Latest coronavirus advice for people over 70
As coronavirus spreads throughout the UK, the government has released recommended safety precautions for vulnerable people, including anyone over the age of 70. Whether you are healthy or have a specific health condition, the government is asking for your support to slow down the spread of coronavirus and keep yourself safe. The underlying health conditions they are referring to include: Chronic respiratory diseases: Asthma Emphysema COPD (Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) Bronchitis Chronic kidney disease Any chronic heart disease including heart failure Chronic liver disease like hepatitis Diabetes Chronic neurological conditions: Motor neurone disease Parkinson’s disease MS (Multiple sclerosis) Cerebral palsy …
Advice to informal carers of an elderly person amidst the coronavirus outbreak
The coronavirus is a frightening pandemic that has hit the UK’s doorstep. With the virus being particularly dangerous for elderly people, the government released social distancing advice on Monday 16th targeted specifically towards elderly people. As an informal carer, there are steps you can take to ensure your elderly loved one remains as safe as possible: Only access reliable information about coronavirus It is vital that you advise your loved ones to only access information from the likes of the NHS, the World Health Organisation, gov.uk and reliable news sources (all of the information on this page comes from these …
How to cope with loneliness
With almost one-fifth of the UK population (9 million people) stating that they often or always feel lonely, more needs to be done to educate people on how to combat feelings of loneliness. Short-term loneliness can be triggered by a variety of factors, including: Bereavement Moving to a new area Experiencing trauma Whereas long-term loneliness can be caused by: Not having a support system of family or friends Feeling excluded due to mobility problems Being diagnosed with an illness or disability that is stigmatised This is not an exhaustive list and regardless of whether you are experiencing loneliness on a …
Cerebral Palsy in adults: What to expect when transitioning into adult care services
The majority of cerebral palsy diagnoses are made within the first two-five years of life. Whilst the condition is nonprogressive, it can put considerable strain on the body which, in turn, may lead to difficulties in later life. However, there are a variety of therapies and treatments available to help someone with a diagnosis live a fulfilled and independent life. Care for cerebral palsy differs for everyone and as you move from childhood to teenage and adult life, the support and services you may benefit from will change. What to expect when moving into adult care services Transitioning from child …
Nutrition Advice For The Elderly – A Guide To Positive Well-Being
As we get older our body’s ability to absorb vitamins and other nutrients changes, impacting our energy levels, appearance and even our risk of illness. In order to sustain positive well-being in later life, be aware of the types of foods you consume and ensure you are getting all the nutrients your body needs while holding back on certain foods that could be hazardous to your health. As part of a healthy diet, vitamins D, B12 and K have an impact on our well-being. This healthy-eating guide outlines why these vitamins are essential to a healthy, happy life. Vitamin D …
How To Prevent Elderly Slips, Trips & Falls
Falls can be fairly common, however, they are more dangerous than you might think; particularly for elderly people. Recent figures show that 15 people die per day from falling. In 2017, statistics showed that 5,580 people throughout England and Wales had ‘accidental fall’ cited as an underlying cause of death on their certificate. Of that number, 79% were aged 75 and older. It is essential that your loved one is as safe as possible from falling. Whilst there is no way to fully prevent the risk of falling, particularly if your loved one has a condition causing dizziness or unsteady …
What Is Complex Care?
Essentially, complex care relates to individuals who are managing multiple health conditions, also referred to as high-cost, high-need patients. These include physical and mental diagnoses. However, complex care is, in itself, complex. It covers a wide range of circumstances making personalised care of the utmost importance. Each individual requires and deserves their own complex care management plan that considers the best course of treatment and care to enable the highest quality of life possible. Meeting these multiple needs is becoming one of the biggest challenges for the NHS. Emergency hospital admission statistics involving complex care: 2006/2007: 1 in 10 patients …
What Are The Responsibilities of a Live-In Carer?
The responsibilities of a live-in carer are far-reaching. They include assisting with daily hygiene routines (such as bathing, toileting, dressing and grooming), ensuring patients are eating nutritious meals and drinking regularly, taking control of obtaining, organising and administering medication and helping patients maintain an independent, sociable lifestyle. Being able to find the balance between taking care of a patient and being their friend is essential to the positive impact of live-in care. Who needs live-in care? Live-in care isn’t just for the elderly. Anyone who requires round-the-clock care is entitled to a quality care service in the comfort of their …
Advice For Caring For Elderly Parents & Loved Ones Over Winter
Crisper mornings and crunchy walks through the snow. Winter can be a truly beautiful time of year, not to mention hot chocolate, mulled wine, hot water bottles and fluffy slippers. However, it can also be an extremely dangerous time of year; particularly for elderly people. According to the Office of National Statistics, there was ‘an estimated 50,100 excess winter deaths in England and Wales’ throughout the 2017 and 2018 winter period. It was the highest record of excess winter deaths since the 1975 to 1976 period. Older people are more vulnerable throughout winter and it is important that they are …
Caring for a Loved One with Dementia
The statistics surrounding dementia are quite alarming. According to the Alzheimer’s Society, there are 850,000 people in the UK living with dementia. By 2025, this figure could be as high as 1 million. 225,000 people will develop dementia this year alone. That’s one person every three minutes. With dementia impacting the lives of so many people, it’s never been more important to understand how to care for a loved on with dementia. If someone you love is suffering with dementia, here’s our advice on caring for them effectively. 1. Communicate clearly It’s important that you remember not to get frustrated …
