The Medical News Today says dementia is one of the leading causes of disability and death worldwide. The debilitating disease has no cure; and available treatments only alleviate symptoms without slowing the progression of the disease. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), dementia affects more than 55 million people globally, and 10 million people receive a diagnosis each year. Of that number it is estimated 60 – 70 percent have Alzheimer’s disease, and 6 million of them are Americans. Unfortunately those numbers are expected to rise to 139 million people across the globe by 2050.
Other rising numbers are in cases of diabetes, obesity, and heart disease, which are all believed to increase a person’s risk for dementia. This is why researchers are not only trying to find a cure for Alzheimer’s and other dementias but ways to reduce people’s risk for the disease. Dr. Christopher Weber, director of global science initiatives at the Alzheimer’s Association, noted that: “Research looking at the relationship between diet and cognition is well-established. There is strong evidence to suggest that what is good for the heart is good for the head, and we know a healthy diet is good for the heart.” Researchers say one diet that appears to suggest better cognitive health is the MIND diet, (Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay). It is similar to the Mediterranean diet with a heavy focus on green, leafy vegetables, nuts, berries, bean, whole grains, seafood, poultry and wine. On the other hand, foods high in refined carbohydrates may cause an increase in the risk for Alzheimer’s. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition reports on a study linking processed meat products, like sausages, salami, and bacon with a relative increased risk of all dementias by 44% and Alzheimer’s disease by 52%. At MorningStar at River Oaks, we have suites for both assisted living and the specialized dementia care of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Our goal is to be the best senior living Houston offers, providing residents with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community. Please contact us or visit our website for more information and be sure to ask about our Grand Opening Specials. Our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior Living Houston has to offer. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, MorningStar at River Oaks provides outstanding assisted living and memory care. Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/dementia-and-diet-is-there-a-link
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Pet therapy (also known as animal-assisted therapy) is used for those with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia to alleviate feelings of boredom, loneliness and helplessness. Dr. William Thomas, a Harvard trained geriatrician and author of “The Eden Alternative,” said bringing in children, plants and animals helps to invigorate long-term care by “incorporating companionship, a sense of purpose, variety and spontaneity into the day-to-day experience of aged care residents.”
While studies show therapy dogs and other animals are useful in stimulating social interaction and easing agitation in dementia patients, experts say it should be done with specially trained pets to get the most benefit. Moreover, the animal should be matched to the setting as well as to the person. Pet therapists say dogs are generally the easiest to train as they are comfortable interacting with a variety of people. The benefits of animal therapy to dementia patients include the unconditional love and acceptance animals freely give out as well as the physical touch from the pet contact. Also, these relationships do not require much in the way of communication skills, which are often difficult for someone with Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers say other benefits of pet therapy include an increase in physical activity and an unexpected improvement in a person’s appetite after a visit from an animal as well as an overall calming effect. At MorningStar at River Oaks, our goal is to provide the best senior living Houston has to offer, which includes compassionate, loving memory care for those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Our unique approach to memory care is designed to nurture, support and respect the essence of the individual regardless of the level of memory loss. By leveraging the power of art, music, dance, and aromatherapy as well as animals, we strive to heal and comfort our most tender residents. In addition, MorningStar at River Oaks provides stylish assisted living suites with an array of luxury amenities, wellness programs, and care services for a healthy, engaged lifestyle. Please visit our website for more information. 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. Contact us for more information about the finest senior living Houston has to offer. Sources: verywellhealth.com/how-does-pet-therapy-benefit-people-with-dementia-98677 tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.5172/conu.2011.37.2.222 As more and more seniors watch friends and relatives move into retirement communities, many wonder if it is the right step for them. While obviously a decision of this magnitude should be carefully made, there is data showing the majority of seniors in retirement communities are happy they made the move. In fact, studies further indicate seniors in such communities tend to live longer. One report from the United States General Accounting Office (GAO), states “seniors who choose to live in retirement communities live 1.5 to 2 years longer than seniors who choose to retire in their homes.”
Researchers explain that many communities offer seniors a higher quality of life with their wide range of activities including physical fitness classes, group games and other entertainment opportunities. Also, we all know maintaining a home can be stressful and even more so as we age, while retirement communities provide a virtually carefree lifestyle. Senior communities seamlessly provide the chance to interact and socialize with like-minded people in the same stage of life, making it easy to meet and connect with people who share your interests. Again, studies find “seniors are 22% more likely to live longer and lead more fulfilling lives if they're given the chance to socialize with others.” Moreover, researchers say active seniors have better immune systems and a lower risk of dementia; and that loneliness can lead to a greater risk of high blood pressure, depression and early mortality. At MorningStar of Hillsboro, a vibrant 55+ community, we offer all the comforts of home with stylish apartments and graciously appointed common areas both inside and out. Our broad range of services and amenities include wellness programs and activities, restaurant-style dining, art studio, fitness center, gardens, and more to promote a healthy, engaged lifestyle. Please contact us for more information. Not only is our staff happy to answer any questions but our website provides information on our company’s history, vision, and mission as well as what sets us apart from other senior communities Hillsboro, OR offers. 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. Contact us to learn more about one of the finest retirement communities Hillsboro, OR has to offer. Source: retirefearless.com/post/do-people-in-retirement-communities-live-longer An advanced directive is a legal document giving you a voice involving medical decisions in the event you are incapacitated. Many people shy away from creating such documents as they fail to realize how important they are, and mistakenly worry they are signing away their lives, and/or don’t like thinking about being so ill they are unable to make decisions.
Advance care planning documents may include a living will, power of attorney and health care proxy. By planning ahead, they guide decisions made on your behalf if you are incapacitated and unable to speak for yourself; and express your desires and values related to end-of-life care. Living wills specify the kind of medical treatment desired and many simply express the desire to not be given life-sustaining measures that only serve to prolong a person’s death. Specific details may regard care including the use of pain medications, antibiotics, hydration, feeding and the use of cardiopulmonary resuscitation or ventilators. A health care proxy is someone designated to express your wishes for medical care and has the same rights you would in requesting or refusing treatment. A durable power of attorney document names a person to act on your behalf if you are incapacitated and gives them the power to make financial decisions. The Harvard Medical School reports on some of the myths people have regarding advance care directives. They say you need to realize more care is not always better but can prolong the dying process without respect for quality of life or comfort. Refusing life support does not mean you are committing suicide but rather allowing your medical problem to be the cause of your death. Moreover, refusing life-extending treatment does not mean you are refusing comfort measures for pain management and symptoms. Talk to your family and doctor about your medical preferences, and be sure each has a copy of your advance directive documents. Opening soon, MorningStar of Hillsboro will have 141 stylish senior apartments in a range of configurations and floorplans. Residents will enjoy carefree retirement years as we handle the maintenance and provide onsite luxury amenities, hospitality services and a community of friends. For exceptional senior living, Hillsboro, OR seniors are encouraged to consider MorningStar’s beautiful new community. 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. Contact us to learn more about the finest senior living Hillsboro OR offers. The U.S. Census Bureau reports almost 13.8 million seniors live alone. We know various causes including chronic and worsening health conditions, hearing loss, no longer driving, mobility issues, loss of a spouse or other loved ones can result in loneliness and isolation for older adults on their own.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says, “Social isolation and loneliness in older adults are serious public health risks affecting a significant number of people in the United States, and puts them at risk for dementia and other serious medical conditions.” They cite statistics showing social isolation significantly increases a person’s risk of premature death, and rivals those of smoking, obesity, and physical inactivity. Moreover, studies find social isolation is associated with approximately a 50% increased risk of dementia, a 29% increased risk of heart disease and a 32% increased risk of stroke. The CDC also warns loneliness is linked to higher risk of depression, suicide and anxiety. Independent living communities offer older adults a built-in community of people at a similar stage of life as well as a variety of social activities that appeal to many tastes and preferences. The range of amenities and activities make it easy for residents to interact with others and to forge new friendships. Another advantage to 55+ independent living communities is the entire place is designed to accommodate the needs of seniors. This includes apartments with wheelchair accessible doorways, low thresholds, well-lit spaces, handrails, walk-in showers and tubs in bathrooms, and emergency call systems. At MorningStar of Kirkland, we provide all the comforts of home with stylish apartments and graciously appointed common areas both inside and out. Our broad range of services and amenities include all-day restaurant-style dining, bistro, art studio, swimming pool, fitness center, wellness programs and activities to promote a healthy lifestyle for residents. Please visit our website to learn more about the finest senior housing Kirkland, WA has to offer. MorningStar Senior Living’s independent and assisted living communities across the U.S. have a passionate commitment to serving seniors, earning a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. If you are looking for the finest senior housing Kirkland offers, we encourage you to consider MorningStar. Source: cdc.gov/aging/publications/features/lonely-older-adults.html No matter how old we are, change can be difficult and the bigger the change, the more challenging. For the elderly, change can signal an end to a way of life they are most familiar with and cause a range of emotions from mourning a loss of independence to feelings of helplessness. Hopefully it also offers a spark of excitement at starting a new adventure.
If you are an adult child of a senior who is in the process of transitioning into assisted living, experts offer tips to get through any rough patches. To make the move more successful, they recommended working as a team: the senior, the family, the new home and their doctor. As family members, it is important to recognize how intimidating the move can be in the eyes of your loved one as they are moving to a new environment with all new people. Experts say the adjustment period typically lasts for 30 to 90 days. A senior can make it easier on themselves by keeping an open mind and realizing it will take a little while to adjust. Try to get out and enjoy your new environment rather than staying behind closed doors in your room. If you are unsure how something works, ask questions. If you are having problems getting answers, talk to the management or ask your family to intervene. Families can help the senior to set up their new apartment with familiar items and family memories including pictures and other favorite knick-knacks. Once they are settled, experts say don’t desert them but don’t overdo the visits. Allow them to find their own way and perhaps start making a few friends. If the community has family-friendly activities, join in when you can. MorningStar at River Oaks offers all-inclusive assisted living in Houston’s desirable River Oaks community. Smartly-designed private suites maximize space and include floorplans in one and two-bedroom configurations. Amenities include all-day dining, full salon, fitness center, and wellness programs and activities. A sixth-floor sky terrace and lounge is designed to enjoy the view, watch the sun set and relax with friends. Other outdoor amenities include courtyards with a fireplace and BBQ and strolling paths. As dementia care specialists, Reflections Neighborhood provides a compassionate home for those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. We are now open; contact us to inquire about Move-in Specials and availability. New studies suggest our attitude toward growing older may affect how well we do with our own aging process. Researchers report findings that show those who negatively view aging may have a higher likelihood of developing changes in the brain associated with Alzheimer’s disease. One such study was published in the American Psychological Association’s journal, Psychology and Aging. Its authors suggest if a person shifts their belief about aging to a more positive view; it may be beneficial in helping to mitigate the ravages of Alzheimer’s.
Associate professor of public health and psychology at the Yale School of Public Health and the study’s leader, Becca Levy said, “We believe it is the stress generated by the negative beliefs about aging that individuals sometimes internalize from society that can result in pathological brain changes.” She says while these findings are concerning, “it is encouraging to realize that these negative beliefs about aging can be mitigated, and positive beliefs about aging can be reinforced, so that the adverse impact is not inevitable.” The research was part of the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging; a long-term study based out of Baltimore. All participants had been part of the study for decades and were healthy adults free of Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. The survey questions focused on individuals' beliefs regarding aging. Negative views included the belief elderly people are sickly, absent-minded, have little to contribute, and are unable to concentrate well. Positive beliefs included thinking older people can lead vibrant lives and be actively engaged in society. Participants were also given regular MRI brain scans to check for signs of Alzheimer’s. Those who answered questions about aging negatively were discovered to have a “greater decline in the volume of the hippocampus, a part of the brain critical for memory.” Researchers explain this is important as “the hippocampus is one of the first areas of the brain to shrink in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease.” Brain autopsies were conducted on 74 patients who died during the study. Those who were more negative about aging had more plaques and tangles in their brain, which is associated with Alzheimer’s; than their more positive counterparts. Becca Levy and other researchers hypothesize that Americans hold a more negative view on aging as compared to countries such as India; it could contribute to Alzheimer’s being five times more prevalent in our country. However, while positive thinking is no guarantee for good brain health, it certainly helps us feel better. Looking for a trusted senior living in Houston, TX? We encourage you to take a look at the MorningStar at River Oaks assisted living and memory care community. Designed from top to bottom to ensure your comfort and safety, we offer an array of amenities, wellness programs and care services. See our website for information, pricing and availability. Source: alzinfo.org/articles/research/negative-beliefs-about-aging-could-prime-the-brain-for-alzheimers/ The Alzheimer’s Association explains Alzheimer’s is a disease that not only affects the individual but robs family members of their loved one. As the disease progresses, it takes away more and more of the person and the family begins to mourn the loss. While grief has different phases including denial, anger, guilt, sadness and acceptance in no particular order; universally shared by most families is unease about what the future holds and what to expect next.
Hope is a powerful human emotion so denying the disease is a coping mechanism for some as they try to convince themselves their loved one will get better or not reach the level of devastation experienced by many suffering from the disease. Others may refuse to recognize the changed behavior and make excuses for it. Spouses and significant others may experience anger as they feel abandoned by the person and frustrated at their inability to do anything about it. They may also feel resentment and overwhelmed by caregiving duties but experts say it is important to be honest with yourself. Recognize you need more support and ask for it. Other feelings of grief include guilt. A person may worry they have not done enough or are not visiting often enough. While unrealistic, spouses may feel guilty they are still able to enjoy life while their wife or husband is no longer able. If a caregiver is not getting enough support, they may even experience thoughts about wishing the person would die or go away. The Alzheimer’s Association says it is important to get the help and support you need and to accept your feelings and remember grief is part of the journey. The newly opened MorningStar at River Oaks epitomizes the finest assisted living in Houston, TX. Our beautifully designed community also appeals to independent seniors who appreciate the idea of living a stress-free lifestyle while knowing care is there whenever they may need it. For those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases, Reflections Neighborhood provides holistic memory care, including giving support to residents’ families members through this difficult journey. Visit our website to discover how MorningStar at River Oaks is a cut above other seniors living in Houston, TX. If so, you are not alone. The Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimate half of the adults in the U.S. (47%, or 116 million) have hypertension, defined as a systolic blood pressure greater than 130 mmHg or a diastolic blood pressure greater than 80 mmHg, or are taking medication for hypertension. Experts say sometimes it can be difficult to know if a patient has HBP because of what doctors’ call “white coat hypertension,” which shows up as HBP at a doctor’s office but is otherwise normal. Others have what is referred to as “masked hypertension”, showing up normal in the office but as HBP in normal settings. Given the number of people with hypertension and the chance for inaccurate readings, doctors say monitoring your blood pressure at home is more important for many people.
That being said, professionals offer tips to help achieve a more accurate read. To start with, they recommend a traditional cuff rather than one measuring on the wrist. It should be able to wrap around the arm and have a good amount of Velcro to keep it stable. The American Medical Association has developed the US Blood Pressure Validated Device Listing to help consumers choose the most accurate devices. Another tip is to bring your device with you at least once a year to a doctor visit to compare it with in-office readings. For the most accurate read at home, be seated and if you need, use the bathroom before you start. Sit quietly for at least five minutes and don’t drink coffee or smoke a cigarette right before reading. Sit upright in the chair with your feet on the ground and your arm relaxed and resting on a table level with your heart. Put the cuff on bare skin, keeping the bottom of the cuff right above the elbow bend. Remain relaxed with feet uncrossed. If you are looking for the best assisted living in Houston, TX, please consider the new MorningStar at River Oaks. Our website is loaded with information including suites, care services and amenities; and led by a dedicated team who understand how to provide residents a quality of life other assisted living communities simply cannot match. As dementia care specialists, our community provides secure suites for those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Experts say while you pride yourself on keeping a clean kitchen, you may still have some appliances or tools that are a hidden risk to your family’s health. Along with throwing away dirty sponges, which are a source of germs, viruses and bacteria; other kitchen tools are not meant to last forever. To keep your family healthy, they may need to be replaced.
One of those items many kitchens have is a blender that is often used to make healthy smoothies, drinks and soups. Alyssa Resnick, a registered dietitian based in Hoboken, New Jersey warns that due to the construction of a blender, old food content and mold can build up in the base and leach out into the contents of the blender. She suggests every time it is used to completely disassemble each part of the blender and thoroughly clean it. Cutting boards are another common source of germs, viruses and bacteria and should be replaced every so often. Experts say if a wooden board is cracked it should be thrown away. To keep them in good shape, avoid putting them in the dishwasher but rather scrub them with a brush in a hot detergent solution. Once dry, apply a food grade sealer. Plastic cutting boards should also be routinely checked for signs of wear and discarded when they have deep grooves and scratches. Dieticians warn that damp dish towels are another breeding ground for bacteria and are used to dry surfaces, dishes and hands. To stay safe, launder your towels often and keep paper towels on hand for messy and dirty cleanups. Other dangers in the kitchen include non-stick pans that are scratched or damaged. Maggie Michalczyk, a registered dietitian based in Chicago explains that many pans are coated with a chemical known as perfluorooctanoic acid, or PFOA. According to the American Cancer Society, "PFOA has the potential to be a health concern because it can stay in the environment and in the human body for long periods of time." If you started the search for a 55+ community, we would like to introduce you to the newest senior living in Kirkland, WA. MorningStar of Kirkland offers carefree retirement years with luxury amenities, hospitality services and beautiful apartments. Please visit our website to learn more about the best senior housing in Kirkland. Source:health.usnews.com/wellness/slideshows/kitchen-items-you-need-to-replace?slide=7&src=usn_nl_yourhealth&utm_campaign=Your%20Health-Thu%20Dec%2016%2006%3A29%3A40%20EST%202021&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Sailthru&utm_term=Your%20Health |
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