Lower Back Pain November 26, 2008
Posted by columbiaagedcare in Health.Tags: aged care services, back, columbia, elderly, Health, low back pain, lower
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Lower back pain (LBP) is a very common medical problem. There are many causes of LBP including injuries, diseases and degeneration. Poor posture accelerates degenerative changes of the spine hence proper posture is very important. Good posture helps to prevent injuries and unnecessary fatigue that can occur when the body is not in proper alignment. If you are suffering from LBP, evaluation by a doctor would help to identify specific pain source and lead to individual treatment plans. Do not use self-medication for extended periods of time as they may have adverse side effects, especially among the elderly who may get bleeding of the stomach from pain-killers.
Proper Posture and Care
The central portion of the back is composed of a bony spinal column surrounded by muscles and ligaments. Viewed from the side, the spinal column is “S” shaped. This should be maintained for effective functioning of the spine and minimal stress on the muscles and ligaments.
Standing
While standing, keep your body straight with ears, shoulders and hips vertically aligned. Your shoulders should not be rounded inwards or tilted forwards.
Sitting
Sit with the back and thighs at a 90-degrees angle. Keep your back straight, your hips in a neutral position and feet flat on floor, or you can rest your feet on a chair or bench for stability.
Daily activities
Bending the body forwards puts a lot of stress on the spine. In daily activities, it is important to protect your spine by always keeping it straight. Instead of bending the back, bend your knees.
Source: http://www.info.gov.hk/elderly/english/healthinfo/healthproblems/pain.htm
Tis the season to be jolly… or is it? November 19, 2008
Posted by columbiaagedcare in Residential Aged Care.Tags: aged care services, christmas, columbia, season
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The festive season is just around the corner. Whilst there is often much to celebrate – family and friends coming together, summer holidays, religious festivals, very often the reality does not match our expectations. The festive period can sometimes be wrought with heartache, tension and exhaustion. There is a lot of social pressure placed upon us over this period. There is an emphasis on spending and often unrealistic expectations of giving and receiving.
People can find themselves placed under enormous financial strain that ultimately leads to emotional strain later. Curbing consumer excess during this period can prove very difficult. Although difficult, many people find that deciding to limit excess and sticking to that decision can prove useful. Others have found that instead of a family or friendship group buying individual presents, each person donates to a charity in another’s name. This is one way of reducing the splurge and giving where the giving can really count. The excess is not only limited to gift purchasing.
Especially with the current economic situation, the financial strain may be even tighter compared to other years. Just remember that Christmas should be a happy celebration! So make the most of what you have, reflect on the good times had throughout the year and enjoy yourself.
By David Goldman, Clinical Psychologist
Incontinence and continence problems November 12, 2008
Posted by columbiaagedcare in Health.Tags: Columbia Aged Care Services, incontinence, continence, elderly, heath tips
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Bladder and bowel control problems are common. Around four million Australians experience leakage from the bladder and bowel regularly – this is known as incontinence. Many others have bladder and bowel control problems such as frequency and urgency without leakage. Together these problems are often known as continence problems.
Although incontinence and continence problems have a considerable impact on a person’s quality of life, most people do not seek help. Embarrassment often prevents people talking about their bladder and bowel problems. Some people restrict going out and have little social contact outside their home.
Incontinence and continence problems are symptoms of bladder or bowel dysfunction. They tell you that something is not quite right. Pelvic floor muscle weakness is a common cause of these symptoms. Changes to the nerves controlling the bladder, bowel or pelvic floor can also result in loss of control. Sometimes other health problems such as diabetes, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, or multiple sclerosis can cause bladder and or bowel control problems.
There are things you can do to help keep your bladder and bowel healthy and avoid incontinence and continence problems. Healthy lifestyle choices include:
Drink plenty of fluid; at least 1.5–2 litres each day, unless your doctor advises you otherwise.
Eat well to prevent constipation and to maintain healthy body weight.
Exercise regularly to keep fit and to prevent constipation.
Tone up your pelvic floor with pelvic floor exercises for good bladder and bowel control.
Practice good toilet habits to prevent bladder and bowel control problems. Go to the toilet to pass urine only when you have the urge to go; don’t go ‘just in case’. Take time to completely empty your bladder and bowel. Use the correct sitting position on the toilet. When you have the urge to use your bowels, don’t delay going to the toilet.
Source: http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.nsf/pages/Incontinence_management?OpenDocument
Coping with Change November 4, 2008
Posted by columbiaagedcare in Health, Residential Aged Care.Tags: change, Columbia Aged Care Services, coping, Loss
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One could amend the old saying to include something extra: “the only certainties in life are death, taxes and change.” Change is a constant in life and very often we fear it, often because it’s outcome is largely unknown. Ironically, the environment, people and animals all need change to survive.
When faced with change, it is important not to rush the process. Change involves a transition from one set of circumstances to another and it is essential to give yourself time to adjust and settle. Whatever the change, emotions will play a large part.
Change may often involve a degree of loss so it is appropriate to allow yourself time to deal with the emotions. Whatever emotions are stirred up are important and need validating.
To cope with change, it is imperitive to have a strong support system around you. Family members and friends are essential during periods of change. Having someone to talk to, share a meal with or offer reassurance are all examples of how helpful our support systems can be. Remember to reach out at these times and ask for support when needed.
By David Goldman, Clinical Psychologist
