www.servingourseniors.org
11
800-564-1856 419-624-1856
There are some changes that people believe are “normal”
aging, which are not normal at all. Losing bladder
control or bowel control are two prime examples of what is
NOT normal aging. Yet, it is accepted as being our cross
to bear as we continue to grow older.
If properly diagnosed, there is an outpatient surgery,
known as InterStim, that has produced 75% + success
rate for the treatment of those suffering from loss of bowel
or bladder control.
According to Dr. Rick Visci, Obstetrics & Gynecology,
NOMS, some bladder incontinence is caused by muscle
problems in the bladder; or by nerve impulse problems
signaling the bladder or bowel. When it’s a nerve problem,
“The brain isn’t telling the bladder to contract, yet the
muscles contract anyway”. “This is when a person loses
bladder or bowel control”.
A doctor will treat by using the least invasive treatment
frst. This exposes the patient to the least amount of
risk. Dr. Visci explained that for some changing the diet
can work. For the bladder, Kegel exercises, physical
therapy, or maybe a prescription medication that acts on
the muscles of the bladder could be the cure. If none of
the above are effective, there is still hope – an outpatient
surgical procedure known as InterStim.
Dr. Visci is a provider of the InterStim surgery. He implants
a device that works like a pace-maker for the bladder
or the bowel. InterStim affects the nerves that go to the
bladder or bowel and reduces the impulses that cause
contractions. For more information about this and other
innovations that exist to improve the quality of life and
support maintaining independence, attend the
“Techno
Expo for Maintaining Independence”
July 24, 10am
until 1pm, at the Erie County Senior Center, 620 E. Water
Street - Sandusky. Sponsored by Serving Our Seniors and
The Erie County Senior Center.
Bladder & Bowel Control: “Losing It” Isn’t Normal Aging?
By Sue Daugherty
The answer is NO. Depression is not a normal part of
the aging process. Yet many adults believe that due to
the experiences associated with aging that the two go
hand in hand. Depression is a true and treatable medical
condition, just like diabetes and hypertension.
Depression is not just having “the blues” or the emotions
felt when grieving the loss of a loved one. Older
adults, family members and healthcare professionals
may mistake the symptoms of depression as just
a normal reaction to illness, fnancial hardships, or
other life challenges that may occur as we age. These
misconceptions contribute to depression being under
recognized and under treated.
An older adult who is depressed has one or more of the
following symptoms: feelings of sadness or anxiety that
last for more than two weeks, social isolation, crying
spells, lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities,
thoughts of harm to self or others, decreased energy
not related to another medical condition, feelings of
hopelessness, helplessness, or worthlessness, decreased
concentration or indecisiveness, change in sleep patterns
and appetite.
Fortunately there are many treatments available to treat
depression. The best proven treatment for depression is a
combination of counseling and antidepressant medication.
This may result in an older person being able to see an
improvement in their mood, their relationships with others,
and increased ability to cope with stress. An open and
honest discussion with your healthcare provider about
depressive symptoms can lead to an older adult gaining
control of their life back. The process of aging may be
challenging, but it does not mean that the outlook on the
future has to be flled with sadness, grief and loss.
Depression – Is It a Normal Part of Aging?
by Susan Lowell, LISW-s, Mental Health Counseling and Consulting Services