It is a common misconception that chickenpox is only a childhood disease. The reality is that people of all ages can and do develop chickenpox and it can be dangerous at any point in life. This infection can be particularly dangerous for elderly adults who have immune systems that are not as strong and effective as those of younger people, putting them at risk not just of developing this particular illness but of suffering more severe complications and further illnesses. Because chickenpox is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, those who experience the sickness are then at risk of experiencing shingles, a potentially dangerous infection that leads to fatigue, pain, and a rash that can become infected and result in lingering pain known as postherpetic neuralgia. Knowing the signs and symptoms of chickenpox can help you to recognize if your senior may have developed this condition and allows you to ensure that they get the medical attention and care that they need to recover and to minimize the risk of more serious complications.
Home Care in Gainesville GA: Signs and Symptoms of ChickenpoxSome of the signs and symptoms of chickenpox include:
- Loss of appetite.
- Fever.
- Headache.
- Tiredness.
- Feeling of malaise.
The most readily recognized symptom of chickenpox is the rash itself. This rash goes through three distinct phases. It is possible for a sufferer to experience all three phases simultaneously. The first phase of the rash appears approximately 10 to 21 days after initial exposure to the virus. This phase includes small red or pink bumps that spread across the body over the course of a few days. Next the bumps develop into vesicles, small fluid-filled blisters that burst approximately one day after developing. Finally the broken blisters crust over to create scabs that can last for several more days. It is important to note that chickenpox is highly contagious and can be spread from approximately 48 days prior to the development of the rash until all of the blisters have fully crusted over.
Starting home care for your aging parents can be a fantastic way to enhance their quality of life and support their ongoing health and well-being as they age in place. Through the highly personalized services of an in-home senior care services provider, your parent can manage their individual challenges and limitations while also pursuing the highest level of independence, activity, and engagement as possible. Services such as transportation, meal preparation, assistance with running errands, help with personal care needs, mobility support, and companionship can help your parents to enjoy greater safety, comfort, and physical and mental health and well-being throughout their later years. As their family caregiver, this can ease your stress and give you peace of mind so you are able to focus your energy and attention on both your parents and the other obligations in your life as efficiently as possible.
The staff at Home Care Matters is available to talk with you and your family about all of your needs. Home Care Matters is a home care agency providing quality and affordable home care in Gainesville, GA and the surrounding areas. Call (678) 828-2195 for more information.
Valerie has the unique experience with home care as she has experienced it from both ends of the spectrum, as a caregiver and as needing care herself as a cancer survivor. Valerie says, “Taking care of someone you love is a physically, mentally and demanding labor of love.Taking care of my mom was the hardest thing I have ever done. It has given me an insight and perspective not many people understand unless you are doing it or have done it.I loved taking care of my mom.I love helping others take care of their love ones too.And now that I’ve been sick, it’s given me a whole new level of empathy and understanding for those who are sick and need help.”
Valerie’s schedule varies daily, but she loves visiting with our clients, families, caregivers, our network partners and being in the office.Says Valerie, “Every day is different, but I wake up excited about what we do, inspired by our team, clients and caregivers.I strive to be a resource to the community.I love my team and I love what we do every day. I like to think my mom would be proud.”
You can reach Valerie by email (Valerie@homecarematters.com) or in our office (770.965.4004).
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