Nerves

Nerves

+COMMON CONDITIONS

The brain and nervous system undergo changes with aging. Older adults above the age of 60 years are at high risk of developing neurological problems. Some common neurological disorders noticed among seniors include Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, peripheral neuropathy, Stroke, Ataxia and Foot drop. Most of these diseases cause loss of motor functions, lack of sensation, weakness, numbness and limited mobility of different body parts. Memory loss, confusion, loss of ability to interact are signs of dementia which are noticed in Alzheimer's disease and advanced stages of Parkinson's disease. Stroke is common among seniors in India often leading to partial paralysis. Diabetic patients are prone to be affected by neuropathy which causes pain, numbness, and a pins-and-needles sensation in hand and feet. Often pain, tingling and numbness in the lower back and the legs occur due to irritation of the Sciatic nerve (the largest nerve of the body)

+THE REMEDY

Controlling risk factors like smoking, obesity, high cholesterol, high blood pressure through proper diet, regular exercise and healthy lifestyle habits can prevent nerve diseases. Medication, physical therapy, and occupational therapy are most helpful in the management of nervous problems. Assistive self-help devices like easy grip cutlery, tasty plate, buttoner, reacher, uni-turner, beauty backwasher, hairbrush and comb, no tie shoelaces, stocking aid etc. make daily living easier. Products like easy grip scissors and knife, add-on to garden tools, contour pen, free hand document holder, playing card holder, magic needle. ergonomic crochet hook are very useful in occupational therapy. Heat therapy products like infrared massagers and heat belts, as well as compression products like supports and wraps, reduce pain and numbness of limbs and improve mobility. Anti-slip mats, tapes, floor polish prevents slips and falls in wet or slippery zones due to weak footing in Parkinson's, Ataxia and Foot drop. FIND is a Bluetooth tag device helpful for those affected by memory loss and confusion. Alternate hot and cold compression, stretching exercises with Oppo progressive resistance band can help relieve sciatica pain.