Health Reminders for Older Adults
Older Adult Health
To date, REMSA Health has responded to more than 36,000 calls for people 55 years or older – that’s a little more than one third of our responses. With age, the body responds differently, so some health concerns may require faster attention that they would for someone younger – especially during the winter months. Staying focused on healthy habits, as well as recognizing when something more serious is happening are important.
Hydration and Nutrition Matters All Year
As we get older, changes like a smaller appetite, shifts in taste, and even a reduced sense of thirst can make it harder to get the right amount of nutrition and fluids. Missing out on these important things can lead to problems like slower healing, weaker muscles and even memory problems. Good nutrition helps keep energy up, supports strong bones and makes managing chronic conditions easier. Drinking enough water helps your body regulate temperature, protects your kidneys and lowers the risk of urinary tract infections. Simple steps, like balanced meals and regular fluids, can make a big difference in staying independent and avoiding hospital visits. Talk with your primary care physician about a plan that works for you.
A Risk for Hypothermia – Yes, Even Indoors
Several things can impact an elderly person’s ability to sense and respond to temperature including reduced muscle mass, a smaller layer of insulating fat, decreased blood flow, reduced shivering response and a tendency to move around less due to physical impairments. The risk of hypothermia – even indoors in moderately cool temperatures can be serious when you are exposed to them for hours or days. Ensure your environment is warm enough by keeping your thermostat between 70°F to 72°F. Appropriately layering clothing is also a good strategy. Start with a wool or synthetic thermal base layer, add a fleece or down sweater or and cozy up with a warm blanket, robe or cardigan. Don’t forget your feet – choose house shoes or slippers with non-slip soles – and your head – a wool or synthetic fabric cap is a good choice. A portable electric space heater can be useful, but they can pose a significant risk. Find space heater safety tips here.
Is It More Than a Chest Cold?
You’ve gotten your flu shot (if not, it’s not too late), you’re regularly washing your hands, disinfecting high-touch surfaces and boosting your immune system with good nutrition, sleep and stress management. And still, you caught a cold. For older adults though complications from respiratory illness, such as pneumonia or worsening of chronic conditions, are more likely. Seek prompt medical attention if these symptoms arise:
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing (especially at rest or with minimal activity)
- Chest pain or pressure
- High fever (above 101°F / 38.3°C) or fever lasting more than 3 days
- Persistent or worsening cough
- Confusion or sudden changes in mental status
- Extreme fatigue or weakness
- Bluish lips or fingertips
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
Sudden Onset of Pain
At this busy time of year, and as we get older, it’s easy to disregard pain – we don’t want it to interrupt celebrations, or we think it’s a just a new ache that comes with age. However, some symptoms shouldn’t be ignored.
- Chest pain or pressure and sudden, severe shoulder, arm or upper back pain may indicate a heart problem.
- A sudden, serious headache with blurred vision, slurred speech or weakness on one or both sides of the body may be signs of a stroke.
- Sharp pain in the calf or thigh with swelling, tenderness or discoloration may indicate a blood clot.
