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Wellness Wednesday

Caregiving Resources for Families 1/15/2025

holding hands

Many of us are providing caregiver services to family and friends. This can be a daunting task. We want to make you aware of a new publication that can provide valuable information to caregivers and their families.  Connect Senior Resource Guide is a booklet courtesy of Ageways, a nonprofit organization that serves as the Area Agency on Aging for a six-county region that includes Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland, St. Clair and Washtenaw counties.

Although the resource guide does not include Wayne County, the guide has useful articles and guides for

  • caregiving from a distance
  • figuring out how to get around if you’re no longer driving,
  • making your home injury-proof,
  • finding the right in-home aide

For Wayne County families, caregivers can find the phone numbers of resources available at The Senior Alliance. The phone number for Wayne County's Area of Aging Agency is 734-722-2830.

Download a copy of Connect Senior Resource Guide: Connect Senior Resource Guide.

If you are a caregiver, here are some tips:

 

Practice the following to reduce your stress:

 


 

12/4/24 Handwashing

National Handwashing Awareness Week

Key Facts:

  • Washing hands prevents illnesses and spread of infections to others.
  • People often get sick when they make contact with germs from feces on their hands.
  • ​About 1.8 million children under the age of 5 die each year from diarrheal diseases and pneumonia, the top two killers of young children around the world.  Handwashing with soap could protect about 1 out of every 3 young children who get sick with diarrhea, and almost 1 out of 5 young children with respiratory infections like pneumonia.
  • Handwashing helps battle the rise in antibiotic resistance​.
  • Your hands should be as dry as possible after handwashing​. Germs can be transferred more easily to and from wet hands.

Do I really need to wash my hands for 20 seconds?

Scientific studies show that you need to scrub for 20 seconds to remove harmful germs and chemicals from your hands. If you wash for a shorter time, you will not remove as many germs. Make sure to scrub all areas of your hands, including your palms, backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your fingernails.

How does handwashing with soap and water remove germs and chemicals?

Soap and water, worked into a lather, trap and remove germs and chemicals from hands. Wetting your hands with clean water before applying soap helps you get a better lather than applying soap to dry hands. A good lather forms pockets called micelles that trap and remove germs, harmful chemicals, and dirt from your hands. When you rinse your hands, you wash the germs and chemicals down the drain.

Should I use a paper towel to turn off the faucet after washing my hands?

The CDC recommends turning off the faucet after wetting your hands to reduce water use. Then, turn it on again after you have washed them for 20 seconds, to rinse off the soap. If you are concerned about getting germs on your hands after you wash them, you can use a paper towel, your elbow, or another hands-free way to turn off the faucet.

 

Will touching bathroom door handles make my hands dirty again after I wash them?

Scientists don't know if you would get a significant number of germs on your hands from touching a bathroom door handle. That's because it has not been specifically studied. If you're concerned about getting germs on your hands after you wash them, you can use a paper towel, your elbow, shirt, or another hands-free way to open the door.

Should I dry my hands using a paper towel or an air dryer?

There is currently not enough scientific evidence to determine if using a clean towel or an air hand dryer to dry your hands is more effective at reducing germs on your hands. Both are effective ways to dry your hands. Germs spread more easily when hands are wet, so make sure to dry your hands completely, whatever method you use.

Should I reuse a towel to dry my hands at home?

CDC recommends using a clean towel if you are using a towel to dry your hands. Reusable towels are a practical option at home. They should be changed when visibly dirty and before they develop mildew from remaining damp.

Is antibacterial soap better than plain soap?

Use plain soap and water to wash your hands. Studies have not found any added health benefit from using antibacterial soap, other than for professionals in healthcare settings.

Is bar soap better than liquid soap?

Both bar and liquid soap work well to remove germs.

Is it better to use warm water or cold water?

Use your preferred water temperature to wash your hands. Warm and cold water remove the same number of germs from your hands. Water itself does not usually kill germs; to kill germs, water would need to be hot enough to scald your hands.

Which is better, hand sanitizer or handwashing?

Washing hands with soap and water is the best way to remove all types of germs and chemicals. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers work by killing germs on your hands, while washing your hands with soap and water removes germs from your hands. Handwashing will remove all types of germs from your hands, but hand sanitizers are not able to kill all types of germs or remove harmful chemicals like pesticides and heavy metals.

11/27/24 Thanksgiving

Here are some tips for you:

1. Don't "Save Up" for Dinner: Do yourself a favor and eat leading up to the meal. Taking care of yourself is nourishing your body when it is hungry. Saving up will cause you to scarf down food and feel bloated.

2. Know How to Respond to Diet Talk: If someone is discussing how many calories are in this casserole or pie or how fat they will feel after the dinner, visualize how you might respond or leave the conversation. There is no need to join the food guilt party.

3. Take Your Time and Savor: Not just the food, but the people with whom you are sharing the meal. The food is what brought you together,

4. Schedule Your Exercise and/or Movement: It may be less than usual but because it is a holiday weekend does not mean we stop taking care of ourselves. We move our body because we know how good it is for our health.

5. Hydrate: Sip your water early and often. Keep your water bottle nearby and check in with yourself every few hours on thirst and water intake.

6. Make Time for Yourself: Yes, this will be a fun and busy week, but find time for just yourself.

7. Don't Stress Over One Meal: Thanksgiving is one day and one meal, but look at the week as a whole. Have nourishing food in the kitchen for meals and snacks and eat without fear!

8. Enjoy and Be Grateful: That's what this holiday is all about, right?

 


 

11/13/2024 COPD

Click here:  American Lung Association Learn About COPD

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a serious lung disease that makes it difficult to breathe. This chronic lung disease causes air flow limitation (less air in and out of the airways) and breathing-related symptoms. It’s most common in older adults, but you can take action to look after your lung health at any age. There is no cure, but there are ways to manage and treat COPD.

Today we are providing several links so it can help you in understanding COPD.

11/20/2024 Frauds and Scams

Fraud is everywhere. Staying up to date on the latest scams can help you protect yourself and your loved ones. One source of information is from AARP: AARP Fraud Watch Network. They offer several free webinars for tips to help you spot, avoid and report common scams, including romance, gift cards, Medicare and more cons.

Another source of information is from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. We usually feature short videos on Wellness Wednesday but this one at 17 minutes but is worth the time: CFPB Helping Patrons Spot and Avoid Fraud.

10/30/2024 Alzheimer's Assistance

Today we are sharing information that was presented to our retirees at their chapter meeting in October. This information comes from The Alzheimer's Association, which has a local chapter in southeast Michigan.

Metro Detroit Office - Chapter Headquarters

25200 Telegraph Rd., Suite 100
Southfield, MI 48033
248.351.0280
Open: Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

You can also seek help by calling 800.272.3900, email helplinegmc@alz.org, or visit their website https://www.alz.org/gmc.

Worldwide, 55 million people are living with Alzheimer's and other dementias. 6 million live in the United States.  Alzheimer’s disease is a degenerative brain disease and the most common cause of dementia. Dementia is not a specific disease. It's an overall term that describes a group of symptoms.

 

 


 

There are 10 warning signs of Alzheimer's and this 45 second video names them: 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer's & Dementia.

The following tips are for everyone!

 


 

10/16/2024 Audiology Awareness

National Audiology Awareness Month is an annual designation observed in October. This time of year is prime for stimulating our senses: smelling pumpkin spice,  tasting apple cider, seeing the leaves turning colors, and feeling the weather as it changes. How about what we hear? Although it's something many of us take for granted, our ability to hear and listen is one of the senses we rely on the most.

           The thing about hearing loss is that no one can see it. --actress Marion Ross

We live in a noisy world, so get those ears checked!

Listen as these professionals explain in this 1:15 clip about How Audiologists Can Help Video.


 

10/23/2024 Halloween Safety Tips

happy halloween

We are offering safety tips so everyone can enjoy this celebration, whether you are going to a place to celebrate, going door-to-door for trick-or-treating or attending a community wide event.

Safety Tips for Drivers

  • #1: Be alert for trick-or-treaters and other pedestrians.
  • #2: Slow down and scan the road. Remember: Slower speeds save lives.
  • #3: Watch for young trick-or-treaters in unexpected places. Children may be unaware of traffic and dart into the street unexpectedly.
  • #4: If you see a drunk driver, contact law enforcement.
  • #5 Turn on headlights early in the day to spot kids from further away, especially in inclement weather
  • #6 Enter and exit driveways and alleys slowly and carefully.
  • #7 Eliminate any distractions inside your vehicle so you can concentrate on the road and your surroundings.

Safety Tips for Trick-or-Treaters

  • #8: Carry glow sticks or flashlights, use reflective tape or stickers on costumes and bags, and wear light colors to help kids see and be seen by drivers.
  • #9: Join kids under age 12 for trick-or-treating.
  • #10: When selecting a costume, make sure it is the right size to prevent trips and falls. Choose face paint over masks when possible. Masks can limit children’s vision.

Safety Tips for Pedestrians

  • #11: Before festivities begin, create a “buddy system” to get each other home safely and prevent walking alone.
  • #12: Follow the rules of the road and obey signs and signals.
  • #13: If possible, cross streets at crosswalks or intersections. Look for cars in all directions, including those turning left or right.

Safety Tips for Attendees of Halloween Parties

  • #14: Before drinking, choose a designated driver, or schedule a ridesharing, ride-hailing or taxi service.
  • #15: If you drink, do not drive for any reason. Even a small amount of alcohol can affect driving ability.

Safety Tips for Hosts

  • #16: Be responsible and take action to make sure guests get home safely.
  • #17: Prepare to call taxis rideshares, provide sleeping accommodations, or — if you’re sober — drive guests home yourself.
  • #18: Collect car keys from guests who are drinking.
  • #19 Provide non-alcoholic beverage options.

 

10/16/2024 Audiology Awareness

audiology Awareness month

National Audiology Awareness Month is an annual designation observed in October. This time of year is prime for stimulating our senses: smelling pumpkin spice,  tasting apple cider, seeing the leaves turning colors, and feeling the weather as it changes. What about what we hear? Although it's something many of us take for granted, our ability to hear and listen is one of the senses we rely on the most.

           The thing about hearing loss is that no one can see it. --actress Marion Ross

We live in a noisy world, so get those ears checked!

Listen as these professionals explain in this 1:15 clip about How Audiologists Can Help Video.

hearing loss third most common health problem for older adults

10/9/2024 Fire Safety

October is Fire Prevention Month

Let's take the precautionary steps to prevent dangerous and life-threatening fires.  According to the National Fire Prevention Association, the winter months see an increase in home fires, deaths and injuries. These are the months when we turn on the heat to keep our homes warm.

  • Make sure your heating source is well maintained. Whether it's a fireplace, wood stove, a furnace or electric heat, check the equipment before using or have them serviced.
  • Don't store items near your heating source. Boxes, clothes, and other fuels may ignite if they are close.
  • Make sure draperies and furniture and other combustible items are kept far enough away from a heating source.

3 Common Causes of Fire

  1. Kitchen - It's important to not leave burners or grills unattended. Make sure to use proper equipment and to keep dish towels, clothing and other items away from heating elements and open flame. Keep pets secured away from the kitchen, especially when you're not home. They can inadvertently turn on burners.
  2. Candles - Never leave a burning candle unattended. As an alternative, use battery-operated candles for ambiance.
  3. Smoking - Unattended cigarettes or overly full ashtrays start fires. Curious children might play with matches or lighters. Keep them well out of their reach.

More National Fire Prevention Month tips

Fire prevention month tips

DO YOU KNOW WHERE THE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS ARE LOCATED AT HOME AND WORK?
Get a fire extinguisher and make sure it's not outdated. Most fire extinguishers have an expiration date. Place one on each floor of the house and work location and in garages, too.  The National Safety Council recommends this acronym, PASS, to remember the steps of how to use a fire extinguisher.

how to use a fire extinguisher

Have an escape plan. We practice fire drills at school but practice them with your family and make sure everyone knows where to go depending on where the fire is in the home. Have at least two ways to get out of the house, too. Set a meeting place for everyone.

In the event of a fire, do not try to salvage items before leaving. Personal effects can be replaced, but lives cannot. Instead, keep valuable documents in a fireproof box for recovery later.