Tag: JCAH

By Thomas H. and Nurse Kim

Winter Skincare Tips 

When the weather changes, your skincare routine should change along with it. Winter’s colder temperatures and lower humidity can make it difficult for our skin to retain moisture. This can lead to dry, itchy skin and chapped lips. [SOURCE: https://www.aad.org/news/cold-weather-and-your-skin] 

Begin protecting your skin against the cold by following this important rule: whenever you go outside, expose as little skin as possible. Wear gloves, hats, scarves, and earmuffs. They not only keep you warm, but they also minimize the effect of cold, dry air on your skin.  

Next, follow a skincare regimen designed for winter:  

• Avoid showering or bathing in water that is too hot. Hot water removes natural oils from the skin, and the more oils removed, the drier the skin becomes. Showering in scalding temperatures tends to dry out your skin even more.

• Use soaps with moisturizer 

• Exfoliate using a gentle brush 

• Moisturize after bathing while skin is moist 

• Choose moisturizers with: ceramides, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, lanolin, mineral oil, and petroleum jelly.  

• Use Vaseline/Aquaphor; these products create a barrier to prevent water loss from the skin. They can help keep skin hydrated, especially in dry environments or for people with very dry skin. 

• Keep lotion & lip balm handy 

• Brush your lips with a toothbrush to get rid of any excess skin. 

The American Academy of Dermatology cautions that cold weather also affects the humidity inside our homes. Turning up the heat or lighting a fireplace can reduce the moisture in the air even more. Instead, keep your thermostat a bit lower and bundle up in layers. Also, use a humidifier to add moisture back to the air. This will offer additional protection against dry skin. [SOURCE: https://www.aad.org/news/cold-weather-and-your-skin] 

Finally, stay hydrated throughout the day by drinking water. Drinking water helps to replenish the skin’s natural moisture and further reduces the effects of colder, dryer air. 

 

JEVS Care at Home helps seniors and adults with disabilities live full, independent lives at home.  

For more about our services, including no-cost options for eligible veterans and Medicaid participants, contact us today. [Link “today” to https://www.jevshumanservices.org/jevs-care-at-home-form/ ] 

By Thomas H. and Nurse Kim 

Glaucoma: 10 Key Facts Seniors & Caregivers Need to Know 

As we recognize January as Glaucoma Awareness Month, here are 10 things seniors and their caregivers need to know about this disease that effects an estimated 3 million Americans: 

1. A disease of the eye:

Glaucoma damages the optic nerve, which connects your eye to your brain. Glaucoma is often linked to high pressure inside the eye, although people with normal eye pressure can get a version of the disease. 

2. Silent symptoms:

Glaucoma usually has no early symptoms. You won’t feel pain or notice vision changes until the damage is serious. 

3. It affects peripheral vision first:

Glaucoma often starts by affecting side (peripheral) vision. Many people don’t notice the loss because it happens slowly. 

4. Vision loss is permanent:

Once glaucoma damages your vision, it can’t be restored. This makes early detection crucial. 

5. Some people are at higher risk:

Glaucoma affects people of all ages, but your risk is elevated if you are 60 and older, especially if you are Latino/Hispanic. African Americans over the age of 40, people with a family history of glaucoma, and those with high eye pressure, diabetes, or severe nearsightedness also are at higher risk. [SOURCE: https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/eye-conditions-and-diseases/glaucoma] 

6. Regular eye exams are essential:

The National Eye Institute (NEI) recommends that everyone over 60 get a comprehensive eye exam every year, even if their vision seems fine. An eye doctor can check for early signs of glaucoma. [SOURCE: https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/eye-conditions-and-diseases/glaucoma]  

7. Glaucoma is manageable:

While there’s no cure, treatments like eye drops, laser therapy, and surgery can help lower eye pressure and prevent further damage. 

8. Eye drops must be taken as directed:

If prescribed, glaucoma eye drops must be used exactly as directed. Missing doses can allow eye pressure to rise and cause damage. [SOURCE: https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/glaucoma-eyedrop-medicine] 

9. Exercise may help lower risk:

Regular, moderate exercise, like walking, can help lower eye pressure. Avoid exercises that strain the eyes, like heavy weightlifting. [SOURCE: https://glaucoma.org/articles/sports-exercise-and-glaucoma-safe-practices-and-recommendations ] 

10. Signs of advanced glaucoma:

Severe glaucoma may cause blurred vision, halos around lights, eye pain, or headaches. If you notice these symptoms, see an eye doctor immediately. 

Caregivers can play a vital role in helping seniors manage glaucoma by ensuring they attend eye exams, take prescribed medications, and follow their doctor’s advice. Remember: early action can save sight! 

 

JEVS Care at Home Can Help 

For more information about our services for seniors and adults with disabilities, contact us today at https://www.jevshumanservices.org/jevs-care-at-home-form/