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Making home safe for those in your care

Submitted by emily.griffin on

As a caregiver for someone at home, you do everything you can to provide the best care possible. Making sure the home is safe is another consideration.  

 

General tips for reducing the chance of injuries in the home

  • Pad sharp corners on furniture and counter tops. 

  • Keep objects that are used often within easy reach. 

  • Install handrails around the toilet and in the shower. Use a tub mat to prevent slipping. 

  • Use a shower chair or bath bench when the person bathes. 

  • Provide good lighting inside and outside the home. Put night-lights in bedrooms, hallways and bathrooms. Have light at the top and bottom of stairways. 

  • Have a first aid kit. 

  • Be aware of safe temperatures in the home. When helping someone bathe, use the back of your hand to test the water to make sure it's not too hot. Lower the temperature setting in the hot water heater to 120°F or lower to avoid burns. And make sure other liquids (such as coffee, tea or soup) are not too hot. 

 

Protecting the home from fire and carbon monoxide 

  • Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in the home. 

  • Change the batteries in each twice a year. 

  • Have a plan for getting out of the home if there is a fire. 

  • Practice by having a fire drill. 

  • Keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen. 

 

Preventing falls 

  • Keep rooms uncluttered with clear walkways around furniture.  

  • Keep electrical cords off the floor and remove throw rugs to prevent tripping. 

  • If there are steps in the home, make sure they all have handrails, and always use the handrails. Don't leave items on the steps, and be sure to fix any that are loose, broken or uneven. 

 

Making the home safer for someone with dementia 

  • Don't move furniture around. The person may get confused. 

  • Use locks on doors and cupboards. 

  • Lock up knives, scissors, medicines, cleaning supplies and other dangerous items. 

  • Use hidden switches or controls for appliances. For example, you can install these for the stove, thermostat and water heater. 

  • Think about whether it's still safe for the person to cook. It may be okay with some help, depending on your loved one’s condition. But for people who have memory or thinking problems, it’s best to avoid any activities that might not be safe. 

  • Install motion-sensor lights on all doors and windows. Do this if the person tends to wander or tries to leave the home. 

  • Have emergency numbers in a central area near a phone. Include 911 and numbers for the doctor and family members. 

  • Get medical alert jewelry for the person. That way you can be contacted if the person wanders away. If you can, provide a safe place for wandering, such as an enclosed yard or garden. 

 

 

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Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Making home safe for those in your care

As a caregiver for someone at home, you do everything you can to provide the best care possible. Making sure the home is safe is another consideration.  

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Quiz: Are you applying your perfume safely and correctly?

Submitted by emily.griffin on

Whether you’re hanging around your house or heading out to a special event, spritzing on your favorite body spray or perfume can be a key step in feeling your best. 

 

Take the quiz below to find out if you’re a perfume pro or if you need a little help making sure your scent lasts all day. 

 

 

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Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Quiz: Are you applying your perfume safely and correctly?

Take the quiz below to find out if you’re a perfume pro or if you need a little help making sure your scent lasts all day. 

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Is bad breath bad news?

Submitted by emily.griffin on

It stinks, but yes, sometimes bad breath (Latin name, Halitosis) is a sign of bad health. The following reasons for bad breath begin with the most common and end with potentially serious causes.  

Poor oral hygiene 

Not brushing and/or flossing correctly allows the buildup of bacteria in the mouth, resulting in bad breath. 

Food and drink 

Strong-smelling foods like garlic, onions, and certain spices can leave an odor in the mouth, which can stick around until the food is digested and eliminated from the body. 

Dry mouth 

Saliva helps cleanse the mouth and remove odor-causing bacteria. When the mouth is dry due to dehydration, certain medications or breathing just through your mouth, bad breath can occur. 

Tobacco use 

Smoking and chewing tobacco leave chemicals in the mouth that contribute to bad breath and other oral health problems.  

Dental problems 

Cavities, dental abscesses and periodontal (gum) disease are caused by bacterial infections in the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. Decaying teeth emit foul odors. Gum disease produces even more unpleasant odors and can cause pain. Sometimes, patients aren’t aware that cavities can cause bad breath. Untreated cavities can become dental abscesses, which can lead to gum disease, so don’t hesitate to ask a doctor (medical or dental) to assess the overall health of your mouth.  

Bronchitis, sinusitis and other respiratory reasons 

Post-nasal drip, allergies and various respiratory Infections all cause bad breath as a result of the release of bacteria. Halitosis is a major symptom of pneumonia.  

Systemic illnesses 

Systemic illnesses affect one or more of the body’s systems. Some, like kidney disease and diabetes, affect the entire body. For instance, if your kidney is not functioning properly, the waste products your body would normally expel build up in your system and cause breath to smell. It is often called ammonia breath.  

 

Other illnesses besides kidney disease and diabetes that share bad breath as a symptom include certain cancers, gastrointestinal illnesses and autoimmune diseases. 

 

A 2022 research study on bad breath discusses the fact that 85% of the cases are due to inadequate oral hygiene; gum disease and tongue coating; 10% due to ear, nose and throat-related (bronchitis, sinusitis, etc.) illnesses and 5% from gastrointestinal/endocrine disorders.  

 

These researchers call for a multidisciplinary approach to combat this common complaint, so don’t be shy about putting a team in place.  

 

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Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Is bad breath bad news?

The following reasons for bad breath begin with the most common and end with potentially serious causes.  

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Does cracking your knuckles cause arthritis?

Submitted by emily.griffin on

Everyone knows someone who likes to crack their knuckles. It could be a nervous habit. They might be trying to intimidate someone. Or they could just be trying to ignore you.  

Is cracking your knuckles harmful to your health? Does it cause arthritis? Take our short quiz to find out.  

 

 

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Sign up for our digital newsletter to receive health tips, recipes, success stories for inspiration and information about new doctors to help you on your journey to better health.

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Does cracking your knuckles cause arthritis?

Is cracking your knuckles harmful to your health? Does it cause arthritis? Take our short quiz to find out.  

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4 tips for caring for your facial hair

Submitted by emily.griffin on

For many, growing a mustache or beard is a crucial part of your look and style. However, if your facial hair isn’t cared for, you can develop issues like ingrown hairs, dandruff and acne. Here are five quick tips to ensure your beard, mustache, or goatee is well-groomed, and your skin stays healthy. 

 

1. Wash your facial hair and face every day. 

Don’t forget to moisturize your skin and facial hair. Use circular motions to massage your cleanser into your skin and facial hair. Then rinse and gently dry your face. 

 

2. Prone to ingrown hairs in your stubble? Make sure to exfoliate. 

If you’re prone to ingrown hairs, exfoliating is a great way to prevent these until your facial hair grows back in. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a gentle exfoliating scrub 1-2 times per week. Make sure to moisturize immediately afterward. 

 

3. Take care when grooming 

Make sure your facial hair looks its best by creating a grooming routine that is right for you. Apply beard oil or moisturizer to detangle and style your beard or mustache. Make sure to trim your facial hair as needed with shaving oil or cream. 

 

4. Avoid touching your facial hair

It’s tough to resist, but touching your beard can spread bacteria and dirt from your hands to your face, which could lead to skin problems. 

 

If you have questions or concerns about the health of your skin or facial hair, talk to your primary care provider or dermatologist. 

 

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Sign up for our digital newsletter to receive health tips, recipes, success stories for inspiration and information about new doctors to help you on your journey to better health.

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

4 tips for caring for your facial hair

Here are five quick tips to ensure your beard, mustache, or goatee is well-groomed, and your skin stays healthy. 

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Healthy eating and older adults

Submitted by emily.griffin on

Good nutrition is important for older adults to help stay strong and reduce the risk of disease. But as you get older, it can be harder to eat in healthy ways. If you have health problems or can’t be active, you may not feel as hungry as you used to. You may not plan and make meals as often. 

 

Here are common problems older adults have with healthy eating, along with some ideas for how to solve them. 

 

If you have a health problem that makes it hard to chew: 

Try this:  

  • Choose canned or cooked fruit and vegetables, which tend to be softer than fresh ones. 

  • Chop or shred meat, poultry and fish. Try adding sauce or gravy to the meat to help keep it moist. 

  • Choose other protein foods that are naturally soft, such as peanut butter, cooked dried beans and eggs. 

 

If you have trouble shopping for yourself: 

Try this: 

  • Find a grocery store that offers online ordering or home delivery service. 

  • Ask a family member or neighbor to help you. 

  • Contact a volunteer center and ask for help. 

  • Pay someone to help you. 

 

If you have trouble preparing meals: 

Try this: 

  • Use easy cooking methods, such as a microwave oven to cook TV dinners, other frozen foods and prepared foods. 

  • Take part in group meal programs offered through senior citizen programs. 

  • Check for community programs that deliver meals to your home, such as Meals on Wheels. 

  • Ask a friend or family member to help you. 

 

If you don't feel very hungry: 

Try this:  

  • Try eating smaller amounts of food more often. For example, try having four or five small meals a day instead of one or two large meals. 

  • Eat with family and friends or take part in group meal programs offered in your community. Eating with others provides social interaction and may help your appetite. 

  • Ask your doctor if your medicines could be causing appetite or taste problems. If so, ask about changing medicines. Or ask your doctor about medicines that may improve your appetite. 

  • Increase the flavor of food by adding spices and herbs. 

  • If you think you are depressed, ask your doctor for help. Depression can make you less hungry and can make it hard to do everyday activities like grocery shopping and preparing meals. 

 

If you are worried about the cost of food: 

Try this: 

  • Find out if there are programs in your community that offer free or low-cost meals. 

  • Find out if you can get food assistance benefits. Contact the National Council on Aging to find out what food benefit programs are available in your area. 

  • Look into the U.S. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program. 

  • Buy low-cost nutritious foods, like dried beans, rice and pasta. Or buy foods that contain these items, like split pea soup or canned beans. 

  • Use coupons for discounts on foods. 

  • Buy foods on sale and store-brand foods, which often cost less. 

  • Buy shelf-stable foods in bulk or in large quantities. 

 

Source: Healthwise, Inc. 

 

Ready to get healthy?

Sign up for our digital newsletter to receive health tips, recipes, success stories for inspiration and information about new doctors to help you on your journey to better health.

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Healthy Eating and Older Adults

Here are common problems older adults have with healthy eating, along with some ideas for how to solve them. 

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What you need to know about pneumonia

Submitted by emily.griffin on

Pneumonia has been in the news recently. If you have been reading about it and are concerned, you’re not alone. Pneumonia can sound troubling, but it is both preventable and treatable. 

Here are some common questions people have about pneumonia: 

What is pneumonia? 

Pneumonia is an infection that affects the lungs and causes them to fill with fluid or pus. Symptoms vary between people, and they can be mild or serious.  

Who is at risk of pneumonia? 

According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, children age two or younger are at higher risk because their immune systems are still developing. Older adults can also be at risk because of weakened immune systems due to age and chronic conditions.  

What are the symptoms of pneumonia? 

According to the Mayo Clinic, signs and symptoms of pneumonia may include: 

  • Chest pain when you breathe or cough 

  • Confusion or changes in mental awareness (in adults age 65 and older) 

  • Cough, which may produce phlegm 

  • Fatigue 

  • Fever, sweating and shaking chills 

  • Lower than normal body temperature (in adults older than age 65 and people with weak immune systems) 

  • Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea 

  • Shortness of breath

How can I prevent pneumonia? 

Here are a few ways to prevent pneumonia, according to the American Lung Association:  

  • Get vaccinated: Staying up-to-date on your annual shots is important for preventing pneumonia. If you’re at risk for pneumococcal pneumonia, make sure you’ve been vaccinated for that as well. 

  • Wash your hands: Always a good rule to follow, but especially after coughing or blowing your nose. 

  • Don’t smoke: Tobacco can hurt your lungs’ ability to fight infections, and smokers are at a higher risk of getting pneumonia. 

  • Be aware of your general health: Take care of any chronic conditions you have, keep a healthy diet, and if you develop a respiratory infection, keep an eye out for any lingering symptoms. 

Questions or concerns about pneumonia? Talk to your primary care provider.  

 

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Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

What you need to know about pneumonia

Pneumonia can sound troubling, but it is both preventable and treatable. Here are some common questions people have about pneumonia.

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Are you suffering from migraines?

Submitted by emily.griffin on

Those who suffer from migraines know how debilitating they can become. From throbbing pain in your head to nausea and light sensitivity, migraines can take you off your game for up to 72 hours. Learning more about this neurological disease can help you combat your symptoms. Take this quiz to see how much you know about migraines.  

 

If you think you suffer from migraines, bring your concerns to your doctor. They can help you get on the right treatment plan. You should see your primary care physician immediately if your migraines are getting worse or lasting longer.  

 

Ready to get healthy?

Sign up for our digital newsletter to receive health tips, recipes, success stories for inspiration and information about new doctors to help you on your journey to better health.

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Are you suffering from migraines?

Those who suffer from migraines know how debilitating they can become. Take this quiz to see how much you know about migraines.  

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Tips for keeping your New Year’s Resolutions

Submitted by emily.griffin on

Now that the holiday season is wrapped up for the year, we look forward to next year. For many, the tradition of ringing in the new year involves making those pesky resolutions. But how do you stick to the plan and reach those goals? Studies on the News in Health and the National Library of Medicine websites suggest making an achievable action plan packed with more do’s and less don’ts. 

 

Positivity matters 

When creating your New Year’s resolution, focus on the steps for success rather than what to avoid. If weight loss is your goal, like it is for most Americans, strategize how exercise and healthy eating can become part of your daily routine instead of listing off the foods you won’t enjoy. 

 

It’s a marathon, not a sprint 

Looking forward to the new you in December is daunting on day one, so take it day-by-day and month-by-month. If you’re overwhelmed by the thought of losing 30 pounds, know it doesn’t have to be done overnight, and it shouldn’t. A goal of losing five pounds per month isn’t so scary.  

 

Spring into action 

Break the goals down into a plan of action spanning the year that changes your behavior in favor of your goal. For the health and fitness-oriented, this may includee increasing your daily step count or bringing your lunch to work more often. These small changes in daily behavior will add up by the end of the year. 

 

Find your support system 

Resolutions are more achievable when you have the right support to back you on your journey. Everything is easier with a friend. Connect with a friend with similar goals to keep each other accountable, or find a support group online. Don’t forget to make sure you have the right equipment to keep your trajectory straight. This could be proper shoes and clothing, a healthy stockpile of food in the fridge or a gym membership. 

 

By following these tips, you can create realistic resolutions and stick to them in 2023. Here’s to a happy and healthy new year. 

 

Ready to get healthy?

Sign up for our digital newsletter to receive health tips, recipes, success stories for inspiration and information about new doctors to help you on your journey to better health.

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Tips for keeping your New Year’s Resolutions

By following these tips, you can create realistic resolutions and stick to them in 2023. Here’s to a happy and healthy new year. 

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Making a change? Follow these tips to resolution success

Submitted by emily.griffin on

With a new year comes opportunities to make new resolutions. Deciding on big life changes may feel overwhelming or even frustrating, especially when setbacks occur. Fortunately, science teaches us ways to secure successful personal change.    

The stages of change model  

According to the School of Medicine, the change model consists of five stages:  

  1. precontemplation 

  2. contemplation 

  3. preparation/determination 

  4. action/willpower 

  5. maintenance  

 
In the first stage, precontemplation, people don’t think about changing, and don’t want help to change. In the second stage, contemplation, people teeter on the fence. They weigh the pros and cons of making a change (which could take a while). Things start moving along in the third stage, preparation/determination, when people fully commit to changing something in their life and start researching how to do it. By stage four, action/willpower, people move forward, making the desired changes to their lifestyle. After that, stage five, maintenance, focuses on solidifying the new change and lifestyle.  
 
Keep these steps in mind when preparing for life changes, and know that while progression is great, it’s also ok to fall back a step or two. Keep checking in and evaluating progress through each stage.   

Be intentional  

One study on the BMC Public Health website says that intention is one of the strongest indicators for changing behavior. Another study noted that the intention to do something can be predicted by our attitude toward the change, whether or not we think other people around us will approve of the change, and how easy or difficult we think the new behavior will be. Multiple studies show that the higher the intention, the more likely a change will begin. Thinking about the change in a positive light adds motivation and moves people toward action. 

Have an action plan and stick to it 

Many of us want to change and begin the process of change but then fall in our attempt to maintain such change. If maintaining a resolution feels overwhelming, try designing plans with automatic responses to situations that will likely arise. For example, when adding a new habit, designate a predetermined and consistent time each day to start; or pair an established habit with the new one (i.e., every time I brush my teeth, I’ll recite my affirmations). When cutting out a bad habit, reduce temptations by avoiding certain enticing environments (i.e., take the long way to your desk to avoid the office candy bowl). Making plans to change behaviors predicts whether that plan will go into effect. Having multiple plans helps, so create as many plans along the way as needed. 

Making changes in life may feel heavy, but with high intentions, planning, and determination, success stands within reach.  
 
Give yourself grace throughout the process and know that any progress brings you one step closer to the person you want to become. 

 

Ready to get healthy?

Sign up for our digital newsletter to receive health tips, recipes, success stories for inspiration and information about new doctors to help you on your journey to better health.

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Making a change? Follow these tips to resolution success

With a new year comes opportunities to make new resolutions. Deciding on big life changes may feel overwhelming or even frustrating, especially when setbacks occur. Fortunately, science teaches us ways to secure successful personal change.  

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