health - Vintage https://yourvintage.org Your connection to information, resources, and advocacy for older adults.. Tue, 15 Feb 2022 23:19:01 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.6.2 https://yourvintage.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/V_icon@500-150x150.png health - Vintage https://yourvintage.org 32 32 Brain Injury Awareness Month: March https://yourvintage.org/brain-injury/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=brain-injury Tue, 15 Feb 2022 23:08:47 +0000 https://yourvintage.org/?p=1701 March Is National Brain Injury Awareness Month and officially time to learn more about brain injuries and eliminate the stigma around them.

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Brain Injury Awareness Month

March is National Brain Injury Awareness Month and officially time to learn more about brain injuries and eliminate the stigma around them.

Brain Injuries 101: Types & Causes

What is a Brain Injury?

A brain injury is when your brain experiences damage. The most commonly known brain injuries are concussions but, all brain injuries can generally be separated into two types, traumatic and non-traumatic.

Traumatic brain injuries are defined by The Brain Injury Association of America as “an alteration in brain function, or other evidence of brain pathology, caused by an external force.” They then are classified as closed or open, depending on if the brain was penetrated (open) or not (closed). As you can see, falls are the first cause on this list, because oftentimes, falls result in a hit to the head and can cause concussions.

Brain injuries may also be classified as mild, moderate, or severe to indicate the initial severity of the injury. Nontraumatic brain injuries are caused by damage to the brain by internal factors. These factors are listed below.

TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY CAUSES

  • Falls
  • Assaults
  • Motor Vehicle Accidents
  • Sports/Recreation Injuries
  • Abusive Head Trauma (Shaken Baby Syndrome)
  • Gunshot Wounds
  • Workplace Injuries
  • Child Abuse
  • Domestic Violence
  • Military Actions (Blast Injury)

NON-TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY CAUSES

  • Stroke (Hemorrhage, Blood Clot)
  • Infectious Disease
  • Meningitis
  • Encephalitis
  • Seizure
  • Electric Shock
  • Tumors
  • Metabolic Disorders
  • Motor Vehicle Accidents
  • Sports/Recreation Injuries
  • Abusive Head Trauma (Shaken Baby Syndrome)
  • Gunshot Wounds
  • Workplace Injuries
  • Child Abuse
  • Domestic Violence
  • Military Actions (Blast Injury)
  • Neurotoxic Poisoning (Carbon Monoxide, Lead Exposure)
  • Lack of Oxygen (Drowning, Choking, Hypoxic/Anoxic Injury)
  • Drug Overdose

WANT MORE INFORMATION?

Learn more about supporting those with brain injuries, prevention, and more. Visit www.biausa.org.

H E A D S: A way to recognize and get treatment for a brain injury

Concussions or mild TBIs vary in severability. Some may not require specific treatment other than rest. That doesn’t mean it’s not extremely important to follow your healthcare providerʼs instructions for complete rest and a slow return to normal activities.

Unfortunately, if you return to your normal activities too soon and start experiencing TBI symptoms, you will only prolong the healing process. Tasks like working at your computer and extreme concentration can inflame TBI symptoms. If you have a concussion you might need to reduce these kinds of activities or take frequent breaks to let the brain rest.

Always remember this acronym to gauge the severity of the TBI and seek treatment:

  • H – headaches or vomiting
  • E – ears ringing
  • A – amnesia, altered consciousness, or loss of consciousness
  • D – double vision and/or dizziness
  • S – something is wrong, or not quite right

Treatment of Traumatic Brain Injuries

Treatments for concussions vary and are sometimes needed only briefly after the injury. However, in some cases, treatment may be necessary throughout a personʼs life or on an ongoing basis. Your doctor may prescribe an array of cognitive, physical, and psychological therapies to help heal from your TBI.

Rehabilitation from a TBI can include:

  • Physical therapy to increase strength, balance, flexibility, energy levels, and overall physical strength
  • Occupational therapy with a focus on performing daily tasks, such as getting dressed, cooking, and bathing
    Speech therapy to improve the ability to form words, speak aloud, and use other communication skills
  • Psychological counseling to learn coping skills, work on interpersonal relationships, and improve general emotional well-being; can include medication and other ways to address chemical imbalances that may result from TBI
  • Vocational counseling to help a patient return to work and community living by finding appropriate work opportunities and ways to deal with workplace challenges
  • Cognitive therapy to improve memory, attention, perception, learning, planning, and judgment

Concussions and other TBIs are more common than you think! If you or someone you know is suffering from any HEADS symptoms and has recently hit their head, please contact your doctor as soon as possible.

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]]> Resource Roundup: Ways to Stay Healthy as You Age https://yourvintage.org/staying-healthy-as-you-age/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=staying-healthy-as-you-age Thu, 14 Oct 2021 14:36:00 +0000 https://yourvintage.org/?p=1582 Aging well is key for a healthy life in Colorado. Learn how to stay healthy as you age, and the best resources for senior adults in Colorado.

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The state of Colorado is a beautiful place to live, regardless of your age or stage of life. However, as you get older, it’s essential to take advantage of the many available resources to help you stay healthy and active.

As of the latest census results, over 1.5 million Colorado residents are over the age of 50. As the population ages, access to resources to keep you healthy becomes even more important.

Common Tips to Stay Healthy As You Age

 

1. Stay physically active.

No matter your age, staying active is key to a healthy lifestyle. 

There are plenty of ways to stay active in Colorado, no matter what your interests or abilities may be. For example, hiking and biking trails can be found all over the state, and there are plenty of opportunities for swimming, golfing, and skiing as well.

2. Eat healthy foods.

Another essential part of staying healthy as you age is eating a healthy diet. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment has some great resources on its website, including recipes and food safety tips.

3. Keep your brain active.

There are many opportunities in Colorado to do this, including continuing education classes at universities in the state. There are also community workshops and senior centers that provide mentally stimulating activities for individuals of all ages.

4. Reduce stress.

Stress can have a negative effect on your physical, mental, and emotional health as you age if not managed properly. 

Taking advantage of the many relaxation and stress-reduction techniques available in Colorado can help you stay healthy and happy. These include yoga, meditation, and aromatherapy.

5. Stay connected with friends and family.

According to the AARP, “social relationships are key to a long, healthy life.” The state of Colorado offers many opportunities for socializing with friends and family, including senior centers, community events, and activities at local parks.

Top Resources for Aging Well in Colorado

No matter your age, it’s essential to take advantage of the many resources Colorado has to offer in order to stay healthy and active.

There are many ways to stay fit and active as a senior, from joining a local hiking group or a fitness center to taking advantage of free physical activity options offered by the state. There are also resources for those diagnosed with a chronic disease such as heart failure, asthma, or diabetes.

Read on for a roundup of some of the best resources for Colorado seniors.

The DRCOG Aging and Disability Resources Center for Colorado (ADRC)

A healthy life begins with knowing where to find the help you need. The DRCOG Aging and Disability Resources Center for Colorado (ADRC) is a one-stop-shop for seniors and their families in the Denver metro area. The ADRC can connect you with programs and services to help you live independently as you age.

The ADRC is an excellent resource for finding information and services for aging and disabled residents in the Denver area, and offers great information for seniors across the state.

Older adults can contact the ADRC for help with a variety of age-related health needs, including:

Colorado Division of Aging & Adult Services in Denver, CO

Similar to ADRC, the Division of Aging and Adult Services can help aging residents across the state find services to meet their health and wellness needs.

Part of the Area Agencies on Aging (AAA), the Division of Aging and Adult Services has several field offices located throughout the state.

The Division of Aging and Adult Services offers a variety of services, including:

  • Mobility assistance programs
  • Meal plans and housing assistance
  • Access to health and counseling services
  • Support groups and caregiver training services

Park County Senior Coalition

Love the great outdoors? As part of the Pike’s Peak region, Park County is home to some of the most stunning landscapes and recreational areas in the state.

The Park County Senior Coalition can help seniors age 50+ connect with these resources and enjoy their golden years to the fullest.

The Park County Senior Coalition offers a variety of services that help older Colorado citizens and visitors enjoy the area, including:

  • A listing of local resources, such as events, activities, and service providers
  • Information on discounted rates for members on activities such as golfing, fishing, and skiing
  • Care coordination and support
  • Liaison with community partners
  • Education and awareness on topics important to seniors

The Park County Senior Coalition is a valuable resource for older residents and visitors to the Pike’s Peak region who want to stay healthy and active as they age.

You Define Wellness

Committed to helping Coloradans age in place in our communities, You Define Wellness is a network of health and wellness professionals throughout the state who offer resources for people of all ages.

From physical therapists to mental health advocates, You Define Wellness connects people with the resources they need to stay healthy and independent.

The You Define Wellness website offers a directory of wellness professionals by county, so finding help is easy.

You Define Wellness also offers a variety of online resources, including:

  • Physical wellness and rehabilitation
  • Mental health
  • Caregiver support
  • Spiritual support and wellness

You Define Wellness provides an excellent resource for individuals, families, and caregivers who want to stay healthy in their community.

Fall Prevention and Exercise Classes

For older adults, staying active and healthy is the best way to avoid debilitating injuries. With falls being the leading cause of injury and loss of independence for seniors, avoiding falls is a top priority.

To help older adults avoid falls and stay strong and independent, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment offers a variety of resources that older Coloradans can take advantage of.

The state offers many classes to help older citizens maintain their health and wellness, including:

  • A Matter of Balance
  • Tai Chi: Moving for Better Balance
  • Tai Chi for Arthritis
  • Stepping On
  • Aging With Independence and Mobility (AIM)
  • N’Balance

Senior adults and caregivers can find a full schedule and registration information on the CDPHE and Agency on Aging website.

Mile High United Way

The United Way of Colorado offers a variety of services that help all residents but are especially valuable to senior citizens.

United Way’s Aging Services team can help seniors find the resources they need to live healthy and independent lives, including:

  • Outreach and assistance with benefits such as SNAP (food stamps), TANF (cash assistance), and SSI/SSDI
  • Information and referral for in-home support, medical equipment needs, home repair/maintenance, transportation assistance, and more
  • Care managers who can help connect seniors with local resources

Mile High United Way of Colorado offers an excellent resource for seniors, their family members, and caregivers to stay healthy. By reaching out to Mile High United Way, you can find the help you need to live a healthy, independent lifestyle.

Aging Well in Colorado

The state of Colorado is one of the best places in the country to enjoy the final stages of life. Colorado has something for everyone – from the majestic mountains to the vibrant city life.

However, aging well requires more than just a great location. With the right resources, Colorado’s senior citizens have access to an array of services that can help them live their best lives.

When looking for senior adult resources, always make sure to verify the information is current and relevant for your community.

The aging process affects everyone differently, so in order to successfully age well in Colorado, it’s important to do your research and reach out to local resources in your area.

The above resources and organizations can help individuals, their families, and caregivers stay healthy as they age throughout the state. For more information about getting involved with the local community or learning more about wellness living in Colorado, please visit one of these valuable resources or give us a call at 970-468-0295.

 

Vintage can connect you to the resources you need. Call today at 970-468-0295 or email us at efisher@nwccog.org

Email us today for caregiver support

   

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