Tehya Robinson has dedicated seven years to the healthcare field, beginning her journey as a CNA and now working toward her Bachelor’s in Social Work. Her passion for helping others has driven her to step into the role of Director of Social Services, where she strives to be a voice for those who cannot speak for themselves.

For Tehya, the most rewarding part of her role is the comfort and happiness she brings to residents, whether it’s on their best days or during their most challenging moments. The deep connections she builds and the impact she makes each day keep her motivated, even during the toughest times in healthcare.

What first sparked Tehya’s passion for working with this population was the fulfillment she felt in providing care and comfort to those in need. That rewarding feeling continues to inspire her every day. At the heart of her work are the residents she serves—guiding her, motivating her, and reinforcing her dedication to making a difference in their lives.

We are grateful for Tehya’s unwavering compassion and commitment to our community, and we celebrate the incredible work she does to support our residents and their families!

As you age, it is normal to notice changes in your vision. A few common changes for older adults include:

• Losing the ability to see up close
• Having trouble distinguishing colors, such as blue from black
• Needing more time to adjust to changing levels of light

These problems are often easily corrected. Glasses, contact lenses, and improved lighting may help and enable you to maintain your lifestyle and independence.

Your risk for some eye diseases and conditions increases as you grow older, and some eye changes are more serious. Keep your eyes as healthy as possible by getting regular eye exams so any problems can be spotted early.

What can you do to protect your vision?

Have your eyes checked regularly by an eye care professional — either an ophthalmologist or optometrist. Finding and treating any problems early can help protect your vision and prevent vision loss. Make a list of your questions and concerns to share with the doctor. Tell them which medications you are taking. Some can affect your eyes.

Normal changes in the aging eye usually do not harm your vision. However, sometimes they can be signs of a more serious problem. For example, your eyes may leak tears. This can happen with light sensitivity, wind, or temperature changes. Sunglasses and eye drops may help. Sometimes, leaking tears may be a symptom of dry eye or sign of an infection or blocked tear duct. Your eye care professional can treat these problems.

Many people don’t notice any signs or symptoms in the early stages of eye diseases. A dilated eye exam performed by an eye care professional is the only way to find some common eye diseases while they’re easier to treat — and before they cause vision loss. Everyone over age 50 should have a dilated eye exam every year or as recommended by your eye care professional, even if you have good vision and don’t wear contacts or glasses. After age 60, you should get a dilated eye exam every year or two. Most people with diabetes or high blood pressure need to get a dilated exam at least once a year.

During this exam, the eye care professional will put drops in your eyes to widen (dilate) your pupils so that he or she can better see inside each eye. Your vision may be blurry after the exam, and your eyes may be more sensitive to light. This only lasts a few hours. Make plans for someone else to drive you home.

If you wear glasses or contact lenses, get your prescription checked, too. Even small changes in sight can increase your risk for falls and injuries. It’s important to use the proper prescription glasses or contact lenses.

See your primary health care provider regularly to check for diseases like diabetes and high blood pressure. These diseases can cause eye problems if not controlled or treated.

Eye diseases and conditions

The following eye problems can lead to vision loss and blindness in older adults. They may have few or no early symptoms. Regular eye exams are your best protection. If your eye care professional finds a problem early, often there are things you can do to protect your vision.

• Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) can harm the sharp, central vision needed to see objects clearly and to do common things like driving and reading. Your eye care professional will ask about your family history and look for signs of AMD during a dilated eye exam. Treatments are available, and special dietary supplements can help lower your chance of it getting worse.
• Diabetic retinopathy may occur if you have diabetes. It develops slowly, often with no early warning signs. If you have diabetes, be sure to have a dilated eye exam at least once a year. Keeping your blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol under control can prevent diabetic retinopathy or slow its progress in early stages. Laser surgery in later stages can sometimes prevent it from getting worse.
• Cataracts are cloudy areas in the eye’s lens causing blurred or hazy vision. Some cataracts stay small and don’t change your eyesight much. Others become large and reduce vision. Cataract surgery can restore good vision and is a safe and common treatment. If you have a cataract, your eye care professional will watch for changes over time to see if you would benefit from surgery.
• Glaucoma is usually caused by too much fluid pressure inside the eye. If not treated, it can lead to vision loss and blindness. People with glaucoma often have no early symptoms or pain. You can help protect yourself by having dilated eye exams yearly. Glaucoma can be treated with prescription eye drops, lasers, or surgery.
• Dry eye occurs when tear glands don’t work well. You may feel stinging or burning, a sandy feeling as if something is in the eye, or other discomfort. Dry eye is common as people get older, especially for women. Your eye care professional may tell you to use a home humidifier or air purifier, special eye drops (artificial tears), or ointments to treat dry eye. For more severe cases, treatment options might include prescription medication, tear duct plugs, or surgery.

What is low vision?

Low vision means you cannot fix your eyesight with glasses, contact lenses, medication, or surgery. Low vision affects some people as they age. You may have low vision if you:

• Can’t see well enough to do everyday tasks like reading or cooking
• Have difficulty recognizing the faces of your friends or family
• Have trouble reading street signs
• Find that lights don’t seem as bright

If you have any of these problems, ask your eye care professional to test you for low vision.

Vision rehabilitation programs and special aids, such as a magnifying device, can help you adapt to vision loss and make the most of your remaining sight. There are also programs, such as the National Library Service, that link people who have low vision or visual disabilities to resources at no cost.

Remember to ask your eye doctor if it is safe for you to drive with your vision. If you have to stop driving, organizations in your area may be able to arrange rides for you, or public transportation may be available.

Other tips that may help:

• Brighten the lighting in your room.
• Write with bold, black felt-tip markers.
• Use paper with bold lines to help you write in a straight line.
• Put colored tape on the edge of any stairs in your home to help you see them and prevent you from falling.
• Install dark-colored light switches and electrical outlets so that you can see them easily against light-colored walls.
• Use motion lights that turn on when you enter a room. These may help you avoid accidents caused by poor lighting.
• Use clocks with large numbers and phones with large screens; put large-print labels on the microwave and stove.

To learn more, please visit https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/vision-and-vision-loss/aging-and-your-eyes.

Shannon Landrum, the Executive Director at Greenville Nursing and Rehabilitation, has dedicated over 20 years to healthcare. Her journey in the field began as a CNA, where she worked in the very community she now leads. Through years of hard work and commitment to her patients, Shannon advanced from LPN to RN, ultimately earning her Bachelors of Science in Nursing.

Shannon’s passion for healthcare began with a desire to make a difference in the lives of the elderly population. She recognized early on that for many seniors, the Care tTam members may be the only source of support they have due to circumstances beyond their control. This realization fueled her commitment to providing compassionate care and making sure that each resident feels valued and cared for.

After years of growing in the healthcare field, Shannon returned to the community where she began her journey, this time as the Director of Nursing, and now, Executive Director. For her, knowing that the care she provides truly makes a difference in the lives of residents is an incredible feeling that continues to inspire her daily.

Shannon’s leadership is rooted in her belief that every individual deserves the best possible care, and her unwavering dedication to this mission continues to shape Greenville Nursing and Rehabilitation into a community where compassion, commitment, and exceptional care are at the heart of everything they do.

Greenville Nursing and Rehabilitation is excited to share resident Carrolyn Hunt’s Success Story!

After two hospital stays, Ms. Hunt arrived at Greenville Nursing and Rehabilitation on January 21st, feeling weak and needing extensive support with daily activities. But she was determined to regain her strength and return home to her husband. With the help of our skilled Physical and Occupational Therapy team, she worked hard to rebuild her mobility, endurance, and independence. Always eager to participate, her dedication paid off—within just a few short weeks, Ms. Hunt was back to her prior level of function!

On February 1st, she walked out of our doors, stronger than ever and ready to reunite with her loved ones. While we’ll miss her bright spirit in the therapy gym and activities, we couldn’t be more proud of her progress. Join us in celebrating Ms. Hunt’s incredible success!

Over time, people with Alzheimer’s disease will become less able to manage things around the home. For example, they may forget to turn off the oven or faucet, or even how to use the phone in an emergency. People with Alzheimer’s also may not see, smell, touch, hear, or taste things as they used to.

Caregivers can do many things to make the person’s home a safer place. The tips on this page cover a wide range of safety concerns that may arise — some may not apply to your current circumstances. It is important, however, to keep thinking about home safety as the person’s behavior and abilities change.

Creating a Safer Home for a Person with Alzheimer’s

Go through the house room by room to identify potential problems and safety issues. First, correct any immediate dangers, such as loose stair railings and poor lighting, and then work on other ways to ensure the person will be as safe as possible at home.

To prevent falls, mark the edges of steps with brightly colored tape so the person can see the steps as they go up or down stairs.

• Use brightly colored signs or simple pictures to label the bathroom, bedroom, and kitchen.
• Limit the size and number of mirrors in your home and be specific about where you put them. Mirror images may confuse a person with Alzheimer’s.
• Make the walls a lighter color than the floor to create contrast. Avoid busy patterns.
• Install safety latches on storage cabinets and drawers designated for breakable or dangerous items.
• Set the water heater to 120°F to avoid scalding tap water.
• Label hot-water faucets red and cold-water faucets blue and/or write the words “hot” and “cold” near them.
• Pad any sharp corners on your furniture or replace or remove furniture with sharp corners.
• Place decals at eye level on sliding glass doors, picture windows, or furniture with large glass panels to identify the glass pane.
• Consider a “NO SOLICITING” sign for the front gate or door.
• Use smoke detectors and natural gas detectors and check their functioning and batteries frequently. People with Alzheimer’s may not be able to smell smoke or an unlit gas stove.
• Install nightlights and/or automatic light sensors.
• List emergency phone numbers (such as ambulance, poison control, and doctors) and the person’s address near all phones.

Store potentially dangerous items in a locked area or remove them from the home. These items can include:

• Prescription and over-the-counter medicines
• Alcohol
• Cleaning and household products, including paint thinner, matches, rubbing alcohol, and laundry detergent pods
• Poisonous plants
• Guns and other weapons, scissors, knives, power tools, and machinery
• Gasoline cans and other flammable items

Learn basic first aid in case the person gets sick or injured. Learn the Heimlich maneuver and CPR, and when to use each. Check with your local hospital or American Red Cross chapter about health and safety classes.

Kitchen Safety

• Put signs near the oven, toaster, iron, and other things that get hot. The sign could say, “Stop!” or “Don’t Touch — Very Hot!” Be sure the sign is not so close that it could catch fire.
• Check foods in the refrigerator often. Throw out any that have gone bad.
• Add safety knobs and an automatic shut-off switch on the stove.
• Consider disconnecting the garbage disposal.
• Insert a drain trap in the kitchen sink to catch anything that may otherwise become lost or clog the plumbing.
• Remove artificial fruits and vegetables or food-shaped kitchen magnets, which may seem edible to the person with Alzheimer’s.

Bedroom Safety

• Use a room monitoring device (like those used for infants) to alert you to any sounds indicating a fall or other need for help during the night.
• Remove portable space heaters. If you use portable fans, be sure that objects cannot be placed in the blades.
• Be cautious if using electric mattress pads, electric blankets, electric sheets, and heating pads, all of which can cause burns and fires. Keep controls out of reach of the person with Alzheimer’s.
• Install bed rails and other transfer or mobility aids.

Bathroom Safety

• Remove small electrical appliances from the bathroom and cover electrical outlets.
• Put away or lock up items such as toothpaste, lotions, shampoos, soap, and perfume. They may look and smell like food to a person with Alzheimer’s.
• Install grab bars in the tub/shower. A grab bar in contrasting color to the wall is easier to see.
• Use a raised toilet seat with handrails or install grab bars beside the toilet.
• Place nonskid adhesive strips, decals, or mats in the tub and shower. If the bathroom is uncarpeted, consider placing these strips next to the tub, toilet, and sink.
• Use a foam rubber faucet cover in the tub, plastic shower stool, and hand-held shower head.

Find more information here: Alzheimer’s Caregiving: Bathing, Dressing, and Grooming.

To learn more, please visit https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/safety/alzheimers-caregiving-home-safety-tips.

Hearing loss is a common problem caused by loud noise, aging, disease, and genetic variations. About one-third of older adults have hearing loss, and the chance of developing hearing loss increases with age. People with hearing loss may find it hard to have conversations with friends and family. They may also have trouble understanding a doctor’s advice, responding to warnings, and hearing doorbells and alarms.

Some people may not want to admit they have trouble hearing. Hearing problems that are ignored or untreated can get worse. If you have a hearing problem, see your doctor. Hearing aids, special training, certain medications, and surgery are some of the treatments that can help.

Signs of hearing loss

Some people have a hearing problem and don’t realize it. You should see your doctor if you:

• Have trouble understanding what people are saying over the telephone
• Find it hard to follow conversations when two or more people are talking
• Often ask people to repeat what they are saying
• Need to turn up the TV volume so loud that others complain
• Have a problem understanding speech because of background noise
• Think that others seem to mumble
• Can’t understand what’s being said when children and people with higher pitched voices speak to you

Types of hearing loss

Hearing loss comes in many forms. It can range from a mild loss, in which a person misses certain high-pitched sounds, to a total loss of hearing.

Sudden hearing loss

Sudden deafness, also known as sudden sensorineural hearing loss, is an unexplained rapid loss of hearing. It can happen to a person all at once or over a period of a few days. It should be considered a medical emergency. If you or someone you know experiences sudden hearing loss, visit a doctor immediately.

Age-related hearing loss

Age-related hearing loss, also called presbycusis, comes on gradually as a person grows older. It seems to run in families and may occur because of changes in the inner ear and auditory nerve, which relays signals from the ear to the brain. Presbycusis may make it hard for a person to tolerate loud sounds or to understand what others are saying.

Age-related hearing loss usually occurs in both ears, affecting them equally. Because the loss is gradual, people with presbycusis may not realize they have lost some of their ability to hear.

Tinnitus

Tinnitus is also common in older people. It is typically described as ringing in the ears, but it also can sound like roaring, clicking, hissing, or buzzing. It can come and go. It can be heard in one or both ears, and it may be loud or soft. Tinnitus is sometimes the first sign of hearing loss in older adults. It can accompany any type of hearing loss.

Tinnitus is a symptom, not a disease. Something as simple as a piece of earwax blocking the ear canal can cause tinnitus. It can also be a sign of other health conditions, such as high blood pressure or allergies. Tinnitus can also occur as a side effect of certain medications.

Causes of hearing loss

Loud noise is one of the most common causes of hearing loss. Noise from lawn mowers, snow blowers, or loud music can damage the inner ear and result in permanent hearing loss. Loud noise also contributes to tinnitus. You can prevent most noise-related hearing loss by turning down the sound on your devices, moving away from loud noise, or using earplugs or other ear protection.

Earwax or fluid buildup can also cause hearing loss by blocking sounds that are carried from the eardrum to the inner ear. If wax blockage is a problem, your doctor may suggest mild treatments to soften earwax.

A ruptured eardrum can also cause hearing loss. The eardrum can be damaged by infection, pressure, or putting objects in the ear, including cotton-tipped swabs. See your doctor if you have ear pain or fluid draining from an ear.

Health conditions common in older people, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, can contribute to hearing loss. Ear infections caused by viruses and bacteria (also known as otitis media), a heart condition, stroke, brain injury, or a tumor may also affect your hearing.

Hearing loss can also result from taking certain medications that can damage the inner ear, sometimes permanently. These medications may be used to treat serious infections, cancer, or heart disease. They also include some antibiotics, and even aspirin at some dosages. If you notice a problem while taking a medication, check with your doctor.

Genetic variations can cause hearing loss as well. Not all inherited forms of hearing loss are evident at birth. Some forms can show up later in life. For example, otosclerosis, which is thought to be a hereditary disease, involves the abnormal growth of bone that prevents structures within the ear from working properly.

Health effects of hearing loss

Hearing loss can affect cognitive health. Studies have shown that older adults with hearing loss have a greater risk of developing dementia than older adults with normal hearing. Cognitive abilities (including memory and concentration) decline faster in older adults with hearing loss than in older adults with normal hearing. A recent analysis of several studies found that people who used hearing restorative devices (such as hearing aids and cochlear implants) had a lower risk of long-term cognitive decline compared to people with uncorrected hearing loss.

Older people who can’t hear well may become depressed or withdrawn from others because they feel frustrated or embarrassed about not understanding what is being said. Sometimes, older people are mistakenly thought to be confused, unresponsive, or uncooperative because they don’t hear well. These circumstances can lead to social isolation and loneliness.

Hearing loss, even small amounts, is also linked to an increased risk for falls. It also can affect public as well as personal safety, such as the ability to drive safely, when warning sounds are harder to hear.

How to cope with hearing loss

If you notice signs of hearing loss, talk with your doctor. If you have trouble hearing, you should:

• Let your family and friends know you have a hearing problem.
• Ask people to face you and to speak louder and more clearly. Ask them to repeat themselves or reword what they’re saying.
• Pay attention to what is being said and to facial expressions or gestures.
• Let the person talking know if you do not understand what was said.
• Find a good location to listen. Place yourself between the speaker and sources of noise or look for quieter places to talk.

The most important thing you can do if you think you have a hearing problem is to seek professional advice. Your family doctor may be able to diagnose and treat your hearing problem. Or your doctor may refer you to other experts, like an otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat doctor) or an audiologist (health professional who can identify and measure hearing loss).

Devices to help with hearing loss

Many types of assistive devices are available to help people with hearing loss. These devices can amplify sounds, provide alerts, and help you communicate with others. For example, alert systems work with doorbells, smoke detectors, and alarm clocks to send visual signals or vibrations. Devices that use keyboards, touch screens, or text-to-speech technology can help you give and receive information more effectively. Learn more about the wide range of assistive devices available for people with hearing loss from the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders.

Hearing aids are electronic, battery-run assistive devices that make some sounds louder. There are two main ways to get a hearing aid: by prescription or over the counter.

• An audiologist or hearing aid specialist can prescribe hearing aids for people with significant or complicated hearing loss. Prescription hearing aids require a medical exam, and then the health care professional will fit and adjust the device.
• Hearing aids have recently become available without a prescription. Over-the-counter hearing aids, which are sold in stores and online, may help people with mild to moderate hearing loss.

Before buying a hearing aid, find out if your health insurance will cover part of the cost.

A cochlear implant is a different type of assistive device that can help people who are profoundly deaf or hard of hearing. Whereas hearing aids make sound louder so damaged ears can hear it, cochlear implants create electric signals that the brain recognizes as sound. The implant requires surgical placement and hearing therapy.

If you are experiencing hearing loss, talk with your doctor about assistive devices that may be available to help.

How to talk with someone who has hearing loss

Here are some tips you can use when talking with someone who has a hearing problem:

• In a group, make a point to include people with hearing loss in the conversation.
• Find a quiet place to talk to help reduce background noise, especially in restaurants and at social gatherings.
• Stand in good lighting and use facial expressions or gestures to give clues.
• Face the person and speak clearly. Maintain eye contact.
• Speak a little louder than normal, but don’t shout.
• Try to speak naturally and at a reasonable speed.
• Do not hide your mouth, eat, or chew gum while speaking.
• Repeat yourself if necessary, using different words.
• Try to make sure only one person talks at a time.
• Be patient. People with hearing loss may also be frustrated by their condition. Stay positive and relaxed.
• Ask how you can help.

To learn more, please visit https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/hearing-and-hearing-loss/hearing-loss-common-problem-older-adults.

Greenville Nursing and Rehabilitation is excited to share resident Virginia Caswall’s Success Story!

Ms. Virginia Caswall has been a cherished long-term resident at Greenville Nursing and Rehabilitation since April of 2022. Known for her vibrant enthusiasm, Ms. Caswall loves to engage in our community’s social activities, bringing joy to everyone around her.

Recently, Ms. Caswall experienced a decline in her functional endurance and mobility, which affected her independence with transfers and ambulation. However, after being evaluated by our skilled physical therapy team, she fully committed to her rehabilitation plan. Thanks to her dedication and the support of our team, Ms. Caswall has made incredible progress, returning to her previous level of independence with transfers and ambulation! The Care Team members and fellow residents at Greenville Nursing and Rehabilitation are incredibly proud to have Ms. Caswall as part of our community. Her positive spirit and determination continue to inspire us all!

Each year, millions of people suffer from seasonal influenza, which is often called the flu. Flu is a respiratory illness caused by viruses that infect the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs.

Flu is a mild illness for some people. But for others, including older adults and those with chronic (long-lasting) health conditions, the flu can be very serious and even life-threatening. Getting a flu vaccine every year can help prevent the flu. The vaccine is safe, effective, and available for little to no cost to you.

How serious is the flu?

Most people who get the flu feel better after a few days to two weeks. However, the flu can make you seriously ill. Some people develop other health issues, called complications, because of the flu. Complications can be mild, such as a sinus or ear infection, or more serious, like pneumonia.

Anyone can get sick from the flu, but some people are more likely to have complications. You are more at risk for flu and its complications if you:

• Are age 65 or older
• Have certain medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, or chronic kidney disease
• Have heart disease or have had a stroke
• Live in a nursing home or other long-term care facility

Pregnant people and children younger than five years old are also more likely to get very sick from the flu. Flu vaccination is especially important for people in these higher-risk groups. Learn more about people at increased risk for flu and its complications.

Why is the flu more dangerous for older adults?

The flu is more dangerous for older adults for a few reasons. One reason is that the immune system — which helps your body fight infections — weakens as you age. For example, because your body is busy fighting off the flu, you might pick up a secondary infection such as pneumonia. A second reason is that older adults are also more likely to have other health conditions, like diabetes, that increase their risk for complications from the flu.

The good news is the flu vaccine reduces your risk of getting the flu and of getting seriously ill if you do get sick with the flu. Flu vaccination is especially helpful for people with chronic health conditions. For example, it has been linked to lower rates of heart problems (cardiac events) among people with heart disease and fewer hospitalizations among people who have chronic lung disease or diabetes. Learn more about the benefits of flu vaccination.

How does the flu spread?

The flu is contagious, which means it spreads from person to person. It mostly spreads through droplets in the air when people with flu cough, sneeze, or talk. It can spread from up to six feet away. Although it isn’t as common, the flu can also spread from surfaces — for example, if you touch something the virus is on and then touch your nose, mouth, or eyes.

It’s possible to spread the flu before you feel sick and when you have symptoms. Typically, people with the flu can spread it a day before, and up to a week after feeling sick. Young children and people with weakened immune systems may be able to spread the flu for even longer. If you or someone you know is sick with the flu, take steps to help prevent spreading the disease

Is it the flu, a cold, or COVID-19?

The common cold, flu, and COVID-19 are respiratory illnesses caused by different viruses. They can all cause similar symptoms. If you have symptoms, a health care provider can determine the cause of your illness and help you take steps to feel better.

A cold is often milder than the flu. The flu and COVID-19 have similar symptoms, but COVID-19 spreads more easily and symptoms tend to be more severe. It’s also more common to have a change in your sense of smell or taste with COVID-19.

People with the flu can have fever, chills, dry cough, general aches and pains, and a headache. They feel very tired. Sore throat, sneezing, stuffy nose, or stomach problems are less common. What some people call “stomach flu” is not influenza. Learn more about the differences between the flu and a cold and flu and COVID-19.

How can you prevent the flu?

The most effective way to prevent the flu is to get a flu vaccine every year. Everyone 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine. It makes it less likely that you will get the flu. It also reduces your chances of being hospitalized or dying if you do get sick with the flu.

In addition to getting your flu vaccine, you can help stop the spread of flu by:

• Washing your hands
• Covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze
• Avoiding touching your eyes, nose, or mouth
• Staying home when you are sick
• Avoiding close contact with people who are sick
• Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces at home, work, or school

Who should get a flu vaccine and which one should you choose?

You can get the flu at any time of year, but it’s most common in the fall and winter. It usually starts to spread in October and peaks between December and February. That’s why this time is called the flu season.

It takes at least two weeks for your flu vaccine to start working, so try to get vaccinated by the end of October. However, getting vaccinated after October can still help protect you from the flu. Because older adults may lose protection from a flu vaccine more quickly, try to avoid getting vaccinated too early (before September).

There are flu vaccines designed specifically for older adults. The CDC recommends that people age 65 and older receive a higher-dose flu vaccine or an adjuvanted flu vaccine (one with an additional ingredient called an adjuvant that helps create a stronger immune response). These vaccines are potentially more effective than the standard flu vaccine for people in this age group. Talk with a health care provider or pharmacist about which vaccine is best for you.

Where can you get a flu vaccine?

You can get your flu vaccine at a doctor’s office or from your local health department. Many grocery stores, drug stores, and pharmacies also offer flu vaccines. Visit Vaccines.gov to find a location near you.

Why do you need a flu vaccine every year?

You need a flu vaccine every year for two reasons. First, flu viruses change and the flu vaccine is updated each year to target the flu viruses that are anticipated to spread that year. Second, the protection you get from a flu vaccine lessens with time, especially in older adults. Getting your flu vaccine every fall gives you the best protection from that year’s flu viruses.

What are the side effects of flu vaccines?

The flu vaccine is safe and cannot give you the flu. Most people have no problems after getting a flu vaccine.

When side effects occur, they are generally mild and go away on their own. The most common side effects are soreness, redness, or swelling at the site where you got the shot. Some people also get a headache, fever, nausea, or muscle aches. These side effects start shortly after getting the vaccine and can last up to two days. They typically do not get in the way of daily activities.

If you have allergies, talk with a health care provider about your options for flu vaccines. Even people with mild egg allergies can safely get most flu vaccines. Egg-free flu vaccines are also available. You should not get vaccinated if you have had a severe allergic reaction to the flu vaccine in the past.

How much does getting a flu vaccine cost?

Most people can get a flu vaccine for little to no out-of-pocket cost. Medicare and most private health insurance plans will cover the cost of your flu vaccine. However, some insurance plans require that you receive your vaccine at a specific location. Check with your insurance company. If you do not have health insurance, contact your local or state health department.

What can you do if you get the flu?

If you get the flu, there are steps you can take to feel better. Act fast! First, talk with a health care provider. The flu and COVID-19 have similar symptoms, so you may need to get tested for an accurate diagnosis. This will also help determine which medications might make you feel better.

There are prescription drugs, called antivirals, that are used to treat people with the flu. If you take them within 48 hours after flu symptoms begin, these drugs can make you feel better more quickly. Antivirals can also help reduce your risk of complications from flu. Antibiotics do not help you recover from the flu. However, they are sometimes prescribed to treat a secondary infection if it is caused by bacteria. Bacteria are a different type of germ than viruses.

If you are sick, rest and drink plenty of fluids like juice and water, but not alcohol. Over-the-counter medicines, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can bring down your fever and might help with the aches and pains.

It is important not to smoke if you are sick with the flu. It is a respiratory illness that can infect your lungs as well as your nasal passages. These same areas are also affected by smoking.

Monitor your symptoms and talk with a health care provider if you start feeling worse. For example, contact your provider right away if you:

• Have shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Feel weak, dizzy, or confused
• Develop ongoing pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
• Have a fever or cough that goes away and then comes back, which may be a sign of a secondary infection
• Experience worsening of other chronic health problems, such as asthma or heart disease
• Develop any other symptoms that worry you

To learn more, please visit https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/flu/flu-and-older-adults.

It is not always clear whether an aging parent or relative needs help. Sometimes a person will recognize that they need help and request it, or an emergency or sudden illness will make it clear. Others may not want to cause worry or admit they’re struggling.

If you become aware of the signs that a loved one needs help, you will be better prepared to provide support for their safety and well-being.

How to tell if someone needs extra support

The best way to know what someone needs is to ask them directly. But a phone call, email, or text message is not always the best way to tell whether an older person needs help. These signs may indicate that someone needs extra support:

Changes at home. When you spend time at the person’s home, you might notice possible trouble spots. Some examples include:

• Can the person prepare meals on a stove safely?
• Are they bathing regularly and wearing appropriate clothing for the weather?
• Is the home relatively clean and free of clutter?
• Do they have the medications they need, and are they taking them regularly?

Mental health concerns. Changes in a person’s mood could indicate a need for help. Sometimes depression in older people is confused with normal aging. An older person with depression might brighten up for a phone call or short visit, but it’s harder to hide serious mood problems during an extended visit. Seek immediate help if the person says they feel hopeless or have no reason to live, or if you’re worried they may harm themselves. Call or text the 24-hour 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or call 800-273-TALK (800-273-8255). For TTY, use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 988.

Other health concerns. Signs related to the person’s general health that can raise concerns include:

• Significant weight gain or weight loss
• Poor hygiene
• Confusion
• Falls
• Loneliness or social isolation
• Trouble walking or getting around

Memory issues. Occasional forgetfulness is a normal part of aging. But more significant memory problems, changes in thinking ability or personality, or poor decision-making could indicate a serious condition that requires medical attention.

Recognizing changes if you live far away

If you don’t live close to an older family member or see them often, it may be difficult to notice if the person needs help.

With the person’s permission, you could contact people who see them regularly – neighbors, friends, doctors, or local relatives, for example – and ask them to call you with any concerns. You might also ask if you can check in periodically.

What to do when a loved one needs help

When you notice signs that your aging parent or relative needs help, it is important to know what steps to take next. Some issues have a simple fix, like needing a new glasses prescription. But other times, you may need to provide more support.

Your first step may be to talk to the older person about your concerns. Mention your worry without sounding critical, such as, “Mom, it looks like you don’t have much food in the house. Are you having trouble getting to the store?”

Then try to fulfill the person’s wishes to the extent possible. For example, if they want to keep cooking at home, you could ask, “Would you like me to arrange to have groceries delivered on a regular basis?” Try to include practical help with your suggestions and give specific examples of what can be done.

If you’re concerned about the person’s physical or mental health, suggest a visit to a health care provider. You might offer to make the appointment, give them a ride, or go with them to see the doctor.

You don’t have to do everything yourself. In many communities, a variety of services are available to help older people. Depending on the person’s needs, you might hire a home health aide to visit on a regular basis, arrange transportation so the person can run errands, or speak with a geriatric care manager to help coordinate care. You can also find ways to share caregiving responsibilities with other family members, neighbors, or friends.

Helping an aging parent or other relative plan for the future

The best time to plan is before the older person needs extensive help. Planning for the possibility of long-term care gives you and your family time to learn about services available in your community and what they cost. It also allows the older person to make important decisions while they are still able.

There may be a time when your older relative can no longer live independently at home. Learn as much as you can about housing options, which may include moving to a residential facility (such as a nursing home or assisted living) or living with a family member. These choices may depend on the person’s health, ability to perform activities of daily living, financial resources, and personal preferences. Talk about the pros and cons of each option before making a decision.

You may also need to help the older person prepare for decisions about their future medical care — a process called advance care planning. It’s important to know what they would want if they became seriously ill or unable to communicate their wishes. Having conversations about the person’s preferences and making a plan makes it more likely that they will get the care they want.

To learn more, please visit https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/caregiving/does-older-adult-your-life-need-help.

find that certain foods aren’t as flavorful as they used to be. Changes in smell or taste can also be a sign of a larger health problem.

Your sense of smell

Smell is an important sense. Certain smells, such as your dad’s cologne, can help you recall a memory. Other smells, like smoke from a fire, can alert you to danger. When you can’t smell things you enjoy, such as your morning coffee or spring flowers, life may seem dull.
As you age, your sense of smell may fade. When you can’t smell, food may taste bland and it might be more difficult to tell if it has spoiled. You may experience trouble with cooking or even lose interest in eating. Long-term loss of smell can affect your mood and quality of life.

What can cause a loss of smell?

Many problems can cause a loss of smell that lasts for just a short time. These are some factors that can lead to a temporary loss of smell:

• A cold, flu, or sinus infection that causes a stuffy nose can make it difficult to smell. The ability to smell will come back when you’ve recovered.
• COVID-19 sometimes causes a new loss of smell, but the ability to smell usually returns once other symptoms have gone away. If you have long-term loss of smell from COVID-19, talk to your doctor about possible Long COVID.
• Allergies can affect the sense of smell. Try to avoid things you’re allergic to, such as pollen or pets. If you cannot avoid your triggers, talk to your doctor about ways to manage your allergies.
• A harmless growth (called a polyp) in the nose or sinuses can block airflow and cause a stuffy or runny nose. Having the growth removed by a surgeon may help.
• Some medications, such as antibiotics, can affect your ability to smell. If this happens, ask your doctor if there is another medicine you can take.
• Radiation, chemotherapy, and other cancer treatments can also affect smell. Your sense of smell may return when treatment stops.

Some injuries and illnesses can cause a long-lasting loss of smell. A head injury, for example, might damage the nerves related to smell. Losing your sense of smell may also be a sign of a more serious medical condition or neurodegenerative disease, a condition marked by the brain and nerves losing function over time, such as Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s disease. Be sure to tell your doctor about any change in your sense of smell.

Smells can keep you safe

It’s important to be aware of odors around you. You must be able to detect smoke, gas leaks, spoiled food, and vapors from potentially dangerous household chemicals to keep yourself and other members of your household safe. Here are some tips that may help, especially if your sense of smell is not as good as it was when you were younger:

• Burnt food – use a timer to prevent food from burning since a diminished sense of smell may make it harder to notice.
• Smoke – check your smoke detectors regularly to make sure they work. People who have hearing loss or cognitive impairment may want to install special smok alarms that use lights or vibration.
• Gas leaks – make sure you have a carbon monoxide detector in your home.
• Spoiled food – check expiration dates and throw out food that’s been in the refrigerator or freezer too long. Learn more about how to keep food safe.
• Household chemicals – always ensure they are stored properly.

Your sense of taste

What we call “flavor” is based on five basic tastes: sweet, salty, bitter, sour, and savory. These flavors — plus the sensations of heat, coolness, and texture — combine inside the mouth to provide a sense of taste. Along with taste, the smell of food is part of what makes up flavor.

When food tastes bland, you might consider adding more flavor, such as herbs, spices, or citrus. Adding more salt or sugar may not be a healthy solution, especially if you have medical problems such as high blood pressure or diabetes (high blood sugar).

If you have lost some of your sense of taste and smell, you may not eat enough nutritious foods to stay healthy. This can lead to other issues such as unintentional weight loss or gain, or malnutrition — not getting the calories, protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals, etc., that you need from food. If you have a problem with how food tastes, be sure to talk with your doctor.

What can cause a loss of taste?

Many factors can cause you to lose your sense of taste. 

• Flu and a common cold can affect how your taste buds work, but they will return to normal once you recover.
• A sudden loss of taste is a symptom that can occur with COVID-19. Most people regain their sense of taste after the other symptoms have gone away. However, if taste doesn’t return, seek medical care as soon as possible.
• If the salivary glands are damaged or aren’t producing enough saliva, this can affect taste. Your doctor can help diagnose and treat salivary gland conditions and other common causes of taste loss.
• Certain medicines, such as antibiotics; antihistamines; and those for high blood pressure, depression, and bladder-control issues, can cause dry mouth. Dry mouth alters the taste of food and can make it hard to swallow. Talk to your doctor about alternative prescriptions if you think a medicine is affecting your sense of taste. Do not stop taking your medicine without first discussing it with your doctor.
• Gum disease, an infection in your mouth, or issues with dentures can leave a bad taste in one’s mouth that changes the way food tastes. Brushing your teeth, flossing, and using mouthwash regularly can help prevent these problems. Talk to your dentist if you have an ongoing bad taste in your mouth.
• Smoking and drinking alcohol can also alter how food tastes. Cutting back or stopping may help.
• People undergoing cancer treatments might have a problem with taste; a normal sense of taste will often return once treatments stop. The NIH National Cancer Institute has a variety of tips on managing cancer treatment side effects that can affect taste and make it hard to eat.
• Brain injuries and some neurologic conditions such as dementia and Parkinson’s can also affect your sense of taste. Discuss any changes of taste with your doctor.

Colors and spices can help

If you’re having trouble smelling and tasting your food, try adding color and texture to make it more interesting. For example, try eating brightly colored vegetables such as carrots, sweet potatoes, broccoli, and tomatoes. Also, if your diet allows, flavor your food with a little olive oil, nuts, or fresh herbs like sage, thyme, or rosemary. To put some zing in your food, add mustard, hot pepper, onions, garlic, ginger, different spices, or lemon or lime juice. Choose foods that appeal to you!

An otolaryngologist: A specialist for smell and taste

If the foods you enjoy don’t smell or taste the way you think they should, talk to your doctor. They might suggest you see a specialist who treats people with smell and taste problems. This kind of doctor is called an otolaryngologist (OH-toh-LAYR-in-GOL-uh-jist), also known as an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) doctor. An otolaryngologist is an expert on problems related to the ear, nose, and throat, as well as the larynx (voice box), mouth, and parts of the neck and face. To determine the cause of your problem, the doctor may ask:

• Can you smell anything at all?
• Can you taste any food?
• When did you first notice the problem?
• Is the problem getting worse?
• Have you been told that you have allergies or chronic sinus problems?
• What medicines do you take?

There are likely ways to help solve the problem. If not, a doctor can help you cope.

To learn more, please visit https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/teeth-and-mouth/how-smell-and-taste-change-you-age.