August 10, 2009 |
Posted by: Carebuzz |
Posted in: Health and Nutrition for Houston Seniors, Senior Activities in Houston |
Tagged: Elderly health, Houston seniors, Physical activity
Physical
activity and exercise are geared towards improving health and reducing
stress, but for many Houston seniors who already have many anxieties in
their lives, exercise can actually cause it. Seniors might worry about
injuring themselves, or venturing too far out of their comfort zone of
the normal routine that they're comfortable with, and for these
seniors, physical activity can become a source of stress that can also
have negative repercussions upon health - and that's just not the point
now is it?
So how can seniors choose a physical fitness routine that is
stress-free; eliminating anxieties from their lives even temporarily,
rather than causing it? Seniors should try implementing the following
techniques and incorporating the following activities in order to make
the most out of their experience and bring the optimal benefits to
their health!
• Always choose activities that are enjoyable, otherwise seniors will grow to resent being physically active
• Avoid activities that are competitive to avoid creating natural
tension. Seniors don't need to do activities solo, but they should make
sure that they avoid competitive sports and other physical activities
that make them feel like they want to win
• Aerobic and anaerobic exercises can both help reduce stress. Seniors
should incorporate 30 to 60 minutes of aerobic exercise into their
routines 3-5 days per week, and also try resistance training
• Don't begin any activity without clearance from a doctor or
assistance from a fitness professional. Seniors who worry that by
completing physical activities incorrectly they will injure themselves,
or are concerned about the affects upon their health can make sure
these stressors are avoided
Sources:
1. Suite 101
2. Mayo Clinic
Image Source: pro.corbis.com
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August 7, 2009 |
Posted by: Carebuzz |
Posted in: Senior Activities in Houston |
Tagged: Bone Density, Houston women, Resistance training for seniors
Muscle
mass and bone density is naturally lost as seniors age, and these
changes are often especially prevalent in elderly Houston women. In the
medical practice where I work, we have forever been encouraging seniors
to incorporate resistance training into their exercise routine under
the premise that they could increase their strength, manage their bone
density and gain muscle mass. According to a new study, however, one of
these benefits is not present in senior women over the age of 80. Can
you guess which one it is?
The answer is muscle mass. After putting senior women over the age
of 80 through a resistance training program, MRIs were taken in order
to see the overall effects upon muscle mass, and surprisingly there was
no change. That doesn't mean we're about to stop encouraging resistance
training, however, since there is still evidence that bone density can
be improved, and there's no doubting that overall strength will be
benefited, and can help seniors to improve their activities of daily
living and allow them to better care for themselves independently in
older adulthood.
Sources:
1. Health Discovery Canada
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August 3, 2009 |
Posted by: Carebuzz |
Posted in: Health and Nutrition for Houston Seniors, Senior Activities in Houston |
Tagged: Active elders, Houston water aerobics, Senior exercise
Water
aerobics, also called aquafit has been known as a stereotypical
exercise for seniors, but it's for a good reason. Even seniors who have
limited physical mobility or find that traditional cardiovascular
exercise causes pain to their muscles and joints can use water aerobics
to remain active and physically fit at any age.
The benefits of water aerobics for seniors:
• 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
Image Source: pro.corbis.com
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July 27, 2009 |
Posted by: Carebuzz |
Posted in: Health and Nutrition for Houston Seniors |
Tagged: Aging issues, houston senior health, Poor blood circulation
As
we get older, we often notice that our blood circulation changes; with
age, we might find that we have swelling around our feet or ankles, or
bruise much more easily than we used to. But, for Houston seniors, the
effects of poor blood circulation can be far more severe, and there can
be grave consequences.
The Effects of Poor Blood Circulation:
• Effects upon the brain - poor blood circulation can impact the
brain causing fatigue, dizziness, memory loss, and frequent and
unexplained headaches
• Effects upon the heart -poor blood circulation can have an impact on
the heart, causing inability to perform simple aerobic activities like
climbing stairs without breathlessness; high blood pressure and
cholesterol, and chest pain can be other symptoms
• Effects upon the liver - symptoms of poor blood circulation in the
liver can include lack of appetite or unexplained weight loss, and
changes in skin tone
• Effects upon the kidneys - poor circulation to the kidneys are
typically the result when there is swelling of the hands, feet and
ankles. Other symptoms can include fatigue, altered heart rate and rise
in blood pressure
• Effects upon the limbs - with poor circulation, cramps in the limbs, numbness and varicose veins can appear as symptoms
Preventing or Improving Poor Circulation
There are some simple techniques that Houston seniors can use in
order to help prevent and improve poor blood circulation, which include
the following:
• Take cayenne pepper powder or capsules to improve circulation and increase metabolism
• Take ginkgo balboa capsules which have a direct impact on blood circulation
• Exercise to circulate oxygen through the blood stream and improve blood circulation
• Lower intake of saturated fats in a diet and increase intake of vitamin-rich nutrients such as fruits and vegetables
Sources:
1. Ezine Articles
2. Suote101
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July 24, 2009 |
Posted by: Carebuzz |
Posted in: Health and Nutrition for Houston Seniors, Senior Activities in Houston |
Tagged: Aging issues, Exercising tips, Houston seniors with MS
Studies
have shown that Houston seniors with MS can improve their quality of
life by exercising. While this can be a challenge for many seniors who
struggle with their balance and overall mobility as a result of
Multiple Sclerosis, the benefits are extensive, and when safety is
always in mind it is possible to have an enjoyable experience with
physical activity, and overall boost spirits and ward off other issues
like depression.
Here are a few tips for Houston seniors with MS to use when exercising:
• Warm up before the exercise with stretching and gradually increasing the intensity and cool down after
• Increase the intensity and duration of the activity slowly. Seniors
who plan on exercising for 30 minutes at a time should start with 10
minute intervals and working themselves up to a longer workout time
• Make sure the workout environment is free of hazards like slippery floors, things to trip over or rugs that will slide
• Since many seniors with MS struggle with balance, they should work
out near a grab bar or other safety equipment that can provide support
• Anything that doesn't feel right shouldn't be continued, whether it's
pain or feeling sick is a sign that it's time to stop and rest
• Choose activities that are enjoyable and that don't put too much stress on the body
• Avoid exercising outside or during the hottest periods of the day (10am until 2pm)
• Drink plenty of fluids
• Get out of the heat if any new symptoms develop
Sources:
1. Science Daily
2. MS Society
3. WebMD
Image Source: pro.corbis.com
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July 20, 2009 |
Posted by: Carebuzz |
Posted in: Health and Nutrition for Houston Seniors |
Tagged: Aging issues, Houston elders, Varicose veins
My
mother in law has had problems in her legs from quite a number of
years, primarily due to the extra weight that she carries, which has
put a strain on her legs which are the bulk of her support. In her 50s,
she received two knee replacements, and while that helped her regain
some semblance of mobility, in recent years that's began to decline
again. She's had a number of issues, including what the doctor believes
is tendonitis in the thighs, and has had leg infections when scrapes
and other injuries have refused to heal. After multiple diagnoses and
ineffective treatment methods for many of the problems with her legs,
she still has not found a solution and is practically immobile, which
is tragic since she is only in her early 60s.
Recently, she was sent to a masseuse in order to help treat what is
believed to be tendonitis in her legs. However, after taking one look
at her, the masseuse said that she doesn't want to do too much, because
it appears as though she has a varicose vein and pressure could further
aggravate it. She has been examined multiple times by her doctor, but
this has never been brought to her attention before; however, after
looking into it further, she believes that this might explain many of
the problems she's been having; including the inability to heal, itchy
legs, swelling in the legs (which the doctor said was due to a
medication), and the severe leg cramps. After examining her again when
she approached her doctor about the issues she was having and the
belief that it might be a varicose vein, he determined that in fact not
all of her problems are attributed to the presence of a varicose vein,
but that many of her symptoms are correct. She's currently undergoing a
few different treatment methods in an attempt to alleviate her problems.
Sources:
1. Wrong Diagnosis
Image Source: pro.corbis.com
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July 17, 2009 |
Posted by: Carebuzz |
Posted in: Health and Nutrition for Houston Seniors |
Tagged: Aging adult's diet, houston senior health, Hypertension in elders
Hypertension
is known as the "silent killer" amongst American seniors, because for
many Houston older adults, the potentially fatal illness can go
undetected. As a result, when a diagnosis of primary hypertension is
made by a doctor, it's crucial that seniors make adjustment to their
lifestyles in order to reduce their blood pressure and make sure that
it doesn't harm their health. While medication can help reduce blood
pressure, there are more favorable natural methods that seniors can use
in order to make their health a priority.
• Aerobic Exercise - this is an easy way to reduce blood pressure.
Whether it's beginning a routine fitness regimen or making simple
changes, like taking the stairs instead of the elevator, or parking
father from the entrance to a store to walk a little bit further
• Lose weight - blood pressure and obesity naturally go hand-in-hand, so in order to lower blood pressure, start losing weight!
• Diet plan - seniors with high blood pressure should not only reduce
the calories in their diet in order to help with weight loss; but they
should also change their diet so that it's low in saturated fats and
rich in fruits and vegetables chalk full of nutrients
• Reduce sodium intake - sodium intake should be no more than 2,400 mg
per day, so seniors should cut sodium down in their diets by avoiding
especially salty foods. Sodium can exasperate high blood pressure or
make symptoms worse
• Quit smoking - those who smoke can make high blood pressure much
worse and potentially deadly. Inhaling smoke damages blood vessel walls
and hardens the arteries
Before implementing any of the following tips in their life, seniors
should talk to a doctor about safe methods to reduce blood pressure,
incorporating the above, based on their health and fitness level.
Sources:
1. Suite101
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July 13, 2009 |
Posted by: Carebuzz |
Posted in: Health and Nutrition for Houston Seniors, Senior Activities in Houston |
Tagged: Aging Adults, Benefits of exercise, Houston senior physical activity
Houston
seniors are aware of the benefits of exercise, but for many reasons,
seniors find that they just can't get themselves started. Here are a
few of the common reasons that seniors avoid exercise, and ways that
they can get over the hurdles and introduce physical activity into
their lives.
• Seniors are afraid that they're just too old - in reality, a fit
70 year old can be stronger and in better health than a senior who is
sedentary
• Seniors are afraid that they might injure themselves - while this can
be a reality, seniors need to choose activities that are well-suited to
their physical abilities; and if they are concerned can talk to a
doctor and a fitness expert who has experience working with seniors
• They are afraid it will harm their health - while overexertion can
have negative health repercussions, seniors who pay close attention to
the signs and symptoms generated from their bodies and know when to
take it easy will likely avoid the risks
• They get bored - seniors should choose activities that they enjoy -
this can be through trial and error - but generally, any physical
activity is beneficial. By varying their routine and sticking with the
exercises they enjoy, they will be more likely to keep it up
Sources:
1. Mature Fitness
2. MedicineNet
Image Source: pro.corbis.com
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July 10, 2009 |
Posted by: Carebuzz |
Posted in: Health and Nutrition for Houston Seniors |
Tagged: Ballroom dance, Elderly heatlh concerns, Houston senior activites
Q. I am a care recipient for an elderly gentleman in Houston; for years,
we have taped episodes of Dancing with the Stars and watched it during
the day during our time together. Since this is one of the few
interests that we share, I've been thinking about introducing my senior
to ballroom dancing through lessons at a local community center in
Houston; however, I'm wondering if it is a safe activity for a 82 year
old man with a history of arthritis?
A. Dancing with the Stars has made many seniors and their
caregivers across the United States consider ballroom dancing as a fun
activity that is great for entertainment as well as exercise. Studies
have shown that ballroom dancing can reduce instances of Alzheimer's
and dementia, increase flexibility, stimulate the mind and improve
overall cardiovascular health. While you are right to be cautious about
pursuing any physical activity, it can be a very safe activity for
seniors of any age when learned under the supervision of an experienced
ballroom dancing instructor who has a background working with seniors.
When engaging in any physical activity with a senior, you should always
be aware of any signs that they are struggling physically as a result
of the activity. Shortness of breath or extreme perspiration my may be
signs of overexertion, and if he mentions unusual pain in any of his
joints or muscles it may be time to ease off the dancing. Otherwise,
start dancing like your favorite stars, and he'll be well on his way to
better health!
Sources:
1. Suite 101
2. Global Action on Aging
Image Source: pro.corbis.com
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July 6, 2009 |
Posted by: Carebuzz |
Posted in: Senior Activities in Houston |
Tagged: Benefits of technology, Computers and elders, Houston seniors
All
seniors are different, but in my experience, teaching a senior about
computer use isn't always easy. When my grandfather had a computer
brought into his home, we felt that it was necessary to teach him only
the bare minimum; showing him skills he would need in order to get
himself online, send email, and access his favorite websites. We
created shortcuts, and had the web browser automatically save his login
details so everything would happen simply and automatically. We also
wrote down step-by-step instructions for every action so he'd have
something to fall back on in case his memory failed him when performing
a specific task on the computer. We knew when he got the computer that
this would not be easy on him, or on the rest of the family; but we
were also certain that the benefits he would receive would outweigh the
negatives.
Within weeks of the computer being brought into my grandfather's
home, the phone calls started. With his limited knowledge of
technology, anything out of the box that happened would leave him
totally lost. If a different message box popped up while he was
checking his email; everything would have to be put on hold. If the
internet disconnected, he would worry that he had somehow broken the
computer. Despite the complications, we knew how important that having
the computer and internet access was to him; he was finally connecting
with family members he could no longer speak with because of his
limited hearing, and he had regained a sense of self through finding
activities he enjoyed, that he could do at home, since he had to give
up some of the physical things that his life had formerly revolved
around, and that made it all worth it.
A Personal account by Beth Hodgson, writer for Carebuzz
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June 29, 2009 |
Posted by: Carebuzz |
Posted in: Choosing the Best Care Option in Houston, Houston CAREGiver's Corner |
Tagged: Caregiver help, Elderly challenges, Houston aging relatives
Families
in Houston all struggle with the decision of when it's the right time
to get help for an aging relative. No one wants to admit that someone
they love is getting older, because that brings them face to face with
the concept of mortality and the idea that the important person in
their life might not be part of it for much longer. However, by
suggesting home care when the time seems right, families can give their
loved ones the benefit of safety and health in their own homes. There
is no definite equation for when it's the right time for home care, but
some ideal situations can be used as signs that it might be time to
start talking about it.
Situations when Home Care is Ideal
• Seniors who struggle with Activities of Daily Living- seniors who
struggle with dressing, bathing, preparing meals, taking their
medications, or keeping up with chores around the home are ideal
candidates for in-home senior care
• Seniors with declining mobility - seniors who are having changes
with their balance and mobility may be at a greater risk of falling or
having an accident in the home when trying to perform ADLs . By hiring
a caregiver, safety issues can be addressed and prevented through
additional help
• Seniors who have had to give up driving - seniors who no longer
drive for whatever reason, would greatly benefit from the help of a
caregiver who can take them to run errands or to appointments
• Seniors who don't have family nearby - seniors who have the above
problems but do not have family nearby to help them can benefit from in
home care when there's no one else out there to help them
• Seniors who have come out of the hospital or rehab - after seniors
have been released from the hospital or rehab program and are in
recovery, it's better for seniors to have the help of a caregiver so
they don't put too much of a burden on their bodies by trying to care
for themselves or their homes
• Seniors who suffer from Alzheimer's or dementia - safety may be an issue for seniors who struggle with their memories
Sources:
1. Elder Issues
Image Source: pro.corbis.com
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June 26, 2009 |
Posted by: Carebuzz |
Posted in: Choosing the Best Care Option in Houston, Houston CAREGiver's Corner, Safety Concerns for Houston Seniors |
Tagged: Elder home safety, Family caregivers, Houston Senior Care
Since
family caregiving is so common today, with more seniors and their
families opting for home care instead of traditional nursing home care,
people often fail to see the risks that can come with it due to
improper training in senior care techniques. Although agencies like
Home Instead Senior Care in Houston don't provide medical care, they
are better trained than most family caregivers. Professionals are well
versed in caregiving techniques, home safety, and specific care for
Alzheimer's, and they are trained to identify potential signs of
illness.
When family caregivers are selected over professional senior
caregivers, there are a number of risks that can be presented to the
health and safety of a senior. Their homes may be ill-equipped for
their level of physical mobility, and safety hazards in the home may be
left unidentified, leaving more room for in-home accidents. When
helping seniors with mobility around the home, family caregivers may
not be aware of proper techniques for lifting or moving seniors, which
could potentially put the senior at risk of injury. Very few home
caregivers think they need to know CPR, believing that help is only a
phone call away; while this might be true, training in basic first aid
is essential, and this is a reassurance that can be provided by Home
Instead Senior Care's professional non-medical caregivers.
Sources:
1. Seniors Daily
2. Home Instead Senior Care
Image Source: pro.corbis.com
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June 22, 2009 |
Posted by: Carebuzz |
Posted in: Common Problems and Problem Solving, Houston CAREGiver's Corner, Safety Concerns for Houston Seniors |
Tagged: Caregiver help, Elderly's pet, Houston seniors
Q. My dad has a dog that has been part of his life for 10 years; since
my mom passed away it's probably one of his best friends. The only
problem is that my dad's mobility is declining, and I worry about his
ability to take the dog outside for walks without having an accident or
fall. He lives in an apartment, so he has no choice but to take the dog
outside himself. I fear that this responsibility is becoming too much
for him and that one day it might compromise his safety. Is there
another option to having him get rid of his dog?
A. Fortunately for Houston seniors, there are other options
available that don't require them to part with their favorite furry
friends. Home Instead Senior Care can help your dad out with caring for
his home and his direct care responsibilities as well as provide
assistance in providing for his dog. A home caregiver can come by his
home daily in order to help your dad prepare meals, clean up his house,
take the dog out for a walk, and even run pet-related errands to ensure
that both animal and human who live in the home are well cared for.
Pets can make a significant contribution to the lives of seniors,
however, they shouldn't pose a risk to health and safety; they should
simply enhance senior's lives.
Sources:
1. Suite 101
Image Source: eldercareabcblog.com
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June 19, 2009 |
Posted by: Carebuzz |
Posted in: Choosing the Best Care Option in Houston, Health and Nutrition for Houston Seniors, Houston CAREGiver's Corner |
Tagged: Aging Parent, Houston home care agency, senior services
I
pride myself on being an organized and disciplined person, but when my
dad had a fall in his home and spent some time at a Houston hospital,
then a rehabilitation facility, that all fell apart. I had thought that
in a crisis situation, I would be able to take control and take care of
all of his needs to ensure that he was comfortable and safe when he
came home from the hospital, but when the day came for his release, I
was nowhere near ready. The thought hadn't even entered my mind that
there were things I'd need to do, until the day before his release when
a doctor asked me if arrangements had been made to help my dad out at
home, and suddenly I realized I hadn't done a thing. In panic mode, not
wanting my dad to return to a disorganized house that would compromise
his safety and his recovery, I asked the doctor if there was anyone to
help. He recommended me to a Houston senior home care agency that would
be able to make all the arrangements for my dad.
The morning my dad was set to return from the hospital, a caregiver
had come into his home, restocked his fridge and pantry, and tidied up
all of the dirty dishes and other messes that had been left behind.
When I walked in with my dad, I was so impressed at how quickly the
arrangements had been made, so all dad and I needed to focus on was his
recovery!