When it comes to senior health, any injury or illness can compromise quality of life and independence. This spring, take care to prevent potential problems and catastrophic circumstances with some simple tips to avoid common heath culprits for seniors.
Allergies
Allergies may not seem like a big deal, but they can be particularly dangerous for seniors with any history of cardiovascular issues or risk factors. Minimize the discomfort and difficulty of seasonal allergies when you can, to improve overall health and well-being.
Some tips to prevent spring allergies from getting the best of you include:
- Close the windows of your home. Don’t let the pollen inside, where it can affect you.
- Always make it a routine to wash your hands well when coming in from the outside. If you have long hair, wear a hat or tie it up when outside, letting it down when you come in. That helps prevent allergens from finding their way indoors.
- Don’t hang your laundry or wet garments outside to dry, where they could get covered in spring pollen. This is the time of year to use your dryer, if you have one.
- This is a good time to evaluate what you eat, as well. Doctors recommend that if you struggle with seasonal allergies, eat foods to combat the symptoms and inflammation, like dark leafy greens, flax seed, and apples.
The Sun
The sun, while enjoyable for many, can be potentially dangerous for seniors. First, you run the risk of sunburn and skin cancer with prolonged exposure; second, the sun can cause a reaction and interaction with many common medications. Talk to your doctor to learn more.
Another potential danger for seniors is the risk of heat exhaustion this time of the year. Some symptoms of this condition include nausea, dizziness, blurred vision, and headache- you could even faint.
A Fall
A year-round hazard for seniors is a fall, which often results in serious injury. Spring often means more outdoor time, which could equate to a higher risk of a fall. Pay attention to fall prevention and reduce the risks of a tumble whenever possible. Strategies such as improved lighting, no-slip shoes, well-fitting clothing, and increased flexibility through fitness or weight loss, are good places to start. Also, remove any hazards, like rugs or clutter, and talk to your provider to have medications evaluated regularly. Some seniors reduce their fall risk with mobility aids and devices, like canes or walkers.
A medical checkup will eliminate any underlying issue that could compromise your health this spring and prevent complications from an undetected health condition. Early diagnosis is key in treating many senior health issues successfully.
When you need medical evaluation or advice for a senior, reach out to an agency in Columbia, SC, with experience and expertise. Caring Healthcare has 23 years of service in the field, providing in-home healthcare to seniors and consumers in the region.
