Premier Eldercare

Premier Medical is happy to introduce Premier Eldercare, a program designed to educate and assist our over 65 population with remaining healthy and at home.

Stay Tuned!  Once the pandemic is over, we will be offering a lecture series that will address common issues that impact seniors living independently along with tips to stay healthy and protected at home.

In the interim, please review the following information:

 

STAYING OUT OF THE HOSPITAL:

GETTING OLDER

The good news is that average life expectancy for people over the age of 65, has been increasing for many decades.  The bad news is that during these years, it is harder to stay healthy.

NEEDING THE HOSPITAL

As we get older, many of us develop medical problems which require us to take more medications and occasionally need medical care urgently. 40% of emergency room visits are made by patients over the age of 65, and 50% of these visits results in admission to the hospital.  While hospital care can be lifesaving, it is can also be associated with a new infection, worsening strength and memory problems or other complications.

ANOTHER CHOICE

Minor, wait-and-see symptoms can be the start of a very big problem. However, some emergency room visits and hospital stays can be avoided when symptoms are recognized early and care is provided in your doctor’s office or even at an urgent visit center.  It is important for all people over the age of 65 and their families to recognize the symptoms and act quickly.

 

TIME TO TAKE ACTON:

RESPIRATORY

• Call your doctor’s office as soon as you have a cough or a fever.
• Call your doctor’s office if there is a difference in your breathing
• (History of smoking, COPD, asthma or heart failure increases risk)
• Getting an antibiotic or an inhaled treatment may prevent a hospitalization

OTHER INFECTION

• Call your doctor’s office if you are having new urine leakage or more frequent visits to the bathroom for any reason
• Call your doctor’s office if you see a red rash that is warm or getting bigger
• Getting an antibiotic may prevent going to the hospital for spread of infection or sepsis

FALLS

• Call your doctor’s office if you are having problems with dizziness or balance
• Call your doctor’s office if your feet feel numb when you are walking
• Getting a medication, an assistive device or a referral to a specialist may prevent a fall and a fracture.

 

OTHER TIPS:

• Eliminate or adhere to the floor all throw rugs, including the in bathroom
• Use non-slip, closed footwear
• Use night lights in the bathroom and along the way from the bedroom to the bathroom
• Remove all furniture between the bed and the bathroom
• Remove all extension cords/other clutter on the floor where individuals are walking

 

PREMIER MEDICAL GROUP –  INTERNAL MEDICINE  CONTACT INFORMATION:

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Please see the following websites for more information on how to keep safe when you are over 65:

The National Council on Aging

Home Safety Tips For Seniors