It never ceases to prove out the frailty of some elders!! Start listening to your parents, co-workers, neighbors, or friends any time they relate a story regarding an elder that is hospitalized. Last month, my 84yr old, Aunt Louise (in her5th year of dementia) became very ill. Her daughter, a nurse, took her to run errands that morning and to lunch and all seemed normal. By 5pm, Aunt Louise had a 104 temperature and was barely arousable. My cousin could not even get her to stand to get to the car. She had to call 911 for emergency transport to the hospital. Well, Aunt Louise was admitted to the hospital with a Urinary Tract Infection---Now imagine this --millions of women get similar infections and don't wind up in the ER. So, what happened to Aunt Louise'? When we age and become frail our immune system does not respond to infections as when we were younger and stronger-- The Frail elderly may become very sick, very quickly as Aunt Louise did. Aunt Louise became very confused from the infection and antibiotics, enough that we could not leave her alone. Left to herself she would have tried to get up out of bed to go to the bathroom or get something to eat, etc. as she has done for 84 years. She was not able to comprehend what was happening or where she was. So to prevent a fall, a fracture, sedation or restraints we chose to remain with her around the clock. On day two, Aunt Louise was slightly better, however so weak she could not even stand. We knew if we did not get her up and moving that they would be discharging her and she would not be able to care for herself. This is what happens every day in hospitals. If you do not play a very active role in the care of the frail elderly-- upon discharge they are sent to Nursing Homes for rehab. So, we got Aunt Louise up ourselves. We worked her legs, actually lifting them up, doing knee bends for her, making her move her feet. We did this for twenty minutes every two hours during the day. By evening, she was able to stand with help. We stood her for a few seconds, eventually getting to a few minutes. On day three we asked the nurse for a walker and we walked and walked. On day four, Aunt Louise was discharged home. Had the family not taken an active role, Aunt Louise would have been sent to a nursing facility for several weeks -just because she was never exercised. So, how can I help you care for your frail elderly family member' CLICK HERE Dedicateted to Eldercare Nurse Alice http://www.AskNurseAlice.com
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