askthedoctor Time to Move M
Military families are always on the move. Later in life, they often look for stability and settle in one location for the duration. As time passes, however, mowing the grass all summer becomes less excit- ing, then more challenging. Going upstairs becomes noticeable exercise and, at some point, nearly impossible. Driving to the local store for groceries might no longer be safe. Change usually occurs gradually, with
good days and bad days. Many might be unaware (or embarrassed) their needs have changed. Others likely are unsure what to do. Signs of aging vary from person to per- son and even between spouses. For some, the primary issue is mobility. For others, it is memory and cognitive function. The key is to recognize when an older person’s liv- ing situation is becoming unsafe. The fi rst step is to be vigilant. Children
Security Is an Issue Older people often be- come targets for crime, for everything from overt burglary or robbery to more subtle swindles.
and grandchildren often are the fi rst to no- tice changes in parents and grandparents — they might receive fewer letters (or emails), or letters might include sentences that are incomplete or incoherent; phone calls might come irregularly or at odd hours; or birthdays might go unnoticed. During vis- its, the usual homemade cookies might be absent or the refrigerator near-empty; the standard of housekeeping might have dete- riorated; or parents might complain about getting lost when driving.
Sometimes a community service such
as meals-on-wheels is all it takes for some- one to stay in his or her home. Part-time or full-time assistance with meals, clean-
48 MILITARY OFFICER JULY 2011
Few people want to leave their homes and move to more protected environments, but as we age, our housing needs change. By Rear Adm. Joyce Johnson, D.O.
ing, and transportation is another option. A weekly or monthly medication box and help organizing daily medications can im- prove medication compliance and reduce medical emergencies. A daily phone call to check in also might be helpful. Sometimes a more signifi cant change in living is needed. Levels of care range from independent to complete care, with costs usually higher for more compre- hensive care. Independent-living apart- ments typically provide at least one meal, with individual cooking options for other meals. Assisted living usually provides all meals and various daily activities. Nursing homes are reserved for those who need specifi c care for medical problems. It’s best to transition to another living situation before a crisis arises. If you are older and your spouse’s health is worsen- ing, begin planning now. Visit local fa- cilities, and start downsizing. If you have aging parents or grandparents, recognize other housing options might be needed at some point. Be supportive and under- standing if you meet reluctance or resis- tance; in the end, let safety be the deciding factor. Once people have adjusted to a new environment, they often appreciate the re- lief from past responsibilities.
MO
— Rear Adm. Joyce Johnson, USPHS-Ret., D.O., M.A., is vice president, Health Sciences, Battelle Memorial Institute, Arlington, Va. Find more health and wellness resources at www
.moaa.org/wellness. For submission information, see page 18.
PHOTO: STEVE BARRETT
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