What Is Art Therapy?

The first thing you need to understand about therapy involving art is how it works and its overall goals. As the name implies, art therapy is the therapeutic use of art for those who suffer from illnesses, trauma or any other kinds of challenges faced in everyday life, such as those that come with aging. It is also used for anyone looking to find some personal development in their lives.

Individuals work with art therapists who have training in both art and therapy and know how to combine the two in creative and constructive ways. With a good relationship with an art therapist, patients can experience several benefits including:

• Coping with traumatic experiences
• Coping with stress
• Dealing with symptoms of diseases or other medical conditions
• Enhancing cognitive abilities, which may be especially beneficial to those dealing with mental afflictions such as dementia
• Enhancing self-awareness as well as awareness of others
• Receiving an affirmation of daily living through creating something with their own hands

Another benefit to this kind of therapy is that even though the work can be done with patients in their own homes, you can also practice in many other locations including nursing homes, rehab facilities, wellness centers and community centres.  In fact, being artistic outdoors can offer a host of positive effects.

Art Therapy for Seniors

While this kind of therapy can be used for patients of all ages, it is especially beneficial for seniors living on their own. Seniors are more likely to suffer from afflictions such as Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia as well as debilitating conditions like arthritis. These conditions may not only be physically painful and uncomfortable, but they can also be demoralizing for someone used to living independently.

Examples of Art Therapy

Art projects such as needlework can help seniors learn to use their hands since this craft tends to be rather easy. Seniors using materials such as felt cloth do not have to become frustrated working on projects that are too difficult. Also, materials such as felt cloth and yarn can be soft on the hands and create a soothing feeling, which may be ideal for someone who experiences pain in the hands or other parts of the body.

Painting and drawing are also calming activities for a senior, and allow for self-expression.  All aspects of a senior’s life can be positively influenced through the process of producing artwork:  emotional, spiritual, physical and mental.

If you work with groups of seniors in places such as senior centres or other locations, this therapy can be a great way to encourage socialization among people who may or may not already know each other. Furthermore, you can look into activities designed specifically for helping dementia patients to strengthen their memory. There are also other forms of art such as dance that may not only spark creativity but also remind seniors of younger days.

For More Information

You can find more information on the benefits of art therapy as well as get ideas for projects. Knowing how various forms of art can affect a senior will help you create projects specifically tailored for your patient. Visit the Canadian Art Therapy Association to learn more about getting in touch with art therapists.

You may also try these for ideas for art therapy and senior care:

art therapy and seniors
arttherapist.ca

What Is Muscular Dystrophy?
Muscular dystrophy tends to affect mostly voluntary muscles, causing them to be overly susceptible to damage. It is also a genetic disease and becomes progressively worse over time as the muscles continue to weaken. However, this disease can affect different parts of the body such as the heart, other organs or involuntary muscles, which means you need to understand which kind of dystrophy your charge has in order to make the correct concessions.

You also need to understand what types of medications your charge may need to slow the effects of the disease, especially since there is no cure. You should also learn to identify the signs and symptoms of dystrophy. Common symptoms of all kinds of muscular dystrophy includes, of course, muscle weakness as well as a lack of coordination, loss of mobility and crippling that results in contractures of the muscles around the joint area.

How Muscular Dystrophy Affects Your Elderly Charge
This condition can affect a senior in different ways depending upon how the disease manifests itself. However, with the weakening of muscles, you can imagine that a senior will have difficulty performing even everyday tasks. You will have to help with the charge’s grooming, providing meals and also running errands for household items and other responsibilities. In some mild cases, you may also find that massage techniques can help ease pain that comes with crippling.

When providing services such as these, you also have to be sensitive toward your charge’s feelings. Many seniors may feel as if they are a nuisance for needing assistance, so it is important to develop a strong rapport with your charge. In other words, you need to understand not only how this disease affects the body but also the charge’s mentality. Of course, you want to consider the extent of the condition.

For instance, if your charge has to use a wheelchair, you want to make sure he or she has easy mobility in the home. Some patients with the extreme condition in which the limbs draw inward and stayed fixed in the position will definitely need more hands on assistance than others. Furthermore, it is crucial that you make sure your charge gets his or her medication on a regular basis to prevent any pain or complications.

Seniors Living with Muscular Dystrophy
Those who have to live with this condition already know that they have to accommodate the way they live their lives toward the limitations the disease causes. However, you need to do whatever you can to make sure your charge still has a good quality of life. Even small gestures such as outings to the park or making sure family members visit regularly can go a long way toward your charge’s well-being.

Even though you are working with your patient on a personal basis, you still need to make sure you have a comprehensive understanding of all nine major forms of dystrophy that can affect all ages. You can find more information about it from reputable health sites and look more into health care for seniors in general so that you give your charge the best care:

www.webmd.com
www.mayoclinic.com
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
www.mda.org
www.aplaceformom.org
www.helpguide.org

True. More than thirty-four million Americans currently suffer from the condition, and many of them are seniors. High cholesterol is defined as any amount that causes an increased chance of heart attack or stroke.
2. True or False? Men and women over the age of sixty-five are more likely to suffer from high cholesterol.

True. Levels are known to rise with age. High cholesterol can also be caused by a number of other conditions more common to seniors, such as type two diabetes and underactive thyroid gland.
3. True or False? Men over the age of 65 are more likely to suffer from high cholesterol than women of the same age?

False. In general, men under the age of 65 have higher levels than women of the same age. When women reach menopause, however, their chances of developing high cholesterol increase dramatically.
4. True or False? Many causes of high cholesterol are preventable.

True. Some of the most common causes can be easily avoided. Smoking cigarettes, eating a diet high in fat, consuming large quantities of alcohol and living a sedentary lifestyle can all contribute to high levels.
5. True or False? If your levels are high, you have only yourself to blame.

False. While many of the causes are avoidable, some people are more prone to the condition than others. Family history plays a large role in high levels. While some people can engage in high-risk activities such as smoking or drinking with no problem, others must be extremely careful.
6. True or False? It is possible to see high cholesterol by looking in the mirror.

True. While extra cholesterol most commonly shows up lining the insides of arteries, some people develop tiny bumps called xanthomas. These reddish-yellow bumps can be found on the eyelids, hands and joints of some high cholesterol sufferers.
7. True or False? All cholesterol is bad.

False. High-density lipoproteins, or HDL, are the proteins that make up good cholesterol. HDL can help prevent conditions such as heart disease and stroke that are often caused by low-density lipoproteins, or LDL.
8. True or False? It is impossible to reverse high LDL levels.

False. There are many things you can do to lower your LDL levels. Quitting smoking, reducing alcohol consumption, increasing exercise, and eating a diet that is low in fat and high in fiber can all improve your levels. Taking the proper medication to control diabetes and low thyroid levels can also help.
9. True of False? When it comes to LDL levels, the lower the better.

False. Healthy LDL levels fall between 140 and 200 milligrams of cholesterol per deciliter of blood. Levels lower than 140 mg carry a number of health risks, including cancer.
10. True or False? There is no quick fix for high cholesterol.

True. Although a number of prescription medications have been proven to help lower LDL levels, none is capable of working entirely on its own. Most people find that a combination of healthy lifestyle practices along with medication is the best way to control their levels.
If you are worried about your LDL levels, please consult your doctor and check out these sites about cholesterol for more information:

http://seniorhealth.about.com/od/heartdisease/a/chole_facts.htm
http://www.seniorcare.net/cholesterol-knowing-the-facts/
http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20317052,00.html

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/hdl-cholesterol/CL00030

For some, this is the extent of their planning. Not many people consider what might happen if they become sick with a chronic illness. Current research shows that chronic illnesses like Alzheimer’s will be become more prevalent over the next 30 years. In fact the Alzheimer Society of Canada predicts that 1.2 million Canadians will suffer from dementia by 2038, which means that the need for long-term care services will increase. Currently, assisted living services can cost up to $50,000 a year. In the next 20 to 30 years, it’s expected that the need and cost for these types of facilities will increase substantially.

But taking time now to plan ahead is key to ensuring that you and your loved-ones won’t become financially burdened if you lose your independence during retirement. Here’s some facts about long term-care insurance:

What is long-term care insurance?

Long-term care insurance protects the insured and their family from financial hardship due to unforeseen medical and/or living expenses related to critical illness, which results in the loss of independence.

How much does it cost and how long would I need to pay?

The cost depends on several factors like your age, health, the insurance provider and the type of policy that you select. Some policies are set up with 20-year or lifetime periods. The actual term of the insurance will depend on the supplier and the policy.

Who’s eligible for this insurance?

Anyone between the ages of 18 and 80 is eligible. However, people in their 40s and 50s should consider including it as part of their retirement plan.

Under what circumstance would I receive a payout from this insurance?

During your retirement, the insurance would payout if you became sick with a chronic illness that prevented you from living independently. This is determined if you are unable to eat, dress, move, use the toilet or bathe by yourself.

What does long-term care insurance cover?

Once it’s been determined that you’re no longer able to live independently, long-term care insurance will help pay for:

• Expert medical advice

• The ability to live at home with in-home and/or respite care

• Assisted living and long-term care facilities

• Senior day-care

How is it paid out?

Long-term insurance pays a tax-free monthly benefit that can be used to pay for any type of service that you choose. There’s no need to submit receipts or wait for approval.

Which policy offers the most appropriate coverage?

The answer depends on your unique situation, says Lucie Lemmond, Financial Representative with Desjardins Financial Security in Hamilton, Ontario. “It is important to review your situation with a professional to ensure you purchase the right coverage for you and your family”.

Poor oral health can lead to several problems for the older generation. Whether a senior receives personal care services or attends to their own personal hygiene, the mouth needs the same amount of attention as the rest of the body.

There are several dental concerns that come with aging. They include:

• Gum disease
• Darkened teeth
• Root decay
• Tooth loss
• Dry mouth
• Stomatitis
• Sense of taste is lessened
• Uneven jawbone
• Thrush

While aging can and will cause some of these health issues, maintaining a regular routine of oral hygiene will help alleviate and postpone some of these problems. Taking medication for other health issues may bring the need to change your routine. This matter can be discussed with your dentist.

The Effect of Poor Oral Health on Seniors

Although the body will naturally change as one gets older, it is still necessary for seniors to take care of their teeth, gums and mouth.  Otherwise, these issues will be more pronounced and uncomfortable.

Gum Disease

Several things cause gum disease. Ill-fitted dentures and bridges, poor diets, plaque, and tobacco products are contributors to this disease. Also, other medical issues like anemia, cancer and diabetes are causes of gum disease.

Darkened Teeth

Darkened teeth are caused by a change in the bone-like tissue under the tooth enamel. The bone-like tissue is called dentin. Stain-causing food and drinks add to this problem after a lifetime of consumption.

Root Decay, Tooth Loss and Uneven Jawbone

Acids cause root decay. The exposure of the teeth to these acids causes the roots to pull away from the teeth. Gum disease is the main cause of tooth loss. Tooth loss causes the uneven jawbone.

Stomatitis and Thrush

The fungus Candida albicans is a medical issue that is caused by poor oral health. Ill-fitted dentures as well as poor dental hygiene cause the fungus to build up. In turn, this results in the inflammation of the tissue beneath the denture.

Thrush is another oral health issue resulting from an affected immune system that is caused by the fungus Candida albicans. Triggered by medications and other diseases, the growth of this fungus affects the immune system.

Dry Mouth

Limited saliva flow is the main culprit in dry mouth. Saliva flow is affected by cancer treatments like radiation used in the head and neck area. Other diseases like Sjögren’s syndrome can also affect the saliva flow.

Lessening of Taste

Aging does bring a lessening of taste to the senior. However, other contributors to this condition include medications as well as diseases and dentures.

Seniors: Now is the Time to Take Charge of Your Oral Health

While aging does bring risks for deteriorating oral health, there are things that you can do to take charge of it.  Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste is a very important and basic step. Use dental floss on a daily basis. This may be a problem for some seniors, such as those with dentures or bridges. However, talk with your dentist regarding specific floss that will accommodate your situation.

A regular visit to your dentist is extremely important. Not only will you be aware of any problems, you will also be able to receive the appropriate care. A regular cleaning cannot be underestimated. The removal of plaque is a major advantage in alleviating at least one cause of gum disease.

A dental exam for seniors will allow the dentist to address any situations you may currently have. Provide the following information to help your dentist help you:

• Last dentist visit and the reason
• Any changes in your mouth
• Any taste challenges
• Any difficulties eating or swallowing
• Any sensitive teeth or loose teeth
• Any lumps, bumps or swelling
• Any discomfort or pain
• Any bleeding
• Any sores

For More Information

Listed below are two websites that are not the only resources available for seniors but they are a great place to begin taking control of your oral health:

Health Canada’s oral health info
Canadian Dental Association – senior info

Pet Therapy Provides Health Benefits to Seniors

Pet therapy can have a very positive effect on a senior.  Studies have shown people who interact with pets have:

• lower blood pressure
• increased levels of the brain chemical serotonin, which also helps in getting more exercise
• less chance of becoming depressed
• decreased anxiety
• decreased pain
• less boredom
• companionship

In fact, according to the findings of one study, within minutes of petting a dog, both the dog and human had increased levels of serotonin.

Social Benefits of Pet Therapy

Seniors have a tendency to withdraw socially, especially those with Alzheimer’s disease, and those living alone.  Often, they do not feel like creating and cultivating new relationships.  Sometimes they also tend to focus on the past.

Pets make great constant companions for seniors, and also increase the frequency and quality of social interactions seniors have.  People who own pets seem to focus more on the here and now, and their hobbies, interests and activities.  These things can lay the groundwork for creating new relationships.

Pet Therapy Can Provide Energy

Animal-assisted therapy can provide the older adult with energy they did not know they even had.   Seniors start to live a more active lifestyle when they have an animal to care for.  Feeding, grooming and playing with an animal can provide them with activities that are less sedentary.   Seniors living alone may be surprised at what they can do to care for their pets.  Performing these tasks to care for their pets can be rewarding and increase life satisfaction and self-esteem.

What Kind of Pets are Therapeutic?

When most people think of pet therapy, they think of dogs, and to a lesser extent, cats.  But animal-assisted therapy can reach much further than your basic dog or house cat.  Studies have shown that even birds and fish can help provide the aforementioned benefits.

What to Consider When Picking a Pet for Therapy

There are several factors that should be considered when helping a senior decide on a pet.  Doing some research and critical thinking will help the relationship be more successful and rewarding for both pet and owner.

Pet type

Consider the energy level and lifestyle of the potential pet owner.  Some seniors will require lower maintenance pets such as birds or fish.  Other seniors can handle more involved pets such as cats or dogs.

Allergies

This is something all potential pet owners should consider.  Some pets have dander to which many people are allergic.  Some pets can track in allergens from the outside such as dust, pollen and mites.  If allergies are a factor, a bird or a fish might be the best choice.

Budget

Not only should a senior consider the cost of their pet, but the cost of monthly or annual care for the pet, as well.  Many seniors are on a fixed income and so introducing a pet needs to be an affordable option.  Food, vet bills, grooming and medications are all associated expenses.

For More Information

With all of the benefits that pet therapy can provide, many seniors living at home alone should consider having a pet.  Choosing the perfect pet for animal-assisted therapy is important for everyone, especially for seniors.  To learn more the positive effect of animals on people, visit Therapeutic Paws of Canada.

Planning Ahead: How Caregivers Prepare for a Patient with Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease is also known as “paralysis agitans” and “shaking palsy”. The disease often begins to manifest in adults over the age of 50, just as people are often looking forward to changes in lifestyle:  when their children are moving on as adults and while they are preparing for retirement. Parkinson’s disease is one of the most common disorders of the nervous system in elderly patients.

The disease exists due to a condition that causes specific cells in the brain that produce dopamine to become progressively destroyed. Dopamine is critical in the brain as it is utilized by brain cells to control muscle movement. Although there is much research underway, no one has yet been able to identify exactly why the disease develops. Since the disease affects muscle activity, most of the symptoms are associated with a lack of muscle control and include:

• Tremors
• Uncontrollable blinking
• Drooling
• Inability to balance
• Difficulty with walking
• Constipation
• Problems swallowing
• Muscle stiffness
• Rigidity
• Decreased reaction time
• Loss of fine motor ability
• Slowed speech

The diagnosis of this disease is often devastating news. It can very hard to come to terms with the prognosis and outlook once diagnosed, given the reality of the quality of life ahead for the patient. Furthermore, it is a diagnosis that involves family members, as they usually will assume the responsibility of assisting the member of the family that has been diagnosed. It alters the life path for sufferers and spouses, partners, adult children, and involved relatives.

Once the reality of the changes that lie ahead settles in, family members need to plan the type of care they will provide to the patient and they will often feel overwhelmed by the prospect. Knowing what to expect and how to properly care for a relative with Parkinson’s disease can help lessen the stress on the caregiver. There are several things caregivers need to know in order to mitigate damage by the disease and help the sufferer make informed decisions about the future.

Parkinson’s Disease and Caregivers: Knowing the Basics

Although there is much that is not known about Parkinson’s, the needs of seniors suffering from it tend to be common across the spectrum. Therefore, knowing the basics of the disease and how to help the sufferer manage the symptoms are the foundations for providing adequate support.

Understand the Symptoms

When caregivers take the time to research and read about the common symptoms associated with Parkinson’s, they can get a better picture of what to expect. This in turn allows the caregiver to help prepare the home environment for what is to come. Small improvements to the home environment can have positive effects on the patient’s quality of life.  This includes creating a comfortable living space with opportunities to assist walking.  Gradually, the caregiver will take on more home support responsibilities as common activities become more difficult due to physical limitations.

Understand the Medications

Since there is currently no cure for the disease, understanding all the different medications that are available to help patients manage their symptoms is important. Medications can greatly improve the quality of life for a patient. Caregivers must also maintain a record of what medications are working and know when they seem to lack effectiveness. 

Understand the Patient

Perhaps the most difficult thing to do but nonetheless the most important is to understand the patient. Every person is different, so the emotional reaction to the disease will vary greatly among suffering individuals. Caregivers may find that the senior with Parkinson’s becomes angry, depressed or frustrated. Stress management is critical because it can exacerbate the condition. Therefore, being supportive, understanding and willing to provide outlets for appropriate physical activity are all ways in which the caregiver can improve a patient’s emotional state.

For More Information

Parkinson Society Canada is a comprehensive resource for caregivers who want to find information and help for themselves. Visit the site to lean more about Parkinson’s disease, medications, living with the disease, and the role of health care professionals.

Why Nutrition Matters

Healthy people lead less stressful lives and recuperate faster following surgery, injuries or illnesses. Inadequate nutrition ages the body and interferes with brain functions. Examples of the negative effects of poor nutrition include:

• sluggish immune systems which increase occurrences of illnesses, flus and colds
• sensory malfunctions which can cause macular degeneration among other problems
• more intense symptoms from chronic diseases, especially diabetes, osteoporosis, cardiovascular problems and cancers

Furthermore, insufficient B vitamins affects memory while skipping meals can cause dizziness and weakness. When seniors fall, they often have injuries or broken bones which can have long-term effects.

Nutritional Requirements for Seniors to Eat Healthy

A quick rule of thumb for healthy eating is fewer calories and more nutrients. Ideally, a proper meal would include:

• 300 to 500 calories per serving
• less than 30% fat
• less than 10% saturated fat
• 30 to 45 g of carbohydrates

There are two related reasons why these numbers are specific to seniors: they get less exercise while their metabolism slows down.

Including five or more servings of fruit and vegetables a day is a great start to healthy eating. Senior citizens need 1200 mg of calcium which can be obtained from foods like yogurt, milk, cheese, kale, almonds, tofu and broccoli. Ideally, 6 to 7 ounces of grains helps the body function better. Doctors believe individuals should have half a gram of protein per pound of body weight. This is easy to calculate by dividing an individual’s weight in half.

A Changing Body Requires a Changing Diet

Aging, medications and smoking interfere with proper digestion and nutrient absorption. These issues make healthy eating necessary. Natural body changes include dehydration and vitamin B and vitamin D deficiencies.

As the body loses some of its ability to regulate water, individuals become dehydrated. As people age, their sense of thirst diminishes and seniors often don’t realize they need more liquids.  Vitamin B becomes more difficult to absorb; 2.4 mcg is the recommended dosage.  Finally, the skin does not absorb sunrays as easily, resulting in increased vitamin D requirements.

Restaurant Dining Can Provide Healthy Eating for Seniors

Eating out with friends is life extending. When good food and companionship are combined, stress is released.  Individuals relax and enjoy the occasion. Choosing meals is easy with the following process:

• read the menu, and ask wait staff any questions
• ask for senior portions
• inquire about sodium content
• select grilled, baked or broiled options whenever possible
• order smaller portions or take home half the meal
• avoid breadsticks and rolls
• choose clear broth soups for fewer calories
• substitute salads for potatoes or pasta

Many restaurants provide nutritional information for healthy eating.  Below are some examples of restaurants that provide healthy eating options.

• Baton Rouge has a 16 ounce serving of barbecued pork back ribs containing 1480 mg of sodium and 122 g of fat. A 14 ounce serving of pork chops has 220 mg of sodium and 44 g of fat.
• Earls offers prawn dynamite rolls at only 445 cal with 500 mg of fat.
• Milestones Bar and Grill makes tomato basil brown rice spaghetti with 690 mg of sodium and 26 g of fat.
• Boston Pizza, or BP as it is known in Edmonton, Alberta, has a Deluxe Pizza with 2690 mg of sodium or a Szechuan Pizza with only 210 mg salt and 2 g of fat.

Getting the right nutrients keeps bodies and minds active.  Healthy eating is easy to do with awareness and planning. Making wise choices when dining out doubles the pleasure. People feel great while they are eating and afterwards, as well.

For More Information

Here are some lists of Canadian restaurants that offer some healthy dining options:

www.besthealthmag.ca/eat-well/healthy-eating/canadas-healthiest-restaurants
www.traveltowellness.com/canadahealthyrestaurants
www.huffingtonpost.ca/2012/03/30/eating-out-healthy

And here are 85 Tips & Strategies for Dining Out for healthy eating.

Stages of Grief

Although death is an inevitable and natural part of life, healing from the aftermath of a loss can be a very difficult process. During the several stages of grief, seniors greatly benefit from support. According to the Kübler-Ross model, the five stages of grief are:

• Denial
• Anger
• Bargaining
• Depression
• Acceptance

These stages are not presented in order of occurrence. Grief is the experience of loss and these stages are manifested as the mourning process.

The Power of Support:  Companion Care for Grieving Seniors

Everyone does not grieve the same way but seniors are particularly vulnerable at this time. When providing companion care for seniors, taking the right approach is a fundamental part of helping them get through this period.  Information about death, the grieving process and how to help seniors during this time can make a big difference in their recovery.

No one really wants to grieve alone and that is one reason why home care is so important for seniors. Communication may not be easy for them at this emotional time, and processing how they feel about losing a spouse or close friend can be a challenge. Caregivers may find that the road during this process can be very difficult. Caregiving is a very challenging position. It can be very tiring emotionally, physically, mentally and spiritually.

Steps To Take When Supporting a Senior with Grief

When a senior experiences loss, he or she may exhibit behaviours that are uncharacteristic of his or her personality.  Support may initially require keeping some distance until the mourner is more accepting of companionship.  The following steps will help prepare a caregiver to gradually extend support.

Understanding

A caregiver needs to understand the toll that the emotional part of grieving will have on the senior experiencing loss.  While everyone who grieves has their own way of coping, there are common feelings that are to be expected during this sensitive time.

Patience

With understanding comes patience. Some seniors may experience an unrealistic burst of independence in response to their loss as a way to deal with the closeness to mortality. Others may suffer depression as a totally opposite response.

Communication

Acknowledging the reality of the situation with the senior experiencing loss can open the door to communication. Express your concern and that you are there for support. It may be necessary to repeat this if they become withdrawn.

It is really important to understand that aging is a part of life. However, there are aspects of being a senior that are inherent. Being closer to mortality is uncomfortable. Relationships become very important to seniors who have made deep connections throughout their journey. When they experience loss from death, the emotions can seem so overwhelming. Knowledge is important. However, knowledge without understanding, loving care and patience is moot. Senior care is a vital service that can provide the necessary support to a senior who might otherwise not have any other support system.

For Your Information

The Canadian Mental Health Association outlines a different perspective on the stages of grief.

Why Should Senior Caregivers Learn CPR?

CPR becomes necessary when the heart stops beating or a person stops breathing. The process keeps the oxygenated blood circulating in the body.  This life-saving technique helps to maintain the life of the person until emergency assistance arrives.

Examples of situations that may call for performing CPR on a senior are smoke inhalation, a heart attack, an asthma attack or no pulse. Accidents like falling down stairs can also present a critical situation. High blood pressure is another medical condition that might necessitate CPR. These are situations that can happen at home, so being capable to respond quickly is paramount.

How Caregivers Become Certified in CPR

Training for CPR can be acquired from several resources. It is a skill learned by taking an accredited first-aid training course. The Canadian Red Cross is a common organization that provides training on how to perform CPR and use of the AED (automated external defibrillator).

Another resource, a DVD course provided by Safetycare, is available to receive training. This particular training resource does not provide certification. However, the information and training is based on the 2010/2011 safety guidelines. The program covers the following areas:

• Basic life support procedure
• Performing CPR procedures on an adult
• Procedures for delivering Rescue Breaths
• Procedures for delivering chest compressions
• Procedures for using the Automated External Defibrillator (AED)
• CPR with two rescuers
• Rescuer health and hygiene

The procedures outlined above cover all the necessary processes involved in performing CPR.  The cost of these classes is minimal compared to the value of the training.

It is essential to learn CPR from sources that are authorities on the techniques.  Since there is a narrow window of time to effectively perform CPR, proper techniques can make a big difference.  In addition, CPR involves techniques that can create more harm than assistance if not properly performed, such as chest compressions.  When a life is at stake, confidence in your abilities leads to greater successes.

Knowledge of CPR cannot be underestimated when it comes to home care for seniors. The window of five to ten minutes once breathing stops is critical. Instead of waiting for an emergency responder to help a senior who needs CPR, a caregiver with the necessary training can make a vital difference. If you are responsible for a senior’s well-being, this is a very significant part of that responsibility.

For More Information

March is Red Cross Month across Canada, so it is the perfect opportunity to either brush up on your CPR skills, or consider training.  Below are links to resources to learn more about CPR and where to find training.

Public Health Agency of Canada
Canadian Red Cross
Safetycare DVD info