5 Symptoms of Spina Bifida in Aging Adults

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Signs of Spina Bifida in Seniors in Addison, TX

Spina bifida is a congenital condition in which the spine doesn’t develop properly. Sometimes the condition remains undetected and individuals with spina bifida go through the usual signs of aging. However, seniors may display certain signs that indicate they have spina bifida. Here’s a list of five symptoms commonly associated with spina bifida that a senior with the condition can experience.

1. Bed Sores

Also called decubitus ulcers, bed sores affect a large percentage of seniors with impaired mobility. Since spina bifida can restrict mobility, seniors can be prone to bed sores. When left untreated, these ulcers can become a breeding ground for bacteria. In most cases, bed sores should be cleaned as often as possible with warm water and mild soap to prevent infection. If the sores become infected, your senior loved one must take an antibiotic to protect his or her immune system. If you’re the primary family caregiver for a senior loved one living in Irving, live-in care is available if your loved one’s health has become too difficult to manage without professional expertise. At Home Care Assistance, we take measures to help seniors prevent illness and injury by assisting with exercise and mobility, preparing nutritious meals, helping with bathing and other personal hygiene tasks, and much more.

2. Urinary Incontinence

Just over 16 percent of the population experiences urinary incontinence, and the condition can have a major impact on a senior’s mental and physical health. Seniors with spina bifida are also likely to have incontinence. Older adults with spina bifida who believe they have urinary incontinence should speak with their doctors about a comprehensive treatment plan. Treating this disorder generally requires medication and lifestyle changes.

3. Uneven Hips

Spina bifida can cause pelvic misalignment and affect a senior’s spinal health, joints, and overall quality of life. Over time, it can result in chronic pain throughout the neck, shoulders, back, hips, and legs. The most effective way to treat uneven hips is to schedule regular appointments with a chiropractor for adjustment.

4. Obesity

According to the Spina Bifida Association, more than 50 percent of people who have this condition can also be classified as obese. Obesity can increase the risk of heart conditions, diabetes, high blood pressure, and a variety of other conditions. A senior who has spina bifida must control his or her diet and maintain a healthy weight. If your aging loved one needs help managing everyday tasks or encouragement to adopt healthier lifestyle choices, turn to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of elder care. Home Care Assistance provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives.

5. Depression

Sometimes families and caregivers don’t realize spina bifida can impact a senior’s mental health as well. A senior who has been diagnosed with spina bifida should consider speaking with a therapist or joining a support group to discuss his or her mental state and overall happiness. In Irving, home care service agencies can be a great boon to seniors. With the help of the caregivers at Home Care Assistance, your aging loved one can lead a happier and healthier life. We offer a revolutionary program called the Balanced Care Method, which encourages seniors to eat nutritious foods, exercise and socialize regularly, and focus on other lifestyle factors that increase life expectancy. To create a customized care plan for your loved one, call us at (817) 591-1580 today.

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