How to Ask for a Raise

Unless you work in a government office with a fixed pay structure, chances are that you have room to negotiate with your salary. Many people complain about being overworked and underpaid, but how many of us take the time to do something about that? If you're feeling stuck in a salary rut, here are some tips to help you.

First off, know when the time is right. You've heard the phrase "strike while the iron's hot"? It applies very well to your career. If you've just wrapped up a big project, or pulled off a major accomplishment, that's the perfect time to state your case. This article from US News tells you the best time to ask (and when not to ask!) for a raise.

If the timing's right, take the next step.

1. Have courage
It's a well-known fact that most women earn less than men in the workplace, but what many people don't mention is that women are generally less likely to be assertive and ask for a raise. In other words, you have the power to bridge that salary gap! Focus on the value you bring to the position or your company, and be sure to present that information to your supervisor.

Several studies have shown that women hesitate to ask for raises, but if you want to get ahead in your career, you need to take charge.

2. Know what you're worth
Do some research. Are you really as underpaid as you think? Take a few minutes to look at what other people in your field are earning so that you can have numbers to back up your salary request. Sites like salary.com and payscale.com are a good starting point.

3. State your case
Do a little brainstorming. Make a list of all your accomplishments over the last week, month, or year. Focus on specific things that would matter to your boss or to the company. What sets you apart from everyone else in your division? You might always be on-time and never miss a day of work, but if you're making a case for a raise, you'll need to aim higher. What do you do that makes you unique and valuable? Can you name a specific time you went above and beyond your job description to help someone else? Have you taken any classes, or received training to help you be a better employee? What are you doing to demonstrate to your employer that you're worth the extra investment?

Even if you're not quite ready (or qualified) to ask for a raise, remember that you have the ability to get ready! Take the initiative and think of things you can do to stand out at work. Take a class or get some extra training (We Care Online can help!). A quick and inexpensive class like Spanish for Healthcare Providers is a perfect example of something you can do to boost your skills. It shows you're willing to work hard to improve yourself and be more valuable to your employer. Plus it gives you new skills that you can carry to any job in the future.

Ready to get started? Check out this step-by-step guide about "How to ask for a raise"...and good luck! 

Broadening Your Job Search Horizons

As many people struggle with unemployment or underemployment, I wanted to focus on a trend I've noticed among job seekers. It seems that people looking for work - especially those with specialized medical training or certifications - tend to get hung up on a job title and miss other employment options. A Certified Nurse Assistant might only focus on CNA jobs and not even notice job openings for related positions. The thing to remember is that skills are transferable! Your knowledge and training can apply to many more fields than you think.

In my hometown (Arizona), call centers are big business. They are one of the major employers in the region and offer some of the highest paying jobs plus benefits. A couple of weeks ago, a call center hosted a job fair to fill 100 positions. That's a fairly common occurrence around here, but what was unique about this job fair was that the call center was looking for trained Pharmacy Technicians to join their staff. This is becoming more and more common. People want 24/7 access to medical professionals and call centers fill that need. So while your local assisted living facility or pharmacy might not be hiring, your call center might. If you have knowledge as a Pharmacy Assistant, the job possibilities open up. Similarly, if you've trained as a Health Unit Coordinator, you're qualified to work in many office settings - not just a hospital or elder care facility. Have you considered a doctor's private practice or a chiropractor's office? Focus on your skills and not the job title and the possibilities open up!

Make a list of the skills you have, not just the job titles you've held, and compare that against the local help wanted ads. Look for key words in the job postings that relate to your skills rather than just browsing by job title. Need to brush up or boost your skills? Spanish for Healthcare Providers and Medical Terminology are both fast and affordable, and since they're open enrollment, you can start immediately. The jobs are out there - put your best foot forward, emphasize your skills, and you'll be all set.


cc licensed ( BY ND ) flickr photo shared by alanclarkdesign

Trends in Healthcare Hiring

In these tough economic times the question on everyone's minds is "Where are the jobs?". We keep hearing that healthcare is among the fastest growing professions, but what does that mean for you? Right now, one of the biggest trends in the healthcare industry is a move away from hospitals and long-term care facilities and towards letting people receive care in their own homes. This applies to both the elderly needing assistance, and people of any age who need help recovering from injuries, long-term illnesses, or surgery.

A quick glance at the major job search websites confirms this trend. Monster.com says, "Home healthcare is hiring rapidly." Careerbuilder says, "Whether it's occupational therapists, speech therapists or physical therapists working with patients who require this type of medical support, the rehabilitation industry is in demand."

Over and over, I see Home Health Aides being the most in-demand workers. Related to this is the role of Mental Health Aides. Really, any sort of therapy or assistance position is popular. The more training you can receive in this area, the better you'll appear to an employer. We Care Online's training programs begin at $157.50, and with 20 hours of class time, you can be ready to enter this rapidly growing profession. Mental Health Aide training is a little more involved at 60 hours of class work and $292.50, but the need for skilled workers is great and the jobs are out there.

Here are a couple articles with more information on the trends.

• Fastest Growing Jobs in Healthcare
• 2011 Health Care Trends

Trends in At-Home Care

While the majority of We Care Online students work in residential long-term care facilities (as Certified Nurse Aides, etc.), a growing number are choosing to work in the home health care field. The demand for in-home care is increasing, too, and with it, more people are paying attention to the unique issues that surround home care. One in particular is the issue of ensuring that home-care residents receive the same level of care as those in formal facilties, and that they receive the same protections from abuse and neglect. It's not a pleasant topic, but a very important one. Residents in long-term and assisted care facilities have many protections in place, but the relatively new field of home health care is not currently held to the same standards. This past week, Minnesota senator Al Franken introduced a bill that "would require states to pass a Home Care Bill of Rights that protects consumer rights, safety and access to information." It's a first step in the effort to ensure that all people are granted the same protections when receiving care and assistance.

Later this week, we'll take a closer look at the trends in home-health care. If you currently work as a Home Health Aide, or are considering a career in this field, check back here on Thursday for more on the subject!

A Little Piece of Inspiration

I saw this video making the rounds online and just had to share it here. Anyone who works in the healthcare industry knows that the job is so much more than just punching the time clock and going through the motions. You're touching lives and providing comfort. We all have our bad days, but I hope this short video can give you a little inspiration and lift as you go about your day. 

New class: Spanish for Healthcare Providers

According to census data, the Hispanic and Latino population is one of the fastest growing groups in the United States. From 2000 to 2006, the Hispanic growth rate (24.3%) was more than three times the growth rate of the total population (6.1%). With this rapid population growth comes an increased need for people who can communicate in Spanish. It is particularly important for healthcare workers to be able to speak the language of their patients. To fill this need, We Care Online is pleased to announce the latest addition to our classes: Spanish for Healthcare Workers.

This eight week beginner course is tailored to the needs of students with limited or no previous experience studying Spanish (and for those who have been without practice for a significant period of time). The class involves 24 hours of online learning and will introduce you to the basics of the Spanish language and provide information about the cultural differences you may encounter. The class gives you a focused introduction to healthcare vocabulary and will teach you basic phrases so that you can effectively communicate with Spanish speakers. It's an eight-week class and costs $157.50 (plus the cost of a textbook). In eight weeks you can boost your skills and make yourself an even more valuable employee. The class opens on October 24 and is open enrollment, so you may start at any time after the 24th. Sign up today!
 

cc licensed ( BY NC ND ) flickr photo shared by ::: Mer :::

Healthy Snacking Through the Holidays

We're coming in to the holiday season and while it's great for cooler temperatures and fall colors, it can be a major strain on your waistline. Holidays mean social gatherings, and social gatherings always mean food. Halloween is one of the worst possible holidays for a health-conscious person. Candy, caramel apples, popcorn balls - what's a person to do?

Your best bet is to fill up on healthy snacks so that you can pass on the junk food altogether. Or, if you can't resist, you'll at least have a better chance at sticking to a smaller portion. There are so many healthy options out there, and almost all of them fit easily in a snack baggie or reusable plastic container. Skip the soda machine and stay away from the fast food joint around the corner. Your waistline--and your wallet--will thank you! Having your own snacks handy also makes it easier to take five minutes to stop and visit with the people in your care.

Drinking water is always a good idea. Furnaces and heaters tend to dry out the air, so it's easy to get dehydrated even if you're not sweating a lot. Also, water blunts hunger and makes you feel a little more full, so you're less likely to eat a diet-busting portion of snacks. Need more ideas?

Check out these links:
10 Healthful Snacks That Won't Break The Calorie Bank

Super Snacks: 5 Best Snacks for Mood

The Best Snacks to Take to Work (50 recipes!)


cc licensed flickr photo shared by Juushika Redgrave

Job Skills: Health Unit Coordinator

The demand for Health Unit Coordinators is growing, and while We Care Online has a class that can teach you the skills to be an effective HUC, none of that matters until you have a job offer. How can you get from training to employment? The first step is to have an eye-catching resume. A resume is your first impression with a potential employer, and you don't want a human resource manager to say "good enough", you want a "Wow"!

Many people turn to an internet search when it's time to write a resume. That's a good starting point, but unless you go further, you'll end up with a resume identical to everyone else.

Let's take this one for example:
http://www.samplesofresume.org/coordinator/health-unit-coordinator-resume.html

It's generally good (despite a few typos), but doesn't really have that wow factor. For starters, it's too long. All that contact information at the top? Far too much! These days most employers will contact you by phone or email, so lead with your name in a slightly larger font, then include your phone number and an email address below it.

Objective? Skip it! Your objective is to get the job you're submitting a resume for, so prove that you're the best candidate and don't waste the hiring manager's time with general goals or objectives. Skills? Yes, this is where it gets good. This is your one shot to tell the person reading your resume that you are the best candidate for the job. Start by reading the job posting carefully. Pay attention to the words they use and make sure those words are in your skill list. For example, if the post says "responsible for multi-line phone system" and you have experience with a switchboard, say so! You don't need to address every single point in a job posting, but the more you can show you're qualified for, the better.

The best way to stand out from the crowd is to give the hiring manager specific reasons why he or she should pick you. Anything you can do to quantify or put a number to your skills will help. Don't just say you managed the workflow for a busy front office. Say you managed calendars for a staff of 15. Don't say you have good time management skills. Give an example of several things you successfully juggled on a daily basis. Say just enough to get your point across, but don't overwhelm the reader with too many details.

Pick four or five of your absolute best examples and use those for your bullet points. Skip the generic responses ("good oral and written skills", "computer literate") and instead be specific. Good with computers? List software or operating systems that you know. Good with words? Mention how you wrote reports or a quarterly newsletter at a previous job.

Finally, if you're just entering the work force and don't have years of work experience to draw on, don't panic. Many of the skills essential to the Health Unit Coordinator position are skills anyone uses while in school. Time management, computer tasks, formal writing, etc. Focus on the unique skills and talents that set you apart from every other candidate and you'll really boost your chances at getting a callback.
 
Photo credit:  cc licensed ( BY NC ND ) flickr photo shared by MBayTeenPrograms

It's Flu Shot Season

cc licensed flickr photo shared by USACE Europe District

If you're anywhere near a pharmacy or a television, you've probably been bombarded with flu shot messages. From late summer through the winter everyone from public health officials to commercial pharmacies are clamoring for your attention. Despite (or maybe because of) all the media coverage, there are still a lot of misconceptions about the pros and cons of influenze vaccination. As a health care worker, it's in your best interest to have the latest and most accurate information. Here are a few things to remember about the much-hyped flu shots.

1. It is important to get a new flu shot every year.

A shot from last year won't protect you anymore. Why? There are many different strains of influenza. Health officials predict the most common or virulent strains and create a new vacciene each year to target these strains. Also, immunity fades over time, so while a flu shot might have kept you healthy last year, it won't offer much protection this year.

2. It's important for everyone to get a flu shot.

While at-risk populations like the elderly and pregnant women are highly encouraged to get vaccinated, the best way to prevent the spread of influenza is for as many people as possible to get a flu shot. The flu is spread when one individual becomes sick and passes on the virus to another. If you boost your immunity with a flu shot, you are less likely to contract the flu, and your body won't have any flu germs to pass along. More vaccinations mean fewer people will harbor and spread influenza, and that's good news for everyone!

3. It's important to get your shot as soon as possible.

Since the vacciene works by triggering an immune response, you need to allow time for your body's natural defense system to get up to speed. A flu shot can take up to two weeks to reach its full effectiveness. The sooner you're vaccinated, the sooner your body can get to work at protecting you.

For more information, please visit the Center For Disease Control and Prevention's Seasonal Flu information page.

Have you gotten your flu shot yet?

New Trends in Long-Term Care: Home Care vs. Nursing Homes

Assisted living facilities are often thought of as the place where people go when they can no longer live independently. While this is largely true, a recent series on National Public Radio brought attention to the fact that assisted living residents can be a much more diverse population than previously thought. Instead of the stereotype of frail, elderly residents, many people are simply "short timers" in need of a little extra assistance before they can return home. 

While it's true that many people come to nursing homes when they are unable to take care of themselves due to age-related issues, there are many other people who are only meant to be temporary residents. Among this group are people needing physical therapy and those recovering from major surgeries. As this series shows, nursing homes are not always a final desination. Many people only need temporary 'round-the-clock assistance, and are fine with returning to independent or semi-independent living once their immediate needs are met.  In addition, residents have a right to live at home and to have a say in where and how they will receive care.

This shows, more than ever, the need for skilled Home Health Aides who can provide the necessary part-time home care. More and more studies are showing that it is not only more comfortable for individuals to remain in their homes, but that it is much more cost effective. As the article notes, "One study by the AARP Public Policy Institute found that nearly three people can get care at home for the same cost of one in a nursing home." Three times the care for the same cost! Because long-term health care is often funded through government programs, keeping costs down is in everyone's best interests.

In addition, a growing number of skilled nursing facility residents are petitioning for the right to return to home or apartment living. There are many sides to this issue, but it's of great importance to anyone working in the healthcare field. To learn more about the issues facing residents and those who care for them, you can find the entire NPR series here: http://www.npr.org/series/131105200/home-or-nursing-home

Certified Nurse Aides: FAQ's

Part 2 of our Frequently Asked Questions regarding CNA's in Kansas: 

Q.  What happens if I don’t pass this course?

If you do not pass the course successfully the instructor will submit a written notification to the state of your name and you will not be eligible to sit for the state test.  You would then have to retake the entire CNA course again.

Q.  What happens once I complete the course successfully?

Once you complete the course your instructor will send your name into the state.  Once the instructor receives the “Approval to Test Notice” your instructor will contact you and get you the Approval letter.  The “Approval to Test Notice” will assign the test date, location, and time.

Q.  What if I am unable to take the test on the date scheduled?

If you are unable to take the test on the date assigned you must contact Health Occupations Credentialing (HOC) at 785-296-1250 to request a rescheduling form to submit along with a $20 application fee.

Q.  Tell me more about the state test.

The state test is timed and contains 100 multiple-choice questions.   You are given 2 hours in which to complete the test.  The score of 75% or greater constitutes a passing score.    

Q.  What do I need to take to the state test?

You must provide the following at the test site when you go to test:

• Original photo ID
• Test fee
• Approval letter to test

You need to be extremely punctual for the state test.  This test is timed and there are other students testing as well.  The testing sites are very prompt on delivering the test.  The testing sites will not accept any students who walk in the door after the testing has begun.  I recommend you arrive at least 30 minutes ahead of schedule to get seated for your state test.

You WILL NOT be admitted if you are not listed as eligible on the site schedule, or are late, or do not provide required ID

Q.  What if I have a disability?

Any candidate who has a:

• Physical disability
• Learning disability
• Psychological disability

If you require a reasonable accommodation to take the state test you need to complete a request form.  As a student you must have performed in a satisfactory manner in both the classroom and lab/clinical settings of the course, and successfully completed the Skills Competency Checklist.

Q.  Is the state test given in more than one language?

The state test is read in only the English language.  If English is your second language may use a bilingual language dictionary during the state test.  Computer dictionaries and medical dictionaries are prohibited.

Q.  What happens when I pass the state test?

If you pass the state test, a certificate will be mailed to you at the address in which you provided. On average it takes 3-4 weeks from the time the state test has been taken until the department received and enters the test score.   You should allow 30 days to lapse from the date the test was taken before calling the department to check on the status of the certificate. 785-296-1250.

Q.  What happens if I fail the state test?

You will receive a letter that includes the score.  The information on your performance in the categories will help you prepare to retake the test.  A rescheduling form, if you are eligible, will be included.  You should complete this and send it to HOC with the non-refundable $20 application fee.

Q.  How long do I have to retake the test?

The state test must be passed within one year from the beginning date of the nurse aide training course.  You are eligible to retake the test a maximum of 3 times within that year.  If the test is not passed within one year from the starting date of the course, the entire course must be retaken to be eligible to take the test again.

Q.  What is KNAR?

KNAR is the Kansas Nurse Aide registry which is federally mandated program to track the employment and training for aides in Kansas.  A unique identification number is issued to you if you have successfully completed the state nurse aide course and passed the test.

What are record checks?

The KNAR will be checked for reports of abuse, neglect, or exploitation, prohibited offenses, or misappropriation of resident property.  Each adult care home must contact the registry prior to hiring you as a nurse aide.  A criminal record check will be requested by a facility to determine your eligibility to work.  A facility may NOT employ any person with any of this on record after April 1, 1992.  You can see prohibited offenses under the tab “Course Information”. 

Q.  KNAR should never be contacted to:

• Inquire about test results.  The results are mailed to you within 30 days from the test date.  The test results cannot be given over the phone. Call 785-296-1250.
• Inquire about test sites.  Instead call 785-296-1250
• Request replacement copies of certificates.  Instead call 785-296-1250
•  Report abuse complaint about a CNA or other personnel.  Instead call 800-842-0078
• Inquire about the CNA and competency evaluation Instead call 785-296-0058
• Inquire about employment verification procedures or issues.  Instead call 785-296-1250
• Locate course offerings.  Instead call 785-296-1250 or access website at www.kdheks.gov/hoc

Q.  Does my CNA certificate expire?

CNA certificates do not expire therefore you will not receive new certificates automatically.  As a CNA you will be eligible for employment for 24 months following the date the certificate is issued.  In order for you to extend the eligibility period, you as a CNA must be employed to perform nursing or nursing related tasks for at least 8 hours in the 24 month period. 

Q.  What if my employment was not received by KNAR?
If you worked 8hr in a 24 hr period and the information was not received and noted on the CNA”s KNAR record, the CNA should request the Employment Verification Form from HOC.

Q.  What happens if I have not been employed in a 24 month period for 8 hrs?

IF a CNA has not been employed to perform nursing or nursing related duties in the past 24 mo you can have a licensed, registered nurse may elect to administer the Kansas Nurse Aide Task Checklist-For Employment Verification.  The checklist may be done in an adult care home, hospital, or laboratory setting.   The checklist shall not be given to the aide.  Or the CNA may take a refresher course, if available, instead of having a nurse administer the task checklist.    Once completed and submitted to HOC, the eligibility period is extended by 24 months.  It is not necessary to work for “40 hrs” in order to complete the checklist for employment purposes.  The amount of time it takes to perform each task will vary. 

Q.  What if I have lost my CNA certificate?

If you have lost your CNA certificate, an application form is available and a new certificate will be sent upon receipt of the form and a fee.

Q.  What if there is a change in name, address, phone number as a NAT or CNA?

Whenever there is a change in your mailing address, telephone number, or name you need to contact HOC so the department can keep your information updated.  785-296-0060.

To take a We Care Online CNA Class - Click Here

Kansas Nursing Assistants: FAQ's

Thinking about taking a CNA course in Kansas?  I'm sure you have lots of questions about Kansas requirements and employment issues.  We've accumulated our most asked questions and will address them over our next few blogs.

Q.  Can an employer request that I work for them for a period of time if they pay for my CNA training?

The use of contracts relating to training for employment is prohibited under federal regulations.  An adult care home cannot require a Trainee II or a CNA to enter into either verbal or written contracts to work for a specified period of time at the facility or else reimburse the facility for the cost of the training.   

Schools however may require students to enter into verbal or written contracts stating terms of payment.  However, a contract must not state that the student will be denied access to the state test.

Q.  Can I work for an adult care home as a Nurse Aide Trainee I?

A Nurse Aide Trainee I (NAT1) may not be employed by a facility in DIRECT care duties.  Direct, individual care refers to nursing activities that are resident oriented.  It involves personal contact with the resident by the trainee, and provides assistance in grooming, feeding, toileting, or ambulating the resident.

Q.  What happens once I complete Part 1 of the CNA Course?

Once you have completed Part 1 of this nurse aide training course, your clinical instructor will evaluate you on your performance using the Task Checklist provided by the State of Kansas.  The Task Checklist is used to evaluate your initial competence in performing basic nursing tasks.  Your clinical instructor must observe completion of each task in a satisfactory manner.  When you have successfully demonstrated each task successfully to your clinical instructor, he/she will fill out the Task Checklist and the original is given to you.  Once you have completed this Task Checklist successfully, you are now classified as a Nurse Aide Trainee II (NATII)

Q.  Can I also become a Paid Nutrition Assistant with the CNA course?

Part 1 of your CNA training also include the instruction and competency evaluation required to for you to be an employee as a  Paid Nutrition Assistant (PNA). 

Also upon completion of Part I and the Task Checklist, We Care On-Line will award you a certificate of completion for PNA training.  Once you have successfully completed the Task Checklist for Part 1, the online CNA instructor will notify you and issue you a certificate by email.    This certificate is permanent evidence that you have completed the PNA training and you should keep this for your records.  Once you have successfully completed Part 1 and the Task Checklist you may seek employment as a PNA if you choose, whether or not you complete the rest of the course.  You are to provide a copy of the PNA certificate to the facility of employment.

Q.  What are my employment options once I am a NATII?

Once you are a NATII, you are eligible to provide direct, individual care to residents in an adult care home under the direction of a licensed nurse.  You may work as a paid nutrition assistance if you choose. 

As a NATII, you should not be expected to perform nursing tasks that have not yet been adequately covered during the classroom training hours and you should respectfully decline to provide the service that is asked of you.

Q.  How long am I considered a NATII?

You are considered a NATII for 4 months from the beginning date of the course.  If you are unable to fully meet the certification requirements within 4 months from the beginning date of the course, you are no longer eligible to provide direct resident care services.  A second 4 month trainee period is not allowed.

To be continued. . . .

To register for We Care Online's online or in house CNA class Click Here.

Physical Aspects of Aging -- Part 4 of 4

Teeth and Mouth

Older adults are more likely to lose teeth to gum disease than to problems with the teeth themselves. However, with proper personal care, regular checkups, and improved dentistry methods, older people are more able to retain their natural teeth throughout their lives. Older people who do lose their teeth may now expect and demand comfortable, well-fitting, and durable dentures.

Digestion

The digestive system is very sensitive to emotions. An older person may experience an upset stomach or lack of appetite when lonely, depressed, or worried. Regular contact with friends and relatives, through visits and telephone calls, can help prevent these problems.
It is fairly common for older people to have less frequent bowel movements and to suffer from constipation. This is due to changes in tissue and muscles and reduced thirst. Regular exercise, such as a daily walk, can prevent constipation. A well-balanced diet that includes adequate fiber and fluid intake also encourages normal bowel function and minimizes the need for laxatives. In contrast, self-prescribed laxatives are an expensive substitute for foods that naturally keep the gastrointestinal system running smoothly, such as bran cereals, fruits, and vegetables. Overuse of laxatives can interfere with the availability of nutrients for healthy body functioning.

Adequate fluid intake is essential for maintaining proper body temperature and functioning of the digestive system. However, some older people make the mistake of limiting their fluid intake in order to avoid frequent urination. Dehydration is a serious problem for the elderly. This is due to their decreased sense of thirst and reduced capacity to conserve water. In addition, laxative abuse, diuretic therapies, infections, immobility, or excessive use of alcohol or caffeine tend to promote dehydration.

Caregivers and older adults should follow the guidelines below to assure proper gastrointestinal functioning.

• Get some form of regular exercise that is appropriate to the level of physical ability.
• Maintain a well-balanced diet that includes natural sources of fiber such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
• On a daily basis, drink eight cups of water and other fluids.
• Watch for signs of dehydration, such as mental confusion, decreased urine output, constipation, nausea, lack of appetite, dryness of lips, and elevated body temperature.
• Pay special attention to fluid intake during hot weather.
• Monitor the fluid balance in older people with special medical problems, such as congestive heart failure or kidney disease. Discuss the appropriate methods to monitor fluid intake and output with your doctor.

Circulation

The older heart slows down and is less able to pump blood through the body than the younger heart. This results in older people having less energy and stamina for physical work. Decreased circulation also contributes to cold sensitivity, particularly in the hands and feet. Because oxygen necessary for proper physical and cognitive functioning is carried through the blood, the elder with poor circulation may experience forgetfulness and other symptoms of poor cognition.

Blood vessels, which play an important role in the circulation of blood throughout the body, lose elasticity as we age. This causes blood to tend to "pool" in the feet and legs. This means that swelling (edema) may occur in the extremities. Consequently, the heart, which undergoes muscle changes as we age, must pump harder in order to carry the blood to all parts of the body.

Changes in circulation make the older person more susceptible to the development of "little strokes" (TIAs) than when younger. Symptoms of such episodes include headache, vision disturbances, loss of balance, confusion, and dizziness when standing quickly from a sitting or reclining position. Because "little strokes" can be harbingers of a larger stroke, consult with the older person's primary health care provider, should these occur.

Many older people are on medications that impact circulation. Be familiar with these medications, and their side effects. This may prevent complications, which may arise from their use.

Pressure ulcers, a skin problem found in people with limited mobility, are due to impaired circulation. When an older person is unable to move about, tissue may die due to lack of an adequate blood supply to the skin. Areas particularly susceptible to these ulcers are those over bony prominences such as hips, shoulders, elbows, knees, ankles, and the heels of the feet.

To facilitate proper circulation and its effects:

• Prop the feet on a footstool or other appropriate stable object when sitting.
• Change the person's position at least every two hours to prevent pressure ulcers of the skin.
• Develop an activity routine which conserves energy and yet includes opportunities for movement.
• When the elder is sitting, rotate her or his feet at the ankles frequently to promote circulation.
• When the elder is rising from a reclining position, help her or him sit on the edge of the bed for a few moments before standing.
• Be familiar with the older person's medications and their side effects to prevent falls and other complications.
• Be alert to sensitivity to cold in the older person. Make certain there are sweaters, blankets, and other warm materials available.

Learn more in our Restorative Aide course!  For more information click here!

Physical Aspects of Aging -- Part 3 of 4

Vision

Even though changes to the eye take place as a person ages, many older people have good-to-adequate vision. Nevertheless, beginning in the late 30s and early 40s, an individual may begin to notice some changes. She or he may have to hold the paper farther away to read it due to changes in the ability of the lens to change its shape to accommodate to distance.

With aging, peripheral vision is reduced. A person may need to turn her or his head to see to the sides. The flexibility of the eye decreases and it takes an older person more time to accommodate to changes in light. Adaptations in lifestyle and behaviors must be made to cope with this change. An individual might give up driving at night. Placing more lights evenly around the room so that the entire room is lit is also helpful.
Degeneration of eye muscles and clouding of the lens are associated with aging. Several changes in vision result from this. Older people tend to have trouble focusing on near objects, but eyeglasses may correct this problem. In addition, the ability to see colors changes with age as the lens yellows. Red, yellow, and orange are easier to see than blue and green. This is why fabrics in warmer shades may be more appealing to the older person.

Serious vision impairments such as cataracts, glaucoma, and blindness affect between 7% and 15% of older adults. If someone you know must learn to cope with blindness or near blindness, you can play a critical role in helping them maintain their independence.

To help a person with any visual impairment, or to make your own life brighter:

• Light the room brightly and use more than one non-glare light in a room.
• Use blinds or shades to reduce glare.
• Keep a night light on in the bedroom, hallway, and bathroom to maintain an equal level of light.
• Increase lighting on stairwells and steps.
• Use concentrated light for sewing and reading.
• Turn lighting away from the television to avoid glare.
• Provide printed materials with high contrast between the background and lettering.
• Use contrasting colors in the home, such as colors between the doors and walls, and between the dishes and table coverings.
• Mark the edge of steps with a brightly colored tape or different colored paint, and paint the handrails.
• Provide audiotaped books and music for the elder's cognitive stimulation, entertainment, and relaxation.
• Wear a hat with a wide brim and sunglasses while outside. This will protect the eyes against too much sunlight, which can lead to cataracts.
• Know the warning signals of possible vision problems, including pain in or around the eyes, excessive tearing or discharge, double vision, dimness or distortion of vision, flashes of light, halos or floating spots, swelling of the eyelids or a protruding eye, changes in eye color, and changes in vision or movement of one eye.
• Make sure the older person has regular eye exams, including a glaucoma screening, at least once every 1-2 years.

Unfortunately, people who experience vision problems may avoid activities that require good vision and become isolated. Work with a professional to explore ways to help the older person maintain a normal lifestyle. With today's technologies and medical care, individuals don't have to accept limitations from declining vision as an inevitable part of aging.

Taste and Smell

Some loss in taste sensitivity takes place with aging. However, the loss is minor and does not seem to occur in most people until well after 70. There is also a loss of smell, but this is not severe.

Nevertheless, older people often complain that their meals are tasteless or that they no longer like their favorite foods. Most experts feel that these complaints are caused by a sense of loneliness at meals, or an unwillingness or inability to cook. Also, older persons may not buy more enjoyable foods when they have difficulty chewing due to poor dentures or dental problems, or are stretching their food dollars due to a limited budget.

To help the older person enjoy mealtime:

• Offer familiar, well-liked foods.
• Invite or encourage the elder to share meals with friends and family, in his or her home or at congregate meal sites.
• Experiment with different seasonings and flavorings.
• Prepare a variety of foods each day.
• Make the table colorful and inviting with bright napkins, mats, and flowers.
• Encourage exercise, when possible, which stimulates the appetite. 

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Physical Aspects of Aging -- Part 2 of 4

Touch

The skin serves a protective function by buffering us from the environment. Skin changes leave the older person vulnerable to discomfort and harm. Due to reduced sensitivity, heat sources such as heating pads, hot water bottles, and pot handles can hurt the skin before the elder realizes that damage is occurring.

An older person may develop a greater sensitivity to cool temperatures and drafts. This is caused by a decline in sweat gland activity, a decrease in the ability to maintain a normal body temperature due to poorer circulation, and a thinning of the skin. Wrinkling, drying, and scaling also occur. The skin tears and breaks more easily, increasing the chance of injury and infection.

To cope with these changes, the older person should:

• Avoid extreme exposure to sun and wind, which speed up the aging of the skin.
• Avoid daily baths or showers, as these tend to dry out the skin.
• Moisturize the skin with body oil after a bath, gently patted on with a washcloth.
• After bathing, pat the skin dry.
• Drink one to two quarts of fluid daily to maintain normal body temperature and functioning.

The sensation of touch connects us with others no matter what our age. Thus, touch is important in maintaining the elder's emotional well-being. Use touch to communicate that you are there for support and that you care.

Changes in Bones and Muscles

Aging adults, especially the very old, are vulnerable to broken bones. In addition, joints stiffen and connecting ligaments between bones lose their elasticity. Hand and foot pain may result.
Although there is no known way to prevent sometimes painful changes in aging muscles, bones, and ligaments, regular exercise helps to assure continuing mobility in old age. Most physicians feel that walking, along with adequate rest and a nutritious diet, are tremendously valuable for maintaining mobility and fitness in the later years.
Health professionals advise middle-aged and older adults to:

• Eat a well-balanced diet with the proper amount of calcium and other essential nutrients.
• With a physician's guidance, start or continue a regular exercise program.

It is very important to prevent falls. Due to changes in bone mass and strength, falls often result in injury, hospitalization, and continued declines in health.

The suggestions covered under vision and hearing, as well as those listed below, will help the older person take the necessary precautions to prevent falls.

• A no-slip bath mat and grasp rails are installed in the shower or tub.
• A seat is placed in the shower if standing is difficult.
• If scatter rugs are used, they should have no-slip backing or mats underneath.
• Chairs are sturdy and do not wobble, break, or tip over.
• A safe, sturdy step stool is available to reach high places.
• The telephone is placed in a convenient location.
• Chairs and sofas are at a height that permits easy sitting.
• Floors and stairs have non-skid surfaces.
• Railings line all staircases.
• Staircases and walkways are uncluttered.
• Front and back steps, and inside flooring and carpeting are in good condition.
• Instructions for the proper use of medications are followed carefully, as improper types or dosages often cause falls.

You can find this and other great information in our Restorative Aide class!  Click here for more info