Parkinson’s disease impacts an astounding 10 million people worldwide, with another 60,000 in America alone diagnosed each year. Though we most commonly associate physical symptoms with the disease, such as rigid muscles, tremors, and poor balance, it’s important to understand the secondary symptoms as well, in order to best manage the disease. Secondary symptoms can include effects on a person’s mind, memory, and mood. Recently, experts have reclassified Parkinson’s disease from a neurological disorder to a neuropsychiatric one, highlighting the mental health aspects that need to be addressed. The in-home care specialists at THE MEDICAL TEAM have outlined some of the more common conditions to watch for in those with Parkinson’s: Depression: One of the most common mood changes, … [Read more...] about How Parkinson’s Changes Mood, Mind, and Behavior
Watch Out for These Diabetes Complications
If we don’t struggle with the condition ourselves, we certainly know someone who does. Diabetes impacts as many as one in four seniors, resulting in the need for lifestyle changes including a carefully-followed nutrition plan, exercise, routine blood sugar checks, and ongoing medical care to manage the disease. What we may not be as familiar with, however, are the concurrent conditions that are more prevalent in diabetics. Because of the damage that occurs from heightened levels of blood sugar, it’s important for those with diabetes – and those who care for them – to monitor their health closely for the following: Heart problems. Have the doctor assess which types of heart disease may be more likely to occur, and then put together a list of symptoms and warning signs to allow for … [Read more...] about Watch Out for These Diabetes Complications
Technology Improves Quality of Life for People with Parkinson’s
Technology is booming and improving quality of life for all of us in so many ways, but for those with Parkinson’s disease and other neurodegenerative conditions, it can mean the difference between dependency and independence. As the disease progresses causing increased challenges with motor skills, movement, and the many daily tasks that make up our everyday lives, embracing technology is key. Discovering what advances are available can begin by talking with the primary care physician or neurologist for recommendations, and by being open to trying something new. In fact, the use of technology can be discussed with the doctor without ever even leaving home – through telemedicine. Receiving medical care in the comfort of home is not only possible now, but is reported to be preferred by … [Read more...] about Technology Improves Quality of Life for People with Parkinson’s
THE MEDICAL TEAM’s Post-Stroke Communication Tips
According to the CDC, as many as 795,000 people in the U.S. experience a stroke. It’s especially prevalent in older adults, and a third of those impacted by stroke also have one or more of the conditions or habits that put them more at risk: obesity, high blood pressure or cholesterol, smoking, or diabetes. Recovering from a stroke takes time, and can include a variety of effects that need managing: Physical Effects: Weakness, numbness, stiffness, trouble swallowing, fatigue, incontinence, sleep difficulties, and more. Emotional Effects: Depression, frustration, anxiety, fear, hopelessness, anger, and more. Cognitive Effects: Memory loss, vascular dementia, and more. One particular challenge that impacts as many as a third of all stroke survivors is aphasia: defined by the … [Read more...] about THE MEDICAL TEAM’s Post-Stroke Communication Tips
Expert Tips for Managing Multiple Chronic Health Conditions
Many older adults today face a variety of chronic conditions, including arthritis, diabetes, cancer, heart disease, COPD, Alzheimer’s disease – the list goes on and on. And for the majority of seniors, three or more concurrent health problems exist, making it challenging to effectively manage when factoring in multiple care providers, medications, and side effects. Health in Aging has put together a helpful resource for seniors and their caregivers to ensure optimum health. The professional senior care team at THE MEDICAL TEAM has summarized several important points: Communication and education are key. When diagnosed with a chronic health disease, both the senior diagnosed and his or her family caregivers should learn as much as possible about the condition, and put together a list … [Read more...] about Expert Tips for Managing Multiple Chronic Health Conditions