Senior Q & A – April 2015
Senior Q & A:
Answers to common questions about senior living
Q. What exactly is the ailment called C-Diff?
A. The average human digestive tract is home to as many as 1,000 species of microorganisms. Most of them are harmless — or even helpful — under normal circumstances. But when something upsets the balance of these organisms in your gut, otherwise harmless bacteria can grow out of control and make you sick. One of the worst offenders is a bacterium called Clostridium difficile (C. difficile, or C. diff). As the bacteria overgrow they release toxins that attack the lining of the intestines, causing a condition called Clostridium difficile colitis. Though relatively rare compared to other intestinal bacteria, C. diff is one of the most important causes of infectious diarrhea in the U.S. Although C. diff occasionally causes problems in healthy people, it is most likely to affect patients in hospitals or long-term care facilities, such as seniors. Most have conditions that require long-term treatment with antibiotics, which kill off other intestinal bacteria that keep C. diff in check.
Q. Do people with Alzheimer’s still have to pay their credit card debt?
A. As many as 5.1 million Americans have Alzheimer’s disease, according to the Alzheimer's Foundation of America. For many of them, money management problems may be the first sign that their brain functionality is on the decline. Among the red flags: unpaid or unopened bills, more purchases on a credit card than usual and numerous cash withdrawals from the ATM. Yet, a person who incurs a debt is considered legally responsible for the debt unless it can be proved that the person was not competent when he or she took on the debt. But there may be other options depending on each person’s individual situation. Be sure to check with an elder law attorney for consultation.
Q. What are varicose veins?
A. Varicose veins are twisted, enlarged veins near the surface of the skin. They’re most common in the legs and ankles and they look dark blue, swollen, and twisted under the skin. They usually aren’t serious, but they can sometimes lead to other problems. They’re caused by weakened valves and veins in your legs. Normally, one-way valves in your veins keep blood flowing from your legs up toward your heart. When these valves do not work as they should, blood collects in your legs, and pressure builds up. The veins become weak, large, and twisted. Varicose veins often run in families. Aging also increases the risk. Being overweight or pregnant or having a job where you must stand for long periods of time increases pressure on leg veins. This also can lead to varicose veins.
Q. Who can I call with questions about senior living and care options?
A. The friendly Senior Specialists at Alternatives for Seniors are a phone call away. Simply call (888) WE-ASSIST (888-932-7747) and a Senior Specialist will be happy to answer your questions and help you search for the perfect home or service for yourself or a senior loved one.
BLOG Date: Tuesday, April 14, 2015
Writer: Ryan Allen