Health professionals - how to talk to them ( a carer's perspective)

Firstly, appreciate them for what they do for the people you care for or you. Secondly, point out that you understand they have a bit workload. Thirdly, point out to them that you aren't a medical professional - if you aren't of course, and that you don't understand jargon or when they bash out sentences quickfire style expecting you to know exactly what they are talking about and they really should put themselves in your shoes as someone caring for another rather than being in that wonderful space of being detached. Oh to be detached. We develop that in a way but essentially when you care for a loved one, you are attached in some sort of way. If you weren't, it would be a sad thing and slightly worrying too. Make it clear what your loved one needs, what you need (and yes you are able to ask for this) and what the best solution, in the most efficient, cost effective, time effective way possible. And hope this works. It has been doing so for me.

Minor strokes - take aspirin immediately

Asprin and Paracetamol should be kept in the First Aid kit or the store cupboard. But Asprin is a blood thinner and works well for stroke patients. I recommend you keep them. They can help thin the blood when there is sign of a stroke, however major or minor. Of course, you MUST call for an ambulance but you can take the Asprin while you are waiting for the emergency services to arrive on the scene. I cannot stress enough how quickly you must call 999!!!! Oxford University have done the research which was published in the journal, The Lancet but this has been common knowledge among those who understand stroke for a while now.

Guardian article_Pass notes No 3,623 Pensioners

I read this and had to share a little of it with you.... The elderly term is no longer considered one that describes everyone that should fall under it! So there are four new categories Smarties - Senior Market Town Retirees Diamond Days - affluent, mortgage free, suburbanites Senior Security - well off but risk averse Vintage Value - not so well off Apparently, according to the credit checking company Experian, they produced a report outlining different types of older people. The article then jests and somewhat light heartedly discusses terms and catch-all phrases which are used to cover whole groups of individuals. It may be patronising or it may be helpful so we don't fall to stereotypes.... but it takes a company to make the point however many older people they 'interviewed' in order to reach these conclusions. A brilliant piece all the same. Pass Notes often are but this one just begged to be shared with you.