Senior Health Blog

Hypertension: Understanding High Blood Pressure

Christi Pagett, MD, Family Medicine, Deaconess Clinic - West

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is also known as the “silent killer.”  The American Heart Association reports that nearly 50% of American adults have hypertension. Learn symptoms and treatment options here.

Suicide Awareness and Prevention

Scott Branam, MA, LMHC, MBA

September is National Suicide Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness and promote suicide prevention. 

Knowing the Signs of Alzheimer’s

Aziz Mehrzad, MD, Deaconess Primary Care for Seniors
 
September is World Alzheimer's Month. More than 6 million people in the US suffer from Alzheimer’s Disease. Learn symptoms of the disease.

Screening for Lung Cancer Saves Lives

Jugesh Cheema, MD, Radiologist, Evansville Radiology
Jessica Waggoner, BSN, RN, Deaconess Cancer Services Nurse Navigator

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death, killing more Americans than breast, prostate and colon cancer combined. Fortunately, there is a screening tool available for those at risk for lung cancer, but many people don’t take advantage of this option.

Skin Cancer, and Mohs Surgery

David Surprenant, MD, Deaconess Clinic Dermatology
 

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States and worldwide. It can be treated if caught early enough. Learn more about the causes, ways to prevent it, plus an effective treatment called Mohs surgery. 
 

Learn Your Heart Risk with Heart Scan

Jonathan Balagna, MD, FACC, Deaconess Heart Group

If you’re concerned about your risk for heart disease, a heart scan may be helpful for you. Deaconess is excited to now offer this new screening option to the community for only $49. As a physician, I know that this test has the potential to prevent heart attacks and save lives.

Medicare 101: The ABC+Ds of Medicare

Medicare has different parts that cover different services. Understanding these parts will help you know what to look for when determining your needs and when you’re ready to enroll.

Prediabetes: Know Your Risk

Prediabetes occurs when blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but not high enough to be diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. A person with prediabetes is not only at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes, but also at higher risks for heart disease and stroke. Learn steps for prevention.

Summer Safety: Protect Your Skin from UV Rays

Summer is here, and as many people like to enjoy the outdoors, it is important to remember that exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays can increase the risk of developing sun-related skin cancer. Find tips on how to protect yourself and your family. 

Understanding CHF (Congestive Heart Failure)

Brian Wellington, DO, Deaconess Clinic Henderson

Congestive heart failure, or CHF, is a very common, serious chronic condition and it’s a factor in 1 in 9 deaths. It's important to understand how your heart should work properly, and what happens when it doesn’t. 
 

Defining Arthritis

Dr. Mujtaba Tapal, MD, Rheumatologist, Deaconess Clinic Downtown

Arthritis is a very common condition, affecting as many as half of all Americans in their lifetime. In my more than 20 years of practice, I’ve seen thousands of patients who are suffering from arthritis. It can be a painful and debilitating disease. However, arthritis is a broad term that describes one of several conditions.

Who Decides, and When? - Understanding Advance Directives.

Peggy Matacale, Chaplain, Deaconess Religious Life, and Candace Foster, Deaconess Privacy Officer

Here at Deaconess, patients and family members are making decisions on others’ behalf every single day.  Sometimes the situation is sudden, such as after a car crash. In other situations, a family member has been in a gradual decline. But in all circumstances it can be a difficult time, so having the right information, with the desired decision-makers, is very important.

Chronic Kidney Disease

Narothama Reddy, MD, Deaconess Clinic Nephrology

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is very common—affecting about 15 percent of the US adult population. It’s closely related to diabetes and high blood pressure, and can cause serious complications.

COVID-19 Vaccine FAQs

Vaccines to prevent COVID-19 are proving to be the best hope for ending the pandemic. As the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) continues authorizing emergency use of COVID-19 vaccines, many people have questions. Find answers to frequently asked questions here.

Preventing & Treating Osteoporosis

Dr. Darla Grossman, Family Medicine, Deaconess Clinic West

Osteoporosis, a condition in which bones become weak and brittle, is a common condition that can have serious consequences—including premature death from complications of broken bones.

Diabetes & Stress in 2020

Due to economic strain, virtual school, social isolation resulting from COVID-19 precautions, a tense election cycle, and the upcoming holiday season, people in general are struggling to maintain any kind of routine. For those with diabetes, lack of consistency represents a serious challenge to their health.  

Adult Vaccines

Jung Smith, MD, Deaconess Clinic Mary Street

Most people are aware pediatric vaccinations are very important to prevent serious diseases and related complications. However, people often forget there are adult vaccinations and boosters that are recommended to keep us healthy and prevent complications associated with certain infections. 

The ABCs of Hepatitis

Rubin Bahuva, MD, Gastroenterologist, Deaconess Clinic
 
You’ve likely heard of hepatitis, and you may’ve even heard that some types of hepatitis are identified by letters A, B, & C. I’m glad to be writing about this, as so many people don’t know enough about hepatitis. It’s a serious issue, as hepatitis can cause serious illness and severe liver damage. Hepatitis C in particular is of concern, as more than 3 million Americans are infected—mostly “Baby Boomers.” Hepatitis C is actually the most common reason people need a liver transplant.

Keep Moving for Better Health

Terry Gehlhausen, DO, Deaconess Clinic Oakland City

Growing attention to the health benefits of physical fitness has millions of Americans thinking about how they can get more exercise. Walking, hiking and biking are a few easy options to get people started on a daily exercise routine. 
 

Health Screenings Men Need - When & Why

Michael Luy, MD, Internal Medicine, Deaconess Clinic Downtown

Health screenings help doctors and other providers detect conditions at earlier, more treatable stages.

Managing the Pain of Shingles

Sridhar Bhaskara, MD, Deaconess Comprehensive Pain Centers

Shingles is a common, painful rash that will affect up to 1 in 5 people. Identifying and treating shingles quickly can prevent further pain and long-term complications.

Preventing Type 2 Diabetes

Kitty Williams, Lifestyle Coach, Deaconess Diabetes Center 
 
Many people may not know that type 2 diabetes can be prevented.  The Diabetes Prevention Program teaches meaningful lifestyle changes that help prevent – or at least delay – the onset of diabetes, leading to a longer, healthier life.
 

Too Late For a Flu Shot? & other Flu FAQs

Daniel Holland, DO, Deaconess Clinic Lynch Road

Is it too late for a flu shot?  What about the nasal spray?  How can you conveniently get the shot?  Get answers to these from family medicine physician Dr. Daniel Holland.

Resources for Family Caregivers

Becky Richardville, LCSW, Care Coordinator at Deaconess Primary Care for Seniors, and Jill Deutch from Deaconess  Home Health and Deaconess Hospice

Caregiving for an aging loved one can be both rewarding and challenging. Many caregivers don’t know about resources and services that can help make their jobs easier and improve the quality of life for themselves and their loved one.

Flu Facts & Myths: An Interview with Dr. Daniel Holland

It's time to get your flu shot.  Find out the facts--and the myths-- about flu vaccines from Deaconess Clinic family medicine physician Dr. Holland.

Back Pain in Patients with Osteoporosis

Paul Harries, MD, Deaconess Comprehensive Pain Center

Osteoporosis and back pain are both common issues in patients over the age of 65, and these problems can exist separately or in combination. As a physician, it’s my job to determine the source of a patient’s back pain and figure out the best way to treat it.

Quiz: Is it Time to See a Doctor About Your Joint Pain?

From Deaconess Bone & Joint Care, in association with Orthopaedic Associates

Pain in your knees, hips, shoulders or ankles can interfere with your daily life. This simple "yes or no" questionnaire can help you determine if it’s time to see an orthopedic doctor.
 

Understanding COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)

Raghav Gupta, MD, FCCP
Medical Director, COPD

Get the basic explanations of COPD--how it can be prevented, diagnosed and treated; and get tips on managing COPD—particularly in the winter.
 

Dealing With Grief During the Holidays

The holiday season can be very difficult for someone grieving the loss of a loved one.  An expert from Deaconess VNA Hospice shares tips on making the holidays easier for yourself, or for someone you love.
 

Are E-Cigarettes/Vaping “Better” Than Regular Cigarettes?

David Ryon, MD, Deaconess Pulmonary and Critical Care
 
As a doctor specializing in lung diseases, I have seen the negative outcomes resulting from tobacco use. Many patients ask me if “vaping” is better than cigarettes. I tell them the answer is complex.
 

Tasty Tips for a Healthier Thanksgiving

Deborah Pfeiffer, MS, RD, Deaconess Weight Loss Solutions

Thanksgiving is a time to count our blessings and visit with family and friends. It’s also a time to enjoy holiday foods. With just a little bit of effort, you can eat your favorite dishes and still achieve your goals for better health. Don’t believe me? Keep reading. (I share some great recipes too!)

Men’s Cancer Screenings

David Moore, MD, Deaconess Clinic Urology 

The annual “No Shave November” campaign supports prostate and testicular cancer awareness and provides a great opportunity to share information related to cancer screenings for men.
 

More Fiber = More Gas?

Carolyn Burns, Clinical Dietitian, Deaconess Weight Loss Solutions

Eating a diet filled with fruits, vegetables, beans and whole grains is great for our health, but can sometimes lead to bloating, gas, and other abdominal discomfort. Learn tips on making healthy food choices while still being able to go out in public.
 

Do You Know the Early Warning Signs of Low-T?

Adam Becker, MD, Deaconess Clinic Urology

Low sex drive, depressive mood, decreased muscle mass, fatigue... these are all signs of low T, or low testosterone.  

Resources for Diagnosing & Treating Breast Cancer

Sheila Seiler, Komen Evansville Tri-State, and Jennifer Small, Manager, Deaconess Breast Services

Too often, women are skipping their mammograms because they either think they can’t afford the mammogram, or are scared of the cost of treating breast cancer if diagnosed. 

Spread Fun, Not Flu

Kathryn Ekstrom, MD, Pediatrics & Internal Medicine, Deaconess Clinic Morganfield

I don’t know about you, but I don’t have time to be sick with the flu.  A week or more of serious body aches, coughing, fever, etc. is not how I want to spend my time. Be prepared by getting your flu vaccine before flu season starts! 

Micra, the World's Smallest Pacemaker

Nathan Reed, MD, Cardiovascular Electrophysiologist, Deaconess Heart Group
 
Micra is the world’s smallest pacemaker, leaving no bump under the skin, no chest scar, and requiring no lead. I would describe the device as a quantum leap in pacemaker technology, and a large improvement for patients who need single-chamber pacing.
 

Importance of a Health Care Representative

Dr. Anna Dauer, Medical Director, Deaconess Palliative Care

Here at Deaconess, people make decisions on others’ behalf every single day. Sometimes the situation is sudden, such as after a car crash. In other situations, a family member has been in a gradual decline. But in all circumstances it can be a difficult time, so having the right information, with the desired decision-makers, is crucial.

8 Healthy & Fit Summer Vacation Tips

Helen Schnarr, Clinical Dietitian, Deaconess 

Vacation is a great time to reduce stress and rejuvenate your mind, body and spirit. It’s not, however, the time to turn back on healthy lifestyle changes you worked on through the winter and spring months. Here are a few ways to maintain healthy habits when you’re out of town and out of your normal routine.
 

Conservative Treatments for Joint Pain

Rhiannon Anderson, PA, Orthopaedic Associates

Experiencing joint pain? Surgery is not your only option. There are many conservative (non-surgical) options that can provide significant relief from joint pain.

Keeping Resolutions in the New Year

Sara Bueltel, RD, CD, Deaconess Weight Loss Solutions

It’s that time of year again! New Year’s Day is around the corner and many of us are starting to think about making a resolution. But how do you stick to your resolution and not give up before Valentine’s Day? We’ve listed some tips below on how to make and keep momentum toward your New Year’s resolution throughout the year.

Healthy Holiday Tips from The Heart Hospital

The Deaconess Heart Group

Learn about these healthy tips and why they’re important to you. 

What Is Palliative Care?

Dr. Anna Dauer, Deaconess Palliative Care Medical Director, and Andrea Lantz, LCSW, Palliative Care Clinical Social Worker

Perhaps you’ve heard the term “palliative care” but weren’t sure what it meant. Palliative care is specialized medical care for people with chronic illnesses, focusing on providing patients with relief from the symptoms, pain and stress of a chronic illness regardless of the diagnosis. The overall goal is to improve quality of life for both the patient and the family.
 

Painful Bladder--Could It Be Interstitial Cystitis?

Amanda Phelps-Jones, WHNP-BCPelvic Health & Wellness Center at The Women’s Hospital

Interstitial cystitis (I.C.) is a problem with the lining of the bladder and is often called painful bladder syndrome or irritable bladder – and for good reasons, it's painful! I.C. occurs mostly in women, is underdiagnosed and often mistaken for a urinary tract infection.
 

Know Where to Go For Care

Amanda Bohleber, MD, Medical Director, Deaconess Clinic

A doctor—and mom—shares her tips for choosing the right care at the right time at the right place.

Making the Most of Your Doctor’s Appointment

Ankita Bahuva, MD, Internal Medicine, Deaconess Clinic Downtown

Your doctors’ appointments are an important and valuable time to connect with your doctor, share your perspective and information, and learn from your doctor’s expertise.  The best appointments happen when patients are very prepared.
 

Fighting Chronic Fatigue

Ankita Bahuva, MD, Internal Medicine, Deaconess Clinic Downtown

Chronic fatigue is a condition that causes someone to be extremely tired—to the point that they can’t function in their daily life.  It is also often misunderstood.
 

Emergency Preparedness for Patients with Health Problems

Jim Hays, Deaconess Home Medical Equipment, and Tom Fite, R.Ph, Manager, Deaconess Family Pharmacy

Recent national disasters have caused many people to give more thought to emergency preparedness.  As September is Emergency Preparedness Month, it’s a great time to be thinking about being disaster ready.
 

Which Cancer Screenings You Need, When, and WHY

Mohammed Allaw, MD Internal Medicine, Deaconess Clinic Gateway Professional Building

Cancer screening recommendations can be confusing for many people--in my 20 years of practicing primary care medicine for adults, thousands of patients have had questions about various cancer screenings. 

In this article, I’ll focus on breast, prostate, lung, colon and skin cancer screenings.

An Urgent Need to Solve Your Annoying Problem – Overactive Bladder

Adam Becker, MD, Urology, Deaconess Clinic

Do you experience frequent urination or a persistent “urgent feeling” to urinate? If so, then you may have a urinary disorder known as Overactive Bladder (OAB).


 

Myths & Facts about Hospice

Cheryl Arnold, Hospice Manager, Deaconess VNA

There are many questions and misunderstandings about hospice. Hospice can be an emotionally-charged topic, so knowing and understanding the facts about hospice care can help make conversations and decisions easier.

Below, I address some of the most common myths, or incorrect beliefs, about hospice, and share additional information about why hospice is a wonderful service and resource for families when a loved one has a terminal condition. 

Health Benefits of Giving

We all know that it’s “good” to give. Giving to charitable causes helps these organizations to continue functioning, providing services, and helping the community. But did you know that giving is actually good for your physical and mental health? 

Fall Prevention: Steps to Make Falls Less Likely

Deaconess Regional Trauma Team

Lack of exercise can lead to weak legs, which increases the chance of falling. Exercise programs can increase strength and improve balance, making falls less likely.


 

Understanding Sepsis

Ruston Stoltz MD, Family Medicine, Deaconess Clinic
 
Sepsis is a serious complication of an infection, and it can happen to anyone.  Young or old, sepsis can be life threatening, as between ¼ and ½ of all individuals who develop sepsis will die from it.

10 Choices to add years to your life

Terry Gehlhausen, DO, Deaconess Clinic Family Medicine, Oakland City

People who follow a few simple steps to improve their health have less cancer and heart disease compared to other Americans, and their overall death rate is significantly reduced compared to other people under age 65. Here are ten choices you can make that will lead to a longer and healthier life:
 

COPD: Catching Your Breath

James Gutmann, MD, Family Medicine, Deaconess Clinic
 
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a lesser-known respiratory disease but is every bit as dangerous and difficult to manage as asthma.  COPD is an umbrella term for a grouping of specific symptoms that are incurable but manageable with appropriate treatment and lifestyle adjustments.


 

Health Benefits of Tai Chi

John Hufstedler, Deaconess Cross Pointe social work therapist, Tai Chi instructor
 
Tai chi—you’ve probably heard of it and even seen it before, but you may not know exactly what it is. 
 

Tips for Aging Healthier & Happier

Becky Richardville, MSW, LCSW, Care Coordinator at Deaconess Primary Care for Seniors

Growing older is a privilege, but let’s face it—aging definitely brings about changes in our bodies and minds.

Shingles

Dr. James Gutmann, Family Medicine Physician at Deaconess Clinic Mt. Pleasant

In my 26 years of practicing family medicine, I have treated hundreds of patients with shingles and seen how painful and debilitating it can be. My goal in writing this article is to help people either learn how to potentially avoid shingles, OR help them know what to do if they get shingles. 

Single out Shingles: New Medical Advances for Combating Shingles

Dr. James Gutman, Family Medicine Deaconess Clinic

Chicken-pox are nearly a childhood rite of passage… Quarantine from others, being doused in calamine lotion and strong inclinations to take a hairbrush to those itchy miserable lesions.  The varicella virus (or chickenpox) primes patients to develop herpes zoster later on in life.

 

10 Choices to Add Years to Your Life

Terry Gehlhausen, DO, Deaconess Clinic Family Medicine

People who follow a few simple steps to improve their health have less cancer and heart disease compared to other Americans, and their overall death rate is significantly reduced compared to other people under age 65. Here are ten choices you can make that will lead to a longer and healthier life:

Your Diet and Your Hearing

Ann B. Raibley, Certified Clinical Audiologist

Protecting your ears from hazardous noise and keeping ear infections at bay are fundamental ways to minimize hearing loss. However, a healthy lifestyle with exercise and a balanced diet can also help maintain hearing health.

Alcohol and Seniors

Dr. Errin Weisman,  Family Medicine

When does drinking become a problem? The aging population is not immune to alcohol abuse.  For men and women 65 years of age or older, the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse considers one drink per day to be the maximum amount for “moderate” alcohol use. 

Fall Prevention

Kim Childers, MSW, LSW Care Coordinator at Deaconess Primary Care for Seniors

Complications due to falls are the leading cause of death from injury in seniors age 65 and older. Prevention of falls in the home is so important. You’re protecting someone’s vitality, independence and life. 

Shingles - Painful and Preventable. Patient & Physician Perspectives Part 1

Shingles: A Patient’s Perspective – Part One

Many people don’t know that about one in three people in the US will develop shingles during their lifetime, and older people are at the greatest risk for developing shingles. In fact, half of all people who live to age 85 will develop shingles at some point.
 

It's Raining Now! What do you do when someone you love is not doing as well as they used to.

Content Provided by Deaconess VNA Plus Personal Care Services​

Realizing that someone you love is not functioning as well at home as they used to can come as a shock; discovering what in-home care costs can be even more surprising, particularly since many people believe that Medicare or traditional health insurance will pay for all types of assistance.