Archive for August, 2009
Sleepy Seniors
By Cassie
I recently heard from one of my clients that her mother had become aggressive at times and seemed unmotivated to accomplish her tasks of daily living. Our care manager screened the elderly mother for depression and cognitive deficits, but the elder’s score was within normal range. The elder had a recent annual physical, which [...]
Making Tough Decisions…Together
By Mae
The end of life discussion is certainly not a hot topic of conversation over dinner or any other time for that matter. People of all ages avoid the subject, believing there is never a good time to discuss it. The truth is that all of us should have written advance directives in the event [...]
Pets Needed for All Seasons of Life
The majority of households in the United States have at least one pet. Most people can fondly recall a family pet that provided them with unconditional love, companionship and joy.
I grew up with a dog who was part of our family and numerous other “pets” my brother brought home. In fact, I’m currently the owner [...]
Rights of the Individual in Long-Term Care
Perhaps it is assumed that all individuals living in a long-term care medical facility deserve the same treatment as any other individual. Shouldn’t each individual expect privacy, the right to participate in medical decisions, and the right to express themselves as they would in any other setting? Having experience working in such a facility, this [...]
Safe Use of Multiple Medications
By Cassie
Studies show that 40 percent of Americans over age 65 take five or more different prescription drugs per day. In addition, many take over the counter medications (OTCs). Every drug contains various ingredients and can cause severe side effects that are unknown especially in the elder population, as prescriptions and OTC medication usage tends [...]