Everyone has a sleepless night now and then, but having difficulties falling or staying asleep on a regular basis can have serious consequences for your health and well-being. This can become a bigger issue as we become older.

One of the most frequent sleep disorders in seniors is insomnia. Insomnia symptoms affect up to 48% of older persons.

What is insomnia meaning?

A person suffering from insomnia has difficulty falling and staying asleep. Inadequate sleep at night can lead to daytime tiredness and interfere with your regular activities.

Insomnia Symptoms

Aside from becoming more "light sleepers" as we get older, it's natural to desire to go to bed earlier and wake up earlier. You may also feel the need to sleep longer at night or to take more naps. Most of the time, such sleep variations are normal and do not suggest a sleep disorder. However, if you routinely encounter any of the following symptoms, you may be suffering from a sleep disorder such as insomnia in seniors:

• Having difficulty falling asleep while being fatigued

• Having difficulty returning to sleep after being awakened

• Don't feel rested after a good night's sleep

• During the day, you may feel irritable or tired.

• Have trouble staying awake while sitting, watching TV, or driving?

• Having trouble concentrating during the day

• Sleeping medications or alcohol are used to help you sleep.

• Do you have difficulty controlling your emotions?

Tips for overcoming insomnia 

One of the first things your doctor could suggest is making your bedroom as comfortable and tranquil as possible. Your bedroom should ideally be quiet, dark, and no warmer than 75 degrees Fahrenheit (about 23 degrees Celsius).

You should only sleep in your bed. Avoid using your phone, working, playing video games, or watching TV in bed. Your doctor may also advise you to do the following insomnia tips to help you sleep better at night:

• Get some exercise and eat some healthy foods.

• Tobacco and caffeine should be avoided.

• Go to bed only when you're exhausted. A good night's sleep might be harmed by lying awake in bed. If you've been lying awake in bed for 20 minutes and haven't felt exhausted, get up and do something else until you do.

• Commit to waking up at the same time every day and avoid taking naps during the day.

• Keep a sleep journal. Keep track of how much time you spend sleeping and awake, how long it takes you to fall asleep each night, and other key patterns. A doctor may advise you to limit your time in bed each night until your sleep improves based on your sleep diary data. You can start going to bed earlier after you can sleep for at least 90% of the time you spend in bed.

• If these therapies are ineffective, your doctor may recommend sleep medicines for insomnia cure.

• Choosing proper insomnia medicine for older persons necessitates a great deal of thought and attention. Before taking any insomnia medicine, you should always consult your doctor.

_{Disclaimer: Healthy Wrinkles does not recommend or offer any medical diagnosis, treatment, or advice. The information provided here is only for the awareness of disease or ailment among individuals, caregivers, and the public‌. The advice of doctors, licensed professionals, or therapists who are knowledgeable about your particular situation should always be sought before using the information provided here. It should also not be used in the event of a medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. If you want urgent assistance, contact a qualified medical professional. Additionally, the information represents the author's views and not those of Healthy Wrinkles.}

In our fast-paced world, many of us often overlook one of the most crucial aspects of our lives – our health. We tend to prioritize work, social activities, and personal pursuits, often neglecting the importance of regular health check-ups. However, the reality is that investing time and effort into routine health check-ups can be In our fast-paced world, many of us often overlook one of the most crucial aspects of our lives – our health. We tend to prioritize work, social activities, and personal pursuits, often neglecting the importance of regular health check-ups. However, the reality is that investing time and effort into routine health check-ups can be a lifesaver. In this blog post, we will explore the significant benefits of regular health check-ups and why they should be a non-negotiable part of our lives.

Choosing as Assisted Living Old Age Home for your loved one or for your self. This requires planning and this blog would help you in doing that. One needs to consider various aspect right from the current condition of the senior to the financial impact that it would have on the family.

We are collating some critical aspects of this process that may help the families.

Step 1: Assess status of your senior & list out the amenities that your senior would need

• Make two lists A. essential & B. Nice to have
• Let the items in the list not exceed more than 5 to 7 items under each bucket
• Critical areas that you would like to look into would Medical Assistance (Medication management, assistance for injections/IV etc.) , Personal assistance (eating, dressing, bathing), Mental Health Counseling, Physiotherapist, nutrition.
• Amenities would involve scheduled group activities and events, activity room and other shared spaces such as a library or art studio, group outings to local attractions. In India the concept is emerging. However, based on the budget available there are facilities that would provide a range of these services.

Step 2: Conduct research/survey & make a list of your top options

Once you know what you’re looking for you would need to identify the facilities that would meet your requirements. This can be done in two ways.

1. On-Line Search: Based on the location of your preference conduct an on-line search . Visit various websites of the facilities and list out those that meet your requirements.
2. If you are looking for a facility in Maharashtra you can visit www.healthywrinkles.com website which provides curated information of more than 500 old age homes in Maharashtra.
3. Reading reviews about the facilities would also help you.
4. Check out the photographs and the videos that you may find on the websites.
5. Feedback from friends’ relatives and your doctor : you can collect information from these sources also.

Step 3: Visit the facilities that match your requirements

This is a very important step and it is recommended that you should do this personally.

• Try to tour during the week and during business hours, especially during mid-day, when the most staff and residents will be active.
• Carry your list of questions that you want to ask. Also carry the list of the Must Have and Good to have things with you.
• Check on the experience and attitude of the staff as well as owner/manager of the facility.
• Food & hygiene is an essential part of the wellbeing for the senior. Do focus on this.
• Talk to the staff members as well as look at the condition in which the current residents are staying

Step 4: Compare notes and make a decision:

• Compare notes of Must Haves and Nice to have points
• This would help you to arrive at top 3 to 4 facilities that may come closer to your search.
• This step would be a difficult one so do refer to your list and arrive at the final list

Step 5 : Plan a trial stay to experience the facility

• Plan at least a week stay at the facility. In some cases you may need to pay for it but the investment is worth it.
• Refer you Must Have list and see whether the facility is able to offer you these services
• Speak with the staff of the facility (refer to our guide on questions to be asked when you visit as assisted living facility)
• If you have already aligned your senior for the shift , it is advisable to bring him along for the trial stay
• Medical support, hygiene , food are some of the key priority areas in most cases – focus on a fair assessment of the same.
• You may select the top two facilities for trial stay

Step 6 – Align your senior

• Remember that you are doing it with the best interest of your senior in your focus
• Be sensitive while you discuss. If you can make your senior arrive at the decision it is ideal
• This is a very sensitive step. Prepare and may be rehearse your part. Typically you may need multiple conversation with your senior.

Check List when you visit and assisted living/Old age home

Food

• How many meals do you serve per day?
• Do you serve special request food options (e.g. Jain, food on fasting days)
• Are mealtimes set or can residents eat when they please?
• Are you able to accommodate dietary restrictions? Which ones?
• How frequently do you change the menu?
• Who develops the menu? Do you have a nutrition expert
• Can residents keep and cook food in their rooms?
• Is there just one dining venue in the community, or multiple?
• Are snacks served throughout the day?

Amenities

• How often is change in the bed covers done?
• Can the relatives come and have a short stay while visiting the facility
• Is there assistance provided for errands such as filling prescriptions?

Costs

• How much is the monthly rent?
• What is included in the base rent and what costs extra?
• Are financing plans available?
• Are there any specials or promotions available?
• Is there any assistance available for low-income residents?

Rooms and Apartments

• Do you have lift/escalators available
• What floor plans are available, and what is the square footage?
• Do residents have private bathrooms in their rooms?
• Are the bathrooms handicap-accessible?
• Are there emergency call systems in the room?

Community Life

• Are there any hobby activities?
• Is there live entertainment or music?
• Is there a calendar of events to view?
• Are there organized off-site activities?

Care Services and Staffing

• What is the staff turnover like?
• What kind of training do staff undergo?
• What types of care do you offer?
• When are nurses available?
• What is the staff-to-resident ratio?
• Is medical care available on-site?
• Are physical and occupational therapy services available on-site?
• Are mental health services available on-site?
• Are residents permitted to bring in outside providers?
• How often are care plans assessed and updated?

In case of any queries around choosing Assisted Living Old Age Homes, you can reach for FREE consultation on 9967913884 or write on support@healthywrinkles.com. Visit at www.healthywrinkles.com for more information and advice from experts on the topic. 

Dr. Balaji Jaganmohan, a renowned diabetologist at Apollo Hospitals, in a conversation with Healthy Wrinkles, explains understanding Hypo in diabetes. So, let's dive right in and explore the world of "Hypo" and diabetes management.

Watch our YouTube playlist on diabetes(Madhumeha) to know more.

What is Hypoglycemia? 

Hypoglycemia is essentially a state in which blood sugar levels drop below a certain range, typically defined as 70 milligrams per deciliter by international guidelines. When blood sugar falls to around 55 milligrams per deciliter, the body's defense mechanisms kick in. Counter-regulatory hormones such as glucagon, epinephrine, cortisol, and growth hormone are released, triggering various symptoms. At this level, typically 55 and below, it's the hormone epinephrine that elicits an adrenergic symptom response. This includes feelings of dizziness, hunger, trembling hands and legs, excessive sweating, and even stammering while speaking. These warning signs indicate that the body needs action to correct low blood sugar. If blood sugar drops below 30, it becomes extremely dangerous, potentially leading to coma or neuroglycopenic symptoms that can result in unconsciousness, requiring third-party assistance. Learn more about diabetes in seniors from our experts.

Understanding Whipple's Triad

1. To diagnose hypoglycemia, physicians often refer to Whipple's triad, a helpful framework that helps identify the condition. Whipple's triad consists of three key components:
2. Symptoms: Patients exhibit symptoms suggestive of hypoglycemia when blood sugar falls below 55 mg/dl. 
3. Blood Sugar Measurement: Documentation of low blood sugar levels using a glucometer is essential for diagnosis.
4. Correction with Oral Carbohydrates: If consuming carbohydrate-containing food raises blood sugar levels promptly, it further supports the diagnosis. One or more of these components must be present to label someone as having hypoglycemia. Even if the symptoms are present but not the other criteria, it's still indicative of the condition. 

Special Considerations for Elderly Patients

Why should we be more cautious when dealing with hypoglycemia in elderly individuals compared to younger adults? Elderly individuals are more likely to experience complications related to hypoglycemia. Most elderly patients have been living with diabetes for a long time, possibly taking multiple oral hypoglycemic agents (OHAs), insulin, or sulfonylureas. Many may also have hepatic or renal impairments. Additionally, a condition known as "hypoglycemia unawareness" or "hypoglycemia-associated autonomic failure" affects some elderly individuals. In these cases, patients do not experience the typical symptoms when blood sugar reaches 54 mg/dl, and they can rapidly progress to the neuroglycopenic stage, potentially leading to unconsciousness. View Doctor At Home. For elderly individuals, it's crucial to identify any coexisting conditions and tailor treatment accordingly. Sometimes, glycemic control may need to be relaxed, with an HbA1c target set at 7% to 8% or even higher. Hypoglycemia can be more life-threatening than hyperglycemia, as it can trigger arrhythmias and lead to cardiovascular events, cognitive impairment, coma, and even death. Read more about the role of geriatrician in managing chronic health conditions.

Impact of Hypoglycemia on the Body

Hypoglycemia primarily affects the brain's functioning. Interruptions in glucose supply to the brain can result in short-term memory loss. Repeated episodes of hypoglycemia have been linked to an increased risk of dementia. The heart is another organ commonly affected, as it can trigger arrhythmias, potentially leading to cardiovascular death. Studies suggest that glycemic variability, particularly with hypoglycemic fluctuations, can worsen diabetes-related complications such as retinopathy, nephropathy, and neuropathy, and increase the risk of stroke or myocardial infarction. 

1. Recognizing Signs of Hypoglycemia: If you are caring for an elderly individual with diabetes, it's crucial to be aware of the signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia. This knowledge can help you respond effectively and potentially save a life.
2. Symptoms: Educate yourself about the symptoms of hypoglycemia, which can include dizziness, hunger, trembling, excessive sweating, and speech difficulties.
3. Carry Glucose: Ensure the individual has a source of fast-acting glucose on hand, such as candy or a liquid glucose drink. Avoid chocolates, as their fat content can slow down the absorption of glucose.
4. Emergency Information: Create a card stating that the person is diabetic and at risk of hypoglycemia. Keep this card with them, so in case they become unconscious in a public place, others can quickly identify the situation and seek medical assistance.

Conclusion

Managing hypoglycemia in senior citizens is of paramount importance. Elderly individuals with diabetes are more vulnerable to its complications, making early recognition and prevention critical. By understanding the signs, keeping glucose sources readily available, and being prepared for emergencies, you can contribute to the safety and well-being of your elderly loved ones.

Whether you are searching for informative articles, or looking for healthcare providers, Healthy Wrinkles is an excellent resource for all your senior care needs. We also have a great compilation of all the medical expert talks for healthy aging on Healthy Wrinkle YouTube channel.

"Join the cause and make a difference in a senior's life - share your knowledge about local senior care resources today!"

Disclaimer: Healthy Wrinkles does not recommend or offer any medical diagnosis, treatment, or advice. The information provided here is only for the awareness of disease or ailment among individuals, caregivers, and the public‌. The advice of doctors, licensed professionals, or therapists who are knowledgeable about your particular situation should always be sought before using the information provided here. It should also not be used in the event of a medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. If you want urgent assistance, contact a qualified medical professional. Additionally, the information represents the author's views and not those of Healthy Wrinkles.

Post-stroke care is a critical aspect of recovery for seniors who have experienced a stroke. The process of rehabilitation and home care are two essential components that work together to provide patients with the best possible outcome.

Rehabilitation aims to restore the function and mobility of the affected body part, while home care provides a comfortable and safe environment for seniors to recover.

Rehabilitation plays a significant role in post-stroke care by helping seniors regain their strength, flexibility, and coordination. Depending on the severity of the stroke and the specific needs of the patient, rehabilitation can include physical, occupational, and speech therapy. Physical therapy helps seniors regain their mobility by teaching them exercises and stretches that rebuild muscle strength and coordination. Occupational therapy provides seniors with new ways to perform activities of daily living, such as dressing, eating, and bathing. Speech therapy helps seniors regain their ability to speak and communicate effectively.

Home care is equally important in post-stroke care as it provides a comfortable and safe environment for seniors to recover. Home care can include assistance with daily tasks such as meal preparation, medication management, and housekeeping. Emotional support is also crucial for seniors during recovery, and home care can provide this type of care as well. Seniors who receive home care are more likely to recover faster and have a better quality of life than those who do not receive it. Know more about heart related problems from our experts.

In addition to rehabilitation and home care, monitoring and managing the health of seniors is also an essential part of post-stroke care. This includes regular check-ups with healthcare providers, medication management, and monitoring vital signs. Seniors who have experienced a stroke are more susceptible to other health conditions, such as hypertension and diabetes, so it is crucial to monitor their health to prevent further complications.

Post-stroke care is crucial for seniors as it can help them recover and regain their independence. The combination of rehabilitation, home care, and health monitoring provides a comprehensive approach to recovery. Seniors who receive post-stroke care are more likely to recover faster and have a better quality of life compared to those who do not receive post-stroke care. It is essential to have a specialized healthcare team that works together to provide the necessary care for seniors during their recovery from a stroke.

In conclusion, post-stroke care is essential for seniors to recover and regain their independence. Rehabilitation, home care, and health monitoring are the key components of this type of care. Seniors who receive post-stroke care have a better chance of recovering quickly and maintaining a high quality of life. Healthcare providers should work together to provide comprehensive post-stroke care for seniors. Whether you are searching for informative articles or looking for qualified caregivers or healthcare providers, Healthywrinkles is an excellent resource for all your senior care needs.

"Join the cause and make a difference in a senior's life - share your knowledge about local senior care resources today!"

_{Disclaimer: Healthy Wrinkles does not recommend or offer any medical diagnosis, treatment, or advice. The information provided here is only for the awareness of disease or ailment among individuals, caregivers, and the public‌. The advice of doctors, licensed professionals, or therapists who are knowledgeable about your particular situation should always be sought before using the information provided here. It should also not be used in the event of a medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. If you want urgent assistance, contact a qualified medical professional. Additionally, the information represents the author's views and not those of Healthy Wrinkles.}

In-home care is a type of medical care that is provided to individuals who require medical assistance but prefer to stay in the comfort of their own homes. For seniors with heart failure, in-home care can provide numerous benefits that can help improve their quality of life.

Heart failure is a chronic condition that can be debilitating for seniors. It occurs when the heart is unable to pump blood effectively throughout the body. Symptoms of heart failure include shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling in the legs, feet, or ankles. Seniors with heart failure often require ongoing medical care and monitoring to manage their symptoms and prevent complications. Know more about heart related problems from our experts.

In-home care can be an effective way to provide seniors with heart failure the medical care they need while allowing them to stay in the comfort of their own homes. Here are some of the benefits of in-home care for seniors with heart failure:

Personalized care: In-home care providers can tailor their care to meet the specific needs of each individual. This personalized care can help seniors manage their symptoms and improve their overall health.

Convenience: Seniors with heart failure may have difficulty traveling to appointments. In-home care providers can come to the patient's home, making it easier for them to receive the care they need.

Improved safety: In-home care providers can assess the safety of the patient's home and make recommendations to prevent falls or other accidents. They can also monitor the patient's medications and make sure they are taking them correctly. 

Family involvement: In-home care can involve family members in the care of their loved one. This can help reduce the burden of caregiving and ensure that the patient receives the best possible care.

Cost-effective: In-home care can be more cost-effective than hospital or nursing home care. It can also reduce the need for emergency room visits or hospital readmissions.

In conclusion, in-home care can provide numerous benefits for seniors with heart failure. It can provide personalized care, convenience, improved safety, family involvement, and cost-effectiveness. Seniors with heart failure who prefer to stay in their own homes can benefit greatly from in-home care services. Whether you are searching for informative articles or looking for qualified caregivers or healthcare providers, Healthywrinkles is an excellent resource for all your senior care needs.

"Join the cause and make a difference in a senior's life - share your knowledge about local senior care resources today!"

_{Disclaimer: Healthy Wrinkles does not recommend or offer any medical diagnosis, treatment, or advice. The information provided here is only for the awareness of disease or ailment among individuals, caregivers, and the public‌. The advice of doctors, licensed professionals, or therapists who are knowledgeable about your particular situation should always be sought before using the information provided here. It should also not be used in the event of a medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. If you want urgent assistance, contact a qualified medical professional. Additionally, the information represents the author's views and not those of Healthy Wrinkles.}