A publication for older Arkansans, subscribe today!
July 2012 - Volume 1 - Number 3
A publication for older Arkansans, subscribe today!
July 2012 - Volume 1 - Number 3
With temperatures regularly reaching triple digits this summer, seniors should take precautions to avoid heat-related illness.
Soaring temperatures signal danger
With summer temperatures topping the 100 degree mark and the high humidity here in Arkansas, it’s very important for senior citizens and their caregivers to be aware of the symptoms of heat-related illnesses and take the necessary precautions. Heat stress, the strain that is placed on the heart and blood vessels when the body attempts to maintain its normal temperature in hot weather, can be fatal and accounts for more than 200 deaths in the elderly annually in the United States. This is especially true for those elderly with chronic health problems, such as heart conditions, respiratory diseases, circulatory diseases, and depression. Additionally, due to the decreased thirst awareness that accompanies aging, the elderly tend to live in a constant state of dehydration which predisposes them to heatrelated illness and hyperthermia (dangerously high body temperature). [Full Text]
ADH warns of heat-related illness, urges water conservation in drought
Hot temperatures and high humidity are a dangerous mix that contribute to illness and death each year, according to the Arkansas Department of Health. Seventeen Arkansans died due to heat-related illness in 2011. On average, there are 400 heatrelated deaths a year in the U.S. While the elderly, people with health problems, and very young children are the most vulnerable, heat can affect anyone — even strong, healthy athletes can be stricken. Our bodies are cooled primarily by losing heat through the skin and perspiration with evaporation. When core body heat gain exceeds the amount we can get rid of, the body’s natural defense fails and heat-related illness may develop. The following heat disorders are progressive and should be attended to immediately: [Full Text]
Educating public about ombudsman program
White River Area Agency on Aging’s Ombudsman Program is working to educate the public about the Ombudsman Program. ‘Senior Citizens’ are the main focus of White River Area Agency on Aging and each division strives to provide the best care possible for all seniors. Some of the services offered at WRAAA consist of: care management, in-home services (personal care, homemaker and respite care), personal emergency response systems, HUD subsidized housing, information and assistance, ombudsman program and other contracted services which include congregate meals, homedelivered meals, socialization and local transportation. [Full Text]
Initiative receives $7.9M to expand caregiver training programs in state
LITTLE ROCK – The Arkansas Aging Initiative in the Donald W. Reynolds Institute on Aging at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) has received $7.9 million from the Donald W. Reynolds Foundation to provide new opportunities for the elderly to stay in their homes. [Full Text]
One million people go online to access their Social Security statements
Commissioner of Social Security Michael J. Astrue recently reported that in less than two months, one million people have gone online, created a My Social Security account and viewed their Social Security Statement. [Full Text]
Avoid the grill and beat the heat
Summertime is the time for grilling, but in these triple-digit days it’s best to avoid being outside in the hot sun working a hot grill. The better alternative is to stay indoors, or at least under a patio roof, eating a cold, crisp salad. [Full Text]
Ozark Folk Center classes pick up where YouTube leaves off
Mountain View, Ark. -- The DIY crowd continues to gain momentum with everything from television shows to Pinterest and YouTube available as resources and inspiration for their projects. But sometimes do-it-yourself knowledge can’t be gleaned from the Web alone. That’s where Ozark Folk Center State Park in Mountain View comes into play. [Full Text]
Alzheimer’s support groups offer help
Alzheimer’s Arkansas has an affiliated caregiver support group which holds monthly meetings in Jacksonville and in many locations throughout the state. [Full Text]