The Benefits of Earlier Palliative Care

An article from Scientific American cites findings from several studies showing how palliative services started earlier in patient care, rather than the current practice of late in the course of the disease, may offer important benefits. However, before this care option can be more widely implemented, there needs to be an increase in patients’ access to outpatient palliative services. Experts also say work needs to be done with correcting the misconception that palliative care is only for end-of-life situations.  

Palliative care focuses on maintaining the highest quality of life while managing treatment and other needs. It has expanded to include multidisciplinary services such as the physical, psychological and spiritual needs of patients and their families. This differs from hospice care which specifically focuses on the period closest to death. Hospice care is limited to comfort care without curative intent as the patient no longer has curative options or has chosen not to pursue treatment because the side effects outweigh the benefits. 

The National Institute of Health explains palliative care is currently most often started late in patients with life-threatening conditions, particularly in patients with advanced cancer. However, they too cite real life studies indicating an early palliative care (EPC) paradigm can give patients a better quality of life. 

The benefits of the supportive services provided with earlier palliative care have been shown to not only help control patients’ symptoms and provide pain care but address other problems. These include depression and anxiety as well as a reduction in the number of trips to the hospital. One study found patients suffering from COPD, heart failure or lung disease that received telehealth visits showed an improved quality of life that continued for months after the calls concluded. Medical professionals say since there is a limited amount of outpatient palliative services currently available; they recommend patients with the most severe symptoms should receive the care. 

MorningStar at Jordan is a graciously appointed senior living community located in historic Centennial in the south-central area of Metro Denver.  We proudly offer private assisted living suites in a variety of floor plans.  In addition, our distinct Reflections Neighborhood provides compassionate memory care for those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.  Please contact us to learn more about our amenities, care services, availability and pricing.   

MorningStar’s foundation is based on the mission to honor God, value seniors and invest in our staff to create a unique senior living experience.  Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide the finest assisted living and memory care in Centennial, Colorado.  Please contact us or visit our website for more information. 

Help Protect Yourself From Falling

Many of us have heard about or know a senior who has had a fall that led to a serious injury. Each year statistics report one out of every five falls causes an injury, such as broken bones or a head injury; and approximately 3 million older adults are treated in emergency departments for a fall injury. Falls resulted in over 38,000 senior deaths in 2021. 

The Harvard Medical School reports the highest risk factor for a fall is a previous fall. While a senior may have fallen or tripped and not thought much about it, as they only twisted an ankle or didn’t sustain a serious injury, the event may be a precursor to another fall. 

There are things seniors can do to protect themselves from a fall and it starts by being aware of any risk factors you may have including vision and hearing problems, which can make a fall more likely. Experts say stiff joints can hamper your gait and balance and make it easier to fall, as do certain medications for blood pressure and antihistamines. As a deficiency in vitamin D decreases a person’s bone mineral density and strength of the bones, it too can cause instability and raise the risk for a fall. Experts report even something as unrelated as a head cold or the flu can cause dizziness and increase your risk.  

To help boost core strength and improve balance, talk to your healthcare provider about the best type of exercises to do. Other steps to decrease the likelihood of a fall are to keep moving to loosen stiff joints and help build strength, wear sensible shoes and remove home hazards. Finally make sure your home has plenty of good lighting.  

At MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Jordan, our community is designed to accommodate our residents’ every need and to see to their comfort as well as their safety.  Each of our suites is equipped with a 24-hour emergency call system and handicap-accessible bathroom. We also recognize the importance of exercising, and as such, provide a full calendar of activities that includes a variety of exercise programs.  Visit our website to see what sets our community apart from other senior living communities and why MorningStar is a great place to call home.

MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003.  We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us to learn more about one of the finest senior living communities in Centennial, CO.