Costco Connection - June 2008

for your health

Ecumen, Minnesota’s largest nonprofit senior housing, services and development company, says QuietCare is installed in all of their assisted-living communities and many independent homes.

“We know that we have been able to get an early diagnosis of prostate cancer many times because the sensors see a shift in data [such as an increase in nighttime bathroom use] and we get people into health care,” she says. “We’re eliminating a medical crisis, keeping people healthier, more independent, and it’s simply because of technology.”

Roberts, a Costco member, says the day is not far off when a toothbrush will include sensors to track a diabetic’s insulin levels or cellphones will be able to monitor similar vital signs and relay information directly to physicians or pharmacists.

“There are assistive technologies that are ready to be brought to the marketplace that all of us will be looking for to keep us healthier and more independent,” she says.

Moreover, the generation that grew up watching the space-age cartoon The Jetsons finally may see futuristic technology leap from the television screen to inside their homes. Marshall Brain, founder of the award-winning Web site HowStuff Works.com, says everything from a feeding robot named My Spoon to a bathing robot that works a “bit like a dishwasher for people” soon could be on store shelves.

“You have so many different areas that potentially can be touched by robotics,” Brain says. “Over the next 10 years, you could see

Urine trouble

tion and medication side effects can all cause short-term bladder weakness. Childbirth, car accidents or surgical procedures can sometimes result in long-term bladder weakness. Birth defects, progressive illnesses such as Alzheimer’s disease and other chronic conditions may require ongoing management of bladder weakness. Prostate problems and the treatments required to correct them are the most frequent causes of bladder weakness in men. And, as if that weren’t enough, it is, apparently, fairly common to have more than one type of symptom.

The good news is that bladder weakness is often easily treated and managed through exercises and/or medication. The

a real explosion in all these different areas that change the face of elder care in a dynamic way.”

These steps forward will continue to ignite the “aging in place” movement, which aims to allow people to live at home and remain independent longer. Yet none of these breakthroughs will mitigate the need to have in place the legal documents— durable power of attorney, health-care power of attorney, living will and insurance company authorization to disclose information—required for family members and caregivers to make decisions for elders if necessary as they age.

“I feel very strongly that everyone should think about the next step, what lies ahead,” says Virginia Morris, Costco member and author of How to Care for Aging Parents. “The important thing is not just signing [advance directives] but discussing them. A piece of paper doesn’t really do a whole lot when you are trying to make life-or-death decisions. Talking about it is really important.”

While aging does necessitate preparing for the end of life, technological advances are ensuring that people will live not only longer but also more fully and independently in the coming decade. C

Andrea Downing Peck is a freelance writer living on Bainbridge Island, Washington. She is a contributing editor to Military Spouse magazine. Her work also has appeared in numerous travel and lifestyle publications.

ARTVILLE

first recommendation is to visit a doctor or nurse, who will be used to talking about it (without giggling) and will be able to advise

“There are assis-

tive technologies

that are ready to

be brought to the

marketplace that

all of us will be

looking for to

keep us healthier

and more

independent.”

—Kathryn Roberts
CEO and president
of Ecumen

on a suitable course of action.

You can help your doctor make an accurate assessment by completing a urine-voiding diary for seven days before your visit. Also, make a list of any prescription and over-the-counter medications you’re taking and let your doctor know of any family history, accidents and injuries that might be contributing to the problem. C

The Costco Connection Costco warehouses carry a variety of products for adult incontinence, including prescription and over-the-counter aids, as well as absorbent adult undergarments. Check with your Costco pharmacist.