Senior Living News

1. Pneumonia

Pneumonia is a respiratory condition that develops when the air sacs in your lung fill up with pus or fluid. Some people experience mild symptoms, while others have difficulty breathing, high fever and chills. Without treatment, pneumonia can even cause sepsis, a life-threatening emergency.

Although pneumonia is serious, you may be able to avoid hospitalization by following these tips:

• Call your doctor if you have pneumonia symptoms.
• See a doctor right away if you have chest pain, blue lips and/or fingernails, difficulty breathing or a severe cough that's getting worse instead of better. If your doctor doesn't have any openings, go to the emergency department or visit a local urgent care center.
• If your doctor prescribes antibiotics to treat pneumonia, take them exactly as directed. Don't skip doses or stop taking the medication earlier than scheduled. If you have an adverse reaction to the antibiotic, contact your doctor right away. They may be able to recommend an alternative.

2. Urinary Tract Infections

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are extremely common, but they're more serious than many people realize. This type of infection occurs when a bacterium, virus or fungus enters the urinary tract, which includes the bladder, kidneys, urethra and ureters.

Common symptoms include frequent urination, painful urination, bloody urine and pain in the lower abdomen. In seniors, a UTI may even cause delirium, a condition characterized by agitation, confusion and urinary incontinence.

If you don't get treatment, a basic UTI may turn into a kidney infection. Some people with UTIs even develop sepsis. Here are a few things you can do to avoid UTI-related hospitalizations:

• Wash your hands regularly, especially if you use catheters. Every time you touch a cell phone, doorknob or other object, there's a chance of picking up bacteria, viruses and other infectious organisms. If you don't wash your hands regularly, you can transfer those organisms to the skin around your urethral opening.
• If you have UTI symptoms, see a doctor as soon as possible.
• Follow your doctor's instructions regarding antibiotics and other treatment methods. If you stop taking an antibiotic sooner than intended, you may become resistant to it. Once you're resistant to an antibiotic, it's more difficult to treat future infections.
• Drink plenty of fluids. Water reduces the concentration of bacteria in your urine, making it easier to treat a UTI.
• If you use disposable catheters, use a new one every time to prevent the transfer of bacteria to your urethra.

3. Diabetes

If you have diabetes, your body has a hard time using glucose (blood sugar) properly. In some people, the pancreas doesn't produce insulin. Others produce insulin just fine, but they can't use it efficiently. In both cases, glucose builds up in the bloodstream, increasing the risk of complications. You may be able to avoid a diabetes-related hospitalization by taking these steps:

• Check your blood sugar regularly. If it's out of range more often than usual, schedule an appointment with your doctor.
• Exercise regularly. Physical activity makes your body more sensitive to the effects of insulin, so it can lower your blood sugar for 24 hours or more after each session. Before you start an exercise plan, talk with your doctor to find out if it's safe for you to be active.
• Maintain a balanced diet. A diet low in fat and calories may help you keep your glucose in the normal range. It's also important to eat meals at regular times, especially if you take insulin or other diabetes medications.
• Take your diabetes medications as instructed.
• Keep your blood pressure in check. People with high blood pressure have an increased risk of diabetes complications.

4. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

COPD restricts the flow of air, making it difficult to breathe. Common symptoms include chest tightness, shortness of breath and other respiratory problems. If you have these symptoms, you may find it difficult to exercise or perform household chores. Some people end up in the hospital due to COPD exacerbation, which is when symptoms are worse than usual. To avoid a hospital stay, try the following:

• Stop smoking. Tobacco smoke contains many chemicals that can make your COPD symptoms worse.
• Avoid other sources of smoke, such as fire pits, wood-burning fireplaces and the smoking section of your local casino.
• Stay indoors or dress appropriately for cold, windy or humid weather. If you have allergies, wear a face mask if you plan to spend time outdoors. Check the pollen count before you go outside to avoid exacerbating your breathing problems.
• Avoid strong scents. The chemicals found in perfumes, air fresheners, cleaning supplies and deodorants may trigger your symptoms. If you must use a scented cleaning product, open the window or door first.

At The Gardens at Barry Road in Kansas City, Missouri, we offer licensed nurse supervision, regular health assessments, medication management and other services to promote good health. Our assisted living community even has on-site podiatry and therapy services to help you live your best life.

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