We often come to think something is true if we hear it stated as if it is a fact. Doctors say this happens in medicine more frequently than we realize. One such disease with lots of misinformation surrounding it is Parkinson’s disease (PD), a neurodegenerative disorder affecting predominantly dopamine-producing (“dopaminergic”) neurons in a specific area of the brain called substantia nigra. Symptoms develop slowly over years and may include tremors (mainly at rest); bradykinesia (slowness of movement); limb rigidity; and gait and balance problems.
One common misconception regarding PD is it only affects a person’s movement. Doctors explain this is untrue as symptoms can also include: cognitive impairment or dementia, depression and anxiety, sleep dysfunction, pain, apathy, sexual dysfunction, and bowel incontinence. Another thing many people believe is levodopa, one of the most effective treatments for PD, is only effective for a certain amount of time. However, experts say it is not the drug that becomes less potent but the fact that the “key enzyme that converts levodopa to dopamine (aromatic acid decarboxylase or AADC) is predominantly found in the dopamine neurons of the substantia nigra, which are lost during progression of the disease.” People should know tremors are not always a symptom of PD, and that some people with PD never get them. In terms of the trajectory of the disease, it varies with individuals. Also, research suggests staying physically active can slow progression and reduce symptoms. Although the cause of the disease is not known nor is there a cure for it, there are treatments used to improve symptoms and allow people to have a good quality of life. While current therapies don’t slow or stop PD, researchers are working to identify biomarkers to enable earlier detection and hope to find better treatments. This post is intended for informational purposes only. Please contact your health care provider with any questions or concerns you have regarding your health. 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 Houston has to offer. Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/medical-myths-all-about-parkinsons-disease
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Osteopenia is a condition that occurs when the body doesn't make new bone as quickly as it reabsorbs old bone. Medical experts say the biggest risk of osteopenia is it can lead to osteoporosis, a more serious, debilitating disease. Both osteopenia and osteoporosis are found in a bone density test, which measures the mass and strength of the bone. If bone density level is low based on the person’s age, they will be diagnosed with osteopenia. A finding of very low bone density is a sign of osteoporosis and causes fragile, easily fractured bones.
While 54 million Americans have osteoporosis, half of all Americans over the age of 50 have osteopenia. Women post-menopausal are most at risk but one-third of Asian and white men over the age of 50 also have osteopenia. Everyone’s bones get weaker with age but smoking; excessive consumption of alcohol; a diet low in calcium, vitamin D, and certain medications; or medical conditions such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, among others puts an individual at a greater risk for osteopenia. Typically osteopenia is asymptomatic (until it develops into osteoporosis), and is discovered with a bone density test. The painless test uses a dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) to assess the level of calcium in the bones. If you have been diagnosed with osteopenia, it is important to eat foods high in calcium such as leafy green vegetables and dairy; and foods high in vitamin D such as oily or fatty fish, mackerel and fortified cereal. Weight-bearing exercises (at least 30 minutes on most days) are those where your feet touch the ground like running and walking. Swimming and biking are not. For the best health include both weight-bearing and strengthening exercises in your weekly regimen. MorningStar of Hillsboro offers adults 55+ a lifestyle of comfort, wellbeing and community. Our range of onsite amenities, services, wellness programs and activities are designed for stress-free retirement years. We are committed to providing the best senior living in Hillsboro, OR and invite you to set up a tour to see our exceptional community. 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 true homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior living Hillsboro, OR offers. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s statistics show that one in four Americans aged 65 years and older falls each year. Falls are the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries among older adults, and the number of falls will continue to increase as America’s baby boomers grow older.
While these are worrisome facts, experts say there are some simple exercises seniors can do to help prevent falls and maintain their independence. Remember a common injury caused by an elderly person falling is a hip fracture that can seriously impact their life. Most balance exercises are easy to learn and can be done anywhere. The Mayo Clinic explains that while many exercises including walking can help maintain good balance, there are specific exercises targeted at improving a senior’s balance and stability. They do caution however that if you have severe balance problems or an orthopedic condition, to get your doctor's okay before starting balance exercises. Examples of balance exercises include: standing on one foot, walking heel to toe, back leg raises, and side leg raises. To do the standing on one foot exercise, stand behind a sturdy chair; gripping for balance, lift one foot off the floor. Hold for 10 seconds and then repeat with the opposite leg. Repeat the exercise several times and increase the repetition as your strength increases. Walking heel to toe is done by positioning the heel of one foot in front of the toes of the other foot. Your heel and toes should be touching. Now select a spot ahead of you and focus on it to help keep you steady as you walk. Try to step forward for as many as 20 steps. Be sure to ask your healthcare provider for other balance exercises. At MorningStar at River Oaks, we promote a healthy engaged lifestyle which includes an onsite fitness center and exercise classes to make it easy for residents to keep moving. Our various enrichment activities and wellness programs are designed to enhance and support our residents’ physical, mental, spiritual and social connections. Visit our website for further information on the finest senior living Houston has to offer. This post is for informational purposes only. Please consult your healthcare provider before starting any exercises. 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 true homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior living Houston offers. Source: mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/multimedia/balance-exercises/sls-20076853 In an article in Medical News Today experts discuss some of the common myths and facts regarding arthritis, a condition that causes pain and inflammation in joints. Osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are the two main types of arthritis, and a national survey found nearly half of adults 65 years and older have been diagnosed with arthritis. OA, the most common form and leading cause of disability in older adults, is the result of cartilage between the bones in a joint wearing down.
Many people believe arthritis is only a disease of the elderly but RA, while not as common as OA, typically starts in individuals as young as 20 to 40 years old. People also mistakenly think if a joint hurts, it must be arthritis. Doctors say there are several reasons a person may experience pain in and around joints including old injuries, bursitis, and tendinitis. Another myth is you shouldn’t exercise if you have arthritis; however, studies show exercise can actually help with range of motion and strength in the joint (consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new exercise or activity). The American College of Rheumatology says, “Exercise and arthritis can and should coexist. People with arthritis who exercise regularly have less pain, more energy, improved sleep, and better day-to-day function.” Then there is the debate on whether heat is better than ice for sore joints. The Guy’s and St Thomas’s National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust in the UK, explains, “Used in the right way, heat can help reduce pain and stiffness in joints and muscles. Cold application can help reduce joint inflammation and swelling.” Moreover, experts say believing arthritis is unpreventable is only partially true as there are things people can do to mitigate risk or slow down the progression such as maintaining a healthy body weight. If you are looking for exceptional senior living, Houston’s MorningStar at River Oaks may be your answer. We are a vibrant 55+ community that provides all the services, resort-style amenities, and programs to ensure residents a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and security. Please visit our website for a full list of amenities, suite plans and to inquire about availability and pricing. 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 true homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior living Houston offers. Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/medical-myths-all-about-arthritis Walking is an exercise we can do while hanging out with friends and/or enjoying the sounds of nature while achieving a good workout. We can do it from right outside our home or by exploring parks and nature areas around us. It doesn’t require special equipment, although experts say you do need a pair of good walking shoes and appropriate clothing including sun protection. *Before beginning any new exercise, please consult with your healthcare provider.
The Harvard Medical School says walking may be “one of the most powerful ‘medicines’ available. It can help lower your risk of heart disease, cancer, and diabetes, lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and even keep your memory sharp.” Evidence also shows short walks can be as beneficial as longer ones. In fact just 30 minutes a day can increase cardiovascular fitness, strengthen bones, reduce excess body fat, and boost muscle power and endurance. Maintaining good posture during a walk is important in avoiding injuries. If you lean forward or hunch, it can cause backaches as well as make breathing more difficult. Experts say extend your spine as if it is being lifted from the crown of your head. Don’t look down at your feet but rather keep your gaze about 10 to 20 feet ahead of you. To get the feel of your spine upright, place your thumbs on your lower rib and fingertips on your hips. Now as you straighten your spine, notice how the distance between your fingers increases. If you have sciatic pain, experts say regular walking can be a good exercise because it spurs the release of pain-fighting endorphins and reduces inflammation but also offer some tips to keep you safe. These include shortening your steps, remembering to maintain your posture and slowing your pace. Your healthcare provider should have other tips to help. Great news! MorningStar of Kirkland, the newest senior housing in Kirkland, WA is now open to residents. We offer 151 spacious apartments in a choice of floor plans and configurations along with an array of luxury amenities and hospitality services. Our community is in close proximity to the beautiful forested Totem Lake area, bordered by Juanita Bay (with its beaches and parks), and offers easy access to both private and public walking paths including our gorgeous courtyard. The Evergreen Health Medical Center and The Village at Totem Lake shopping center is less than a mile away with Seattle 20 minutes to the southwest. MorningStar of Kirkland is now welcoming residents! Please contact us today about April Move-in Specials, and stay connected with us on Facebook. Source: health.harvard.edu/promotions/harvard-health-publications/walking-for-health-sep2015-test?utm_source=delivra&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=PA20220403-Walking&utm_id=3577265&dlv-emuid=33b2f11b-97ca-447f-ab66-cfb4e7a55fa7&dlv-mlid=3577265 Each year millions of elderly seniors fall prey to ruthless schemes that rob them of their money and identity. The sad part is that it is often a result of a senior’s trusting nature or feelings of isolation and loneliness; or in some cases, a senior may have cognitive issues that impair their judgment and decision-making skills.
Experts explain there are several reasons why seniors are more susceptible to fraudulent schemes starting with the fact they tend to be very trusting. Our elderly population was typically raised to be polite and agreeable to others, which in turn can make them more susceptible to fraud. Lonely seniors can easily be preyed upon as they are willing to stay on the phone and engage in conversation with a stranger. The National Council on Aging (NCOA) updates the public to current scams targeting seniors so if you have a parent or other elderly loved ones who may be at risk, take a look at the info and discuss the various schemes used with them. One scam frequently used is for a thief to call unsuspecting victims and pretend to be from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Social Security Administration, or Medicare. They have many angles such as saying the individual has unpaid taxes or their Social Security or Medicare benefits are in danger of being cut off. They then demand payment (in the case of unpaid taxes) or ask for personal identifying information, which is then used to commit fraud. These impersonators often “spoof” the actual phone numbers of the government agency, or call from the same area code for Washington, DC, tricking the victim into believing the call is legitimate. The NCOA says there are ways to avoid getting scammed such as never giving out your personal information to anyone but a trusted family member, friend or your professional financial advisor. In addition, never make big financial decisions without consulting with one of those trusted people. Also do not give out personal PIN numbers, or Medicare and other financial info over the phone unless you initiated the call or know the person. Other commonsense advice includes being wary of high-pressure sales persons, never signing a contract until you understand it entirely, and to be suspicious of unexpected announcements of winning money, trips, or other prizes. Experts say it is most likely a hoax. Always take your time when making financial decisions and do not give blanket approval to a vendor for medical equipment and other purchases. MorningStar Senior Living’s senior 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 independent or assisted living Pasadena, CA has to offer, we encourage you to consider MorningStar. Source: ncoa.org/economic-security/money-management/scams-security/protection-from-scams/ Instead of feeling sad about moving from a home that perhaps is too large or costly for you to care for, think about moving into a smaller apartment or condo as the start of a new adventure. However, to do it right, you should be organized. Experts suggest you only take with you the things that bring joy and find ways to get rid of the rest. If that piece of advice still finds you with way too much stuff, then take a moment to picture how you want your new life to look. Is it a sleek, minimalist décor or more like a smaller, compact version of your present home?
Some simple solutions to help you decorate your new apartment include bringing with you or buying multi-purpose furniture. This could include upholstered storage benches or cubes, nesting coffee tables, extension desks, and sized-down sofa and chairs more suited to a compact footprint. Attractive baskets and storage carts also help to make a small place feel more organized. If you want to use some of your current furniture, measure it, and then draw up a floor plan of the new place and lay it all out to see how it will fit. In addition, since your new place is smaller, it will most likely not have as many closets as your old home so go through your clothing and only take the items you truly enjoy wearing. Give the rest to charity. Lastly, consider the amenities at your new place. For example if they have an onsite fitness room, you probably do not need to bring along your own in-home treadmill or stationary bike. At MorningStar of Pasadena, our beautiful senior living community offers 149 stylish suites that are ready to move into and just require your furnishings and personal items. Apartments come in a range of configurations including studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floorplans. In addition, residents enjoy stress-free living that includes no longing having to deal with maintenance problems inside or out. For independent and assisted living Pasadena, CA seniors can count on, we encourage you to consider MorningStar, the perfect community to comfortably and safely age in place. MorningStar of Pasadena proudly provides the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. Please contact us to learn more about the finest independent and assisted living Pasadena, CA offers. Every now and then, most of us suffer from an upset stomach. Experts say experiencing a stomach ache once in a while is perfectly normal and can be caused by stress or anxiety, food allergies, eating something that doesn’t agree with you, or a 24-hour bug. To ease symptoms and help you feel better, experts recommend several foods.
Just as mom told you, chicken-broth is good for an upset stomach as it contains many necessary nutrients. The broth also helps you stay hydrated if you have bouts of diarrhea and vomiting. Plain food like saltine crackers or dry white toast (skip the whole wheat for now) are easy to digest and give your stomach a little something to help it settle down. Ginger has been used for centuries to help ease digestive problems including an upset stomach. Drinking ginger tea or eating a couple of ginger chews may help you feel better. Dr. Carolyn Kaloostian, clinical associate professor of family medicine and family medicine specialist at Keck Medicine of USC, says there are several other herbs and spices that can help including licorice, chamomile, spearmint and mint. Foods like oatmeal, plain eggs, unseasoned skinless turkey, chicken or fish are all good choices to try to get a little something in your stomach without upsetting it more. Yogurt may be beneficial as it contains probiotics that can help promote healthy digestion but experts advise sticking to low-fat or no-fat varieties. The contemporary MorningStar of Kirkland is a new senior housing community in the Totem Lake area in Kirkland. We offer a range of beautiful apartments with a choice of balcony or patio, luxury amenities and all-day dining service. Our extension grounds include strolling paths, a Zen garden and resident garden beds as well as several dining venues such as our Treehouse/Outdoor Dining patio. Our community is close to the Evergreen Health Medical Center, shopping malls and restaurants, and approximately 20 minutes to Seattle. Visit our website for contact information and ask about our Move-in Specials. Source: health.usnews.com/wellness/food/slideshows/best-foods-to-eat-for-an-upset-stomach? The CDC says February is American Heart Month, making it the time to focus on cardiovascular disease. Experts say this includes: shining a light on hypertension (high blood pressure), a leading risk factor for heart disease and stroke. The NIH National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute’s National Wear Red Day® is on the first Friday in February. The campaign encourages people to show their support by wearing red and encouraging family, friends and co-workers to do the same.
Focusing on heart disease is important as it is the leading cause of death in the US for both men and women; and the awareness campaign helps people to realize it is largely preventable. Experts stress that every adult should be aware of their risk and know the healthy choices to make to reduce their chance of heart disease including coronary heart disease, which is the primary cause of heart attacks. The NIH explains your risk of heart disease is higher if you:
Experts say for each risk you have, the higher your overall risk is for heart disease. While some risks cannot be helped such as your gender, age and family history, it is important to discuss with your healthcare provider what you can do to reduce your risk. Also the NIH says it can be helpful to join #OurHearts in Action, a group designed to encourage and motivate heart-healthy behaviors together. The MorningStar of Pasadena 55+ community offers area seniors comfort, security, built-in companionship, and predictable budgeting. With 149 apartments for independent living and assisted living, we have a selection of floor plans and configurations sure to please the most discerning seniors. A broad range of amenities and services are designed to meet residents’ needs. For your safety, each suite is equipped with handicap-accessible bathrooms and emergency call systems. Visit our website to learn more about senior living in Pasadena, CA. Medical experts say there are five numbers adults should know that can impact their health. Dr. Deepak L. Bhatt, editor-in-chief at the Harvard Heart Letter and part of the interventional cardiovascular programs at Harvard-affiliated Brigham and Women’s Hospital, explains, "For my patients, I typically look at their blood pressure, blood sugar, LDL cholesterol and triglycerides values, and their waist circumference."
While there are specific recommendations, doctors also say the ideal values are good goals for most people but your doctor may suggest different numbers based on your age and other health conditions. Current recommended blood pressure numbers are less than 120/80 mm Hg. Systolic blood pressure is the first number and diastolic blood pressure, the second number, and together they measure how hard your heart is working and the condition of your blood vessels. High blood pressure (HBP) can damage blood vessels and increase a person’s risk for a stroke or heart attack. Your LDL cholesterol numbers should be less than 100 mg/dL and your triglycerides less than 150 mg/dL. A cholesterol test is done through a blood draw after a person has fasted and if both your numbers are high, it increases your risk for a heart attack or stroke. Another important number is your blood sugar levels, which is how diabetes is typically diagnosed. Doctors say blood sugar levels should be less than 100 mg/dL. Finally the last number you should pay attention to for better health is your waistline measurement. Experts say the circumference should be either lower than: less than half your height in inches; or for women less than 35 inches, and for men less than 40 inches. The problem with big numbers is what doctors call “abdominal or visceral obesity” typically an indication of fat surrounding the internal organs. Use a tape measure placed just above your navel (belly button) to get your number. *Consult with your physician regarding testing to determine your own numbers and strategies to improve them. We would love to introduce you to the newest senior living in Houston, TX. MorningStar at River Oaks will provide assisted living to seniors who require a little help with daily care, a whole range of resort-style amenities, and wellness programs and activities. While fully licensed for assisted living and memory care, our community also appeals to independent seniors who love the idea of carefree living. Staffed by a dedicated team who understands it is a privilege to serve seniors; we invite you to visit our website for more information regarding floor plans, list of amenities, pricing and availability. Source: health.harvard.edu/blog/5-numbers-linked-to-ideal-heart-health-202112162660 |
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