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Cheshire, CT 06410
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Allergies Blooming Earlier - Seniors Suffering Later
March 28, 2012
Spring allergies aren't just for children. They've arrived earlier this year due to the warm weather which means lots of sniffling and sneezing for the growing number of seniors developing allergies for the very first time in their lives. Allergies and asthma are often thought of as health issues for children - but recently, both conditions are commonly diagnosed as new conditions at the senior ages of 55, 65 and 75! In fact, it's not uncommon for many elderly to be diagnosed with allergies and/or asthma for the very first time above 75 years of age.That's why Senior Helpers of Central Connecticut, one of the leading in-home providers of senior care in Cheshire, is raising awareness about these growing diagnoses of senior allergies and how to help seniors cope.
"Symptoms of these two diseases can be very disruptive during the aging process for many of the 37 million seniors currently living in the U.S.," says Michael Way Owner of Senior Helpers of Central Connecticut. "Experts are predicting a longer, more intense than normal allergy season this Spring - so seniors need to be aware that just because they haven't had these issues in the past, doesn't mean they are in the clear just yet. Our caregivers can take certain steps inside a senior's home to help keep allergic reactions to a minimum, such as bathing them before bed to prevent outdoor pollen from getting on their sheets." *(more tips below)
Allergy Symptoms: Adverse reaction to various substances, including pollen, trees, grass, weeds, dust and molds (mildew). Allergies can lead to respiratory distress that may be life threatening. Those with allergies are likely to develop asthma. - Itchy, watery eyes - Runny nose - Shortness of breath - Coughing or wheezing
Asthma Symptoms: Most often caused by allergies. Asthma may require hospitalization and can be life threatening. - Coughing - Shortness of breath - Wheezing - Tightness in the chest
"Allergies are among the most common, but often overlooked, of diseases in the nation," says Michael Way. "Other than medication, there are ways we at Senior Helpers can help make seniors more comfortable during this allergy season.""
*Caregivers Making Seniors Comfortable (source: Mayo Clinic): - If your senior has been outside, caregivers can help them bathe before going to bed and change into fresh clothing so they don't bring the pollen that may have clung to their skin, hair or clothes onto their sheets. Caregivers can also be sure to wash their sheets often, to help get rid of the pollen. - Close their windows (and opt for air conditioning) at night if the pollen count is high. - Avoid outdoor activity early in the morning when pollen levels are at their highest. Caregivers can keep them active inside until the afternoon. - The best time to go outside is after a good rain, which helps clear pollen from the air. - Caregivers can be sure they clean a senior's home with a vacuum that has a HEPA filter. They can also install a portable HEPA filter in the senior's bedroom.
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