Latest Articles
Vitamin D: Are you getting enough?
Our body makes vitamin D when our skin is exposed to sunlight. Surprisingly vitamin D deficiency is becoming increasingly common in many older Australians.
Medications: Ageing and drug side effects
If you are caring for someone who has a chronic disease they probably rely on taking a number of medications at the one time.
What is Alzheimer's disease?
Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia. Between 50% and 70% of all dementia cases in Australia are associated with Alzheimer's disease (Alzheimer's Australia, 2008). It mostly affects people aged over 65 but can in few cases occur in people as young as 40.
What is a urinalysis?
If an aged care worker suspects a resident may have a urinary infection they commonly take a urinalysis. A urinalysis is a simple test used to detect abnormalities in the urine. A urinalysis can be done quickly and easily by dipping a chemical urinalysis strip into a urine sample.
The presence of different substances in the urine can indicate infection and other health conditions. The results of a urinalysis may mean further investigation is needed.
How to give a sponge bath in bed
A sponge bath can be an effective way to attend to an older person's hygiene needs between showering and bathing. A resident who is unwell, unconscious or recovering from an illness may need a sponge bath in bed.
What are standard precautions?
Standard precautions are a set of guidelines and procedures that ensure a basic level of infection control. To ensure a safe work environment and help stop the transmission of infection, all aged care workers must use standard precautions at all times.
What is a personal care assistant?
Personal care assistants work in a variety of aged care settings. A personal care assistant or PCA may work in the community, in an older person's home or residential aged care facility.
The Activity Year Book
Engagement in meaningful activity is an important aspect of human existence, regardless of one's cognitive abilities. Even in the later stages of dementia, people can still be engaged in activities at a level that allows them to be successful. In fact in these later stages, where cognitive abilities may be waning, the need for activity becomes greater, as cognitive stimulation helps preserve what skills remain. To view or purchase this book see www.footprint.com.au
Providing good care at night for older people
The experiences and needs of residents and patients in nursing and care homes are very different at night, and this is particularly true for those with dementia. Yet nursing and care homes are not always inspected with the same rigour at night as they are during the day, and night staff do not always receive the same levels of training, resources and supervision as day staff.
When is the right time for nursing home care?
Is my parent ready for nursing home care? Many families agonize over moving a loved one into nursing home care.
Disclaimer: This site is for information purposes only and should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem, nor as a substitute for professional advice with a qualified health professional or doctor.