Which surprising test spots health problems early in the elderly?

Ensuring the elderly have regular eye checks is not only about making sure they can see clearly.  Eye examinations can spot a range of health problems which have nothing to do with the eyes, enabling treatment before any other symptoms appear.

This helpful article from Nobilis takes you through the importance of eye tests for the elderly, explaining:

·         Why we tend to neglect these tests

·         Helpful preparations before an examination

·         Who qualifies for free eye tests

·         Which diseases can be spotted early through eye tests

·         What you can do to help elderly relatives who wear glasses

You can read the article by clicking on this link:

http://www.nobilis.co.uk/feeds/information-library/eye-care-for-the-elderly--the-importance-of-checks.aspx

You can also find many other useful articles on elderly care at our website, www.nobilis.co.uk.

Are treatments for dementia dangerous?

Dementia causes a lot of fear and there have been many stories in the papers about the dangers of medications used to treat it.  At Nobilis we are always striving to help the community gain a better understanding of the issues surrounding old age.  Consequently, this article from our Information Centre explains the options for treating dementia. 

You will discover:

·         The importance of talking about the condition

·         The two basic types of drug medication

·         The controversy around the ‘chemical cosh’ and what the Government is doing about it

·         The numerous non-drug treatments available

You can read the article by clicking on this link:

http://www.nobilis.co.uk/feeds/information-library/treatments-for-dementia--finding-the-right-path-.aspx

You can also find many other useful articles on elderly care at our website, www.nobilis.co.uk.

Dementia – Assessment & Diagnosis

Dementia causes considerable fear amongst the elderly and their families, but although most types are incurable, early diagnosis can make treatments far more effective at slowing its development and maintaining good levels of mental functioning.

 

The unfortunate truth is that the majority of dementia sufferers remain undiagnosed.  In Hampshire it is estimated that only 44% of those with dementia have been diagnosed and in Dorset this is as low as 26%.  Clearly this has serious implications for the long-term mental health of those unaware they have the condition, which is why it is important to be alert to the symptoms and seek medical advice if you feel there is cause for concern.

Read the full article here: http://www.nobilis.co.uk/feeds/information-library/dementia--assessment-and-diagnosis.aspx

What are the options if you have to give up driving?

Having to give up driving can be a traumatic experience for the elderly.  However, if you know the many alternatives for transport it can make the transition much easier.

In this article from Nobilis you will discover:

·         The help available with the costs of public transport

·         The public and voluntary schemes designed to help the elderly get out and about

·         The options for scooters

·         How to help with shopping

You can read the article by clicking on this link:

http://www.nobilis.co.uk/feeds/information-library/life-after-driving--options-for-the-elderly-who-can-no-longer-drive.aspx

You can also find many other useful articles on elderly care at our website, www.nobilis.co.uk.

Improve health & quality of life for the elderly

We tend to think of exercise as a young person’s activity, but it can be vital in helping the elderly stay fit, independent and happy.

In this helpful article from Nobilis you will learn about:

·         The particular benefits for the elderly of exercise

·         How to begin exercise for older people safely

·         The charity which can help with professional exercise classes which are safe and fun!

You can read the article by clicking on this link:

http://www.nobilis.co.uk/feeds/information-library/exercise-for-the-elderly--keeping-seniors-fit.aspx

You can also find many other useful articles on elderly care at our website, www.nobilis.co.uk.

The importance of a Power of Attorney

A power of attorney (POA) or letter of attorney is a written authorisation to represent or act on another's behalf in legal, financial or health affairs, or some other legal issue. For people who lack the mental capacity, or in time may become unable to make important decisions, it’s important for someone else to be appointed to do it for them.It’s why the Mental Capacity Act 2005 was introduced to enable people to choose someone to manage financial, property and even health and welfare decisions on their behalf. When the Mental Capacity Act came into force in 2007, Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) replaced the previous Enduring Powers of Attorney (EPAs), although EPAs made before that date are still valid. EPAs only need to be registered if the Donor has since lost capacity.

Read the full article here:
http://www.nobilis.co.uk/feeds/information-library/the-importance-of-a-power-of-attorney.aspx

Do you know how important it is to care properly for elderly people’s feet?

Foot care is vital to keep the elderly mobile and can even be a way of spotting health problems before they become serious.

In this article from Nobilis you will learn:

·         Why it is so important to look after the feet of the elderly
·         The problems which can develop with untended feet
·         How to care for feet
·         How to cut toenails properly
·         The help available to older people unable to look after their own feet.

You can read the article by clicking on this link:

http://www.nobilis.co.uk/feeds/information-library/happy-feet--the-importance-of-foot-care-in-the-elderly-.aspx

You can also find many other useful articles on elderly care at our website, www.nobilis.co.uk.