Tag: Caretakers for Elderly

How Winters Affect the Elderly

Winter is just around the corner. In many places, temperatures have already begun to drop, warm jackets are coming out and, the days get longer and darker. While winter may be an enjoyable and exciting time for some, there is a category of people who may struggle more than others with the cold. 

Surprisingly, winters can have a negative impact on the overall health of the elderly or senior citizens. It is important to keep a watchful eye on them, have the contact number of the best physiotherapist around and even sign up for home healthcare in some cases to ensure their safety.

So how does the winter impact their health:

Increases risk of hypothermia

Hypothermia occurs when the body becomes so cold it starts to shut down. In cases where there is extremely cold weather, the risk of hypothermia goes up exponentially. This happens because their bodies cannot withstand the cold as long as younger people. Elderly people naturally create less body heat, which means they are often colder than younger individuals to start with. Watch out for slowed reactions and movements, sleepiness, slurred or slow speech and confusion.

Cardiac troubles

Patients with existing underlying heart conditions are at greater risk for cardiovascular troubles during winters. The cooler temperatures lower the overall body heat. This can cause the blood vessels to contract, reducing oxygen supply to the body, increasing the risk of a stroke. The extra work that the body has to put in to stay warm can also lead to higher blood pressure and heart attacks. If you have a senior citizen at home who has pre-existing cardiovascular conditions, having a nurse at home may be a good idea. 

Respiratory illness

The drop in temperature commonly leads to respiratory infections in older people. The main reason for this is that excessive cold lowers their immunity and weakens lung function. Asthma patients and patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD) need to maintain special care during winters.

Increased pain

Another side effect of the cold is that muscle and existing pains tend to worsen in the cold weather. This can be especially difficult for those suffering from arthritis and other conditions as it may hinder their mobility significantly. Look out for the best physiotherapist to help you out through this as it can impact their movement significantly. 

These realities may sound scary and a little bit daunting, but a few simple steps will help keep your loved ones safe and cosy. 

Here’s what you can do:

  • Ensure they wear lots of layers.
  • Use heaters indoors.
  • Get regular check-ups.
  • Keep a very close eye on them and pay attention to anything that may seem a little off.
  • Hire help – Look around for a nurse at home from the SSSPS home healthcare provider to lend a hand.

Having a helping hand can put your mind at ease and your beloved ones safe and cared for at all times!

Why are caretaker services booming in modern-day Mumbai?

Mumbai – the beautiful financial, commercial and entertainment capital of India and capital of Maharashtra is undeniably known to be one of the most populous cities in the nation. With beautiful buildings, unmatched transportation networks and businesses thriving, it is undoubtedly booming. With the young working generation soon becoming the most predominant demographic, the question remains, “is there room for quality patient care services in such a busy city?”

With the fast-paced lifestyle that the we must live in order to survive, caretaker services are becoming an increasing demand. With expenses mounting and demanding jobs, caring for a loved one who may need medical care post-surgery, injury or due to age can be very challenging. As a result of this, families begin to rely on caretakers for Elderly or patient care services. Here’s 3 reasons why this has become the go – to option.

Availability ­– Owing to the increasing demands of jobs, house care, education and more, being available to care for the patient may pose a challenge. By opting for caretaker services, the patient is not neglected even for one minute, while the loved ones are occupied fulfilling their other responsibilities.

Companionship – It goes without saying that we all need company. Patients however, need more companionship than most as they battle through their suffering. By ensuring that someone is with them at all times, not only will the patient have company, but family and loved ones are able to be more mentally and emotionally present for the patient since the upkeep and patient care has been taken care of.

Accessibility – By opting for caretakers for elderly or home healthcare services, the family is able to have the patient in their own home and therefore access them and spend time with them freely as opposed to an institution with fixed visiting hours. This allows for quality time together and peace of mind knowing that the patient is surrounded by their loved ones.

While the city may be thriving and booming with opportunities, but it is also encompassed by qualified, trained professionals – the absolute best of the best. In fact, it is said that family members who are employed in Mumbai, would rather relocate their elder parents to be alongside them rather than provide for similar care back where their hometowns may be, despite the cost difference. One of the reasons is because it is home to the highest standard of professionals there are. This means that not only will the family have their parents close by, but also they can ensure that they receive the absolute best treatment for them. Afterall, this incredible place is home to the first woman who built the Mumbai – Pune railway line, the first car owner in India, the author of The Jungle Book (Rudyard Kipling) and the country’s first ever airport. The city of greatness, a city where legends are born! That’s why caretaker services are booming! It is these caretakers that shower love, care and concern for the patients that allow the working generation to pursue the greatness that the city is so fertile for!