Irritable bowel syndrome, often abbreviated as IBS, is a common disorder that causes everything from chronic abdominal pain and bloating to diarrhoea and constipation. IBS is considered a functional digestive disorder, which means that symptoms are often brought on by changes in the digestive system rather than by a certain disease.
Maintaining kidney health
Physical well-being is contingent upon the health of all of our organs, and while the areas of focus for seniors may often be the heart and brain, the kidneys are just as important and should demand the same level of care and attention.
Located to the left and right of the spine, below the rib cage, these bean-shaped organs may not always be top of mind, but the importance of their roles in supporting the body’s equilibrium cannot be overstated. In addition to filtering the blood and removing waste and excess water from the body, the kidneys also control blood pressure, [...]
Senior nutrition
As we age, the risk of heart disease can increase due to a condition known as atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis occurs when the arteries begin to narrow from plaque buildup in the arterial walls, disrupting blood flow throughout the body. If blood flow stops altogether, from a blood clot, the outcome could include a heart attack or stroke.
While unhealthy lifestyle choices, such as lack of physical activity and/or smoking, can trigger atherosclerosis, poor diet can also be a cause. Foods high in salt and fat can result in high blood pressure, high levels of cholesterol, and high blood sugar levels – all [...]
Alcohol abuse in seniors
Alcoholism in the Elderly; Signs & Effects of Alcohol Abuse in the Elderly
It can be common for friends and family members to overlook – or completely miss – an ageing loved one’s abuse of alcohol. For instance, if he or she has always included alcohol in his or her daily routine, recognising increased (but gradual) frequency of drinking may be difficult. Similarly, seniors may turn to alcohol as a way to deal with physical or emotional pain, loneliness, or other forms of stress – secretly and without anybody ever knowing.
The Effects of Alcohol as We AgeAccording to the National Council [...]
Colorectal cancer
Colorectal cancer – also referred to as colon cancer or rectal cancer – is considered the second-leading cause of cancer-related deaths, for both men and women. The percentage of deaths from colorectal cancer tends to be highest for those within the 75-84 age range.
Colorectal cancer typically begins with the formation of polyps, which are clumps of cells in the inner lining of the colon and/or rectum. The cancer formed from these polyps can spread through the mucosa (innermost layer of the colon), to the lymph nodes, allowing it to spread to the liver, lungs, and other organs in the body. [...]
World Cancer Day
World Cancer Day: Reducing the Risk of Cancer in the Elderly
Cancer is one of the biggest health risks across the world. Unfortunately, as people get older, their risk of being affected by cancer increases.
This month will see the annual World Cancer Day. It is held on February 4th 2017, and it is a global event that unites people across the globe in the fight against cancer.
Here’s a guide to what it involves along with how you can help to reduce the risk of an elderly friend or relative suffering from cancer.
What Is World Cancer Day?World Cancer Day was established in [...]
After Surgery
After Surgery: How to care for an elderly person at home
Many elderly undergo surgery at some point for everything from hip replacements to more complex operations. If an elderly friend or relative is soon to undergo an operation, you will want to start preparing in advance to help them in their recovery.
If you currently care for them, be aware that caring for someone following surgery can be challenging. Here are a few tips and things to keep in mind once your loved one is home after a surgery
1. Be patient – the first few days after surgery are important and [...]
Depression in the elderly
Depression can sometimes become a problem for elderly people, and it can be caused by loneliness, isolation, lack of mobility and other
Pneumonia: How to prevent it
Pneumonia: How to prevent it and spot the symptoms in the elderly
As the cold weather sets in, health problems can become more serious – especially for elderly people.
By now, your elderly friend or relative should have had their free flu jab. But another of the most serious conditions affecting elderly people is pneumonia. This can affect people at any time of the year, but it is especially common in the winter months.
Here’s what you need to know about pneumonia, including how to prevent it.
What Is Pneumonia?To know how to prevent pneumonia, you first need to know what it is. [...]
The Flu Jab 2016/17
The Flu Jab 2016/17: Everything You Need to Know
Flu season is here again, and that means it’s time to start thinking about the flu vaccination.
Every year this vaccine is made available on the NHS to certain groups of people, and it provides protection against flu and the complications that it can bring.
If you care for an elderly friend or relative, what do you need to know?
The 2016/17 Flu SeasonThe flu jab is made available for free on the NHS to various at-risk groups. One of those groups comprises people over 65.
For the 2016/17 flu season, to qualify for the [...]