on make sure you get a seat; many vehicles have reserved seating for seniors and people with disabilities. If the seats are taken by people who don’t fit this criteria, don’t hesitate to ask them to move or ask the driver to assist you
8. Keep hands free – don’t carry too many things in your hands, so you can adequately hold on to railings
9. Ask a bus driver to lower the steps – most buses are equipped with ramps and stairs that lower to accommodate individuals in wheelchairs, if you’re worried about getting up or down the stairs, ask them to lower it
10. Get there safely- if walking at night, wear brightly colored or reflective clothing, be careful when crossing streets, and remember to buckle up if taking a taxi

Via: About.com

Home Health in Greater Phoenix & Home Health in Central Phoenix helps elders and seniors in Phoenix remain at home safely and independently. Call us today at 623.583.5868, 602.265.8228 or 480.991.3959.

Prostate cancer isn’t an easy disease to identify, but when symptoms do appear, it’s crucial that seniors seek medical attention because often they do not arise until the later stages of the illness when immediate treatment might be necessary.

Answer the following questions to determine if you could be exhibiting signs of prostate cancer:

1. You have a frequent need to urinate, especially at night
2. Despite the feeling of needing to urinate often, you have problems starting to urinate, or even sometimes with holding back urine
3. When urinating, you may find that the flow of urine is interrupted or weak
4. When urinating, you feel a burning sensation
5. You find it difficult to attain or maintain an erection, and may find that ejaculation can be extremely painful
6. Blood has appeared in your urine or semen
7. You feel pain or stiffness in their lower back, hips of upper thighs

Via: Prostate Cancer Foundation

Image Source: www.jupiterimages.com

Home Health in Greater Phoenix & Home Health in Central Phoenix helps elders and seniors in Phoenix remain at home safely and independently. Call us today at 623.583.5868, 602.265.8228 or 480.991.3959.

Prostate Cancer is a disease that many older males fear most, because at a time when they’re already losing so much of their physical well-being, they not only have to face their own mortality, they also have fears of losing their masculinity. Here are 6 ways that men can try to cope with a prostate cancer diagnosis:

1. Embrace knowledge – knowledge really is power, so research the disease, the symptoms, and the treatment options so you know exactly what to expect from it. At a time when you might feel hopeless, this can help you regain a sense of power over the situation
2. Accept support – you don’t have to do it alone; accept support from family and friends to the degree that you’re comfortable with and form a united front against the disease. You can even join a support group for other seniors with similar struggles
3. Recognize your partner’s struggles – even if you have the disease, your partner is suffering almost as much at the time of diagnosis. Don’t shut her out; try to get through it together
4. Don’t let it affect your masculinity – many men fear prostate cancer because it can mean loss of sexual function. Not all options lead to this, so do your research so you can make an informed decision. Also know that whatever happens, you aren’t less of a man, and no one who loves you would ever think that!
5. Be honest – don’t hold back; recognize your physical symptoms and share them with your doctor. Also don’t hesitate to let him/her know if you want a second opinion form another Phoenix doctor, or if you’re uncomfortable with a treatment option
6. Keep pushing forward – no matter what happens, don’t accept defeat. Keep things going, never stop looking for knowledge, and never allow anyone else to make decisions for you as long as you’re able

Via: Prostate Cancer Institute

Bio-Medicine

Image Source: jupiterimages.com

Home Health in Greater Phoenix & Home Health in Central Phoenix helps elders and seniors in Phoenix remain at home safely and independently. Call us today at 623.583.5868, 602.265.8228 or 480.991.3959.

You know and I know that as caregivers, our priorities are not ourselves; they relate to caring for those in our lives who need us and rely on us, which often, are our elderly parents. Finding eldercare resources in Phoenix doesn’t need to be a chore, and the last thing we need are any additional complications when it comes to acting as caregivers. So here are 3 ways caregivers and family members can find eldercare resources in Phoenix:

1. Find out what local eldercare services are available in your area – contact the Eldercare Locator at 800-677-1116 so you know what’s available near your loved one’s Phoenix home and how you can get in touch to arrange services.
2. Know which services your senior qualifies for – NCOA has developed an online questionnaire which allows caregivers and seniors to take a survey that helps them determine which services and benefits that they may qualify for. Visit www.benefitscheckup.org to learn about eligible benefit programs for prescriptions, utilities and health care.
3. Understand seniors rights and know how to get assistance – whether you are helping a parent or senior loved one prepare a will, dealing with a situation where a senior has been abused or neglected, or simply want a professional to help explain the legal rights of seniors, knowing where and how to get legal assistance is crucial. Many organizations provide pro bono legal representation for seniors. Contact the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, the American Bar Association Commission on Law and Aging or use the Eldercare Locator to find other resources.

Via: The University of Vermont

Image: pro.corbis.com

Home Health in Greater Phoenix & Home Health in Central Phoenix helps elders and seniors in Phoenix remain at home safely and independently. Call us today at 623.583.5868, 602.265.8228 or 480.991.3959.

Only 48% of seniors say that they would use a cell phone behind the wheel of a car, making them the safest demographic compared to younger generations who are more than willing to chat, text and drive. But even with that in mind, 52% of seniors are still choosing to use their cell phone while driving and they must keep some safety tips in mind when hitting the Phoenix roads to prevent accident and injury to themselves and others.

4 Cell Phone Safety Tips When Driving:

1. Only use cell phone with hands free options – headsets, speaker phones and other gadgets can allow Phoenix seniors to talk in the car without having to risk their safety by driving one handed
2. Don’t dial while driving – trying to dial, text, or send an email while driving using a cell phone can result in serious distraction behind the wheel. Seniors should set up voice dialing if they plan on making calls anyways while driving, or only make calls when the car is stopped
3. Have a friend make the call – when driving with a friend, a senior driver can pass the phone off to someone else to make a phone call or answer a ringing cell phone if it’s urgent
4. Turn off the phone – having a phone on and ringing can make it tempting to answer when it rings in the car. By shutting it off, seniors can stop themselves from making and receiving calls; however, the phone is still present for emergencies

Via: About

Image: pro.corbis.com

Home Health in Greater Phoenix & Home Health in Central Phoenix helps elders and seniors in Phoenix remain at home safely and independently. Call us today at 623.583.5868, 602.265.8228 or 480.991.3959.

Emergencies can occur when we least expect them, and because of this, it’s important to always be prepared…and that’s not just for the Boy Scouts! Make sure that you have an emergency kit ready and waiting somewhere in your Phoenix home so that you can survive, no matter what happens!

• Water – one gallon of water per person, per day with enough for at least 3 days
• Food – non-perishable food items should be in an emergency kit, with enough to survive on for at least 3 days. If canned items are included, don’t forget the manual can opener!
• Radio – a battery-powered or hand-cranked radio will keep you informed about the state of the emergency situation, and an NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert will notify you if a natural disaster is approaching
• Light – a flashlight and lots of extra batteries is crucial, especially if the electricity is out
• First Aid Kit – bandaids and antiseptic along with spare necessary prescription medications should be included
• A whistle – this should be used to signal for help
• Dust mask – this will help you to filter contaminated air
• Shelter – plastic sheeting and tarp and duct tape can be used to create a temporary shelter if needed
• Items for personal sanitation – if there is no water available, moist towelettes and garbage bags will be handy
• Tools – wrench, pliers or other tools can be used to turn off utilities in the home
• Maps of the area and your documented escape route and emergency plan
• Pet supplies – remember, that in an emergency, your pet may need supplies such as food for days too!

Sources:

1. Ready.gov

Image SOurce: pro.corbis.com

Home Health in Greater Phoenix & Home Health in Central Phoenix helps elders and seniors in Phoenix remain at home safely and independently. Call us today at 623.583.5868, 602.265.8228 or 480.991.3959.

Q – My mom has always had a love for hot temperatures like those that we have in Phoenix during the summer months. For her, there’s never been a better vacation then to hit the beach in a hot climate; but as she ages, she doesn’t seem to be able to accept that she might just not be able to handle the sun like she used to. How can she protect herself this summer in Phoenix to ensure it doesn’t harm her health?

A – It is true, despite your mom’s perceptions, that seniors are more susceptible to heat stroke, heat exhaustion, dehydration and other potential health issues from the weather. Your mom can still have fun in the sun this summer in Phoenix, she just needs to protect herself by taking note of the following tips:

1) Keep hydrated with cool beverages and avoid caffeine and alcohol. If you are a senior who has been told by a Phoenix doctor to limit water consumption, check first how much you should drink when it’s the heat of the summer
2) Remain indoors during the high heat of the day. Get out in the early morning or evening when the sun is not as hot
3) Seek cover when outside in the heat either by bringing an umbrella to your outdoor location or finding a big shady tree to sit under
4) Remember your sunscreen and protective clothing. A hat will help protect you from heat stroke, and loose, light clothing which has long sleeves and pants will protect from UV rays.
5) Avoid strenuous activities outside. During the summer months, exercise indoors in air conditioning to ensure there are no detrimental effects to your health as an older adult
6) Pack juicy snacks when outside to keep cool. Fruits, light summer salad, juices, popsicles and even ice cream can all help seniors to keep their body temperatures down during the summer
7) Stay cool by taking tepid showers or baths when needed
8. Get lots of rest, especially when coming in from the heat

Sources:
1. CDC http://www.prepare.org/seniors/CDCSrsHeatStress.pdf

Home Health in Greater Phoenix & Home Health in Central Phoenix helps elders and seniors in Phoenix remain at home safely and independently. Call us today at 623.583.5868, 602.265.8228 or 480.991.3959.

I’ve always been someone who loves to get outside on a regular basis and stay active through walking or hiking. So naturally, this is something that I try to pass on to my care recipients in Phoenix, because I know that despite their age and physical limitations, they can receive benefits from the reflection and rejuvenation that nature brings. As someone who likes to be in touch with the environment, I know that nature has psychological affects, but I’ve never truly found any evidence to support this. But recently I read about how nature can benefit seniors more than people of any other generation, and I want to share it with you because it might just be the motivation that you need to get outdoors as a senior or encouraged someone you care for to change their life.

Here’s how seniors can benefit their health, body and mind, by getting in touch with nature:

• Attention and memory spans improve by 20% after a 50 to 55 minute walk in a natural setting
• Sights in nature cause reflection and mental stimulation
• In nature, your mind can focus on stimulus rather than tuning out other surroundings in the environment when it’s overwhelming in a busy city environment
• Being in an environmental surrounding provides the brain with “active rest”
• Getting out into nature generally involves some form of physical activity and weight bearing activities like walking can help with osteoporosis and muscle strength
• Body weight, body fat and cholesterol is lowered when Phoenix seniors get active by hiking or walking outdoors reducing the risk of stroke, and heart conditions
• The boomer generation has a strong sentimental to the outdoors based on Woodstock and other events, so it can take them back to fond memories of their youth

Sources:

1. AARP

Image Source: pro.corbis.com

Home Health in Greater Phoenix & Home Health in Central Phoenix helps elders and seniors in Phoenix remain at home safely and independently. Call us today at 623.583.5868, 602.265.8228 or 480.991.3959.

Once you sprain your ankle even just one time, the injury can reoccur time and time again. While this may seem like no big deal, as you age, weaknesses in the ankles can cause serious balance issues that can result in more traumatizing accidents or injuries. In order to eliminate these issues, which are more than just damaged tendons or ligaments, seniors need to improve their balance with a simple activity that not only improves physical balance, it also improves the neurological association with the joint. The activity to improve balance may sound silly, but all seniors need to do is stand on one foot for a few seconds at a time. To make sure that this is safe, they can use a chair or table for support, and this is a great way to prevent future injury!

Sources:

1. New York Times

Image: pro.corbis.com

Home Health in Greater Phoenix & Home Health in Central Phoenix helps elders and seniors in Phoenix remain at home safely and independently. Call us today at 623.583.5868, 602.265.8228 or 480.991.3959.

When I first started working as a caregiver in Phoenix a big part of my job was helping seniors care for their pets, especially those with dogs. I’d help to walk the dogs, bathe the dogs, clean up after the dogs, transport them to appointments and do virtually whatever else was required to care not only for my care recipient, but also for his/her pet. Recently, I’ve found that my pet responsibilities when caring for a senior have declined to some degree, and I think I have technological advancements to thank. Here are a few products that I’ve come across in the homes of my care recipients which make it easier for them to care for their pets independently without risking injury. I’d suggest these to any seniors and their caregivers who need help with their pets.

• Hyrdosurge – an all-in-one dog bathing system that automatically suds with shampoo, combs and rinses. It’s a device that can be attached to any faucet, and it resembles the end of a garden hose. This can help seniors who face physical strain when struggling to restrain a pet and fumble with multiple bathing devices and products

• GoDogGo – every dog needs exercise, but throwing a ball can be physically laborious for seniors, so this is a product that automatically shoots out tennis balls to entertain and exercise a dog
• Komfort Climate-Controlled Pet Carrier – you’re never supposed to leave a pet in the hot car, but when out and running errands with pets, seniors are able to leave their pets in the climate controlled pet carriers. They adjust the temperature of the carrier if the car temperature is too hot or too cold
• The Haptic Creature – for those seniors who really can’t have a living pet, there’s a robotic version that provides the same therapeutic benefits, as the pet responds to touch and sound just like a real animal

Sources:

1. Forbes

Home Health in Greater Phoenix & Home Health in Central Phoenix helps elders and seniors in Phoenix remain at home safely and independently. Call us today at 623.583.5868, 602.265.8228 or 480.991.3959.