Naren Somadev, Author at Information Centre for Seniors

There are activities and fun board games for older adults even if they have physical or cognitive limitations like arthritis or early stages of dementia. It’s more about spending time together, enjoying it and being a part of an activity.

Pallanguzhi (also known as a Cup and Coin Game, Vamanaguntalu, Mancala, Olinda Kaluja, Aliguli Mane, Adu-Guni Mane, Chenne Mane, Saat Kooti, Kutki-Boia) is perfect for seniors to enjoy with family and friends. Although seniors enjoy this game, we must be careful not to overdo it. Look for signs of fatigue and give it a break to keep seniors from getting too tired.

This is played on a wooden board with 14 cups in it, this is a game of distribution and counting. Variations of the game appeal to different ages and make it challenging and exciting.

Develops excellent math skills and fine motor skills
Helps to build memory
Believed to be therapeutic for those with arthritic fingers

Pallankuzhi – Rules of the Game

1. Aim of the game: To capture the most seeds. The Game is played in pairs with each player taking one side of the board.
2. Start: Place five seeds in each cup (Fig 1)

Figure -1
PLAYER-1

PLAYER-2
Round 1:
PLAYER 2 lifts the seeds from any cup on his side of the board and distributes one seed in each cup. When the player drops the last seed, s/he takes the seeds from the next cup and continues dropping them around the board including the opponent’s side. (Fig 2)

Figure-2

If the last seed falls into a cup with an empty cup beyond, Player 2 collects the seeds next to the empty cup and that ends his turn. (Figs 3 and 4)
Figure-3

Figure-4

PLAYER-1 plays the same way, starting from any of the cups on his side and goes round the board distributing the seeds in the cups.
If the last seed falls into a cup with two empty cups beyond, he collects no seeds and his turn is over.
3.Winning:
The round is over when a player has no seeds on his side to start his turn. At this point, the winner could be determined based on the number of seeds in the stores. Or else continue playing until one player’s store is exhausted. (Fig 5)

Figure-5

Pallanguzhi from Kreeda

While Pallanguzhis were traditionally made of wood, our current need is to conserve forests and trees. The new Pallanguzhi from Kreeda is made from MDF (Medium Density Fibreboard). This is a type of hardboard, which is made from wood fibres glued under heat and pressure. It can be made from almost any scrap wood that is normally of limited value.
So when you buy an environment friendly Pallanguzhi from Kreeda, you are doing your bit toward conserving the environment.

IMPORTANT – KREEDA uses game pieces (small white stone) instead of seeds but the rules of the game remain the same

Where to buy?

We recommend ‘The Old is Gold Store’, speciality Store offering an assortment of products & services exclusive to senior citizens. Apart from the above, you will find several products that make your older adult’s life easier.

Senior Care

7 Ways to Help the Elderly Recover from Surgery

By Naren Somadev on Wednesday, December 5, 2018

Going through a surgery can be tough on anyone, but for older adults, it is even more difficult. This is because seniors are at a higher risk of complications during and after surgery. So, it’s important that seniors get proper post-surgery care. The potential issues facing elderly patients are generally age related and they heal more slowly. This means that the period of recovery is going to be longer.

Good news is that there are products available that not only promote faster healing but also makes life easier. We recommend 7 devices that helps to make post-surgery a better experience for seniors. All these devices are not only useful for post-surgery recovery but also useful for general well-being of seniors.

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Wheelchairs

There are multi-purpose wheelchairs that can also be used as a shower chair and commode. This means no more having to transfer patients from wheelchair to commode chair to bath chair and back, since this meets all the requirement. Remember, wheelchairs make it easier to get around the house and benefit their recovery.

Adjustable Backrest

For a person who is recovering from surgery and likely to spend a lot of time in bed, this adjustable backrest helps to convert a fixed bed into a bed with adjustable headboard. Allows the person lying on the bed to adjust the angle so as to be more comfortable while reading, watching TV or eating.

Air Beds

Post surgery patients remain in bed for long hours. They tend to develop bed sores also known as pressure ulcers which are not only painful but can lead to infection and other complications. Active airbeds with pumps such as this one help in the prevention of bed sores. The bed is to be used on top of a regular mattress. The air bed contains air cavities which fill up alternately in a 5 – 6-minute cycle. This results in the weight of the body being borne by different parts of the mattress at different times, ensuring that no part of the body is constantly in touch with the mattress. This allows for proper air circulation to all parts of the body and prevents the formation of bed sores.

Orthopaedic Leg Support

While an elevated leg support promotes healing, improperly elevating the legs can have negative effects. To avoid this use a specially designed orthopaedic leg support that supports knees, legs, and heel while reading, sitting or sleeping without strain. It provides relief from knee stiffness, sciatic leg pain, restless sleep, and insomnia. This is the only Orthopaedic appliance which is ideal for preventing varicose veins, swollen ankles, phlebitis and edema.

Compact Bed-top Table

This is particularly useful for seniors who spend long hours in bed. This compact bed top allows them to read/write/eat in bed. It is 100% portable, fold-able and can be used as over bed dining, laptop & study table. It is durable and compact design for quick set-up and has strong plastic handle for carrying when folded.

Compression socks

Varicose Vein Stockings provide controlled compression to the legs to squeeze the veins thereby ensuring the normal back flow of blood towards the heart. As a result, blood is forced along its natural course up the leg despite the damage to the veins (since a fluid flows from a higher-pressure area to a lower pressure area).

Personal Care Products

Hygiene is very important to prevent infection, especially after a surgery. There are several products that helps to maintain hygiene in those with limited mobility and the bed ridden. These include adult diapers, wet wipes, examination gloves, silicon sheet to cover bed for patients with incontinence, urine cans and bed pans.

Where to source these products?

Sourcing all these can become a daunting task, check out ‘The Old is Gold Store’, speciality Store offering an assortment of products & services exclusive to senior citizens. Apart from the above, you will find several products that make your older adult’s life easier.

Alzheimer’s Caregivers Senior Care

3 mobility devices that will help seniors be safe

By Naren Somadev on Thursday, November 22, 2018

One of the worst fear caregivers have is that of seniors falling. Falls can lead to serious injuries and sometimes be fatal. Keeping seniors independent can be challenging, especially if they resist making changes. Many seniors are not willing to consider mobility devices that keeps them safe.

It’s important that you discuss mobility issues with your loved ones. Be calm, non-judgmental and don’t force the issue, instead help them understand consequences of a fall. We are all aware that as seniors get older, they will need help moving around. Here are 3 mobility devices that will help them be safe.

Canes / Walkers – Canes and walkers are some of the most popular mobility devices. These devices not only help in maintaining a healthy posture but also helps seniors with general weakness or balance issues.
Wheelchairs – Wheelchairs are of different types primarily attendant & self-propelled. A self-propelled is equipped with large wheels with an outer push ring that allows users to propel & navigate the wheel chair using their arms. An attendant wheel chair comes with a smaller set of wheels with handles for an attendant to push the wheelchair around.
Rollators – Rollators are walkers with a seat for elders who require balance support as well as a place to sit down when they feel weary. Rollators are especially useful when going for walks in safe places like malls and gated communities.

For more information : https://www.oldisgoldstore.com/home-by-condition-mobility-issues

Caregivers Dementia Senior Care

6 Great ideas for a dementia-friendly bathroom

By Naren Somadev on Monday, November 12, 2018

Most seniors find the bathroom difficult to navigate, and for elders with dementia, it can be quite a challenge. There are too many things going on in a very limited space; hot & cold water taps, shiny tiles, wet and slippery surfaces, all add to the confusion. Here are a few ideas to keep your bathroom dementia-friendly.

1. Raised toilet seat

A typical western closet is about 16″ in height. This is very low for many seniors and they find it very difficult to sit down and get up from the toilet seat independently. The toilet raiser is an easy solution. It is easy to install and provides additional height. Made of good grade plastic, the raiser comes with a lid and simple clamps to hold it firmly in place. Easy to clean, extremely hygienic and comfortable. Usually comes in 3 heights and fits most western closets.

Alternatively, you can opt for a foam toilet raiser that can be fitted on top of an existing toilet seat. Unlike other toilet raisers, this is softer and hence more friendly on the soft skin of elders. Provides 4″ elevation that makes it easy to sit down and get up from the western commode. Has appropriate depression for coccyx (tail bone) relief as well as depression in the front for easy cleaning access. The bright colour also helps seniors with dementia to easy identify the closet. BUY NOW

2. Contrasting toilet seat

If you are not opting for a raised toilet seat, consider adding a toilet seat which is bright or contrasting to rest of the fixtures to draw attention to it. This way, seniors with dementia can easily notice it and navigate without any problem.

3. Toilet Safety Frame

Toilet Safety Frame is a device that can be easily fitted to your existing toilet. It features two handles that make getting up and sitting on the toilet an easier & safer task. Toilet safety frame is versatile and the height adjusting mechanism makes it suitable for all types of toilets. The free-standing frame fits around your toilet seat with back bar in front of your toilet tank. No need to modify your bathroom. Folds for easy storage and portable for travel. BUY NOW

4. Install a bidet

bidet

A bidet is a device that gets attached to your commode and helps one clean oneself without having to use hands. A bidet is ideal for people who have limited mobility or dexterity in their hands. Senior citizens who have frozen shoulders, shoulder fractures, strokes, severe arthritis or dementia may find it difficult to wash themselves.

A bidet can help them remain independent and at the same time maintain hygiene. Most of the bidets sold here require very little plumbing work and no masonry work. Designed in Japan, the manual bidets require no external power and work entirely based on the water pressure coming from the overhead tank. BUY NOW

5. Install Grab Bars

Toilet safety aids like grab bars greatly reduce the risk of accidents. Grab bars are not only inexpensive but also easy to install. Grab bars gives elders something sturdy to hold onto while they sit or stand. Bathroom grab bars can also be angled or L-shaped. The most typical sizes for straight grab bars are 12″, 16″, 18″, 24″ and 32″. BUY NOW

6. Label hot and cold faucets

This is something basic but will go a long way in helping people with dementia. Clearly label the hot and cold water taps, as shown in the picture.

For more information on exclusive products for seniors – https://www.oldisgoldstore.com/

Caregivers Senior Care

Gift ideas for parents who have everything

By Naren Somadev on Thursday, November 1, 2018

Festive season is just around the corner and it’s time to figure out what you should gift your parents this year. The question is what do you get your parents who already have everything?

Elderly parents don’t need or want gifts to put on their shelves or coffee tables…just adds to the clutter. Nor do they want a kitchen aid, clothes or shopping coupons. Parents usually claim they have everything they need, but that’s not entirely true because when it comes to their safety and comfort, they tend to take it lightly.

We’ve come up with 7 Diwali gift ideas for parents who have everything that will not only put a smile on their faces but also ensure their safety and comfort.

#1 COMODITA Prima Special Rollator Walker with exclusive 16 inch wide, ultra-comfortable orthopedic seat.

This rollator is a walker with a seat for elders who require balance support as well as a place to sit down comfortably anywhere. Especially useful when going for walks in safe places like malls and gated communities. The modern design and sturdy construction of the Comodita Prima Special Rolling Walker make it one of the safest walkers on the market. The exclusive 16″ wide orthopedic seat makes it ultra-comfortable, ideal for users that enjoy resting between walks. – BUY NOW!

#2 MOBILITA Walking Stick/Tripod With Swivel Base

Height adjustable, high-grade aluminium walking stick with tripod base and L-shaped handle. The base also swivels ensuring that the base is firmly placed on the ground irrespective of the angle of pressure or angle of the surface. Provides superior grip and comfort. For regular use, for people with minor balance issues and weak legs. BUY NOW!

#3 MOBILITA Raised Toilet Seat with Lid

A typical western closet is about 16″ in height. This is very low for many seniors and those with recent knee surgery. So, they find it very difficult to sit down and get up from the toilet seat.

The toilet raiser is a easy to install device that can provide additional height. Besides, this is made of good grade plastic. Also, the raiser comes with a lid and simple clamps to hold it firmly in place. Easy to clean, extremely hygienic and comfortable. Comes in 3 heights (2”, 4”, 6”) and fits most western closets. BUY NOW!

#4 MOBILITA Extra-Wide Comfortable and Adjustable Backrest

This is an adjustable backrest to put on the bed so that the person reclining can sit up at various angles. This can help people with reflux, breathing difficulties or for people to have good back support while reading, working, watching TV or eating in bed. BUY NOW!

#5 Squatty Potty Style Stool for Western Commode – Height Adjustable

This is a wonderful stool to enable those using a western closet to sit at the right angle for easiest evacuation. Also, this is a well manufactured product with two pieces, one fitting on top of the other to provide two heights, namely 7″ and 9″.

It is very similar to the award-winning squatty potty. BUY NOW!

#6 Swivel Seat for Car

Do you or your elderly relatives find it difficult to get off the car seat? This unique cushion swivels 360 degrees to make it easy to get in and out of any car. The foam cushion sits on a turntable base so you can swivel sideways to get in or out of the seat without straining your back or hips. Lightweight and portable. BUY NOW!

#7 Anti-Slip Safety Mat for Wet Areas Standard Size (2.5ft X 1.5ft)

The bathroom is one of the most accident-prone areas in the house. Especially in India where most bathrooms and toilets are perennially wet. This anti-slip mat is similar to the mats used around swimming pools to help wet areas stay slip-free.

Besides, there are large gaps to allow free flow of water, the anti-slip mat remains dry on the top ensuring dramatic reduction in the possibility of slipping.

Available in standard size of 2.5 ft x 1.5 ft. BUY NOW!

Caregivers Senior Care Useful Information

Workshop on Incontinence

By Naren Somadev on Tuesday, February 2, 2016

The management of Old is Gold Store; Prithvi, Jaya and Sanjay felt the need to address the long neglected topic of understanding and managing incontinence (bladder weakness) among the senior citizens of our community. This led to the idea of organizing a workshop on incontinence for the benefit of elders and medical professionals. In January 2016, they organized a free workshop for senior citizens called “Bladder weakness (incontinence) – coping with ageing issues”.

“I believe a lot of elders are embarrassed to talk about incontinence, leave alone actively try and find a solution. By avoiding and neglecting this issue, the caregivers’ burden grows and their loved one suffers,” Prithvi said.

“We want to help elders understand and cope with incontinence with some of our products designed to provide comfort and relief,” Sanjay said.

This workshop addressed incontinence issues and solutions and was sponsored by M/s. Bella Premier Happy Hygienecare Pvt. Ltd, the makers of Seni Brand of Adult Diapers. The workshop was held on Thursday, Jan. 07 from 2:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Natesan Institute of Co-operative Management (NICM), Anna Nagar.

The key speakers were Dr. Kalaivani Ramalingam MBBS,DGO, MRCOG, CCT(UK), Consultant Urogynaecologist, Chennai Urology Clinic, Apollo Hospitals who spoke about “Incontinence – understanding the change” and Mr. Jerzy Jusiega (Seni, Poland) who spoke about “Incontinence – management: the easy hygienic way”.

Ms.Jayashree – Director, Old is Gold Store, welcoming the guests.

Ms.Jayashree, Director, Old is Gold Store welcomed the packed audience and introduced both the speakers. She also outlined the vision behind Old is Gold Store and the need to address issues involved with Geriatric Care.

Dr. Kalaivani Ramalingam, spoke about “Incontinence – understanding the change”

Dr.Kalaivani’s presentation highlighted the problems faced by elders, both male and female. The presentation with accompanying slides was explained in layman’s terms in both English and Tamil for the benefit of the audience. The presentation lasted about 30 minutes and was followed by a Q&A session. Dr. Kalaivani Ramalingam answered all the questions put to her by the audience with patience and clarity. This was well received by the audience who were happy to have their questions clarified.

Participants at the workshop

View Dr.Kalaivani’s presentation on YouTube

Mr. Jerzy Jusiega SENI, Poland demonstrates the use of incontinence support products.

The next presentation was by Mr. Jerzy Jusiega (SENI Adult Diapers, Poland) who spoke about “Incontinence – management: the easy hygienic way”. Mr. Jerzy Jusiega highlighted various incontinence products developed by SENI, Poland. He stressed the need to choose the right diaper and demonstrated how to take measurements. He also gave information on the latest technology used by SENI to manufacture the best incontinence support products.

Andha Naal’ a retro quiz conducted by Dr Anitha Paramasivam

There was a 15 minute snack and coffee break followed by the much awaited ‘Andha Naal’ a retro quiz conducted by Dr Anitha Paramasivam. This quiz was open to senior citizens and medical professionals. Dr. Anitha was a charming and a witty hostess and was easily able to carry the audience with her. The participants enjoyed themselves and answered eagerly to all the questions. Those who gave the correct answers were rewarded with a discount voucher from Old is Gold Store.

Mr.Prithviraj – Director, Old is Gold store giving a discount voucher during the retro quiz show

Mr. Sanjay Dattatri, Director – Old is Gold Store, giving the vote of thanks.

The workshop ended with a vote of thanks by Mr. Sanjay Dattatri, Director – Old is Gold Store.

Useful Information

Report on workshop held on 8th May 2014

By Naren Somadev on Wednesday, May 14, 2014

A Workshop on Retirement Communities sponsored by Harmony Eldercare Pvt. Ltd. & Satvik Properties LLC was conducted by Old is Gold Store- a store for Senior Citizens on 8th of May 2014, specifically for senior citizens to create more awareness about retirement communities, their pros and cons, and other associated topics.

While retirement communities are not new to developed nations, they are a relatively new concept to India. As a result neither the promoters nor the potential purchasers are aware of actually what support and services a retirement home should provide. This workshop was designed to dispel some of the myths and provide clear information on how to evaluate a retirement community.

The workshop held at Raga Sudha Hall, Mylapore was well attended with over 130 senior citizens turning up for the 3 hour workshop on a cloudy, pleasant afternoon. The workshop was kicked off by a welcome address by Jayashree KP, Director of Old is Gold Store.

This was followed by an introductory talk on retirement communities by Sanjay Dattatri, Director – Old is Gold Store. The participants were also given a copy of a detailed retirement community evaluation form for the use of senior citizens interested in moving into a retirement community. More copies of the evaluation form are available at Old is Gold Store.

The third session was a lively presentation on the benefits of reverse mortgage. Many senior citizens who has unsuccessfully tried applying for reverse mortgage demanded answers from Mr. B Prabhu, Deputy Manager of National Housing Bank who patiently answered all the questions and cleared many doubts. Of the many important points that Mr. Prabhu touched upon, one of the most important was about which banks to approach. Mr. Prabhu highlighted the fact that only Zonal offices have managers dedicated to reverse mortgage and for best results people should approach the zonal branches of nationalized banks (or branches with a Chief Manager or above).

Ms. Sabita Radhakrishna then addressed the audience and explained about Udhavi, the volunteer group that aims to provide companionship and support to senior citizens.

Finally, after a sumptuous snack break, the audience participated very vocally in the panel discussion and open house that was moderated by actor and TV presenter Ms. Shylaja Chetlur. The panelist, Raj Sitaraman, Director Marketing of Harmony eldercare, Mr. Hari S of Satvik Property Services, Mr. Prabhu of NHB and Sanjay Dattatri and KP Jayashree from Old is Gold Store, answered various questions posed by the audience.

The meeting ended with a vote of thanks.

Senior Care

Old is Gold Store covered in Outlook

By Naren Somadev on Thursday, April 3, 2014

A chair for my Paati

In an ageist world where toddlers, teens and adults dominate the consumer graph, a trio in Chennai are thinking about growing needs of the rapidly greying—and largely ignored—section of the population. Faced with parents suffering geriatric ailments and few products to assist in their care, a trio of Chennaiites—Sanjay Dattatri and founder couple Jayashree and Prithvirajan—set up the Old is Gold store in Adyar, a Chennai suburb over a year ago. Since then, the store has been profitable, and plans are afoot to open another branch in Chennai and stores across south India. “It’s a shame that we are the only store exclusively catering to the needs of senior citizens,” says Sanjay Dattatri.

The shop has been a boon to Eswari Sundaresan, 76, who found her back hurting from long hours of sitting, watching TV or reading. A visit to Old is Gold got her a customised backrest cushion that she now props between the headboard and her back for support. Products like these pillows, designed for senior citizens, are a rarity in India, unlike in Europe and the US. “Disease and disability are two main concerns in old age. While healthcare is advanced in India, we are still lacking in products to help the elderly, and such stores are therefore vital,” says geriatrician V.S. Natarajan.