Oct 27, 2011

Dementia Screening Test

This information based dementia screening tool is adapted from the Symptoms of Dementia Screener, and has been developed as a screening tool for Alzheimer’s disease to be used by lay people with little or no medical training.  It is not intended to be filled out by persons in whom possible cognitive difficulties are suspected, but rather by someone else who knows them. In its initial development and... read more

Oct 5, 2011

Addressing Incontinence

Incontinence, or the loss of bladder or bowel control, affects over 1.5 million Canadians: one in five Canadians over 65, more than half of all seniors in long term care, and women more than men. Incontinence, in most cases, can be successfully treated, managed, or even cured. However, embarrassment, frustration, fear and social stigma prevent most people from discussing incontinence. The incontinence may... read more

Sep 12, 2011

Suffering From Hearing Loss?

“Pardon?” is what many of us say when we don’t hear something clearly. But all too often, seniors with hearing loss just give up saying ‘pardon’ and become reclusive. 69% of seniors suffer from hearing loss. It’s often said that losing your hearing is worse than losing your sight. Age-related hearing loss may be inevitable for most, but it doesn’t mean you... read more

Jul 11, 2011

How Do I Care for My Diabetic Mother?

Q. My mother just learned she has diabetes but neglects her medication and diet. How can I help her look after herself? A. Accepting any disability’s symptoms, limitations and prognosis is extremely difficult. Some ideas for you are: Get informed – scour the Internet and publications so your advice has credibility Be a support – visit the doctor with your mom and record what is discussed; make a list... read more

Apr 7, 2011

Underweight Seniors at Increased Risk

Being underweight remains a largely unrecognized problem, and is associated with malnutrition and frailty.  Underweight seniors are at increased risk for falls and fractures, particularly hip fractures.  The current definition of underweight is a body mass index (BMI) of less than 18.5.  Health Canada recognizes that this standard is less appropriate for persons aged 65 or more.  Consequently, based on... read more