As we age, many seniors experience occasional “brain fog” or forgetfulness and have trouble comprehending and processing new information. Medical experts say this may be a normal part of aging but could also be from some of the medications you are taking.
Dr. Mark Albers, a neurologist at the McCance Center for Brain Health at Harvard – affiliated with the Massachusetts General Hospital, says it is not uncommon for seniors to experience symptoms of brain fog when taking certain medications for the first time. He explains medications can affect memory more in aging adults as “older people tend to metabolize drugs more slowly, making them more sensitive to medications and more vulnerable to side effects.” Other reasons medications cause more problems in seniors are they often take larger doses of a drug and more frequently as well as take several drugs to treat one health condition. Moreover, older people may have a weakened blood-brain barrier. This barrier works to block toxins and other harmful substances including drugs from entering the brain, which may account for some memory problems. Sleep medications are one of the common medications that can be problematic. Over-the-counter sleeping aids can contain anticholinergic drugs, which are known to impair cognitive function, and some prescription sleep drugs diminish activity in parts of the brain involved in transferring short-term memories to long-term memory. Pain medications can additionally result in memory problems. The good news is once patients stop taking sleep or pain meds, modify the dose or replace the drug with a better option, many of the problems go away. MorningStar at River Oaks is proud to offer seniors a vibrant and carefree lifestyle to help live life to the fullest. Our community offers a selection of assisted living suites in a variety of floor plans equipped with kitchenettes (full kitchen in select units), washer/dryer, handicapped-accessible bathrooms, and emergency call systems. Residents enjoy all-day dining, fitness center, theater/chapel, salon, courtyards and sky terrace along with wellness programs and activities. In addition, our Reflections Neighborhood has suites devoted to the care of those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Please contact us for more information about luxury senior living in Houston. MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior living Houston offers. Source: health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/stuck-in-a-brain-fog-look-in-your-medicine-cabinet
0 Comments
Stroke is a common medical event. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports each year over 795,000 people in the United States suffer from a stroke, and of that number, around 610,000 are first strokes. Statistics show stroke to be the second leading cause of death worldwide in 2019; and experts say while common, stroke is often misunderstood.
One of the first misconceptions is that stroke is caused by a problem of the heart. Doctors explain stroke occurs when there is a blockage or rupture of arteries or veins in the brain, not in the heart. The second most important thing to know about stroke is in many cases it is preventable. The most common risk factors include hypertension, smoking, high cholesterol, obesity, diabetes, trauma to the head or neck, and cardiac arrhythmias. Lifestyle changes like eating a healthier diet, avoiding smoking and exercising can help lessen your risk for a stroke. Managing stress and watching your consummation of alcohol can additionally reduce the risk. Another thing many people do not know about stroke is it is treatable and the faster you get treatment the better the outcome. This is why it is important to pay attention to symptoms such as trouble speaking, double vision, paralysis or numbness. If you do experience symptoms, call an ambulance. Remember stroke does not only occur in the elderly. While your risk for stroke does increase with age, “a review in 2013 points out that approximately 15% of all ischemic strokes occur in young adults and adolescents.” Not all strokes have symptoms and some are only found through MRIs and other diagnostic tests. A transient ischemic attack (TIA), sometimes called a “mini-stroke,” can be a warning and requires an emergency work-up and management to prevent a possible larger stroke. For memory care or assisted living Houston seniors can count on, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at River Oaks. Our beautiful home has 85 bright assisted living suites with a choice of floor plans. In addition, 27 suites in our Reflections Neighborhood are devoted to caring for those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Please contact us to learn more about MorningStar’s amenities, care services, availability and pricing. MorningStar has considered it a privilege and responsibility to “cast a new light” on senior living, inspired and empowered by our unique mission: to honor, to value, to invest. Our passionate commitment to serving seniors has proudly earned us a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. Contact us for more information about the finest memory care and assisted living Houston offers. Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/medical-myths-all-about-stroke The National Institute on Aging (NIA) reminds older adults mild forgetfulness is more often a normal part of aging and not a serious memory problem. They explain serious problems generally involving things like the person asking the same question over and over again and getting lost in places they know well. They may also have trouble following recipes or directions and find themselves confused about people, places and time.
If you are someone who is forgetting things, there are some steps you can take to feel more confident. These involve several simple things you can do, which will benefit your whole being like getting enough sleep (seven to eight hours a night), not drinking a lot of alcohol; and exercising and eating well. Managing high blood pressure is also important. Other more practical tips to help with forgetfulness are putting your wallet or purse, keys, glasses and phone in the same place each day. Instead of assuming you will remember, write out shopping and need to-do lists and use a calendar or take notes. NIA says to get involved in activities that focus on using the mind and body and stay socially involved. If you feel depressed for weeks at a time, talk to your doctor. Strategies to improve forgetfulness include challenging our brains by learning new things as well as using all our senses. For example, prepare a new recipe that requires lots of spices. If you are eating out, try to identify the flavors and seasonings used in the meal. To help remember new information better such as names, places, etc., try repeating it out loud or writing it down as this reinforces the memory. For example, if you want to remember a new neighbor’s name, say it out loud back to them, like “hi Jack.” Then an hour or so later say the new neighbor’s name out loud again. At MorningStar at River Oaks we promote a healthy, engaged lifestyle, while providing comfort and security. Our beautiful home has 85 well-designed assisted living suites with a choice of floor plans. In addition, 27 suites in our Reflections Neighborhood are devoted to caring for those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about outstanding senior living in Houston. MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003. We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior living Houston has to offer. Many of us have watched a good friend go through the grieving process after losing a loved one and have been frustrated by not being able to do more to comfort them. Experts explain this is a common feeling and provide some suggestions to help.
One of the first things to remember is everyone experiences grief in their own way. Heather L. McGinty, assistant professor in the department of psychiatry and behavioral health at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center in Columbus, explains grief triggers a range of emotions, sensations and behaviors and can be complex. A person’s emotions may swing from tearfulness to anger or denial, and as a friend, it can be hard to know what to say. Loneliness, betrayal, fear and acceptance are some of the other emotions grief brings up. Some people even experience physical symptoms such as headaches or stomach aches. If you want to help, grief counselors say to first make sure the person wants it; and recommend asking if they want the type of support you hope to offer, such as spending time with them. Some people are very private and prefer to grieve in their own way. The most important thing is to be supportive of their wishes and be prepared to listen rather than hand out advice. Also, be specific like letting them know you want to take them to lunch when they are ready, or bring over a meal, run errands or do some yard work. Experts say avoid telling the person you know how they feel. Again, everyone experiences grief differently. Even if you don’t understand the way the person is acting out their grief, be supportive not judgmental. Lastly, don’t say things like “everything happens for a reason” or “they are in a better place.” If you think they would benefit from professional support, be sure to encourage it. At MorningStar of Pasadena, our beautiful home is designed from the ground up to serve our residents’ every need. Our community offers stylish senior apartments in a range of configurations and floor plans. Residents enjoy carefree retirement years as we handle the maintenance and provide onsite amenities, all-day dining, and a community of friends. For luxury independent or assisted living in Pasadena, CA, we encourage you to consider MorningStar. MorningStar’s foundation is based on the mission to honor God, value seniors and invest in our staff to create a unique senior living experience. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide the finest independent and assisted living Pasadena, CA offers. Contact us or visit our website for more information. Source: health.usnews.com/wellness/articles/ways-to-help-a-loved-one-grieve? We all like to give our elderly parents or loved ones a gift to show them just how much we care about them. It is often hard to know what to give to a senior, and especially difficult if a loved one is suffering from dementia. Experts suggest you help them find ways to reminisce about their lives and accomplishments, and give them things that will bring a smile to their face and some joy into their life.
Many ideas for someone with Alzheimer’s or another dementia disease include personalized gifts. One such gift is a talking photo book that allows you to record your own personal commentary to go along with each photograph. This can be a fun book to sit and enjoy with your family member as it helps to trigger memories and conversation. Many companies offer such books, and prices typically vary with the number of photos and recording time available. Buying an interactive book featuring vivid photographs and large print on a subject your mom or dad loves such as animals or flowers can also promote conversation and provide a way to spend relaxing time together. To ease stress or agitation, you may want to consider getting them a fiddle muff. A fiddle muff can provide comfort and warmth as well as activity to promote increased hand flexibility and brain stimulation. Another meaningful gift is a cozy, customized blanket filled with photos of the grandkids or a beloved family pet. On the Internet you can find companies that will do a collage of family photos or a singular one in a variety of materials. Many of the blankets have surprisingly sharp images and can be machine washed and dried. If the person has a hard time falling asleep or relaxing, calming visual and or audio stimulation may help. Several companies have all-in-one cubes that offer a range of calming music and visual displays that can turn the ceiling into a beautiful night sky. If you are a family member searching for quality memory care for a loved one, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at River Oaks. Our Reflections Neighborhood is meticulously designed to accommodate the special needs of residents, allowing them as much independence as possible. Each resident receives an individualized care plan and participates in a wide variety of wellness programs and purposeful activities including exercise, music, life skills, art, special celebrations and other events. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about MorningStar’s memory care or assisted living in Houston. MorningStar has considered it a privilege and responsibility to “cast a new light” on senior living, inspired and empowered by our unique mission: to honor, to value, to invest. Our passionate commitment to serving seniors has proudly earned us a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. Contact us to learn more about the finest memory care and assisted living Houston offers. Source: store.best-alzheimers-products.com/alzheimers-dementia-gift-ideas/alzheimers-gift-guide.html If you or your loved one needs assisted living in Houston, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at River Oaks. A look through the photos on our website will show you our comfortable and stylish common areas and beautiful private suites. Although we provide a range of resort-style amenities and services, our outstanding feature is a care staff that is genuinely committed to working with seniors.
Before you even move in, we will meet with you and your family to discuss a care plan that addresses your various needs. For our assisted living residents, we offer five Care Levels. Furthermore, as your care is managed and evaluated throughout your stay at our community, we adjust the level of care as needed. In addition to the cost of the suite, your monthly fee is determined by your required level of care. Various auxiliary services, both medical and non-medical, are priced a la carte. This individualized care plan ensures you get the right amount of assistance as you need it. Each of MorningStar at River Oaks’ 85 assisted living suites is equipped with a handicap-accessible bathroom, emergency call system, private heating and air conditioning, and basic cable TV and utilities are included. We offer residents weekly housekeeping and laundry service as well as spot cleaning and daily trash removal. To help residents feel right at home, we are pet friendly. For our memory care residents, our pricing is all-inclusive, regardless of the level of care needed. The Reflections Neighborhood offers 27 suites and is designed to encourage residents to explore their spacious surroundings easily and safely. While a secure building, warm, inviting common areas and clear wayfinding encourage independence. MorningStar’s holistic approach to memory care incorporates some of the most respected research-based care programs available. Our comprehensive care also includes assisting families to better understand and cope with the disease. Please contact us or visit our website for more information. MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest memory care or assisted living Houston offers. Foot health is a crucial aspect of maintaining mobility and independence in seniors. In senior housing Kirkland and senior living Kirkland communities, attention to foot care can significantly improve the quality of life for elderly individuals. Healthy feet enable seniors to stay active, perform daily tasks, and engage in social activities, all of which are essential for overall well-being.
Common Foot Problems in Seniors As people age, they become more susceptible to various foot problems. Some common issues include:
Preventive Foot Care Preventive care is essential in maintaining foot health in seniors. Regular check-ups with a podiatrist can help identify and treat issues early. Here are some key preventive measures: Proper footwear: Wearing well-fitted, supportive shoes can prevent many foot problems. Avoid high heels and narrow-toed shoes that can cause discomfort and deformities. Daily foot inspections: Seniors should inspect their feet daily for any signs of cuts, blisters, swelling, or infections. Early detection can prevent minor issues from becoming serious problems. Moisturizing: Keeping the feet moisturized helps prevent dry skin and cracking. Use a good quality foot cream daily. Toenail care: Regular trimming of toenails can prevent ingrown nails and other nail disorders. It is important to cut nails straight across and not too short. Exercise and Foot Health Regular physical activity is vital for maintaining foot health and overall mobility. Exercise helps improve circulation, strength, and flexibility in the feet. Activities such as walking, swimming, and stretching exercises can keep feet strong and flexible. Balance exercises are also beneficial in preventing falls and maintaining independence. When to Seek Medical Attention It is important for seniors to seek medical attention if they experience persistent foot pain, swelling, or any signs of infection. Conditions such as diabetic foot ulcers require prompt treatment to prevent complications. Podiatrists in senior housing Kirkland and senior living Kirkland communities can provide specialized care and advice for maintaining healthy feet. Adapting to Foot Changes As feet change with age, it may be necessary to adapt daily routines and footwear choices. Custom orthotics or special shoes can provide additional support and comfort. Seniors should not ignore foot pain, as it can lead to decreased mobility and independence. Foot health is a vital component of senior mobility and independence. By taking proactive steps in foot care, seniors can enhance their quality of life and continue to enjoy their daily activities. Regular check-ups, proper footwear, and a healthy lifestyle all contribute to maintaining healthy feet and overall well-being. Heat exhaustion is a serious concern, particularly for seniors who may be more vulnerable to high temperatures. Residents in senior housing Kirkland and senior living Kirkland communities need to be aware of the signs of heat exhaustion and know what immediate actions to take to prevent serious health complications.
Understanding Heat Exhaustion Heat exhaustion occurs when the body overheats and cannot cool down effectively. It is often caused by prolonged exposure to high temperatures, especially when combined with dehydration. Seniors are at higher risk because their bodies may not adjust as well to sudden temperature changes, and they might not feel thirsty until they are already dehydrated. Common Signs of Heat Exhaustion Recognizing the signs of heat exhaustion early can help prevent it from progressing to heat stroke, which is a medical emergency. Common symptoms include:
Immediate Actions to Take If a senior exhibits signs of heat exhaustion, the following steps should be taken promptly: Move to a Cooler Location Get the person out of the heat and into a cooler environment as quickly as possible. This could be an air-conditioned room or a shaded area outdoors. Hydrate Encourage the person to drink cool water or a sports drink to help replenish lost fluids and electrolytes. Avoid beverages that contain caffeine or alcohol, as they can worsen dehydration. Cool Down the Body Use cool, wet clothes or a sponge bath to lower the person’s body temperature. Applying ice packs to the armpits, neck, and groin can also help. If possible, a cool shower or bath is effective. Loosen Clothing Remove any tight or unnecessary clothing to allow the body to cool down more efficiently. Lightweight, light-colored, and loose-fitting clothing is ideal during hot weather. Rest Ensure the person rests and avoids physical activity until they have fully recovered. Continued exertion can exacerbate symptoms and lead to more severe heat-related illnesses. Monitor Symptoms Keep a close eye on the individual to see if symptoms improve. If there is no improvement within 30 minutes, or if symptoms worsen, seek medical attention immediately. Heat exhaustion can quickly progress to heat stroke, which requires emergency treatment. Preventing Heat Exhaustion Prevention is key to protecting seniors from heat exhaustion. Residents in senior housing Kirkland and senior living Kirkland communities should stay hydrated, wear appropriate clothing, and avoid strenuous activities during peak heat hours. Regularly checking weather forecasts and planning outdoor activities for cooler parts of the day can also help. Understanding the signs of heat exhaustion and knowing what immediate actions to take can make a significant difference in the health and safety of seniors. By being vigilant and proactive, caregivers and family members can help ensure that the elderly remain safe and comfortable during hot weather. According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), every year more than one in four people aged 65 years or older suffer from a fall, and many of those accidents require a trip to the emergency department. In addition to serious injuries, some falls even result in death. To help mitigate the risk, experts recommend that along with safety modifications to the home that elderly adults also do balance exercises.
Balance exercises are relatively easy-to-do and can improve both your balance as well as increase lower body strength. Ask your doctor for some suggestions or take a look at the Internet. Most do not require special equipment other than someone to assist you if needed. The exercises can be done throughout the day and each one only takes a few minutes to do. One example of a balance exercise is called Tightrope Walk. This easy exercise improves balance, posture, and core strength. Start in a standing position and lift your arms extending them out to your sides. Now walk in a straight line keeping your gaze focused on a fixed point in the distance. Each time you raise your foot, pause with it in the raised position for 2 to 3 seconds. Alternating your feet, continue for 20 to 30 steps. Another exercise is Rock the Boat, which starts by standing with your feet hip-distance apart and extending your arms out to your sides. Lift your left foot off the floor and bend your knee to bring your heel toward your bottom holding it there for up to 30 seconds. Now do the same with the other side. Do each side 3 times. At MorningStar at River Oaks, we understand the importance of our resident’s living life to the fullest. This is why we offer a Life Enrichment program that focuses on creative ways to stay physically, intellectually, socially and spiritually active. Please see our website for more information about exceptional assisted living in Houston. This post is intended for informational purposes only. Before beginning any exercises, please consult with your health care provider. MorningStar’s foundation is based on the mission to honor God, value seniors and invest in our staff to create a unique senior living experience. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide the finest assisted living Houston offers. Contact us or visit our website to learn more. Source: healthline.com/health/exercise-fitness/balance-exercises-for-seniors#exercises-to-try While it is true that we are all living longer, there are some steps you can take to help make those years healthier than ever. The National Institute of Health recommends that seniors incorporate the following habits into their daily lives: eat a balanced diet; keep your mind and body active; do not smoke; get regular checkups; and practice safety habits to avoid accidents and prevent falls.
The Family Doctor website also offers some common sense advice on how even small changes in your lifestyle can improve your health even if you are already a senior. Their primary recommendation is to add physical activity to your daily life and make changes to your diet. By increasing your daily physical activity, it will help improve the strength of your bones and muscles. In addition, we know that stronger muscles can help to prevent falls, and if you do experience a fall, those stronger bones are less apt to break. By daily exercising, you can also help improve many chronic health problems such as diabetes. Seniors new to exercising should consult their health care provider before they begin. Once they are given the go ahead, they need to start slowly. Walking is one of the easiest exercises to do and experts suggest breaking up 30 minutes of daily activity into increments if it is easier for you. Consider walking for 15 minutes twice a day or doing 10 minutes 3 times a day. Strength training also offers seniors benefits but again the suggestion is to begin slowly. Start with 1 or 5-pound weights and do a few exercises at a time. Resistance bands are also easy to use and can help to strengthen upper arms and leg muscles. The article also suggests making changes to your diet. Try making small changes one at a time that add up to improved health. Adding more fiber to your meals gets your colon working better and reduces the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes and cancer. A heart healthy diet to try is the Mediterranean diet which promotes foods such as fish, fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains. Lastly, they recommend you drink more water and eat more whole foods. At MorningStar at River Oaks, our community is designed to promote residents’ health and well-being with a range of senior care and hospitality services, resort-style amenities, and wellness programs and activities. Our beautiful property has 85 assisted living suites for those that need help with the activities of daily living. In addition, our distinct Reflections Neighborhood provides an additional 27 suites for seniors with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about MorningStar’s senior living in Houston. MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003. We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior living Houston has to offer. Source:familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/seniors/staying-healthy/good-health-habits-at-age-60-and-beyond.html |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. Archives
July 2022
Categories
All
|