Home Care Services Cambridge MA
October is Celiac Disease Awareness month. Celiac disease is triggered by eating gluten, a protein found in foods containing wheat, barley or rye. Awareness of this disease has increased over recent years, as evident by the number of people requesting gluten free products and meals. While once considered a disease of the young, many people are now getting diagnosed much later in life. Studies report that 25% of patients with celiac disease received the initial diagnosis in their 70’s. (1)
Symptoms
The common signs of this disease—weight loss, abdominal pain and diarrhea—are not as apparent in the elderly. In many cases, lack of iron leading to anemia may be the only symptom. Low levels of calcium and vitamin D may also present themselves due to malabsorption and result in loss of bone. Instead of stomach pain, the elderly may only exhibit mild bloating, making the diagnosis difficult at best. A common misdiagnosis in the elderly is irritable bowel syndrome. As there is only one treatment for celiac disease, a misdiagnosis can be devastating in terms of health of the colon. If diagnosed correctly, the one treatment is removing gluten from the diet.
A Helping Hand
A change in diet is not easy for many people, but for the elderly it can seem daunting. Helping loved ones by cleaning out their pantry and refrigerator of any items containing gluten is a good start. In case you are uncertain what foods are gluten free, the following website contains a handy list: http://www.the-gluten-free-diet.com/gluten-free-foods.html. In addition, checking labels is of extreme importance. The less processed foods, the better—an important element in a healthy diet for most people, regardless of gluten sensitivity. Some medicines may also contain gluten. A list of these can be found on: glutenfreedrugs.com.
If the family caregiver is feeling overwhelmed by the changes and responsibilities such a diagnosis and diet mandate, an in-home senior care services provider can supply family members with the support they require. From helping with the shopping to meal preparation, they can offer support where needed. The good news: many seniors who receive a late-in-life diagnosis have spent years with gluten sensitivity. The change in diet can produce remarkable results in their health and attitude.
(1) Cappello M, Morreale GC, Licata A. Clinical Medicine Insights. Gastroenterology. 2016 Jul 27; 9: 41-49
If you or an aging loved one are considering Home Care Services in Cambridge MA, or anywhere in Eastern Massachusetts, please call the caring staff at CARE Resolutions – (508) 906-5572.
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