Keeping seniors out of hospital

A Jacksonville, Florida TV news station published a most interesting article recently about the hospitalization of seniors.

The station cited a recent nursing study, which found that the rate of hospitalization of seniors spikes in winter. Reasons given include the prevalence of flu and other respiratory infections at this time of year.

The study added that the critical factor in reducing the rate of hospitalization is family involvement or intervention.

In other words, if seniors’ families are involved on an ongoing basis, the likelihood of hospitalization drops. Given the risk of catching other infections in a hospital, the concern is further increased.

What can the family do? The first thing is to check their senior’s home. Make sure that proper equipment is in place to reduce the risk of accidents, such as grab bars in bathtubs and perhaps hallways.

Families must also make sure their senior is bathing and eating regularly. Regular doctor visits are also crucial to ensure vital signs, bodily functions and mental alertness are normal.

With our aging population, many families are giving attention to their seniors’ health. It’s a significant job, but it has to be done.

This ad ran in the Richmond Review on February 13, 2015.