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A strength-based approach rather than a deficit-based approach towards ageing could well have an empowered senior citizen stepping into a journey of a “well-being” experience.

Strength is a capacity – a talent, ability, skills or multiple intelligences; whereas the deficits are the physical hurdles of old age that bring about various disabilities.

Kalpana Goel from School of Psychology, Social Work and Social Policy, Whyalla Campus, Australia, who was in the city for the ‘Healthy Ageing’ conference organised by the Rajagiri School of Social Sciences, said that “well-being” is not just a physical experience, but a “happy” state of mind and body.

The idea was explored by Vanessa Leane of St. John Ambulance Australia and Dr. Goel in a project that focussed on the strength-based approach to the older people.

“The idea was to generate the identity of the senior citizen in his or her strengths… to explore their strengths that they had accumulated by virtue of their lives,” said Dr. Goel. If their strengths are used as a resource to generate well-being, it removes the barriers created by the frailty of old age, environment and other constraints like lack of support or care. Their strengths, which make them happy, get buried because of loss of hearing, loss of spouse or loss of a close friend. The new digital world could be used to help them bring back their strengths, she said.

The governments should work out community programmes to explore the strength-based approach to well-being that would help the elderly give back to society the goodness they had accumulated.

Society should recognise the value of the strengths of the elderly, instead of focussing more on the physical needs of the ageing body, said Dr. Goel.

Society should recognise the value of the strengths of the elderly

Also, society should recognise the value of the strengths of the elderly, says Kalpana Goel from Whyalla Campus.

Click here to read the original article.( https://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-kerala/Towards-a-strength-based-approach-to-elderly-care/article17011199.ece)

Choosing the right wheelchair

By Sanjay Dattatri on Wednesday, May 11, 2016

Choosing the right wheelchair for an elderly relative is a non-trivial activity. Wheelchairs come in many shapes and sizes, in many different materials, and designed for different uses.

Here are 15 questions for which you need to know answers in order to decide on the right wheelchair.

Is it for indoor use or outdoor use?
If it is for outdoor use, ensure that the back wheels are big. This will ensure that the wheelchair can take the ups and downs of Indian roads and platforms.

Is it foldable?
Most wheelchairs are foldable. Since wheelchairs are stored away for much of the day and through out the night (in the case of seniors), a foldable wheelchair will occupy less space when not in use.

Will it fit into my car boot?
Sometimes, you may want to take the wheelchair with you. In such cases, it is important that the wheelchair folds into a compact size so that it can be easily stowed away in the boot or back seat of the car.

Are the armrests removable?
Removable armrests help in sliding from bed to the wheelchair and back. This can help if the user of the wheelchair is capable of moving sideways, and the bed and wheelchair are at almost the same height.

Are the footrests removable?
Removable footrests ensure that the wheelchair folds into a smaller place as well as help in making the wheelchairs less unwieldy while transporting.

How heavy is the wheelchair?
Sometimes, the person helping the user of the wheelchair may also be a senior citizen. In such cases, it is very important that the helper is able to lift and maneuver the chair. where possible, buy a lighter wheelchair.

How much weight can the wheelchair bear?
A typical wheelchair is certified for about 100 kilos. In the case that the user is much heavier, go for a bariatric range wheelchair.

What are the dimensions of the wheelchair?
In many homes, the doorways and passages can be very narrow. The bathroom doors, in particular, are usually only 2 – 2.5 feet wide in many Indian homes. Before purchasing the wheelchair, ensure that the wheelchair is able to go to all the places you plan to take it to.

Self-propelled or attendant chair?
A self-propelled manual wheelchair will have large wheels while an attendant wheelchair may have smaller wheels and brakes for the attendant to use. Choose depending on usage. If the person using the wheelchair does not have enough strength to propel themselves, go for a wheelchair designed for attendant use.

Is it for transit purposes?
If you are planning to use the wheelchair only during travel (at airports and railway stations, etc), then go for one of the very light-weight, compact aluminium transit wheelchair models.

Is reclining an option?
Some wheelchairs allow for reclining. These usually are larger and take up much more space. If a person is going to be sitting in a wheelchair for long periods, the reclining option may be useful.

Will it rust?
Wheelchairs come in different materials from mild steel to high-grade aluminium and other alloys. If you are planning to take the wheelchair into bathrooms and toilets or expect it to come in contact with the elements, go for an aluminium one. Chrome plated wheelchairs tend to rust after a while.

Motorized or manual?
Unless you are living in a high-end gated community with smooth roads and pavements, there is usually very little value in going for a motorized wheelchair in India as most places are not conducive for motorized wheelchair use. Needless to say, Indian roads are not safe for motorized wheelchairs.

Is a commode attached?
A few models of wheelchairs come with commodes attached, so they act as portable commodes as well as wheelchairs. Under most circumstances, it is preferable to keep the wheelchair and the commode separate for various reasons. However, if you need them together, know that such models are available.

What is the cost?
Wheelchairs, like most other things, come in different price brackets. Choose one that fits your budget.

If you have more doubts, write to us at [email protected]

Caregivers Senior Care

Understanding and dealing with faecal incontinence

By Sanjay Dattatri on Sunday, April 10, 2016

Any form of incontinence, though may not be fatal, can surely rob the life of the affected.

Faecal Incontinence (FI) is basically lack of control over defecation leading to involuntary loss of some or all of the bowel contents. This is a symptom and not a diagnosis. There can be several underlying reasons for FI including recent anorectal surgery, damage during childbirth, weakened sphincter, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Chrohn’s disease, just diarrhea or neurological conditions such as Alzheimer’s and dementia. Luckily not too many people suffer from this. It is estimated that just over 2% of the adults suffer from faecal incontinence at some point in time and only 0.5 – 1% of adults experience regular FI.

While potential embarrassment is a major worry, there are more serious health concerns associated with FI over and above the underlying causes of the FI in the first place. As the skin around the anal region has prolonged contact with faecal matter, this can lead to maceration, which is the softening and whitening of the skin due to continues exposure to moisture. Additionally, because of the bacteria that flourish in the faecal matter, Urinary Tract Infections(UTI) become more common. Finally, especially in the case of bedridden people, bed sores (also called pressure ulcers) start forming rather frequently.

Use of adult diapers and their regular change can help mitigate some of the problems. Also regular cleansing and strict maintenance of hygiene can go a long way in reducing the chances of bed sore and related issues.
If you or your loved ones suffer from FI, do approach a Doctor at the earliest.

A note for those family members living with their elder parents or relatives: Many people suffering from FI are too embarrassed to discuss this problem and may be trying to quietly deal with the problems themselves. If you notice frequent and hurried visits to the toilet, reluctance to leave home, frequent washing of clothes, especially undergarments, stains on clothes and bed linen and smells associated with fecal matter, broach the subject with sensitivity and gently get them to allow you to take them to the Doctor.

Caregivers Senior Care Useful Information

A parent getting discharged from hospital?

By Sanjay Dattatri on Saturday, February 20, 2016

When a loved one gets hospitalized, there are Doctors and nurses to look after them while they are under their care. Despite that, the period of hospitalization can be very taxing, both emotionally and physically for the family members.

However, a bigger challenge awaits when the patient gets discharged and moves back home. Many times, especially in the case of elderly patients, there is a long recuperating period. Looking after them at home, without the guidance and support of Doctors, nurses and hospital equipment can be very difficult. Thankfully, you can turn to Old is Gold Store for guidance, training and information on post-discharge home health care.

In the meantime, here are a few things to learn:
1. Keeping important information handy
Emergencies are common. Keep all important information ready at hand. These could include contact details for Ambulance, the consulting physicians and other Doctors, Doctors who make house calls in your area, the pharmacy, the nursing agency, and immediate relatives apart from all the medical records including the latest prescriptions, and insurance papers.

2, Use of essential devices.
There are many devices that are needed to monitor, maintain and manage the condition of the patient. These include devices such as air beds, pulse oximeters, BP monitors, Glucometers, Nebulizers, Phlegm suction apparatus, hospital cots, wheelchairs, walkers and many other devices. Learning to use them effectively will go a long way in ensuring the patient’s successful and speedy recovery.

3, Maintaining hygiene.
Good hygiene is critical to reducing infection. The hygiene of the people looking after the patient as well as that of the patient themselves are both equally important. Remember to wash hands regularly, limit the number of visitors, and ensure that the visitors wash their hands and feet before entering the patient’s room. Also learn how to use and change diapers and underpads, how to thoroughly clean urine and fecal matter and even how to clean wounds and replace dressing, if required.

Post-discharge home health care can be challenging. Being prepared can mean the difference between life and death.

Old is Gold Store can help guide you with information and training. Call 044-42666684 for an appointment.

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.

Caregivers Senior Care

Workshop on bladder weakness

By Sanjay Dattatri on Friday, January 1, 2016

Caregivers Dementia Senior Care

Cocoon in the news – ET

By Sanjay Dattatri on Monday, November 16, 2015

We were covered by ET yesterday. An brief extract follows. The link to the original article is at the end of the post.

For years they watched as dejected seniors and stroke victims reached out to buy ungainly hospital gowns and unshapely nighties, simply because there was nothing else to wear. So a few weeks ago the founders of Old Is Gold Store decided to spin their own brand of Cocoon adaptive clothing for those with limited mobility. “The idea behind Cocoon is as much to comfort as it is to liberate, says Sanjay Dattatri, director of Old is Gold Store, which caters primarily to the needs of senior citizens. “Just because you are unwell does not mean you have to dress down. Wearing good clothes will make anyone in recovery feel better and that’s what we want to do,” he says.

The first line of adaptive clothing from Cocoon was cotton shirts for men and now that it has become a hit Dattatri says they are expanding the line to include kurtis, readymade sarees, Velcro veshtis and dhotis. “All Cocoon clothing uses Velcro instead of buttons or zippers to make them easy to wear,” he adds.

Customers include everyone from the elderly to those on wheelchairs to people recovering from a stroke. “We are among the few stores in India that retails such clothing,” he says.

Dattatri isn’t far off the mark. Despite the demand in India for adaptive clothing, there are hardly any designers or stores in the country that cater to the segment. In Chennai, apart from Old is Gold, those with disabilities say the choice is limited to customising clothes through tailors…

To read more go here.

( https://retail.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/apparel-fashion/apparel/clothes-that-make-the-cut-adaptive-clothing/49788226 )

Caregivers Senior Care Useful Information

Staying safe and allergy free this Diwali

By Sanjay Dattatri on Sunday, November 1, 2015

Diwali is fast approaching. While this is a joyous festival, for many of our elders, this is a time of great trepidation.

After all, Diwali is inextricably entwined with fireworks, and this means heightened levels of pollution that can lead to breathing difficulties and chest infections. For people with weakened immunity, having asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), Diwali can be extremely taxing.

So here are a few things you can do to protect yourself and your dear ones from the pollution:

1. Avoid going out

2.If possible stay inside an air-conditioned room. Ensure that the air-conditioner’s inlet vent is in closed position, so that it does not suck in outside air but keeps the same room air circulating. Most air-conditioners have a setting for this.

3.Wear a mask. A N95 approved particulate respirator maskthat covers the nose and mouth should do the trick. All the toxic particles released by bursting firecrackers will be blocked by this mask ensuring that none of it enters your lungs.

4.If you suffer from asthma or bronchitis, make sure you have your inhalers and medication ready and with you at all times.

5.If noise is an issue, get earplugs. Disposable soft earplugs that are gentle on the ears are available.

6.If you wear hearing aids, this may be a good time to remove them or switch them off. [At least when you are at home and in a safe environment].

7.Take all your regular medicines without fail.

8.Drink plenty of fluids

9.Encourage family, especially children, to reduce quantum of purchase of fireworks

Call your doctor immediately if:

You have shortness of breath or wheezing that is rapidly getting worse.

You are coughing more deeply or more frequently, especially if you notice an increase in mucus (sputum) or a change in the color of the mucus you cough up.

You cough up blood.

You have increased swelling in your legs or abdomen.

You have a high fever (over 100 degrees).

You feel severe chest pain.

You develop flu symptoms.

You notice that your medicine is not working as well as it had been.

You use oxygen at home and feel like you need more. Use only the amount

recommended by your doctor. In some people with COPD, too much oxygen can

be dangerous.

Here’s wishing you a happy and healthy Diwali! To buy the mask please visit our site.

(https://www.oldisgoldstore.com/condition/anti-pollution-mask-n95-approved-8210/p-2584311-80259110696-cat.html?#variant_id=2584311-27375031080 )

Caregivers Useful Information

Managing incapacities and sudden death – Part III

By Sanjay Dattatri on Tuesday, December 30, 2014

This is part-III of Precautions to protect assets after death.

Leaving behind instructions to handle incapacities

A closed cover noted as confidential stating name and date could be kept along with will or given to a close relative or a friend after briefing the need for such requirements with a note on the following lines:

1. If I am unconscious or critically ill and revival will make me immobilized, I do not wish to be under invasive Medical / life support such as pacemaker, ventilator, but wish to leave this world naturally and peacefully. (Please do not institute any resuscitation measures).

2. In case of my suffering due to dementia I authorize Mr………………..( my son /brother-in-law/daughter/wife) to take decision on my behalf and I authorise him/her to operate my bank account and also act as my attorney to dispose /realize my assets.

Note: Your personal medical advisor may be consulted to frame the wordings to cover the content of above instructions to match the medico-legal requirements of the hospitals.

Instructions to handle sudden death:

The following important areas need to be covered and documented which should assist as a ready reckoner or a guide to the successors/ family members in managing the affairs on sudden death.
Persons above sixty years or with health problems are advised to prepare a Document/Ready Reckoner of Instructions and a format is suggested in the downloadable link:

Ready Reckoner

Caregivers Useful Information

Precautions to protect assets after death – Part II

By Sanjay Dattatri on Monday, December 15, 2014

Continuing from Part – I.

Please prepare a checklist on first of January or first of April each year of various due dates for compliance and prevent any omission/loss/ inconvenence. This will not only help keep track of your compliances as you advance in age, it will be of use for your successors/relatives to take care of the responsibilities linked to assets in a systematic manner.

Note: One can include additional items to suit family/personal/business/official and other requirements.

DOWNLOAD CHECKLIST