Senior health update: Swine flu and more

July 3, 2:26 AMSF Senior Care ExaminerLiz Macera

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H1N1 virus

 H1N1 Swine Influenza

 Are seniors immune to the H1N1 influenza (Swine flu)?
Older adults are typically more vulnerable to influenza infection; however, the H1N1 influenza seems to be an exception. Although the H1N1 virus is newly discovered, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports that approximately 30% of those over age 60 have antibodies that help them resist infection. H1N1 influenza has multiple components that are similar to known influenza viruses. Scientists surmise that a similar influenza virus may have circulated decades ago, conferring immunity to those exposed to it at that time.

Does this mean that seniors will not get the virus? Not at all. There is no easy way to tell who is immune and who is not. As with any other flu virus, infection with H1N1 carries risk of serious illness or death. Although the H1N1 appears to infect seniors less often, it may be more deadly when it does. The Associated Press reports that the average age of swine flu patients is 12, the average age for hospitalized patients is 20, and for people who died 37 (http://bulletin.aarp.org/yourhealth/diseases/articles/us_swine_flu_cases.html). However, seniors have about a 2% death rate—the highest of any group.

Californians continue to acquire the infection. As of June 25, the California State Health Department reported 14 cases and no deaths in San Francisco. As of July 2 the Centers for Disease Control reports 1,985 Californians infected and 21 have died. Seniors must take the usual precautions of frequent hand washing, avoiding those who are infected, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle

For more information about H1N1 Influenza go to http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/qa.htm
California State Health Department http://www.cdph.ca.gov/data/statistics/Pages/H1N1FluData.aspx

What is a pandemic?

Do canes and walkers help prevent falls?

Falls are a major cause of injury and disability in seniors. Assistive devices such as canes and walkers often help seniors with mobility problems; however, a recent study shows that they can also precipitate falls. Scientists reviewed emergency room data on nearly 4,000 seniors and found the incidence of falls significantly higher in those using a walker or cane compared to those who do not use a device. Those who used a walker reported five times as many falls from tripping than from slipping.

While it might seem obvious that people who are using a walker or a cane might be more likely to fall, this study questions whether the devices really prevent them. The authors surmise that the design of walker and canes for seniors should be studied and improvements made so they are more effective in preventing falls.

If you have poor balance or an unstable gait, seek the advice of a physical therapist (PT). PTs can make recommendations for an assistive device that is appropriate, assure that the device is properly fitted, and teach you how to use it. You may need a referral from your health care provider (doctor, physician or nurse practitioner) to consult with a PT.

To read the study go here:
http://www3.interscience.wiley.com/cgibin/fulltext/122465099/PDFSTART
For more information on preventing falls-San Francisco Health Department
Handout on preventing falls
http://www.sfdph.org/dph/comupg/knowlcol/HealthInfo/FallPrevInsert.asp
Community and home injury prevention project for seniors
http://www.sfdph.org/dph/comupg/oprograms/CHPP/Injury/CHIPPS.asp

Keeping your brain active

Lifelong learning helps keep your thinking sharp. Here are two activities to consider.

Strategies for improving your memory

Los Gatos Recreation's 55+ Program will host a lecture on memory strategies as part of Good Samaritan Hospital Rehabilitation Services Speaker’s Bureau program. Speech Therapist Kristine Welch, who works specifically with people with memory deficits, will present. Her lecture will include the following:

• what affects memory loss?
• how to use memory aids, such as checklists and calendars,
• exercising your memory.

Admission is FREE
Wednesday, July 15, 2009 at 1PM
208 E. Main Street in Los Gatos
For more information, call (408) 354-2360.

Art Museum Program comes to the Alameda County Library

The Asian Art Museum in San Francisco will sponsor the Emerald Cities: Arts of Siam and Burma, 1775-1950 exhibit from October 23, 2009 to January 10, 2010. To introduce you to this work, the Alameda County libraries will host docent-lead presentations on the historical, cultural, and artistic aspects of the exhibit. The Friends of the Library will provide refreshments and all locations are wheelchair accessible. For sign language interpreter or other accommodations, please contact branch library at least 7 working days prior to the event.
All programs begin at 1:30 p.m. Admission is FREE.

• Wednesday, July 15 - SAN LORENZO Library, 395 Paseo Grande 510-670-6283
• Thursday, July 23 - DUBLIN Library, 200 Civic Plaza  925-828-1315
• Thursday, August 6 - ALBANY Library, 1247 Marin Ave. 510-526-3720
• Tuesday, August 18 - NEWARK Library, 6300 Civic Terrace Ave. 510-795-2627
• Thursday, August 20 - CASTRO VALLEY Library, 20055 Redwood Rd. 510-670-6280
•  Wednesday, September 16 - UNION CITY Library, 34007 Alvarado-Niles Rd. 510-745-1464
•  Wednesday, September 23 - FREMONT MAIN Library, 2400 Stevenson Blvd. 510-745-1401