My Torrance seniors still do incorporate resistance training into their day-to-day routine because I find that having increased strength can help them with their independence. They don't need to rely on me fully to help them get in and out of the bathtub, get up and down the stairs in their home, or use the toilet because their own physical capabilities are increased. They might not build muscle mass, but who wants to see an 80 year old women with bulging biceps anyways?
Seniors are constantly looking for ways to keep fit, but they're always worrying about how their activities can have negative repercussions on their health. Torrance seniors worry that when walking, they will cause pain to the joints or muscles, they worry that they might pull or strain a muscle when trying yoga or stretching, and they fear back injuries when it comes to resistance training. It may sound like it's hopeless for seniors to find an activity that benefits their health without harming it, but there is a solution. Instead of giving up on exercise altogether, Torrance seniors who want to stay fit but have concerns, should try water aerobics, which is easy on the body and great for health! With water aerobics, seniors will do their bodies and health the following favors:
• Provides support - although some level of resistance is provided when exercising in the water, approximately 80%-90% of muscle and joint injuries are prevented when in the water because it supports most of a senior's weight and reduces impact
• Fast results - believe it or not, seniors can receive faster results, building muscular tone and strength in water, versus on land because of the resistance provided by the water
• Improves cardiovascular health - water aerobics are a great cardiovascular activity to help seniors remain fit and healthy, however, studies also show that the heart rate is maintained at a lower rate so it is less likely that a senior will harm their health
• Better temperature conditions - exercising outside can expose seniors to a variety of elements which can result in heat stroke and other complications. When exercising in the water, seniors remain in a cool, climate controlled environment, especially when at an indoor pool
Sources:
1. I Love India
2. Associated Content
3. Suite101
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July 27, 2009 | Posted by: Carebuzz | Health & Nutrition for Torrance Seniors | Aphasia, Apraxia, elderly in CA, Stroke
When a Torrance senior has lost the ability to communicate due to a condition like expressive aphasia or apraxia it leads loved ones to wonder if there's really anyone in there. Conditions like these, which often develop after a senior has suffered from a stroke, can inhibit a senior's ability to communicate to some degree, or cause them to lose their speaking abilities completely. After a stroke, it's hard to know what cognitive capabilities of a senior are still in tact, and when a senior has no way of telling you what's going on in their mind, it's hard to know whether the issue goes only as far as speech or if there's more to it.
Not knowing can really make families change how they interact with their loved one; because even though the senior's cognitive skills may be in tact, it's like they're void of personality and families might forget that there really is someone still in there. People with expressive aphasia might have lost their ability to speak and they may exhibit signs of disorientation, but they're still in there and they still deserve to be treated with respect and dignity, especially by their family members. Instead of blocking them out, families can speak to them and interact just like they always have, ensuring that their elderly loved one suffering from expressive aphasia still feels like an important member of the family. Of course, some allocations do also have to be made to help them communicate and comprehend what is being said to them; always speak clearly and use expressive body language, and ask simple yes/no questions so they can still make their own decisions and communicate, even if they can't speak.
Expressive aphasia or apraxia are challenging for families to deal with; but just think how your loved one feels when they feel like they are trapped in their own body with no way to communicate.
Sources:
1. Stroke Association
2. The Aphasia Institute
3. Orange Blossom Farm
4. About
Image Source: transitionagingparents.com
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July 20, 2009 | Posted by: Carebuzz | Health & Nutrition for Torrance Seniors | Aging issues, Torrance seniors, Varicose veins
Varicose veins may not be a life threatening problem that puts Torrance seniors at risk, but it is a condition that comes with symptoms that are irritating to say the least. Varicose veins are signified by the following signs and symptoms:
• Enlarged blue or purple veins, often in the legs
• Leg swelling
• Swollen feet
• Swollen ankles
• Weak leg muscles
• Leg muscle cramps, especially at night
• Poor leg circulation
• Poor leg healing (bruising, scrapes and other issues remain longer)
• Itchy skin on the legs and ankles
• Leg ulcers
• Aches in legs when standing still
Varicose veins can occur, but there are ways to prevent them from occurring, if seniors are cognizant of their actions, they don't have to deal with them.
In order to prevent varicose veins, consider the following tips:
• Exercise regularly and focus on leg activities (walking, stretching) in order to improve circulation and strengthen the legs
• Don't cross your legs when sitting
• Don't stand or sit for long periods of time; make a point to change positions
• Avoid tight, constrictive clothing, except for support stockings
• Include high fiber foods in your diet
Sources:
1. Wrong Diagnosis
2. About