The majesty of winter is here. You’re bundled up and headed out to adore the beauty and ope! You’re staring up at the universe faster than you can say the word ice.

We’ve all been there. When we were young, we might have a good laugh over it. When we begin to age, each fall can cause panic. So, how do you avoid these nasty little blunders when old man winter sets in?

• Walk like a penguin with a wide stance
• Wear ice cleats (YakTrax is a familiar brand)
• Keep your hands free to catch yourself
• Use railings whenever it’s possible
• Keep snow melt or sand handy for sprinkling
• Take someone’s hand—only if it’s safe
• Avoid rushing
• Bundle up (dress for the slide, not the ride—this is usually advice for being on a motorcycle, but it can apply to winter, too)
• Go through the snow if it’s safer (wet feet/clothing is no fun, but falls can be worse)

What to do After a Fall

If in doubt, have your doctor check you out! Sometimes, you dust off and get up and limp away, only to find that three days later, you’re struggling with pain in your lower back.

Be diligent and seek care if you have any thought that you’re injured, and ALWAYS see a doctor if you hit your head from a fall. It’s just better to be safe than sorry for falls.

It’s also important to track how many falls you’ve had. Those who have fallen often need to see their doctors to learn the root causes. It’s not always a slippery floor. There could be several factors putting someone at risk.

When you see your doctor, list all your symptoms and any changes to your sleeping, eating, or activity patterns before you visit. If you’re taking supplements and medications, be sure to bring a current list and be honest about how you take your medications. If you forget now and again, offer that information, too. Your doctor is not there to scold you, but they want the best for you. Clarity is essential to receive the best treatment!

Home Evaluations & Therapy Services

Therapy services from CaringEdge can help! Our physical and occupational therapists can help you get back to working order if you’re falling or at risk of a fall.

Our occupational and physical therapy staff could give you a lot of tips to improve your safety. One of the most important things they can recommend is the placement of grab bars around your home.

Grab bars are often found in the shower or bathroom, but they should always be purchased and installed by someone knowledgeable about how they work. Stick-on or suction grab bars are unlikely effective and could pose a danger if they come unstuck as you fall and grab them.

Check with your doctor to see if you qualify for outpatient or home health therapy services, or contact us at CaringEdge at info@caringedge.com. We aim to help as many seniors as possible to live independently and safely!

Ahh, February. It’s almost time for pink and red decorations, gifts from sweethearts, and sugary snacks—everywhere. Don’t forget; it’s American Heart Month, too!

Did you know that more deadly heart attacks happen during the winter and holiday season? How about the fact from the CDC that 1 in 5 people having a heart attack don’t even know they’re having one?

The American Heart Association reported that December 25^th has the highest number of heart attacks compared to any other day during the calendar year. The second-highest day is December 26, followed by the third-highest day on the first of January.

What do all these days have in common? Holidays can throw people off their routines. There may be travel, nights spent sleeping poorly on bony hide-a-beds, more visiting into the late-night hours followed by the early morning coffee chatter that throws people off their routines.

As a result of all the socializing and fun, folks may skip more medications, move less, eat more, and may also use more alcohol or too much caffeine. They’re also probably forgetting their recommended eight glasses of water to flush out the holiday fun.

All of these factors compounded may contribute to the uptick in heart attacks around these days of the year. The good news is that all those dates are behind us, and if you’re enjoying this blog, you can share some of this helpful information with your loved ones!

Do you know what the symptoms of a heart attack are? Many folks don’t know that they’re even having a heart attack!

Warning Signs of a Heart Attack:

• Chest Pain
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Heartburn/indigestion
• Nausea
• Pain in the shoulders, arms, neck, back, jaw/teeth, or upper abdominal area
• Shortness of breath

Prevention Tips:

• Exercise
• Follow a heart-healthy diet
• See your healthcare provider to know your numbers and your risks
• Take medications as prescribed
• Use “sometimes” foods and beverages in moderation
• Work on stress reduction

Regular & Routine Medical Care

Maintain your health through regular visits to your primary care physician. They can recommend specialty care and services such as home health if you are managing chronic conditions, like diabetes, that put you at risk of a heart attack.

Regular cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood glucose checks help your doctor understand your risks so they can advise you on the next steps. Self-care like managing stress, getting enough sleep and exercise, and eating right can also help to reduce the risks.

Self-Care & Diet

In the land of hard work, slowing down can feel impossible. It can even look selfish to some, causing guilt if we take a moment. But to be healthy, we need prep time to schedule workouts, shop and prepare healthy foods, and relax. We also need the ability to exercise safely.

Heating up quick and ready-to-eat sodium-laden prepackaged foods can take a toll. It’s important to make time to prepare and eat healthy meals. You don’t have to do it alone, though. If you’re struggling to adjust your diet, your doctor may recommend the help of a registered dietician through home health to advise you on making the right changes.

Support at Home

If you’re interested in reducing your risk for a heart attack and could use some help, consider CaringEdge. We offer home health services to make you feel your best.

Our home health nurses can monitor your vitals, medications, and any new symptoms you may be having. Dietitians can also offer education on how your nutritional habits impact your health.

With the help of CaringEdge home health and outpatient therapy, you may regain the ability to exercise and move safely and freely around your home. Lastly, with our help, you can learn how to maintain your health and stay independent in your daily activities.

Let CaringEdge set you up for success, and get back to being you again! Reach out to us at info@caringedge.com with any questions you may have about services.