It is evident that there are numerous initiatives to educate the younger generation on health care services and precautions, but programs targeting the older populations are more sparse. There are many things I think the public sector of health care can do to make an impact on the health of elder generations through preventive health awareness. There are also many reasons that I think preventive services are not geared toward the elder population which include their stubbornness and other convenience factors.
If preventive health care precautions were advertised more for elder generations, I think they would make a big difference in health care. If preventive services targeted different elders based on geographic location and ethnic boundaries, many changes could be made. For example, if Latino and Asian cultures were given preventive classes on eating and cooking properly, they would know, and be able to demonstrate proper servings of rices, and how took food with flavor and without the fat. This applies to all cultures, as each has different issues, in relation to health care, that if properly educated on, the community could collectively make better, prolonging, decisions. This applies to other issues, such as smoking, and stress management. If elder generations were taught the proper way to manage these issues, changes could be made, to enhance their quality of life. A lot of elders could learn a lot if primary physicians and specialist, were trained in treating the problem before it submerges. Making a night in a community center for elders to do healthy cooking demonstrations, or stress management classes could make a notable change in communities.
I understand some boundaries of making preventive health care a priority. Elders are often thought of as being stubborn, therefore their way (that they have been doing for generations) is the most effective and comfortable way. Granted, a lot of remedies passed down from our ancestors are the most effective way to fix problems, elders have to understand that there are many way to make it so that there never is a problem. People, health care providers, family, and friends, should encourage elders to step out of their comfort zone, and try to increase the quality of life with medically effective solutions. Other barriers that effect elders from utilizing preventive services include those of convenience, like time and location. A lot of the elder generation do not drive, they can not all speak English, nor do they always have that same time free each day of the week. It is unfortunate that these small things are hindering beneficial services to elders in our communities, but it is happening. Funding is not available for transportation services, nor are people willing to take liabilities my housing these functions within their facilities.
I encourage older people to encourage their families and educate them as I have. Tell your grandmother and grandfather that simply lifting a can of peas above your head five times each day can make them stronger, and maintain strength. Encourage them to walk daily, and for them to tell their friends and neighbors to do the same. Tell them to gather a group of friends for a nice healthy dinner. Activities such as gardening or painting can also enhance the quality of ones life. It is our generation that will be next, so do as you want those that follow us to do, and offer support and education.
Monday, July 13, 2009
Monday, June 29, 2009
My Experiences with the Older Generations and their Nutrition and Health
After reading "Health in the Later Years," by Armeda and Rebecca Ferrini, I found a few points that I find arguable (by my experiences with the elder generation). The most noted one was saying that older people are more likely to try new foods. I also wanted to mention the differences in quality of life between my great grandparents and my grandparents.
I have mentioned in a previous blog that older people are stubborn and when it comes to food that is an even more valid statement. I have grand parents of many different cultures and back grounds, and they are all stubborn about one thing, food. I have one grandmother who was raised on fried chicken and extremely starchy sides,and that is something she is not willing to let go of. She is in tip top condition when it comes to health, but she stuck on American Southern food. She doesn't budge when it comes to trying food of other cultures like Asian or Spanish cuisines. My grand parents on the other side of the family were raised on farms, so their delicacies consist of strict vegetables and fresh meats. My grandmother often makes her sauces, jams, and condiments (yes, my grandmother makes her own ketchup). It is odd, but often she will not eat out, or only eat selected items. My grandfather is the same way. He will not eat anything but grilled chicken and barbaqued meat. I think it is funny when we go to a seafood resturant and they order grilled chicken and vegetables. They too will not eat food of many other countries, except for fresh Spanish foods of course. I know they are the only elders that I am using as an example, but they come from extremely different back grounds and have seen it alot in the older generations.
Another important point I thought to touch on, is the quality of life in older generations. I think that people who were brought up on farms and more natural nutrition live a more fulfilling quality of life. My great grandmother wouldn't eat anything she couldn't/didn't grow. She had a farm complete with cattle, chicken, pigs, and an entire vegetable farm. She was totally dependent on what she raised. She monitored what her livestock ate and therefore knew EVERYTHING she was eating. I can understand why my generation is reverting back to the "go green" movement, our great grandparents and even grand parents are living more fulfilling and happier lives. Doctors and medicines, back in the day, were used as a last result, like medicine. My great grandmother took no medicines and died peacefully of natural causes when she was 97 years old. My grandparents now, who live a stress free life, not to often tainted by modern medicine or now almost 80 years of age, and get around like teenagers, they are dependent on no one for anything. My grand father, who east like my great grandmother, still runs a fully functioning mechanic shop that he manages, yet can do everything that his younger employees can do. I just hope that changing my lifestyle to be more like theirs in my 20s while help me live a more fulfilling quality of life too.
I have mentioned in a previous blog that older people are stubborn and when it comes to food that is an even more valid statement. I have grand parents of many different cultures and back grounds, and they are all stubborn about one thing, food. I have one grandmother who was raised on fried chicken and extremely starchy sides,and that is something she is not willing to let go of. She is in tip top condition when it comes to health, but she stuck on American Southern food. She doesn't budge when it comes to trying food of other cultures like Asian or Spanish cuisines. My grand parents on the other side of the family were raised on farms, so their delicacies consist of strict vegetables and fresh meats. My grandmother often makes her sauces, jams, and condiments (yes, my grandmother makes her own ketchup). It is odd, but often she will not eat out, or only eat selected items. My grandfather is the same way. He will not eat anything but grilled chicken and barbaqued meat. I think it is funny when we go to a seafood resturant and they order grilled chicken and vegetables. They too will not eat food of many other countries, except for fresh Spanish foods of course. I know they are the only elders that I am using as an example, but they come from extremely different back grounds and have seen it alot in the older generations.
Another important point I thought to touch on, is the quality of life in older generations. I think that people who were brought up on farms and more natural nutrition live a more fulfilling quality of life. My great grandmother wouldn't eat anything she couldn't/didn't grow. She had a farm complete with cattle, chicken, pigs, and an entire vegetable farm. She was totally dependent on what she raised. She monitored what her livestock ate and therefore knew EVERYTHING she was eating. I can understand why my generation is reverting back to the "go green" movement, our great grandparents and even grand parents are living more fulfilling and happier lives. Doctors and medicines, back in the day, were used as a last result, like medicine. My great grandmother took no medicines and died peacefully of natural causes when she was 97 years old. My grandparents now, who live a stress free life, not to often tainted by modern medicine or now almost 80 years of age, and get around like teenagers, they are dependent on no one for anything. My grand father, who east like my great grandmother, still runs a fully functioning mechanic shop that he manages, yet can do everything that his younger employees can do. I just hope that changing my lifestyle to be more like theirs in my 20s while help me live a more fulfilling quality of life too.
Monday, June 15, 2009
Elderly People and Driving Regulations
I have mixed emotions about making people over 65 get recertified to drive. I believe strongly, with the statistics, that older people should drive because they are more prone to accidents, and their ability to use their motor skills to their optimal potential is hindered. The recertification test could decrease the number of fatalities when it comes to automobiles. I believe if the recertification test is put into place, that older people should also take a class and pass it on the dangers of driving while elderly.
The cons to having older people get recertified include the fact that it kind of takes away their independence, almost back to baby step days. They are humans and adults, but making them take the test is somewhat belittled. Just like we have anti discriminatory laws in the work place we should have them when it comes to using public safety.
The cons to having older people get recertified include the fact that it kind of takes away their independence, almost back to baby step days. They are humans and adults, but making them take the test is somewhat belittled. Just like we have anti discriminatory laws in the work place we should have them when it comes to using public safety.
Monday, June 1, 2009
The Rumors about Old People
The common stereotypes that I have heard about old people is that they are stubborn, unable to learn, and smell, are some negative stereotypes. Some good stereotypes are they are wise and giving.
I personally believe that a lot of the older generation are stubborn. The majority of the ones that I have run across were raised with the strict, “old school,” way of life, and are stuck in their ways of doing things. A lot of old people are afraid of trying new things for the fear that new is bad. They often stick to the fact that what they have been used to is good, and what works and has always worked is the best. This is understandable, but because a lot of them have this attitude toward things that can help them in life, like medicine, they can possibly be missing out on a betterment of their quality of life. As far as judgmental concerns go, it reflected back to stubbornness. Old people are not necessary judgmental, I think they are more or less shocked by what is acceptable in society now-a-days. They are more vocal about their concerns then younger generations tend to be.
I think the elderly are able to learn they just either don’t bother, or absorb information at such a slow pace it isn’t recognized. Everyone is able to learn, but the rate and method that the elderly learn is different. I do not think this is a valid statement. The elderly are capable of learning. As far as smell is concern, a lot of older people do tend to carry an odor. As noted in my “Healthcare Needs of the Elderly,” textbook, the changes in the body of the elderly often alters their outward appearance, and apparently odor. The elderly often use older, somewhat less effective hygiene methods, therefore an odor can sometimes be apparent.
Elderly are also thought of as wise and giving. I think this is true in a lot of cases. They are always willing to give things they have or have collected in the past. I think the elder generation is used to, in a lot of cases, having the bare minimum, or had multiple brothers and sisters, so learned how to sacrifice some a lot. Elderly are considered wise because in actuality they have lived through a lot and experiences a lot more and more difficult situations then a lot of the younger generations. They are willing to share their knowledge so that the generations to follow can avoid some mistakes. Regardless, elders deserve respect and should be regarded as sacred members of any society.
I personally believe that a lot of the older generation are stubborn. The majority of the ones that I have run across were raised with the strict, “old school,” way of life, and are stuck in their ways of doing things. A lot of old people are afraid of trying new things for the fear that new is bad. They often stick to the fact that what they have been used to is good, and what works and has always worked is the best. This is understandable, but because a lot of them have this attitude toward things that can help them in life, like medicine, they can possibly be missing out on a betterment of their quality of life. As far as judgmental concerns go, it reflected back to stubbornness. Old people are not necessary judgmental, I think they are more or less shocked by what is acceptable in society now-a-days. They are more vocal about their concerns then younger generations tend to be.
I think the elderly are able to learn they just either don’t bother, or absorb information at such a slow pace it isn’t recognized. Everyone is able to learn, but the rate and method that the elderly learn is different. I do not think this is a valid statement. The elderly are capable of learning. As far as smell is concern, a lot of older people do tend to carry an odor. As noted in my “Healthcare Needs of the Elderly,” textbook, the changes in the body of the elderly often alters their outward appearance, and apparently odor. The elderly often use older, somewhat less effective hygiene methods, therefore an odor can sometimes be apparent.
Elderly are also thought of as wise and giving. I think this is true in a lot of cases. They are always willing to give things they have or have collected in the past. I think the elder generation is used to, in a lot of cases, having the bare minimum, or had multiple brothers and sisters, so learned how to sacrifice some a lot. Elderly are considered wise because in actuality they have lived through a lot and experiences a lot more and more difficult situations then a lot of the younger generations. They are willing to share their knowledge so that the generations to follow can avoid some mistakes. Regardless, elders deserve respect and should be regarded as sacred members of any society.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Thoughts on "Long Term Care Accountability and Security Act" (2009)
I recently stumbled upon the "Long Term Care Accountability and Security Act." I think it is a good idea, it basically allows employees to set aside long term care money into "cafeteria" accounts and Flex Spending Accounts. These accounts would allow deductions from pre-taxed wages, and employees would be able to delegated where they want the funds to go on eligible expenses. The act, which was past last month, allows people who are still working to save a lot of money. The average nursing home stay for a year is quoted at $75,000. That is more than an average salary, and almost three times the majority salaries. This is unfortunate that necessary care, is so costly. The good thing about this act is that people will be able to use the money towards Adult day care, and other uncommon long term care services that would not typically be covered under Medicare and Medicaid. Granted a lot of studies on the efficacy of Adult Day Care on health have not been conducted, it is important for those will minimal needs and supervision are able to live independently, and are able to socialize, because there life is not over, and the purpose of LTC is to improve or make the best of the quality of life.
Another reason I think this act is good is because it will promote better care in these LTC facilities. When facilities know that they are getting paid and funding is guaranteed, sad to say, but money motivated people. But if that is what motivates these LTC providers and aides then so be it, because it will in the end effect the individuals receiving the services and not the employees themselves.
In closing, it is important for this act to take place. It allows an equal playing field to those seeking LTC as well as saves people millions of dollars in the end.
Another reason I think this act is good is because it will promote better care in these LTC facilities. When facilities know that they are getting paid and funding is guaranteed, sad to say, but money motivated people. But if that is what motivates these LTC providers and aides then so be it, because it will in the end effect the individuals receiving the services and not the employees themselves.
In closing, it is important for this act to take place. It allows an equal playing field to those seeking LTC as well as saves people millions of dollars in the end.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
My Family's Experience with LTC
Each person has some relationship with long term care, whether they be 15 years old in a nursing home due to an end stage renal disease, or they be 25 and have a grandparent in a nursing home. My relationship to long term care is my grandmother. She is not using long term care personally at the moment, but in the event that the situation does arise, the steps she would have to take to make sure the funds are in line, are pretty interesting. The situation with my grandmother also let's me see the difference between generations, their health, and health management.
My grandmother married a black man in the 1950's, when it just want not acceptable to have an interracial marriage. Because of their relationship, at that time, my grandmother, for whatever reasons, was not able to be put on my grandfather's Will, her name was not on the house with his, nor was she to be the beneficiary of any of his insurance benefits, sad I know. My grandfather passed a little over 15 years ago, to liver cancer, and my grandmother was left with nothing. She went from living a very comfortable life of a thriving tile business owner, to a widow with no insurance, income, or house, technically because her name is not on the house. My grandmother had never worked a job, and had an education equivalent to that of a middle schooler. She did not think to inquire about her health or living situation and assumed everything would be fine until she found out she was border line diabetic. Long story short, she had no health coverage, and is not resorting to the unfavorable idea of a reverse mortgage. The only problem is the house is not in her name. She is going through many loops to get this reverse mortgage to take care of her medical bills and other expenses. She is not educated on Medicare, which I am sure she would be applicable for, but older, stubborn, southern women, would rather do everything their way, and don't bother with complicated paperwork. The problem is, that upon my grandmother's death, the burden of the reverse mortgage payment falls on her eight children. This is unfortunate that these great lengths have to be taken to make sure that someone can be taken care of in the long run. All she wants to be taken care of, who is to say in a few years she won't need a home help aide, or to be put in an assisted living facility. She is to stubborn to stay in a nursing home, I know, but she does do a lot of senior activities with an adult day care type program. She is fortunate to have 8 children to fund her expenses, but is also sad that the things she is doing to make sure that she will always be able to be taken care of have to be so extensive.
Lastly, with this situation going on, I see the difference in health care management between generations. For example, my father, who is hard working individual and has been with the same company over 20 years, which allows him retirement before 50 years of age, is extremely dedicated to investing money in ANY type of fund, stock, or holding, that will allow him to profit more form it in the future. I think it is interesting that he takes the time to read and invest in beneficial things, where as his parents are using health care resources that fund the bare minimum, which is sad. But hopefully continued education and motivation will allow all future generations to have a healthy and convenient future.
My grandmother married a black man in the 1950's, when it just want not acceptable to have an interracial marriage. Because of their relationship, at that time, my grandmother, for whatever reasons, was not able to be put on my grandfather's Will, her name was not on the house with his, nor was she to be the beneficiary of any of his insurance benefits, sad I know. My grandfather passed a little over 15 years ago, to liver cancer, and my grandmother was left with nothing. She went from living a very comfortable life of a thriving tile business owner, to a widow with no insurance, income, or house, technically because her name is not on the house. My grandmother had never worked a job, and had an education equivalent to that of a middle schooler. She did not think to inquire about her health or living situation and assumed everything would be fine until she found out she was border line diabetic. Long story short, she had no health coverage, and is not resorting to the unfavorable idea of a reverse mortgage. The only problem is the house is not in her name. She is going through many loops to get this reverse mortgage to take care of her medical bills and other expenses. She is not educated on Medicare, which I am sure she would be applicable for, but older, stubborn, southern women, would rather do everything their way, and don't bother with complicated paperwork. The problem is, that upon my grandmother's death, the burden of the reverse mortgage payment falls on her eight children. This is unfortunate that these great lengths have to be taken to make sure that someone can be taken care of in the long run. All she wants to be taken care of, who is to say in a few years she won't need a home help aide, or to be put in an assisted living facility. She is to stubborn to stay in a nursing home, I know, but she does do a lot of senior activities with an adult day care type program. She is fortunate to have 8 children to fund her expenses, but is also sad that the things she is doing to make sure that she will always be able to be taken care of have to be so extensive.
Lastly, with this situation going on, I see the difference in health care management between generations. For example, my father, who is hard working individual and has been with the same company over 20 years, which allows him retirement before 50 years of age, is extremely dedicated to investing money in ANY type of fund, stock, or holding, that will allow him to profit more form it in the future. I think it is interesting that he takes the time to read and invest in beneficial things, where as his parents are using health care resources that fund the bare minimum, which is sad. But hopefully continued education and motivation will allow all future generations to have a healthy and convenient future.
Thursday, January 29, 2009
“Changes in Medicaid Rules May Pose Stark Choice for the Chronically Ill”
“Changes in Medicaid Rules May Pose Stark Choice for the Chronically Ill”
By Anemona Hartocollis
The article discusses the controversial place that thousands of Medicaid dependent elderly, are soon to be in. For years, New York’s Medicaid has been supplementing elderly who are applicable for both in home care, and institutionalized aid. New York’s understanding was that healthcare costs were to be covered if one spouse needed extensive long term care in order to keep the couple out of financial distress. This burden was taken over by the Medicaid office because living off of one person’s income was deemed hard enough. There are eligibility requirements such as combined income can not total $2,739 a month and assets can not total $109,560, with the exception of houses, cars, and other specified assets.
The federal offices of Medicare and Medicaid have now charged this rule. Medicaid will no longer be able to supply elderly receiving at home long term care with health coverage. This new regulation, which leaves couples like the Robinsons who receive $2,343 a month for living expenses, with two choices; one they can divorce at the ages of 84 and 64 to receive the health benefits, or two, Ms. Robinson, who is suffering from an end stage renal disease can stop receiving care, which includes at home dialysis. The regulation was supposed to go into effect December 2008, but due to the hard working elderly attorneys and health department, it is pushed back until March.
New York is the only state using Medicaid funds in such a way.
Hartocollis, A. (2009, January 23). Retrieved January 28, 2009, from The New York Times: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/24/nyregion/24spouse.html
By Anemona Hartocollis
The article discusses the controversial place that thousands of Medicaid dependent elderly, are soon to be in. For years, New York’s Medicaid has been supplementing elderly who are applicable for both in home care, and institutionalized aid. New York’s understanding was that healthcare costs were to be covered if one spouse needed extensive long term care in order to keep the couple out of financial distress. This burden was taken over by the Medicaid office because living off of one person’s income was deemed hard enough. There are eligibility requirements such as combined income can not total $2,739 a month and assets can not total $109,560, with the exception of houses, cars, and other specified assets.
The federal offices of Medicare and Medicaid have now charged this rule. Medicaid will no longer be able to supply elderly receiving at home long term care with health coverage. This new regulation, which leaves couples like the Robinsons who receive $2,343 a month for living expenses, with two choices; one they can divorce at the ages of 84 and 64 to receive the health benefits, or two, Ms. Robinson, who is suffering from an end stage renal disease can stop receiving care, which includes at home dialysis. The regulation was supposed to go into effect December 2008, but due to the hard working elderly attorneys and health department, it is pushed back until March.
New York is the only state using Medicaid funds in such a way.
Hartocollis, A. (2009, January 23). Retrieved January 28, 2009, from The New York Times: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/24/nyregion/24spouse.html
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)