The Truth About Exercise After Surgery
07/05/11 18:17
A physical therapist plays an important role in the recovery process following most injuries. With mother’s day round the corner, it’s important to remember that women in particular experience a higher risk from bone-related injuries after menopause. In this newsletter, we try to dispel some of the most commonly-held myths about post injury exercise regimes, so that the mothers (and everyone else) in your family are aware of the do’s and don’ts of post injury exercise.
Myth #1: After an injury, “Bed rest is the best”. Fact: A short period of bed rest (1 to 2 days) can help prevent further injury during the acute phase, but longer rest intervals can be counterproductive. In fact, resting and inactivity can actually cause more pain since a lack of activity leads to reduced blood flow and even muscle weakness. This, in turn, creates more pain and triggers an unhealthy cycle of pain and inactivity that feed each other and aggravate the situation. Always start with low intensity exercises (your physical therapist will point you in the right direction) and ease into an exercise regime that progressively strengthens your muscles and improves flexibility of your joints.
Myth #2: Going to the gym is the best way to regain your strength. Fact: It’s common for people to reinjure themselves if they return to the gym or engage in ‘unsupervised exercise’ too soon after an injury. Trust the expertise of the physical therapist and complete an exercise protocol before progressing to independent, unsupervised exercise.
Myth #3: With any exercise, if there is no pain, there is no gain. Fact: When you first start an exercise plan, you’ll be using your muscles in new ways that may cause soreness the next day, but anything more than a little discomfort isn’t healthy. Contrary to popular belief, exercise doesn’t have to hurt to be effective. Pain is your body’s way of telling you that something’s wrong – if you want to avoid serious injury, listen to your body and back off at the first sign of pain.
Myth #4: Focusing on specific muscles (abs, arms, thighs) is the best way to recover after an injury. Fact: The energy expenditure (amount of calories burnt) increases as you involve more muscle groups and increase the intensity of exercise. As healing continues, your physical therapist may recommend exercises like walking which involve several large muscle groups as opposed to single muscle group movements.
Aquatic Exercise
Exercise done in water (swimming pools) is effective for injury recovery in all age groups. The buoyant forces of water provide a calming, cushioning effect, which protects (and challenges) your muscles, joints and bones. Water is several times denser than air and facilitates high energy expenditure with minimal risk of injury. Water exercise has several benefits and also provides a safe medium for strengthening your muscles post injury.
Myth #1: After an injury, “Bed rest is the best”. Fact: A short period of bed rest (1 to 2 days) can help prevent further injury during the acute phase, but longer rest intervals can be counterproductive. In fact, resting and inactivity can actually cause more pain since a lack of activity leads to reduced blood flow and even muscle weakness. This, in turn, creates more pain and triggers an unhealthy cycle of pain and inactivity that feed each other and aggravate the situation. Always start with low intensity exercises (your physical therapist will point you in the right direction) and ease into an exercise regime that progressively strengthens your muscles and improves flexibility of your joints.
Myth #2: Going to the gym is the best way to regain your strength. Fact: It’s common for people to reinjure themselves if they return to the gym or engage in ‘unsupervised exercise’ too soon after an injury. Trust the expertise of the physical therapist and complete an exercise protocol before progressing to independent, unsupervised exercise.
Myth #3: With any exercise, if there is no pain, there is no gain. Fact: When you first start an exercise plan, you’ll be using your muscles in new ways that may cause soreness the next day, but anything more than a little discomfort isn’t healthy. Contrary to popular belief, exercise doesn’t have to hurt to be effective. Pain is your body’s way of telling you that something’s wrong – if you want to avoid serious injury, listen to your body and back off at the first sign of pain.
Myth #4: Focusing on specific muscles (abs, arms, thighs) is the best way to recover after an injury. Fact: The energy expenditure (amount of calories burnt) increases as you involve more muscle groups and increase the intensity of exercise. As healing continues, your physical therapist may recommend exercises like walking which involve several large muscle groups as opposed to single muscle group movements.
Aquatic Exercise
Exercise done in water (swimming pools) is effective for injury recovery in all age groups. The buoyant forces of water provide a calming, cushioning effect, which protects (and challenges) your muscles, joints and bones. Water is several times denser than air and facilitates high energy expenditure with minimal risk of injury. Water exercise has several benefits and also provides a safe medium for strengthening your muscles post injury.
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How Can a Chair Save Your Spine?
01/05/11 09:47
In a 21st century office, work typically involves a lot of sitting in an office chair (usually in front of a computer).
Did you know that sitting actually puts more stress on your spine than standing? To avoid developing lower back problems, it's critical to use an office chair that's ergonomically designed. What does ergonomics mean? It is the applied science of equipment design (in the workplace) intended to maximize productivity by reducing an individual's fatigue and discomfort. An ergonomic chair, for example, is one that supports your lower back and helps maintain good posture.
The big question is - How do we identify the ideal ergonomic office chair?
All ergonomic chairs are not built the same. Since every individual is built differently, it is best to look for a chair that can be easily adjusted in terms of chair height, armrest height and back inclination. There are many types of office chairs and no single chair is the best, but a few simple tips can save your joints a lot of discomfort. You are about to avoid the biggest mistakes most individuals make with chair selection.
If you have any doubts, always speak with your physical therapist to help you find the right chair for your specific needs.
Five key factors to consider while choosing an ergonomic chair:
• Seat height. This should be adjustable. Depending on your height, this should be between 16 to 21 inches from the floor. When sitting, your feet should be flat on the floor and your thighs horizontal (or parallel) to the floor.
• Seat width and depth. Standard seat width is 17-20 inches. The depth (from the front to the back of the seat) needs to be enough so that you can sit with your back against the backrest with about 2-4 inches between the back of the knees and the seat of the chair. The forward or backward tilt of the seat should be adjustable because the right inclination can significantly reduce the strain on your lower back (call us to learn more)
• Backrest. The ideal backrest should be 12 to 19 inches wide. It should be able to support the natural curve of the spine. The more we sit, the more we tend to slouch. Therefore, proper lumbar support provided by your chair’s backrest is very important to help support your spine.
• Armrests. Office chair armrests should be adjustable. They should allow your arms to rest comfortably and shoulders to be relaxed. The elbows and lower arms should rest lightly, which means the armrests should neither be too high nor too low.
• Swivel. This allows you to easily rotate to reach different areas of your desk without straining your spine.
Picking the right office chair can help you avoid the agony of low back pain or neck pain associated with full-time desk jobs. Too much time at the computer or several hours a day on the phone can also put your spine at risk. To learn more about ergonomics and correct body mechanics, give us a call right away.
Did you know that sitting actually puts more stress on your spine than standing? To avoid developing lower back problems, it's critical to use an office chair that's ergonomically designed. What does ergonomics mean? It is the applied science of equipment design (in the workplace) intended to maximize productivity by reducing an individual's fatigue and discomfort. An ergonomic chair, for example, is one that supports your lower back and helps maintain good posture.
The big question is - How do we identify the ideal ergonomic office chair?
All ergonomic chairs are not built the same. Since every individual is built differently, it is best to look for a chair that can be easily adjusted in terms of chair height, armrest height and back inclination. There are many types of office chairs and no single chair is the best, but a few simple tips can save your joints a lot of discomfort. You are about to avoid the biggest mistakes most individuals make with chair selection.
If you have any doubts, always speak with your physical therapist to help you find the right chair for your specific needs.
Five key factors to consider while choosing an ergonomic chair:
• Seat height. This should be adjustable. Depending on your height, this should be between 16 to 21 inches from the floor. When sitting, your feet should be flat on the floor and your thighs horizontal (or parallel) to the floor.
• Seat width and depth. Standard seat width is 17-20 inches. The depth (from the front to the back of the seat) needs to be enough so that you can sit with your back against the backrest with about 2-4 inches between the back of the knees and the seat of the chair. The forward or backward tilt of the seat should be adjustable because the right inclination can significantly reduce the strain on your lower back (call us to learn more)
• Backrest. The ideal backrest should be 12 to 19 inches wide. It should be able to support the natural curve of the spine. The more we sit, the more we tend to slouch. Therefore, proper lumbar support provided by your chair’s backrest is very important to help support your spine.
• Armrests. Office chair armrests should be adjustable. They should allow your arms to rest comfortably and shoulders to be relaxed. The elbows and lower arms should rest lightly, which means the armrests should neither be too high nor too low.
• Swivel. This allows you to easily rotate to reach different areas of your desk without straining your spine.
Picking the right office chair can help you avoid the agony of low back pain or neck pain associated with full-time desk jobs. Too much time at the computer or several hours a day on the phone can also put your spine at risk. To learn more about ergonomics and correct body mechanics, give us a call right away.
If Your First Steps Are Painful...
24/04/11 14:15
Pain in the heel can occur due to bone spurs, inflammation of the plantar fascia (known as plantar fasciitis) or impingement of the small nerves in the foot.
Symptoms of plantar fasciitis include pain on or around the heel when weight is placed on the foot. This is usually worst in the morning, especially with the first few steps after getting out of bed. In most cases, there is no pain at night since the fascia tightens up overnight. Morning motion causes pulling of the fascia and results in pain that can be described as sharp, burning or stabbing. Pain usually reduces during the course of the day as the tissue warms up. Prolonged standing, walking or getting up after long periods of sitting usually irritate the fascia.
Common causes of heel pain include:
• Excessive running or jumping
• Overload of physical activity (especially for athletes)
• High arches, flat feet, abnormal gait
• Wearing improper shoes while walking or running
• Diabetes contributes to heel pain in the elderly
• Recent weight gain or pregnancy
In most cases, plantar fasciitis does not require surgery and can be treated conservatively. However, every individual heals at a different pace.
If you suffer from heel pain, the first thing you need to do is determine the cause. For example, you may need to replace your old, worn out shoes. You may need to rest if there has been a significant increase in your activity levels.
The next thing to do is to call your physical therapist. You may even need to see a doctor or podiatrist. Your doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications and physical therapy to help you reduce pain and inflammation and resume daily activities without pain. In some cases, your doctor may give you a cortisone shot to address excessive inflammation.
Most people with heel pain get better with physical therapy. Therapy usually includes stretching the calf muscles (on the back of the lower leg) to take the tension off the plantar fascia. If your calf is really tight, the doctor may order a night splint (to be worn while you sleep at night). This will place a mild stretch on the calf muscles and the plantar fascia.
This helps reduce morning pain.
Patients with plantar fasciitis are commonly prescribed physical therapy. Our therapists design exercises to improve flexibility in the calf muscles and the plantar fascia. Treatment helps control pain and swelling. We may use ultrasound, electrical stimulation, ice packs and soft-tissue massage to help you recover as fast as possible. We may even recommend the use of an orthotic depending on the anatomy of your foot.
Symptoms of plantar fasciitis include pain on or around the heel when weight is placed on the foot. This is usually worst in the morning, especially with the first few steps after getting out of bed. In most cases, there is no pain at night since the fascia tightens up overnight. Morning motion causes pulling of the fascia and results in pain that can be described as sharp, burning or stabbing. Pain usually reduces during the course of the day as the tissue warms up. Prolonged standing, walking or getting up after long periods of sitting usually irritate the fascia.
Common causes of heel pain include:
• Excessive running or jumping
• Overload of physical activity (especially for athletes)
• High arches, flat feet, abnormal gait
• Wearing improper shoes while walking or running
• Diabetes contributes to heel pain in the elderly
• Recent weight gain or pregnancy
In most cases, plantar fasciitis does not require surgery and can be treated conservatively. However, every individual heals at a different pace.
If you suffer from heel pain, the first thing you need to do is determine the cause. For example, you may need to replace your old, worn out shoes. You may need to rest if there has been a significant increase in your activity levels.
The next thing to do is to call your physical therapist. You may even need to see a doctor or podiatrist. Your doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications and physical therapy to help you reduce pain and inflammation and resume daily activities without pain. In some cases, your doctor may give you a cortisone shot to address excessive inflammation.
Most people with heel pain get better with physical therapy. Therapy usually includes stretching the calf muscles (on the back of the lower leg) to take the tension off the plantar fascia. If your calf is really tight, the doctor may order a night splint (to be worn while you sleep at night). This will place a mild stretch on the calf muscles and the plantar fascia.
This helps reduce morning pain.
Patients with plantar fasciitis are commonly prescribed physical therapy. Our therapists design exercises to improve flexibility in the calf muscles and the plantar fascia. Treatment helps control pain and swelling. We may use ultrasound, electrical stimulation, ice packs and soft-tissue massage to help you recover as fast as possible. We may even recommend the use of an orthotic depending on the anatomy of your foot.
Obesity and the Aging Population: What Are the Dangers and How You Can Get Healthier
16/04/11 10:12
Nearly 70 percent of adults over age 60 are overweight or obese, putting them at higher risk of diabetes and other diseases, according to a new study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association.
The study followed more than 4,000 men and women for 18 years and found that those who were overweight, measured by a body mass index (BMI) of 25-29, or obese, with a BMI of 30 or higher, were more likely to develop type 2 diabetes.
"As you age, your body changes," ABC News senior health and medical editor Dr. Richard Besser said this morning on Good Morning America. "Your metabolism slows down."
Type 2 diabetes has doubled in the U.S. in the past 15 years, and is highest among adults over age 65, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. And diabetes is a well known risk factor in heart disease, kidney disease, stroke and other serious medical conditions.
However, keeping a diet rich with greens can prevent excess weight gain, said Besser. “If you don't cut back what you put in your body, you'll gain weight," he said. "It's that simple."
Besides eating well, even light physical activity can significantly contribute to a healthier lifestyle for many elderly adults, according to Besser.
Lower impact activities such as walking, swimming, and bicycling are generally safe for many older adults, even those who have chronic conditions such as heart disease or high blood pressure, Besser said on Good Morning America. In fact, many studies show that regular aerobic exercise can lower blood pressure, decrease the symptoms of chronic conditions, and can improve brain function. But the key is to start slowly, he said.
"Just ask your doctor how to do that," he said. Exercise is only good for you if you are feeling well, according to Besser. If you have a cold or the flu, wait to exercise until you feel better.
Warming up and cooling down by walking and stretching before and after each session is important to minimize any soreness or potential injury, he said.
*Original article: http://abcnews.go.com/Health/OnCall/elderly-obesity-older-adults-face-weight-issues/story?id=10985159
The study followed more than 4,000 men and women for 18 years and found that those who were overweight, measured by a body mass index (BMI) of 25-29, or obese, with a BMI of 30 or higher, were more likely to develop type 2 diabetes.
"As you age, your body changes," ABC News senior health and medical editor Dr. Richard Besser said this morning on Good Morning America. "Your metabolism slows down."
Type 2 diabetes has doubled in the U.S. in the past 15 years, and is highest among adults over age 65, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. And diabetes is a well known risk factor in heart disease, kidney disease, stroke and other serious medical conditions.
However, keeping a diet rich with greens can prevent excess weight gain, said Besser. “If you don't cut back what you put in your body, you'll gain weight," he said. "It's that simple."
Besides eating well, even light physical activity can significantly contribute to a healthier lifestyle for many elderly adults, according to Besser.
Lower impact activities such as walking, swimming, and bicycling are generally safe for many older adults, even those who have chronic conditions such as heart disease or high blood pressure, Besser said on Good Morning America. In fact, many studies show that regular aerobic exercise can lower blood pressure, decrease the symptoms of chronic conditions, and can improve brain function. But the key is to start slowly, he said.
"Just ask your doctor how to do that," he said. Exercise is only good for you if you are feeling well, according to Besser. If you have a cold or the flu, wait to exercise until you feel better.
Warming up and cooling down by walking and stretching before and after each session is important to minimize any soreness or potential injury, he said.
*Original article: http://abcnews.go.com/Health/OnCall/elderly-obesity-older-adults-face-weight-issues/story?id=10985159
High Blood Pressure and Seniors
10/04/11 10:00
According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, one in four adults, have a continuously elevated pressure of the blood moving through their arteries. For adults aged 70 and older, that number rises dramatically to two out of three. High blood pressure significantly increases your risk for getting heart disease and/or kidney disease, and for having a stroke. While there may be no symptoms, and people affected by high blood pressure may feel fine, some may experience dizziness, palpitations, sweating, and headaches.
Blood pressure is typically recorded as two numbers — the systolic pressure (as the heart beats) over the diastolic pressure (as the heart relaxes between beats). The Merck Manual on Medical Information defines high blood pressure as a systolic pressure at rest that averages 140 mm Hg or more, a diastolic pressure at rest that averages 90 mm Hg or more, or both. Usually both the systolic and the diastolic pressures are elevated. However, in the elderly, only the systolic pressure may be elevated, which nevertheless can cause medical problems down the road.
Special Factors for the Elderly:
Many Americans tend to develop high blood pressure as they get older, but this is not a part of healthy aging. About 60% of all Americans age 60 and older have high blood pressure. Only a fraction of those who have high blood pressure actually know it and are actively treating it.
Only a few decades ago, the medical community treated the elderly differently when it came to high blood pressure. Since prescription drug interventions could prove risky, only those seniors with extremely high blood pressure were treated. According to the Society of
Geriatric Cardiology, there are now numerous safe and effective blood pressure medications available. “It has been shown that the majority of older patients adhere and respond to treatment as well as or better than younger patients,” the Society notes.
Since the elderly have fluctuations in their blood pressure throughout the course of the day and may have adverse interactions with other medications, doctors should carefully monitor and adjust a senior’s medication. The Society of Geriatric Cardiology recommends that at least two or three blood pressure readings should be taken at different times to establish a diagnosis of hypertension.
Prevention:
The best way to prevent high blood pressure is by adopting a healthy lifestyle:
◦ Following healthy eating patterns: emphasize fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy foods; eat foods low in saturated fat, total fat,
and cholesterol; eat whole grains, poultry, fish, and nuts; reduce fats, red meats, sweets, and sugared beverages. (see The
DASH Diet under “Sources” for more information)
◦ Reducing salt and sodium in your diet: reduce salt intake to less than six grams (one teaspoon) per day from all sources.
◦ Maintaining a healthy weight: since blood pressure rises as weight increases, reducing your weight can improve your
hypertension, as well as reduce your risk for heart disease and diabetes.
◦ Being physically active: even the lowest level of physical activity can have a positive impact on health and well-being.
◦ Limiting alcohol intake: if you drink alcoholic beverages, have only a moderate amount — one drink a day for women; two drinks
a day for men.
◦ Quitting smoking: smoking injures blood vessels and speeds up the hardening of the arteries.
Original article: http://www.ec-online.net/knowledge/articles/bloodpressure.html
Blood pressure is typically recorded as two numbers — the systolic pressure (as the heart beats) over the diastolic pressure (as the heart relaxes between beats). The Merck Manual on Medical Information defines high blood pressure as a systolic pressure at rest that averages 140 mm Hg or more, a diastolic pressure at rest that averages 90 mm Hg or more, or both. Usually both the systolic and the diastolic pressures are elevated. However, in the elderly, only the systolic pressure may be elevated, which nevertheless can cause medical problems down the road.
Special Factors for the Elderly:
Many Americans tend to develop high blood pressure as they get older, but this is not a part of healthy aging. About 60% of all Americans age 60 and older have high blood pressure. Only a fraction of those who have high blood pressure actually know it and are actively treating it.
Only a few decades ago, the medical community treated the elderly differently when it came to high blood pressure. Since prescription drug interventions could prove risky, only those seniors with extremely high blood pressure were treated. According to the Society of
Geriatric Cardiology, there are now numerous safe and effective blood pressure medications available. “It has been shown that the majority of older patients adhere and respond to treatment as well as or better than younger patients,” the Society notes.
Since the elderly have fluctuations in their blood pressure throughout the course of the day and may have adverse interactions with other medications, doctors should carefully monitor and adjust a senior’s medication. The Society of Geriatric Cardiology recommends that at least two or three blood pressure readings should be taken at different times to establish a diagnosis of hypertension.
Prevention:
The best way to prevent high blood pressure is by adopting a healthy lifestyle:
◦ Following healthy eating patterns: emphasize fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy foods; eat foods low in saturated fat, total fat,
and cholesterol; eat whole grains, poultry, fish, and nuts; reduce fats, red meats, sweets, and sugared beverages. (see The
DASH Diet under “Sources” for more information)
◦ Reducing salt and sodium in your diet: reduce salt intake to less than six grams (one teaspoon) per day from all sources.
◦ Maintaining a healthy weight: since blood pressure rises as weight increases, reducing your weight can improve your
hypertension, as well as reduce your risk for heart disease and diabetes.
◦ Being physically active: even the lowest level of physical activity can have a positive impact on health and well-being.
◦ Limiting alcohol intake: if you drink alcoholic beverages, have only a moderate amount — one drink a day for women; two drinks
a day for men.
◦ Quitting smoking: smoking injures blood vessels and speeds up the hardening of the arteries.
Original article: http://www.ec-online.net/knowledge/articles/bloodpressure.html
Lumbar Spinal Stenosis and Seniors
03/04/11 13:53
The most common indication for surgery in persons aged over 60 in the United States is Lumbar Spinal Stenosis (LSS). Currently, it is estimated that as many as 400,000 Americans, most over the age of 60, may already be suffering from the symptoms of lumbar spinal stenosis [The American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS) and The Congress of Neurological Surgeons (CNS)] and this number is expected to grow as members of the baby boom generation begin to reach their 60s over the next decade.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, people over 60 will account for 18.7% of the domestic population in 2010 versus 16.6% in 1999.
According to the United Nations' Population Division, Department of Economic and Social Affairs, the trend is global with the number of persons aged 60 years or older estimated to be nearly 600 million in 1999 and is projected to grow to almost 2 billion by 2050, at which time the population of older persons will be larger than the population of children (0-14 years) for the first time in human history. The majority of the world's older persons reside in Asia (53 per cent), while Europe has the next largest share (25%).
The prevalence of musculo-skeletal disorders and the cost to treat them led the World Health Organization and the United Nations to declare 2000-2010 be the Decade committed to improving quality of life to people with bone and joint disease and injuries throughout the world.
Physical Therapy for Spinal Stenosis
Physical therapy consisted of exercises, soft tissue manipulation, and other treatment modalities, such as hot and cold packs. The purpose of exercises is to strengthen the abdominal muscles and promote mobility of the lumbar paraspinal muscles, thus minimizing lordosis.
Lordosis can be reduced by up to 7%, which is sufficient to relieve pain. 50 Trunk strengthening exercises were also prescribed to build up the abdominal and lumbar muscles, “thereby creating a corset of muscles to support the lumbar spine” and to build conditioning and increase walking distance.
Exercises that encourage lumbar flexion and flattening of the lumbar lordotic curve can be of a clinical benefit to patients suffering from lumbar spinal stenosis. An exercise program must be used 4 to 5 times a week to be beneficial, and any early signs of improvement are observed 4 to 6 weeks after the program has begun.
Original article: http://www.spinalstenosis.org/
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, people over 60 will account for 18.7% of the domestic population in 2010 versus 16.6% in 1999.
According to the United Nations' Population Division, Department of Economic and Social Affairs, the trend is global with the number of persons aged 60 years or older estimated to be nearly 600 million in 1999 and is projected to grow to almost 2 billion by 2050, at which time the population of older persons will be larger than the population of children (0-14 years) for the first time in human history. The majority of the world's older persons reside in Asia (53 per cent), while Europe has the next largest share (25%).
The prevalence of musculo-skeletal disorders and the cost to treat them led the World Health Organization and the United Nations to declare 2000-2010 be the Decade committed to improving quality of life to people with bone and joint disease and injuries throughout the world.
Physical Therapy for Spinal Stenosis
Physical therapy consisted of exercises, soft tissue manipulation, and other treatment modalities, such as hot and cold packs. The purpose of exercises is to strengthen the abdominal muscles and promote mobility of the lumbar paraspinal muscles, thus minimizing lordosis.
Lordosis can be reduced by up to 7%, which is sufficient to relieve pain. 50 Trunk strengthening exercises were also prescribed to build up the abdominal and lumbar muscles, “thereby creating a corset of muscles to support the lumbar spine” and to build conditioning and increase walking distance.
Exercises that encourage lumbar flexion and flattening of the lumbar lordotic curve can be of a clinical benefit to patients suffering from lumbar spinal stenosis. An exercise program must be used 4 to 5 times a week to be beneficial, and any early signs of improvement are observed 4 to 6 weeks after the program has begun.
Original article: http://www.spinalstenosis.org/
Glaucoma and Aging
31/03/11 07:36
The leading causes of glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and macular degeneration tend to come on silently, without pain or other symptoms in the earliest stages. The later an eye problem is diagnosed, the harder it becomes to treat. In some cases, any vision that has slipped away may be gone forever.
Experts say that skipping regular and thorough eye exams is chief among the barriers to early detection. It's important to have your eyes regularly checked through dilated pupils so doctors can get a good three-dimensional view of the optic nerve and retina. For a dilated exam, an eye specialist places drops in the eye to enlarge the pupils.
If you ignore symptoms of glaucoma and fail to get treatment, the damage can be permanent and blindness is more likely. There are eye drops and medications that can be used to treat mild cases of glaucoma. Lumigan and Travatan are two that treat elevated eye pressure. For people in the more advanced stages of the disease, surgery is a necessary measure that many doctors recommend.
Original article: http://seniorhealth.about.com/library/vision/bl_eye_exam.htm
Experts say that skipping regular and thorough eye exams is chief among the barriers to early detection. It's important to have your eyes regularly checked through dilated pupils so doctors can get a good three-dimensional view of the optic nerve and retina. For a dilated exam, an eye specialist places drops in the eye to enlarge the pupils.
If you ignore symptoms of glaucoma and fail to get treatment, the damage can be permanent and blindness is more likely. There are eye drops and medications that can be used to treat mild cases of glaucoma. Lumigan and Travatan are two that treat elevated eye pressure. For people in the more advanced stages of the disease, surgery is a necessary measure that many doctors recommend.
Original article: http://seniorhealth.about.com/library/vision/bl_eye_exam.htm
Are You Safe? Life Alert For Seniors
28/03/11 08:32
Life Alert is a Personal Emergency Response and Home Medical Alert System company that saves lives from catastrophic outcomes, using a unique technology to provide superior home audio monitoring protection. Founded in 1987, Life Alert provides its service to members nationwide. The company employs over 600 people, all in the United States.
The company’s service solves a major home security issue. Life Alert’s protection helps people to live at home with independence and comfort, living their lives the way they want to, with a feeling of safety and peace of mind.
Life Alert handles over two million calls a year, and on average saves at least one life from a catastrophic outcome every 17 minutes (over 31,000 in 2010). In Life Alert’s Monitoring Center, the size of its emergency staff per member is 200% greater than a traditional security company.
* Go to www.lifealert.com for more information
The company’s service solves a major home security issue. Life Alert’s protection helps people to live at home with independence and comfort, living their lives the way they want to, with a feeling of safety and peace of mind.
Life Alert handles over two million calls a year, and on average saves at least one life from a catastrophic outcome every 17 minutes (over 31,000 in 2010). In Life Alert’s Monitoring Center, the size of its emergency staff per member is 200% greater than a traditional security company.
* Go to www.lifealert.com for more information
Thyroid Disease and Aging
27/03/11 17:50
The incidence of thyroid disease increases with age. An estimated 20% of women over the age of 60 have some form of thyroid disease. The symptoms of thyroid disease vary according to whether too much hormone is being produced (hyperthyroid) or too little (hypothyroid). Hypothyroidism is much more common in the elderly population, and symptoms may be non-specific such as those mentioned above.
Below are some interesting points about thyroid disease and aging as compiled by the American Association of Endocrinologists:
• 1 out of every 5 women over the age of 65 has an higher than normal level of TSH (indicating hypothyroidism.
• Approximately 25% of the elderly population suffer from some form of mental illness. A significant number of these cases may be
related to thyroid disease.
• Approximately 15% of all patients diagnosed with hyperthyroidism are over the age of 60.
• Because of many factors, thyroid disease in those over 65 years old is much more likely to remain undiagnosed as compared
with thyroid disease in 30 to 40 year olds.
There are two more points of importance regarding elderly patients and thyroid disease. First, hypothyroidism is a risk factor for high cholesterol and heart disease. Because many elderly people remain undiagnosed for years, it is important to check cholesterol levels in all elderly patients who are diagnosed with hypothyroidism. The opposite is also true. Elderly patients with persistently increased cholesterol levels should have a thyroid evaluation to make certain that thyroid disease is not contributing to the high cholesterol levels. Second, hyperthyroidism is a cause for osteoporosis, a common cause of weak bones in the elderly.
What can you do to make certain you thyroid level is OK? It's simple. If you are suspicious that you may have thyroid disease, or you have symptoms such as those above that have gone unexplained, ask your physician for a thyroid evaluation. This involves examining the thyroid gland in the neck and a simple blood test to evaluate TSH levels and T4 and T3 levels. Thyroid disease is usually easy to diagnose and treat.
Original article: http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=17284
Below are some interesting points about thyroid disease and aging as compiled by the American Association of Endocrinologists:
• 1 out of every 5 women over the age of 65 has an higher than normal level of TSH (indicating hypothyroidism.
• Approximately 25% of the elderly population suffer from some form of mental illness. A significant number of these cases may be
related to thyroid disease.
• Approximately 15% of all patients diagnosed with hyperthyroidism are over the age of 60.
• Because of many factors, thyroid disease in those over 65 years old is much more likely to remain undiagnosed as compared
with thyroid disease in 30 to 40 year olds.
There are two more points of importance regarding elderly patients and thyroid disease. First, hypothyroidism is a risk factor for high cholesterol and heart disease. Because many elderly people remain undiagnosed for years, it is important to check cholesterol levels in all elderly patients who are diagnosed with hypothyroidism. The opposite is also true. Elderly patients with persistently increased cholesterol levels should have a thyroid evaluation to make certain that thyroid disease is not contributing to the high cholesterol levels. Second, hyperthyroidism is a cause for osteoporosis, a common cause of weak bones in the elderly.
What can you do to make certain you thyroid level is OK? It's simple. If you are suspicious that you may have thyroid disease, or you have symptoms such as those above that have gone unexplained, ask your physician for a thyroid evaluation. This involves examining the thyroid gland in the neck and a simple blood test to evaluate TSH levels and T4 and T3 levels. Thyroid disease is usually easy to diagnose and treat.
Original article: http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=17284
Avascular Necrosis and the Elderly
23/03/11 16:48
From the Mayo Clinic:
Avascular necrosis is the death of bone tissue due to a lack of blood supply. Also called osteonecrosis, avascular necrosis can lead to tiny breaks in the bone and the bone's eventual collapse.
The blood flow to a section of bone can be interrupted if the bone is fractured or the joint becomes dislocated. Avascular necrosis is also associated with long-term use of high-dose steroid medications and excessive alcohol intake.
The most common joint affected by avascular necrosis is the hip. Avascular necrosis worsens with time, so managing it is a lifelong process.
Avascular necrosis typically causes pain and reduced range of motion in the affected joint. The most common joints affected by avascular necrosis include:
• Hip. In addition to pain in the hip joint itself, pain also may radiate into your groin or go down your thigh to your knee.
• Knee. In avascular necrosis of the knee, the pain occurs most often on the inside of the knee and worsens with activity.
• Shoulder. Several bones come together at the shoulder, but the one most commonly affected by avascular necrosis is the upper
arm bone.
Some people experience avascular necrosis bilaterally — for example, in both hips or in both knees. Signs and symptoms may appear suddenly if caused by an injury. In other cases, the pain and stiffness may build up slowly over several months. Some people with avascular necrosis experience no symptoms at all.
Other joints that are affected by avascular necrosis include:
• Ankles
• Feet
• Hands
• Jaw
• Spine
• Wrists
* See your doctor if you experience persistent pain in any joint. Seek immediate medical attention if you believe you have a broken bone or a dislocated joint.
*Original article: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/avascular-necrosis/DS00650/DSECTION=symptoms
Avascular necrosis is the death of bone tissue due to a lack of blood supply. Also called osteonecrosis, avascular necrosis can lead to tiny breaks in the bone and the bone's eventual collapse.
The blood flow to a section of bone can be interrupted if the bone is fractured or the joint becomes dislocated. Avascular necrosis is also associated with long-term use of high-dose steroid medications and excessive alcohol intake.
The most common joint affected by avascular necrosis is the hip. Avascular necrosis worsens with time, so managing it is a lifelong process.
Avascular necrosis typically causes pain and reduced range of motion in the affected joint. The most common joints affected by avascular necrosis include:
• Hip. In addition to pain in the hip joint itself, pain also may radiate into your groin or go down your thigh to your knee.
• Knee. In avascular necrosis of the knee, the pain occurs most often on the inside of the knee and worsens with activity.
• Shoulder. Several bones come together at the shoulder, but the one most commonly affected by avascular necrosis is the upper
arm bone.
Some people experience avascular necrosis bilaterally — for example, in both hips or in both knees. Signs and symptoms may appear suddenly if caused by an injury. In other cases, the pain and stiffness may build up slowly over several months. Some people with avascular necrosis experience no symptoms at all.
Other joints that are affected by avascular necrosis include:
• Ankles
• Feet
• Hands
• Jaw
• Spine
• Wrists
* See your doctor if you experience persistent pain in any joint. Seek immediate medical attention if you believe you have a broken bone or a dislocated joint.
*Original article: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/avascular-necrosis/DS00650/DSECTION=symptoms
If Your World is Spinning...
21/03/11 09:39
Almost everyone experiences a few seconds of dizziness at some point in their lives. Do you remember your childhood days when you would spin round and round until you got dizzy and had to wait a few seconds till the “world stopped spinning”? It was fun back then, but when it occurs “out of the blue”, it’s something to be concerned about.
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), about 90 million Americans (more than a third of the population) report bouts of dizziness at some point in their lives. Of those, 76 million suffer from inner-ear disorders, which can be caused by:
1. Whiplash (neck injuries)
2. Blows to the head
3. Viral infections
4. High doses of certain antibiotics
5. Stroke
6. Degeneration of the inner ear's balance function, also known as the vestibular system (often deteriorates with age).
Inner-ear problems can manifest themselves in different ways. Some symptoms include dizziness, nausea and blurred vision. It’s not uncommon for individuals with dizziness to go from one doctor to another in an attempt to find a solution.
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), about 90 million Americans (more than a third of the population) report bouts of dizziness at some point in their lives. Of those, 76 million suffer from inner-ear disorders, which can be caused by:
1. Whiplash (neck injuries)
2. Blows to the head
3. Viral infections
4. High doses of certain antibiotics
5. Stroke
6. Degeneration of the inner ear's balance function, also known as the vestibular system (often deteriorates with age).
Inner-ear problems can manifest themselves in different ways. Some symptoms include dizziness, nausea and blurred vision. It’s not uncommon for individuals with dizziness to go from one doctor to another in an attempt to find a solution.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and Seniors
21/03/11 09:27
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a disease of the lungs. A person with COPD has trouble breathing. This is because the airways – the tubes that carry air in and out of the lungs – are damaged.
COPD may also be called by other names, such as emphysema or chronic bronchitis. COPD is a serious lung disease that develops slowly. It may be many years before a person starts to have symptoms of COPD. It can be caused by smoking, air pollution, and genetic factors.
COPD can be treated many ways depending on the severity of the disease. Medication and oxygen machines help ease symptoms but the best way to avoid developing COPD is to stay away from cigarette smoke and do not begin smoking.
Information obtained from: http://www.health.state.ny.us/diseases/chronic/copd/fact_sheet.htm
COPD may also be called by other names, such as emphysema or chronic bronchitis. COPD is a serious lung disease that develops slowly. It may be many years before a person starts to have symptoms of COPD. It can be caused by smoking, air pollution, and genetic factors.
COPD can be treated many ways depending on the severity of the disease. Medication and oxygen machines help ease symptoms but the best way to avoid developing COPD is to stay away from cigarette smoke and do not begin smoking.
Information obtained from: http://www.health.state.ny.us/diseases/chronic/copd/fact_sheet.htm
Hypertension Study
17/03/11 09:36
Study: Lack of Sleep Not Linked to Hypertension Among Seniors
While sleeping five or fewer hours a night appears to be a significant factor in high blood pressure for people under age 59, short sleep duration does not seem linked to hypertension among people aged 60 and older, according to a study that appears in the journal Hypertension.
In a study of more than 4,800 men and women, aged 32 to 59, who got five hours of sleep a night or less, middle-aged participants were about 60 percent more likely to develop hypertension than those who slept six to eight hours.
But the researchers found no connection between sleep deprivation and hypertension in participants aged 60 to 86. Researchers used data from a large epidemiological study, excluding from the analysis anyone who already had hypertension, and over the next eight to 10 years recorded the incidence of newly diagnosed cases of high blood pressure.
"It's been known for a long time that sleep disorders are associated with hypertension," said James E. Gangwisch, a postdoctoral fellow at Columbia's Mailman School of Public Health, "but that could be for reasons besides not getting enough sleep. This is the first study that shows a relationship between short sleep duration itself and high blood pressure."
However, while getting too little sleep was bad, getting more than the average amount of sleep was not protective. People who got nine or more hours of sleep were as likely to have high blood pressure as those who slept six to eight hours.
Original article: http://www.seniorhealthweek.org/NewsStories/hypertension-story-n7.htm
Source: Source: Medical Week staff, week of May 10, 2006
While sleeping five or fewer hours a night appears to be a significant factor in high blood pressure for people under age 59, short sleep duration does not seem linked to hypertension among people aged 60 and older, according to a study that appears in the journal Hypertension.
In a study of more than 4,800 men and women, aged 32 to 59, who got five hours of sleep a night or less, middle-aged participants were about 60 percent more likely to develop hypertension than those who slept six to eight hours.
But the researchers found no connection between sleep deprivation and hypertension in participants aged 60 to 86. Researchers used data from a large epidemiological study, excluding from the analysis anyone who already had hypertension, and over the next eight to 10 years recorded the incidence of newly diagnosed cases of high blood pressure.
"It's been known for a long time that sleep disorders are associated with hypertension," said James E. Gangwisch, a postdoctoral fellow at Columbia's Mailman School of Public Health, "but that could be for reasons besides not getting enough sleep. This is the first study that shows a relationship between short sleep duration itself and high blood pressure."
However, while getting too little sleep was bad, getting more than the average amount of sleep was not protective. People who got nine or more hours of sleep were as likely to have high blood pressure as those who slept six to eight hours.
Original article: http://www.seniorhealthweek.org/NewsStories/hypertension-story-n7.htm
Source: Source: Medical Week staff, week of May 10, 2006
Plantar Fasciitis
12/03/11 14:52
Plantar fasciitis (say "PLAN-ter fash-ee-EYE-tus") is the most common cause of heel pain. The plantar fascia is the flat band of tissue (ligament) that connects your heel bone to your toes. It supports the arch of your foot. If you strain your plantar fascia, it gets weak, swollen, and irritated (inflamed). Then your heel or the bottom of your foot hurts when you stand or walk.
Plantar fasciitis is common in middle-aged people. It also occurs in younger people who are on their feet a lot, like athletes or soldiers. It can happen in one foot or both feet.
What causes plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is caused by straining the ligament that supports your arch. Repeated strain can cause tiny tears in the ligament. These can lead to pain and swelling. This is more likely to happen if:
• Your feet roll inward too much when you walk (excessive pronation)
• You have high arches or flat feet
• You walk, stand, or run for long periods of time, especially on hard surfaces
• You are overweight
• You wear shoes that don't fit well or are worn out
• You have tight Achilles tendons or calf muscles
What are the symptoms?
Most people with plantar fasciitis have pain when they take their first steps after they get out of bed or sit for a long time. You may have less stiffness and pain after you take a few steps. But your foot may hurt more as the day goes on. It may hurt the most when you climb stairs or after you stand for a long time.
How is plantar fasciitis diagnosed?
Your doctor will check your feet and watch you stand and walk. He or she will also ask questions about:
• Your past health, including what illnesses or injuries you have had
• Your symptoms, such as where the pain is and what time of day your foot hurts most
• How active you are and what types of physical activity you do
Your doctor may take an X-ray of your foot if he or she suspects a problem with the bones of your foot, such as a stress fracture
How is it treated?
No single treatment works best for everyone with plantar fasciitis. But there are many things you can try to help your foot get better:
• Give your feet a rest. Cut back on activities that make your foot hurt. Try not to walk or run on hard surfaces
• To reduce pain and swelling, try putting ice on your heel. Or take an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen (such as Advil or Motrin), naproxen (such as Aleve), or aspirin
• Do calf stretches and towel stretches several times a day, especially when you first get up in the morning.
• Get a new pair of shoes. Pick shoes with good arch support and a cushioned sole. Or try heel cups or shoe inserts (orthotics).
Use them in both shoes, even if only one foot hurts.
Original article: http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/plantar-fasciitis-topic-overview
Plantar fasciitis is common in middle-aged people. It also occurs in younger people who are on their feet a lot, like athletes or soldiers. It can happen in one foot or both feet.
What causes plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is caused by straining the ligament that supports your arch. Repeated strain can cause tiny tears in the ligament. These can lead to pain and swelling. This is more likely to happen if:
• Your feet roll inward too much when you walk (excessive pronation)
• You have high arches or flat feet
• You walk, stand, or run for long periods of time, especially on hard surfaces
• You are overweight
• You wear shoes that don't fit well or are worn out
• You have tight Achilles tendons or calf muscles
What are the symptoms?
Most people with plantar fasciitis have pain when they take their first steps after they get out of bed or sit for a long time. You may have less stiffness and pain after you take a few steps. But your foot may hurt more as the day goes on. It may hurt the most when you climb stairs or after you stand for a long time.
How is plantar fasciitis diagnosed?
Your doctor will check your feet and watch you stand and walk. He or she will also ask questions about:
• Your past health, including what illnesses or injuries you have had
• Your symptoms, such as where the pain is and what time of day your foot hurts most
• How active you are and what types of physical activity you do
Your doctor may take an X-ray of your foot if he or she suspects a problem with the bones of your foot, such as a stress fracture
How is it treated?
No single treatment works best for everyone with plantar fasciitis. But there are many things you can try to help your foot get better:
• Give your feet a rest. Cut back on activities that make your foot hurt. Try not to walk or run on hard surfaces
• To reduce pain and swelling, try putting ice on your heel. Or take an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen (such as Advil or Motrin), naproxen (such as Aleve), or aspirin
• Do calf stretches and towel stretches several times a day, especially when you first get up in the morning.
• Get a new pair of shoes. Pick shoes with good arch support and a cushioned sole. Or try heel cups or shoe inserts (orthotics).
Use them in both shoes, even if only one foot hurts.
Original article: http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/plantar-fasciitis-topic-overview
Osteopenia VS. Osteoporosis: What's the Difference?
04/03/11 09:23
What is osteopenia and how is it related to osteoporosis? To begin to answer that question, we must define osteopenia. Osteopenia is the thinning of bone mass. While this decrease in bone mass is not usually considered "severe", it is considered a very serious risk factor for the development of osteoporosis. Osteopenia is commonly seen in people over age 50 that have lower than average bone density but do not have osteoporosis. The diagnostic difference between osteopenia and osteoporosis is the measure of bone mineral density.
Bone mineral density
Bone mineral density (BMD) is the measurement of calcium levels in bones, which can estimate the risk of bone fractures. It is also used to determine if a patient has osteopenia or osteoporosis. Bone mineral density tests are non-invasive and painless procedures usually done on the hip, spine, wrist, finger, shin bone, or heel.
While osteopenia can be diagnosed using plain radiographs, the most common method for measuring BMD (and a way to definitively diagnose osteoporosis) is through Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry or DEXA. This scan uses low-energy x-rays that expose patients to much less radiation than standard x-rays and can assess calcium levels in bone. The results are measured as a "score" and are compared to those of healthy individuals.
What the numbers mean
A patient's BMD is given a T-score, which is derived by comparing it to an average score for a healthy 30-year-old of the same sex and race. The difference between the "normal young" score and the patient's score is referred to as a standard deviation (SD). T-scores can fall as low as -1 SD and still be considered healthy (see table below). Patients with T-scores between -1 SD and -2.5 SD are diagnosed with osteopenia and are considered at high risk for osteoporosis. Patients with T-scores lower than -2.5 SD are diagnosed with osteoporosis.
For these patients, treatment is usually necessary and includes the use of medications to help increase bone mass, as well as lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise.
T-score
2.5 to -1 SD
Normal bone density
Between -1 and -2.5
Osteopenia (low bone density)
Below -2.5
Osteoporosis
Who is at risk?
Not everyone will get osteopenia or osteoporosis. However there are certain risk factors that can increase the likelihood that a person will have moderate to severe loss of bone mass, including the following:
Gender - women are a higher risk because they have less bone mass than men. Women also often experience a loss of bone
mass after menopause.
Race - Asian and Caucasian women, especially those who are small-boned, are at highest risk.
Family history - patients with a family history of low bone mass have a 50%-85% increased risk of developing osteoporosis.
Age - most people (men and women) lose about .5% of bone mass every year after the age of 50.
Lifestyle choices - including poor diet with a lack of calcium and vitamin D, smoking, excessive use of alcohol or caffeine, and
lack of exercise contribute to a loss of bone mass.
Other medical conditions - such as hyperthyroidism, hyperparathyroidism, and Cushing's syndrome, can contribute to bone loss.
Certain medications (such as prednisone or phenytoin (Dilantin®
, are known to cause bone loss as well.
Prevention
While most people experience some loss of bone mass as they age, osteopenia and osteoporosis are not inevitable parts of the aging process. There are things that can be done to keep bones healthy, including the following:
1. Maintain a healthy diet with adequate amounts of calcium, magnesium, vitamins D, K, and C as well as other minerals.
2. Regular physical activity that includes weight bearing exercises, such as low-impact aerobics, jogging, and walking to help
minimize bone loss.
3. Avoidance of smoking and excessive use of alcohol.
4. Regular check-ups with a physician to monitor bone loss, especially in people over age 50.
5. Use of medications to help improve bone health if deficiencies in bone mass are detected.
What you can do
Along with eating right and getting regular exercise, talk to your doctor about having your bone mineral density measured, especially if you are over the age of 50 or fall into one of the higher risk groups mentioned above.
Original article: http://www.spineuniverse.com/conditions/osteoporosis/osteopenia-osteoporosis-there-difference
Bone mineral density
Bone mineral density (BMD) is the measurement of calcium levels in bones, which can estimate the risk of bone fractures. It is also used to determine if a patient has osteopenia or osteoporosis. Bone mineral density tests are non-invasive and painless procedures usually done on the hip, spine, wrist, finger, shin bone, or heel.
While osteopenia can be diagnosed using plain radiographs, the most common method for measuring BMD (and a way to definitively diagnose osteoporosis) is through Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry or DEXA. This scan uses low-energy x-rays that expose patients to much less radiation than standard x-rays and can assess calcium levels in bone. The results are measured as a "score" and are compared to those of healthy individuals.
What the numbers mean
A patient's BMD is given a T-score, which is derived by comparing it to an average score for a healthy 30-year-old of the same sex and race. The difference between the "normal young" score and the patient's score is referred to as a standard deviation (SD). T-scores can fall as low as -1 SD and still be considered healthy (see table below). Patients with T-scores between -1 SD and -2.5 SD are diagnosed with osteopenia and are considered at high risk for osteoporosis. Patients with T-scores lower than -2.5 SD are diagnosed with osteoporosis.
For these patients, treatment is usually necessary and includes the use of medications to help increase bone mass, as well as lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise.
T-score
2.5 to -1 SD
Normal bone density
Between -1 and -2.5
Osteopenia (low bone density)
Below -2.5
Osteoporosis
Who is at risk?
Not everyone will get osteopenia or osteoporosis. However there are certain risk factors that can increase the likelihood that a person will have moderate to severe loss of bone mass, including the following:
Gender - women are a higher risk because they have less bone mass than men. Women also often experience a loss of bone
mass after menopause.
Race - Asian and Caucasian women, especially those who are small-boned, are at highest risk.
Family history - patients with a family history of low bone mass have a 50%-85% increased risk of developing osteoporosis.
Age - most people (men and women) lose about .5% of bone mass every year after the age of 50.
Lifestyle choices - including poor diet with a lack of calcium and vitamin D, smoking, excessive use of alcohol or caffeine, and
lack of exercise contribute to a loss of bone mass.
Other medical conditions - such as hyperthyroidism, hyperparathyroidism, and Cushing's syndrome, can contribute to bone loss.
Certain medications (such as prednisone or phenytoin (Dilantin®
, are known to cause bone loss as well.Prevention
While most people experience some loss of bone mass as they age, osteopenia and osteoporosis are not inevitable parts of the aging process. There are things that can be done to keep bones healthy, including the following:
1. Maintain a healthy diet with adequate amounts of calcium, magnesium, vitamins D, K, and C as well as other minerals.
2. Regular physical activity that includes weight bearing exercises, such as low-impact aerobics, jogging, and walking to help
minimize bone loss.
3. Avoidance of smoking and excessive use of alcohol.
4. Regular check-ups with a physician to monitor bone loss, especially in people over age 50.
5. Use of medications to help improve bone health if deficiencies in bone mass are detected.
What you can do
Along with eating right and getting regular exercise, talk to your doctor about having your bone mineral density measured, especially if you are over the age of 50 or fall into one of the higher risk groups mentioned above.
Original article: http://www.spineuniverse.com/conditions/osteoporosis/osteopenia-osteoporosis-there-difference
Is Fibromyalgia Causing Too Many Aches & Pains?
28/02/11 09:24
Fibromyalgia is a condition in which your body “hurts all over”, leaving you tired and exhausted. It is a chronic condition that causes widespread pain, tenderness and stiffness for millions of people across the country.
Fibromyalgia tends to be more common in women, and the exact cause is unknown. It can be difficult to diagnose since there is no specific test for it, but it’s usually detected by performing various tests (including neurological tests) to rule out other diseases. Some symptoms of fibromyalgia include:
• Pain in “tender points” including muscles, tendons, or joints in both sides of the body
• Sleep disturbances
• Fatigue due to lack of deep sleep
• Mental and/or emotional disturbances
• Headaches, dizziness, tingling, and abdominal pain.
The severity of these symptoms can vary depending on the weather, stress, physical activity or even the time of day.
Although it’s not a progressive condition, it can lead to other conditions including depression, sleep deprivation, restless leg syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), fatigue, rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
Fibromyalgia tends to be more common in women, and the exact cause is unknown. It can be difficult to diagnose since there is no specific test for it, but it’s usually detected by performing various tests (including neurological tests) to rule out other diseases. Some symptoms of fibromyalgia include:
• Pain in “tender points” including muscles, tendons, or joints in both sides of the body
• Sleep disturbances
• Fatigue due to lack of deep sleep
• Mental and/or emotional disturbances
• Headaches, dizziness, tingling, and abdominal pain.
The severity of these symptoms can vary depending on the weather, stress, physical activity or even the time of day.
Although it’s not a progressive condition, it can lead to other conditions including depression, sleep deprivation, restless leg syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), fatigue, rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
Care Connection Inc.
20/02/11 08:41
Care Connection, Inc. provides non-medical companionship and care to seniors. Duties of a companion would include meal preparation, light housekeeping, laundry, shopping, transportation, and medication reminders. Companions provide supervision and socialization to seniors so they can remain safely in their homes.
Our screened companions are both insured and bonded and are available on a hourly, weekly, overnight or on a live-in basis. Care Connection specializes in offering non-medical help with day to day tasks in a sensitive and concerned way. Matching and connecting the right caregiver to you or your family member is what we do best. For more information please call 516-409-0006 or visit our website at www.nycareconnection.com
Our screened companions are both insured and bonded and are available on a hourly, weekly, overnight or on a live-in basis. Care Connection specializes in offering non-medical help with day to day tasks in a sensitive and concerned way. Matching and connecting the right caregiver to you or your family member is what we do best. For more information please call 516-409-0006 or visit our website at www.nycareconnection.com
Key Vitamins For Seniors
17/02/11 08:57
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is often called the "sunlight vitamin" as it's produced by the body when the sun's ultraviolet rays hit the skin. It also has the distinction of being the only vitamin the body actually manufactures. It is also a fat-soluble vitamin essential for good teeth and bone health. It also helps to strengthen the immune system. The elderly don't usually get enough Vitamin D. Seniors between the age of 50 and 70 need 400 IU (international units) of it per day. If you're over 70, 600 IU per day.
Vitamin K
Seniors usually lack Vitamin K. It is essential for blood clotting and helps maintain and even enhance bone density. It plays a key role in preventing osteoporosis. We mentioned before that Alzhemier's disease and Vitamin K studies show have a common link -- Vitamin K levels are lower in carriers of the APOE4 gene, the gene that is a risk factor in Alzheimer's. Though not a antioxidant per se, it does prevent cell death. RDA for Vitamin K is 120 micrograms per day for senior men, 90 micrograms for senior women.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is essential to good senior health. It is a fat soluble vitamin that has potent antioxidant properties thus preventing the oxidation of the fatty acids in the membranes of all cells. It slows aging. (Entertainer Bob Hope gave vitamin E credit for allowing him to live such a long life.) The RDA (Recommended international units (IU) for an adult is 22 IU (or about 15 mgs). There are times when megadoses are given though when digestive mal absorption doesn't occurs. This can range from 100 IU to 200. The dosage prescribed for protection against coronary disease ranges from 400 to 800 IU per day. If you have any questions as to what you need and if you're aren't sure, consult with your doctor. Let's discuss now those Superstar Nutrients.
Alpha Lipoic Acid
Alpha-lipoic acid benefits include not just antioxidant capability, but it also helps the B vitamins produce more energy from proteins, carbs, and fats. This is one of the unknown yet very capable vitamins for seniors you should know about. Studies also show alpha-lipoic acid supplements help prevent complications from diabetes but it also helps in the treatment of many diversified health issues including, glaucoma, even liver problems cirrhosis -- HIV infection. It helps slow aging-- something of interest to all, including seniors.
Gotu Kola
Gotu Kola is another popular memory enhancer that finds its way in a myriad of memory supplements or memory pills. As with Gingko Biloba, the authors can personally testify as to its efficacy. Due to its capability to enhance memory and as a nerve tonic, among other capabilities, Gotu Kola has been called "food for the brain." Interestingly enough, Gotu Kola is a favorite food among elephants perhaps explaining the saying, "A memory like an elephant."
Gingko Biloba
A Vitamins for Seniors web page wouldn't be complete without mention of Ginkgo Biloba. Gingko Biloba comes from a tree species that is literally one of the oldest trees on earth. This powerful antioxidant helps improve circulation, fights coronary disease, and helps improve and correct brain-centered activity by improving oxygen levels in the brain. It even helps in eliminating impotence and in lessening the effects of Alzheimer's disease. For good effect, take 30 to 60 mg twice a day.
Green Tea Extract
Green Tea possesses powerful antioxidants called polyphenols that studies suggest are even more potent than vitamins C and E to destroy cancer-causing free radicals. This is one of the most potent vitamins for seniors or foods in the world, in our opinion. Among its many therapeutic benefits, Green Tea has also been shown to have very promising results regarding preventing prostate cancer. A study conducted by the respected Mayo Clinic found that "the main polyphenol in Green Tea, which is EGCG, inhibits the growth of prostate cancer cells and in high concentrations destroys them." Its affects don't apply only to men. In a study reported in the American Journal of Epidemiology July 1996, a study of 35,000 post-menopausal Iowa women showed that those "who drank two or ore cups of tea daily were less likely to develop cancers of the urinary or digestive tract." Look for 25 to 100 mg of green tea extract for best effect.
L-Carnosine
Carnosine is an active antioxidant antiaging substance that is produced by the body by the enzyme carnosine synthetase. It supports cellular rejuvenation by working on both glycosylation and free radical damage. Glycosylation is the oxidation of proteins by glucose (blood sugar) that results in the cross linking of proteins that are in turn implicated in the loss of cell function, genome integrity and aging. Look for a supplement that has 50 to 150 mg of it for optimum effect.
N-Acetyl Cysteine
N-Acetylcysteine has shown the ability in clinical studies to actually improve the autoimmune system while simultaneously preventing cellular damage and thus aging. It also is a potent protector to environmental toxins like secondhand cigarette smoke, herbicides, even some chemicals. It is a powerful oxidant when taken at the 35 to 150 mg recommended level.
Resveratrol
Found in red wine and grape juice (among other sources), Resveratrol is a powerful antioxidant that studies have shown eliminates free radical damage linked to many cancers. It also has robust anti-inflammatory properties. Regarding its anti-cancer capability, it actually combats cancer at all three steps: initiation, promotion, and progression.
Resveratrol also possesses remarkable cholesterol lowering ability. Its antioxidant properties also has the ability to reduce the oxidation of LDL cholesterol (the bad cholesterol). Lastly, look for a supplement that has 25 to 40 mgs of it for best effect.
Original article: http://ezinearticles.com/?Key-Vitamins-For-Seniors-You-Need-To-Know-About-Now&id=827022
Vitamin D is often called the "sunlight vitamin" as it's produced by the body when the sun's ultraviolet rays hit the skin. It also has the distinction of being the only vitamin the body actually manufactures. It is also a fat-soluble vitamin essential for good teeth and bone health. It also helps to strengthen the immune system. The elderly don't usually get enough Vitamin D. Seniors between the age of 50 and 70 need 400 IU (international units) of it per day. If you're over 70, 600 IU per day.
Vitamin K
Seniors usually lack Vitamin K. It is essential for blood clotting and helps maintain and even enhance bone density. It plays a key role in preventing osteoporosis. We mentioned before that Alzhemier's disease and Vitamin K studies show have a common link -- Vitamin K levels are lower in carriers of the APOE4 gene, the gene that is a risk factor in Alzheimer's. Though not a antioxidant per se, it does prevent cell death. RDA for Vitamin K is 120 micrograms per day for senior men, 90 micrograms for senior women.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is essential to good senior health. It is a fat soluble vitamin that has potent antioxidant properties thus preventing the oxidation of the fatty acids in the membranes of all cells. It slows aging. (Entertainer Bob Hope gave vitamin E credit for allowing him to live such a long life.) The RDA (Recommended international units (IU) for an adult is 22 IU (or about 15 mgs). There are times when megadoses are given though when digestive mal absorption doesn't occurs. This can range from 100 IU to 200. The dosage prescribed for protection against coronary disease ranges from 400 to 800 IU per day. If you have any questions as to what you need and if you're aren't sure, consult with your doctor. Let's discuss now those Superstar Nutrients.
Alpha Lipoic Acid
Alpha-lipoic acid benefits include not just antioxidant capability, but it also helps the B vitamins produce more energy from proteins, carbs, and fats. This is one of the unknown yet very capable vitamins for seniors you should know about. Studies also show alpha-lipoic acid supplements help prevent complications from diabetes but it also helps in the treatment of many diversified health issues including, glaucoma, even liver problems cirrhosis -- HIV infection. It helps slow aging-- something of interest to all, including seniors.
Gotu Kola
Gotu Kola is another popular memory enhancer that finds its way in a myriad of memory supplements or memory pills. As with Gingko Biloba, the authors can personally testify as to its efficacy. Due to its capability to enhance memory and as a nerve tonic, among other capabilities, Gotu Kola has been called "food for the brain." Interestingly enough, Gotu Kola is a favorite food among elephants perhaps explaining the saying, "A memory like an elephant."
Gingko Biloba
A Vitamins for Seniors web page wouldn't be complete without mention of Ginkgo Biloba. Gingko Biloba comes from a tree species that is literally one of the oldest trees on earth. This powerful antioxidant helps improve circulation, fights coronary disease, and helps improve and correct brain-centered activity by improving oxygen levels in the brain. It even helps in eliminating impotence and in lessening the effects of Alzheimer's disease. For good effect, take 30 to 60 mg twice a day.
Green Tea Extract
Green Tea possesses powerful antioxidants called polyphenols that studies suggest are even more potent than vitamins C and E to destroy cancer-causing free radicals. This is one of the most potent vitamins for seniors or foods in the world, in our opinion. Among its many therapeutic benefits, Green Tea has also been shown to have very promising results regarding preventing prostate cancer. A study conducted by the respected Mayo Clinic found that "the main polyphenol in Green Tea, which is EGCG, inhibits the growth of prostate cancer cells and in high concentrations destroys them." Its affects don't apply only to men. In a study reported in the American Journal of Epidemiology July 1996, a study of 35,000 post-menopausal Iowa women showed that those "who drank two or ore cups of tea daily were less likely to develop cancers of the urinary or digestive tract." Look for 25 to 100 mg of green tea extract for best effect.
L-Carnosine
Carnosine is an active antioxidant antiaging substance that is produced by the body by the enzyme carnosine synthetase. It supports cellular rejuvenation by working on both glycosylation and free radical damage. Glycosylation is the oxidation of proteins by glucose (blood sugar) that results in the cross linking of proteins that are in turn implicated in the loss of cell function, genome integrity and aging. Look for a supplement that has 50 to 150 mg of it for optimum effect.
N-Acetyl Cysteine
N-Acetylcysteine has shown the ability in clinical studies to actually improve the autoimmune system while simultaneously preventing cellular damage and thus aging. It also is a potent protector to environmental toxins like secondhand cigarette smoke, herbicides, even some chemicals. It is a powerful oxidant when taken at the 35 to 150 mg recommended level.
Resveratrol
Found in red wine and grape juice (among other sources), Resveratrol is a powerful antioxidant that studies have shown eliminates free radical damage linked to many cancers. It also has robust anti-inflammatory properties. Regarding its anti-cancer capability, it actually combats cancer at all three steps: initiation, promotion, and progression.
Resveratrol also possesses remarkable cholesterol lowering ability. Its antioxidant properties also has the ability to reduce the oxidation of LDL cholesterol (the bad cholesterol). Lastly, look for a supplement that has 25 to 40 mgs of it for best effect.
Original article: http://ezinearticles.com/?Key-Vitamins-For-Seniors-You-Need-To-Know-About-Now&id=827022
The Heart Truth: Exercise For A Healthy Heart
11/02/11 09:04
Valentine's day is next week, and when it comes to your loved ones, the health of the heart is extremely important.
Heart disease is the #1 cause of death in the United States, according to Center for Disease Control (CDC).
A sedentary (inactive) lifestyle is the biggest cause of heart disease. Fortunately, this is something we can change.
Regular exercise can:
• Strengthen your heart and cardiovascular system.
• Lower blood pressure.
• Improve muscle tone and strength.
• Strengthen bones.
• Improve oxygen circulation in the body.
• Increase your stamina, so you can do more without being fatigued, or short or breath.
• Help control your weight and aid in weight loss.
• Reduce stress, tension, anxiety and depression.
• Improve sleep.
• Make you feel more relaxed and rested.
There is not a single pill in the world that can give you all these benefits. Regular exercise can help you dodge a dangeorus bullet - a heart attack and potentially save your life.
A structured, supervised exercise program can improve your health and the quality of your life. ALWAYS check with your doctor before you start exercising, especially if you have any medical conditions and / or take prescription medications.
ACCENT-Home Staging and Organizing, Inc.
09/02/11 09:41
Here is a company that can help prevent Falls by reducing clutter!
ACCENT – Home Staging and Organizing, Inc.
There is nothing like home – Let us help you stay there
Creating a safe and carefree environment for mature adults is our mission. We de-clutter and organize your space, creating a feeling of calm, control and safety. You will enjoy the ease of a lifestyle in a scaled down, well ordered home, which is a key component to your overall health and wellness program.
While we create room by room safety and arrange for the profitable disposal of unwanted items through auction, estate sale, buyout, consignment, donation, or a combination of the above, you can sit back and relax knowing that you are working with certified, caring professionals
A free home assessment
We love what we do, and hope you do too.
Call them at 516 773 3273.
Visit their website
ACCENT – Home Staging and Organizing, Inc.
There is nothing like home – Let us help you stay there
Creating a safe and carefree environment for mature adults is our mission. We de-clutter and organize your space, creating a feeling of calm, control and safety. You will enjoy the ease of a lifestyle in a scaled down, well ordered home, which is a key component to your overall health and wellness program.
While we create room by room safety and arrange for the profitable disposal of unwanted items through auction, estate sale, buyout, consignment, donation, or a combination of the above, you can sit back and relax knowing that you are working with certified, caring professionals
- Live in a Seas of Organization
- Live in control of your possessions, and not your possessions in control of you.
- Live stress less and struggle free, when you can easily find what you need.
A free home assessment
We love what we do, and hope you do too.
Call them at 516 773 3273.
Visit their website
Importance of Vitamins and Aging
03/02/11 10:24
There has been recent evidence that as one ages one needs different dietary and dietary supplements. This should not come as a surprise - we are not the same when we age as when we were once young. As we age, we tend to eat less (but that does not mean we won't gain weight - but, that's another topic). Eating less and the changes in our digestive system and skin all have effects on our vitamin levels. It had been estimated that almost one-third of elderly people have deficiencies in vitamins and important minerals.
What Changes Elderly Needs for Vitamins As mentioned above, older citizens tend to eat less and less balanced meals. This is a major cause for possible vitamin depletion. Also many medicines that one takes can change the absorption of vitamins. Some people develop gastritis or bowel changes that also adversely affect the absorption of vitamins. Vitamin D is dependent on exposure to sunshine (not a problem for most of us at Seabrook) and in someone is not out in the sun and coupled with the changes to everyone's skin as we age, sufficient vitamin D may not be made. For this reason the daily requirement for vitamin D is greater in elderly than younger people. Even people who take vitamin supplements may take the pill at night or in the morning without food, and most of the vitamins require fat in our diet to help get optimal absorption. The point here, is take your supplement with your biggest meal of the day.
Some Problems with Vitamin Deficiency Vitamin D is necessary for the health of our bones. If we have insufficient levels of vitamin D this can lead to brittle bones. It is important to also take a supplement of calcium to maintain bone density and help prevent osteoporosis in patients who are developing this with age. Vitamin B--12 is important in maintaining mental function. Vitamin B12 is found naturally in lean red meat, chicken and skim milk. Folate and vitamins B6 and B12 are required for homocysteine metabolism and have been shown to reduce heart disease if ingested in appropriate concentrations. The antioxidants potentially reduce the incidence of several chronic illnesses. The point is that vitamins are important in maintaining our health.
Original article: http://www.muschealth.com/healthyaging/vitamins.htm
What Changes Elderly Needs for Vitamins As mentioned above, older citizens tend to eat less and less balanced meals. This is a major cause for possible vitamin depletion. Also many medicines that one takes can change the absorption of vitamins. Some people develop gastritis or bowel changes that also adversely affect the absorption of vitamins. Vitamin D is dependent on exposure to sunshine (not a problem for most of us at Seabrook) and in someone is not out in the sun and coupled with the changes to everyone's skin as we age, sufficient vitamin D may not be made. For this reason the daily requirement for vitamin D is greater in elderly than younger people. Even people who take vitamin supplements may take the pill at night or in the morning without food, and most of the vitamins require fat in our diet to help get optimal absorption. The point here, is take your supplement with your biggest meal of the day.
Some Problems with Vitamin Deficiency Vitamin D is necessary for the health of our bones. If we have insufficient levels of vitamin D this can lead to brittle bones. It is important to also take a supplement of calcium to maintain bone density and help prevent osteoporosis in patients who are developing this with age. Vitamin B--12 is important in maintaining mental function. Vitamin B12 is found naturally in lean red meat, chicken and skim milk. Folate and vitamins B6 and B12 are required for homocysteine metabolism and have been shown to reduce heart disease if ingested in appropriate concentrations. The antioxidants potentially reduce the incidence of several chronic illnesses. The point is that vitamins are important in maintaining our health.
Original article: http://www.muschealth.com/healthyaging/vitamins.htm
Stress Management For Seniors
29/01/11 11:06
Most people don't think about how stressful aging can be. Being past one's youth and retired from employment can trigger stress-related health issues.
Unlike those youthful, carefree years, seniors now have to worry about such things as ill-health, wills, retirement funds and other issues that may occur during one's "Golden Years."
Stay Active
There are many programs geared toward seniors. Local YMCA facilities have water sports and workout routines specialized to abilities and needs. If going to the gym isn't enjoyable or accessible there is Mall-walking, neighborhood walk/jog groups, lawn bowling, golf or community chair aerobics and yoga.
Any sort of activity that gets a person moving for at least half-an hour can help keep the body agile and relieve stress.
Volunteer
Working with charitable foundations in the community helps seniors feel useful and needed. It's also a great way for seniors to still be interactive and work with other people, which is very important.
Socializing with others keeps seniors aware as to what's going on in their community and reduces the chances of becoming isolated or depressed.
Light a (Renewed) Fire
Remind a senior that now that she's retired, she can dig out those paint brushes or dust off that novel she was writing or even take up ballroom dancing. Yes, one phase in her life has closed now that she's not working on her career or now that children have all left her home. Now she can concentrate on what she loves or what she had to put aside throughout her younger years.
Such hobbies are good for the mind and soul and they help to remind seniors of their talents and helps keep them connected to the world in a creative way.
Work-Outs for The Mind
Just as it's important to keep the muscles going with exercise, stretching the mind muscles are important too. Even playing games like Trivial Pursuit, doing puzzles or crosswords, or reading books are great ways to keep the brain cells younger.
Another great idea is to see what kinds of courses or workshops are offered close to home. After all, it's never too late to learn new things or strengthen already attained knowledge.
Tap into the Soul
It's important for people to believe in something beyond themselves. That entity one turns to in times of sadness, turmoil or stress. Whether it's Buddha, God or something else, being able to tune into a Higher Power helps people make peace with themselves and others, which is so important near the end of life.
Practice Relaxation Exercises
Some phenomenal practices include deep breathing, yoga, Tai Chi, meditation and even lighter forms of Pilates. Such relaxation practices help to connect the body, mind and soul as well as provide a much needed stress-buster. Such forms of relaxation are also low-body stress exercises enabling seniors to do the poses with relative ease.
Original article: http://www.myseniorcare.com/health/mental-health/stress-management-for-seniors-article
Unlike those youthful, carefree years, seniors now have to worry about such things as ill-health, wills, retirement funds and other issues that may occur during one's "Golden Years."
Stay Active
There are many programs geared toward seniors. Local YMCA facilities have water sports and workout routines specialized to abilities and needs. If going to the gym isn't enjoyable or accessible there is Mall-walking, neighborhood walk/jog groups, lawn bowling, golf or community chair aerobics and yoga.
Any sort of activity that gets a person moving for at least half-an hour can help keep the body agile and relieve stress.
Volunteer
Working with charitable foundations in the community helps seniors feel useful and needed. It's also a great way for seniors to still be interactive and work with other people, which is very important.
Socializing with others keeps seniors aware as to what's going on in their community and reduces the chances of becoming isolated or depressed.
Light a (Renewed) Fire
Remind a senior that now that she's retired, she can dig out those paint brushes or dust off that novel she was writing or even take up ballroom dancing. Yes, one phase in her life has closed now that she's not working on her career or now that children have all left her home. Now she can concentrate on what she loves or what she had to put aside throughout her younger years.
Such hobbies are good for the mind and soul and they help to remind seniors of their talents and helps keep them connected to the world in a creative way.
Work-Outs for The Mind
Just as it's important to keep the muscles going with exercise, stretching the mind muscles are important too. Even playing games like Trivial Pursuit, doing puzzles or crosswords, or reading books are great ways to keep the brain cells younger.
Another great idea is to see what kinds of courses or workshops are offered close to home. After all, it's never too late to learn new things or strengthen already attained knowledge.
Tap into the Soul
It's important for people to believe in something beyond themselves. That entity one turns to in times of sadness, turmoil or stress. Whether it's Buddha, God or something else, being able to tune into a Higher Power helps people make peace with themselves and others, which is so important near the end of life.
Practice Relaxation Exercises
Some phenomenal practices include deep breathing, yoga, Tai Chi, meditation and even lighter forms of Pilates. Such relaxation practices help to connect the body, mind and soul as well as provide a much needed stress-buster. Such forms of relaxation are also low-body stress exercises enabling seniors to do the poses with relative ease.
Original article: http://www.myseniorcare.com/health/mental-health/stress-management-for-seniors-article
Impact of Aging on Water Metabolism
17/01/11 09:09
Impact of Aging on Water Metabolism
The age-related decrease in total-body water (relative and absolute) makes elderly persons markedly susceptible to stresses on water balance. Average healthy 30- to 40-year-old persons have a total-body water content of 55 to 60 percent. By age 75 to 80 years, the total-body water content has declined to 50 percent, with even more of a decline in elderly women.
Clearly, the thirst mechanism diminishes with age, which significantly impairs the ability to maintain homeostasis and increases the risk for dehydration. There is also a clear age-related decrease in maximal urinary concentrating ability, which also increases the risk for dehydration. ADH release is not impaired with aging, but ADH levels are increased for any given plasma osmolality level, indicating a failure of the normal responsiveness of the kidney to ADH.
The ability to excrete a water load is delayed in the elderly. This propensity may contribute to the frequently observed episodes of hyponatremia in hospitalized elderly patients who are receiving hypotonic intravenous fluids or whose fluid intake is not properly monitored.
Other changes in renal physiology and anatomy that increase the elderly patient's susceptibility to alterations of water imbalance include decreased renal mass, cortical blood flow and glomerular filtration rate, as well as impaired responsiveness to sodium balance.
The impact of a lifetime of accumulated disease and comorbidities must also be duly considered in every clinical situation with an elderly patient, in addition to age-related physiologic changes. The elderly patient has a diminished reserve of water balance and an impaired regulatory mechanism. Thirst sensation, concentrating abilities and hormonal modulators of salt and water balance are sluggish and highly susceptible to being overtaken by morbid or iatrogenic events.
Original article: http://www.aafp.org/afp/20000615/3623.html
The age-related decrease in total-body water (relative and absolute) makes elderly persons markedly susceptible to stresses on water balance. Average healthy 30- to 40-year-old persons have a total-body water content of 55 to 60 percent. By age 75 to 80 years, the total-body water content has declined to 50 percent, with even more of a decline in elderly women.
Clearly, the thirst mechanism diminishes with age, which significantly impairs the ability to maintain homeostasis and increases the risk for dehydration. There is also a clear age-related decrease in maximal urinary concentrating ability, which also increases the risk for dehydration. ADH release is not impaired with aging, but ADH levels are increased for any given plasma osmolality level, indicating a failure of the normal responsiveness of the kidney to ADH.
The ability to excrete a water load is delayed in the elderly. This propensity may contribute to the frequently observed episodes of hyponatremia in hospitalized elderly patients who are receiving hypotonic intravenous fluids or whose fluid intake is not properly monitored.
Other changes in renal physiology and anatomy that increase the elderly patient's susceptibility to alterations of water imbalance include decreased renal mass, cortical blood flow and glomerular filtration rate, as well as impaired responsiveness to sodium balance.
The impact of a lifetime of accumulated disease and comorbidities must also be duly considered in every clinical situation with an elderly patient, in addition to age-related physiologic changes. The elderly patient has a diminished reserve of water balance and an impaired regulatory mechanism. Thirst sensation, concentrating abilities and hormonal modulators of salt and water balance are sluggish and highly susceptible to being overtaken by morbid or iatrogenic events.
Original article: http://www.aafp.org/afp/20000615/3623.html
Incontinence in Women Treated With Physical Therapy
12/01/11 09:20
A study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine (March 18, 2008) reports that pelvic floor muscle training, in conjunction with bladder training, resolved the symptoms of urinary incontinence in women. According to the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), proper preventive measures and treatment by a physical therapist can help patients manage, if not alleviate, this often debilitating condition.
The study, which included 96 randomized controlled trials and 3 systematic reviews from 1990 through 2007, concluded that pelvic floor muscles training and bladder training resolved urinary incontinence in women, as compared to drug therapy, electrostimulation, medical devices, injectable bulking agents, and local estrogen therapy.
"This study is significant for many reasons, none more so than because it provides the highest levels of evidence to support the importance of intervention by a physical therapist who specializes in treating urinary incontinence," says Cynthia E Neville, PT, BCIA-PMDB, director of Women's Health Rehabilitation at the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago.
Urinary incontinence, or involuntary loss of bladder control, isn't something that just happens to older patients. In fact, the condition affects men and women alike, young and old. More than 25 million* Americans have urinary incontinence, and the experience can leave them feeling ashamed, socially isolated, and depressed.
Original article: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/101112.php
Why Physical Therapy Should Be Part of Your Annual Check-Up
07/01/11 09:28
According to the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) every individual should pay an annual visit to a physical therapist along with making an annual visit to a physician for a complete physical check-up. Recent discoveries have pointed to the fact that physical therapy provides a holistic approach to overall health and wellness.
Benefits of Annual Physical Therapy Check-Up
Physical therapy should be part of your annual check-up. A licensed physical therapist will closely examine nerve, muscle, skeletal, cardiovascular, and pulmonary systems through a holistic approach.
• Personalized Program: The physical therapist will also go through your personal health concerns and then work with you on a personalized program so you can actually do something about these concerns.
• Follow Up: In addition to putting together a personalized program a physical therapist will help you to follow through with the program by putting together a year-long plan during your annual check-up. Throughout the course of the year the physical therapist will help you to stick with the plan and make any necessary modifications in physical therapy requirements if you experience a change in your health status during the course of the year.
• Prevent Serious Health Issues: If you schedule an annual check-up with your physical therapist you will receive an annual plan to help improve your health so you have a higher potential to live longer without any serious health issues transpiring.
• Low Cost Solution to Rising Health Care Costs: According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, a research study showed that Americans may be spending money unnecessarily for treatments depending upon the health condition. Physical therapists can offer a personalized treatment plan and education for health and well being to provide an effective holistic alternative while reducing the costs of health care for the patient.
• Reverse the Aging Process: A regular yearly plan with your physical therapist can help you to reverse the aging process. Studies have shown that a regular training program reverses aging at the cellular level. A physical therapist can ensure that you stay with the program and maintain the proper diet and exercise which helps to slow the aging process.
*Original article: http://ezinearticles.com/?Why-Physical-Therapy-Should-Be-Part-of-Your-Annual-Check-Up&id=5224046
Benefits of Annual Physical Therapy Check-Up
Physical therapy should be part of your annual check-up. A licensed physical therapist will closely examine nerve, muscle, skeletal, cardiovascular, and pulmonary systems through a holistic approach.
• Personalized Program: The physical therapist will also go through your personal health concerns and then work with you on a personalized program so you can actually do something about these concerns.
• Follow Up: In addition to putting together a personalized program a physical therapist will help you to follow through with the program by putting together a year-long plan during your annual check-up. Throughout the course of the year the physical therapist will help you to stick with the plan and make any necessary modifications in physical therapy requirements if you experience a change in your health status during the course of the year.
• Prevent Serious Health Issues: If you schedule an annual check-up with your physical therapist you will receive an annual plan to help improve your health so you have a higher potential to live longer without any serious health issues transpiring.
• Low Cost Solution to Rising Health Care Costs: According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, a research study showed that Americans may be spending money unnecessarily for treatments depending upon the health condition. Physical therapists can offer a personalized treatment plan and education for health and well being to provide an effective holistic alternative while reducing the costs of health care for the patient.
• Reverse the Aging Process: A regular yearly plan with your physical therapist can help you to reverse the aging process. Studies have shown that a regular training program reverses aging at the cellular level. A physical therapist can ensure that you stay with the program and maintain the proper diet and exercise which helps to slow the aging process.
*Original article: http://ezinearticles.com/?Why-Physical-Therapy-Should-Be-Part-of-Your-Annual-Check-Up&id=5224046
Study: A Drink a Day to Delay Dementia
06/01/11 09:50
ScienceDaily (May 22, 2007) — In people with mild cognitive impairment, up to one drink of alcohol a day may slow their progression to dementia, according to a recent article. Mild cognitive impairment is a transitional stage between normal aging and dementia that is used to classify people with mild memory or cognitive problems and no significant disability.
Researchers evaluated alcohol consumption and the incidence of mild cognitive impairment in 1,445 people. They then followed 121 people with mild cognitive impairment and their progression to dementia. The participants, age 65 to 84, were part of the Italian Longitudinal Study on Aging and were followed for three-and-a-half years.
The study found people with mild cognitive impairment who had up to one drink of alcohol a day, mostly wine, developed dementia at an 85 percent slower rate than people with mild cognitive impairment who never drank alcohol.
"While many studies have assessed alcohol consumption and cognitive function in the elderly, this is the first study to look at how alcohol consumption affects the rate of progression of mild cognitive impairment to dementia," said study authors Vincenzo Solfrizzi, MD, PhD, and Francesco Panza, MD, PhD, with the Department of Geriatrics at the University of Bari, in Bari, Italy. "The mechanism responsible for why low alcohol consumption appears to protect against the progression to dementia isn't known. However, it is possible that the arrangement of blood vessels in the brain may play a role in why alcohol consumption appears to protect against dementia. This would support other observations that drinking moderate amounts of alcohol may protect the brain from stroke and vascular dementia."
The study did not find any association between higher levels of drinking, more than one drink per day, and the rate of progression to dementia in people with mild cognitive impairment compared to non-drinkers.
Original article: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/05/070521162201.htm
Researchers evaluated alcohol consumption and the incidence of mild cognitive impairment in 1,445 people. They then followed 121 people with mild cognitive impairment and their progression to dementia. The participants, age 65 to 84, were part of the Italian Longitudinal Study on Aging and were followed for three-and-a-half years.
The study found people with mild cognitive impairment who had up to one drink of alcohol a day, mostly wine, developed dementia at an 85 percent slower rate than people with mild cognitive impairment who never drank alcohol.
"While many studies have assessed alcohol consumption and cognitive function in the elderly, this is the first study to look at how alcohol consumption affects the rate of progression of mild cognitive impairment to dementia," said study authors Vincenzo Solfrizzi, MD, PhD, and Francesco Panza, MD, PhD, with the Department of Geriatrics at the University of Bari, in Bari, Italy. "The mechanism responsible for why low alcohol consumption appears to protect against the progression to dementia isn't known. However, it is possible that the arrangement of blood vessels in the brain may play a role in why alcohol consumption appears to protect against dementia. This would support other observations that drinking moderate amounts of alcohol may protect the brain from stroke and vascular dementia."
The study did not find any association between higher levels of drinking, more than one drink per day, and the rate of progression to dementia in people with mild cognitive impairment compared to non-drinkers.
Original article: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/05/070521162201.htm
Seniors and Delirium
05/01/11 10:32
Delirium is a common mental health disorder involving disturbances in consciousness, perception, thought and memory that primarily affects seniors. It is increasingly being recognized as a serious disorder with a potentially negative impact upon the quality of life of seniors. Delirium can be mistaken for, or exist alongside other, mental disorders, making assessment somewhat difficult.
Symptoms
Delirium is different from both dementia and depression in that the symptoms begin within a short period of time, hours or days. The symptoms may fluctuate over the day, so that the individual may only experience symptoms in one part of the day and be fine the rest of the time. The following symptoms are present in a person experiencing delirium:
Delirium is commonly found in hospitalized seniors; 10-15 percent are admitted to hospital with delirium, while an additional 15-25 percent develop the disorder following admission. Despite the significant numbers affected, from 32 to 67 percent of seniors with delirium are not diagnosed by doctors (Rudolph et al., 2003). It is unknown how many seniors living in the community are affected (McEwan, Donnelly, Robertson, & Hertzman, 1991).
Causes
A diagnosis of delirium requires the existence of a medical condition that can be determined to be the underlying cause. A variety of medical conditions, treatments and substances can cause delirium, including systemic infections, hypoglycema, the result of an operation for treatment of a medical condition, alcohol use, alcohol withdrawal, benzodiazepenes, antidepressants, antipsychotics and lithium (Rudolph et al., 2003). Seniors are more likely to be taking a variety of prescription and over-the-counter medications which can contribute to the risk of adverse outcomes such as delirium (MacCourt, Tuokko, & Tierney, 2000).
Assessment and Treatment
Assessment requires the ability to separate out the symptoms of delirium from other common mental disorders and recognize where delirium is present in addition to dementia or depression. Attention to the underlying medical disorder can help in the treatment of delirium. Ensuring quality care to the senior in the hospital such as ensuring that they receive proper food, water and sleep is beneficial (Rudolph et al., 2003). Supportive interventions can help the senior cope with their disorientation and confusion, such as reminding the individual where they are and why they are in the hospital. Antipsychotic medication can be used for the treatment of symptoms such as hallucinations and agitation (American Psychiatric Association, 1999).
Outcomes
Prevention is generally more successful than treatment once delirium has developed. Although delirium was once thought to be a short term concern, research has recently demonstrated that the symptoms may continue for up to 12 months after the problem is originally diagnosed (McCusker, 2003). Seniors who develop delirium appear to be at higher risk for developing dementia, greater risk of death and decreased likelihood of returning to their formal level of functioning. The moderate rate of success with prevention interventions and the increased long term risk to seniors who develop delirium highlight the need for proper recognition of this common disorder.
Original article: http://www.ontario.cmha.ca/seniors.aspcID=5803
Symptoms
Delirium is different from both dementia and depression in that the symptoms begin within a short period of time, hours or days. The symptoms may fluctuate over the day, so that the individual may only experience symptoms in one part of the day and be fine the rest of the time. The following symptoms are present in a person experiencing delirium:
- Inattention – the senior is not able to focus on a conversation, or is easily distracted by other things around them
- Disorganized thinking – speech may be rapid and/or incoherent
- Disorientation to time – the senior may think that morning is night
- Illusions or visual hallucinations - seeing things that aren't present or misinterpreting noises or situations
- Either agitation, or slowed-down physical movement, speech and drowsiness to the point of stupor, and/or alternating between the two extremes (Conn, 2002; Rudolph & Marcantonio, 2003)
Delirium is commonly found in hospitalized seniors; 10-15 percent are admitted to hospital with delirium, while an additional 15-25 percent develop the disorder following admission. Despite the significant numbers affected, from 32 to 67 percent of seniors with delirium are not diagnosed by doctors (Rudolph et al., 2003). It is unknown how many seniors living in the community are affected (McEwan, Donnelly, Robertson, & Hertzman, 1991).
Causes
A diagnosis of delirium requires the existence of a medical condition that can be determined to be the underlying cause. A variety of medical conditions, treatments and substances can cause delirium, including systemic infections, hypoglycema, the result of an operation for treatment of a medical condition, alcohol use, alcohol withdrawal, benzodiazepenes, antidepressants, antipsychotics and lithium (Rudolph et al., 2003). Seniors are more likely to be taking a variety of prescription and over-the-counter medications which can contribute to the risk of adverse outcomes such as delirium (MacCourt, Tuokko, & Tierney, 2000).
Assessment and Treatment
Assessment requires the ability to separate out the symptoms of delirium from other common mental disorders and recognize where delirium is present in addition to dementia or depression. Attention to the underlying medical disorder can help in the treatment of delirium. Ensuring quality care to the senior in the hospital such as ensuring that they receive proper food, water and sleep is beneficial (Rudolph et al., 2003). Supportive interventions can help the senior cope with their disorientation and confusion, such as reminding the individual where they are and why they are in the hospital. Antipsychotic medication can be used for the treatment of symptoms such as hallucinations and agitation (American Psychiatric Association, 1999).
Outcomes
Prevention is generally more successful than treatment once delirium has developed. Although delirium was once thought to be a short term concern, research has recently demonstrated that the symptoms may continue for up to 12 months after the problem is originally diagnosed (McCusker, 2003). Seniors who develop delirium appear to be at higher risk for developing dementia, greater risk of death and decreased likelihood of returning to their formal level of functioning. The moderate rate of success with prevention interventions and the increased long term risk to seniors who develop delirium highlight the need for proper recognition of this common disorder.
Original article: http://www.ontario.cmha.ca/seniors.aspcID=5803
Sleep and Aging
04/01/11 16:27
When it comes to sleep, it isn’t uncommon for seniors to have difficulty staying or falling asleep. The stereotype that all elders spend much of their days sleeping couldn’t be farther from the truth. While most seniors have no problems with sleep, some suffer from insomnia and sleeplessness.
A study of adults over 65 found that 13 percent of men and 36 percent of women take more than 30 minutes to fall asleep. Older adults also wake up more often at night than younger adults, primarily to use the bathroom, owing to prostate enlargement in men and incontinence issues in women.
Unfortunately, getting up at night to use the bathroom also increases the risk of falling, which is a leading cause of injury and death among seniors. For seniors, loss of sleep is also likely to cause attention and memory problems, lead to depression, and result in a poorer quality
of life.
While sleep patterns do change as people age, having trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, and waking up tired every day are not typical side effects of aging. Many healthy seniors report few or no sleep problems as they age.
The National Institutes of Health web site includes a Sleep and Aging section that provides detailed information about the importance of sleep for seniors, some of the sleep difficulties people encounter as they age, and the symptoms and treatment of various sleep disorders, such as insomnia, sleep apnea, and movement disorders.
*Original article: http://seniorliving.about.com/od/sleep/a/sleep_and_aging.htm
A study of adults over 65 found that 13 percent of men and 36 percent of women take more than 30 minutes to fall asleep. Older adults also wake up more often at night than younger adults, primarily to use the bathroom, owing to prostate enlargement in men and incontinence issues in women.
Unfortunately, getting up at night to use the bathroom also increases the risk of falling, which is a leading cause of injury and death among seniors. For seniors, loss of sleep is also likely to cause attention and memory problems, lead to depression, and result in a poorer quality
of life.
While sleep patterns do change as people age, having trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, and waking up tired every day are not typical side effects of aging. Many healthy seniors report few or no sleep problems as they age.
The National Institutes of Health web site includes a Sleep and Aging section that provides detailed information about the importance of sleep for seniors, some of the sleep difficulties people encounter as they age, and the symptoms and treatment of various sleep disorders, such as insomnia, sleep apnea, and movement disorders.
*Original article: http://seniorliving.about.com/od/sleep/a/sleep_and_aging.htm
Cardiovascular Changes and the Aging Process
01/01/11 13:55
The cardiovascular system is sometimes called the circulatory system because it is comprised of the heart, blood, and blood vessels (arteries, veins, and capillaries). Because it is responsible for circulating oxygen and nutrients to all parts of the body, it is, understandably, one of the body systems most affected by age.
The walls of the arteries thicken, lose their elasticity, and become stiffer. This causes a decrease in blood flow to vital organs and causes blood pressure to rise. Major age-related changes include the following:
Blood
1. A decreased hematocrit (the number of erythrocytes in the whole blood) can lead to anemia, as well as certain dietary deficiencies.
Erythrocytes also help in the transport of oxygen and carbon dioxide and in maintaining a normal acid/base balance.
2. Peripheral veins become constricted or blocked by the formation of stationary blood clots (thrombus). These can dislodge, causing an embolism in the lungs or an extremity, thus shutting down circulation. When this happens, it most often means an amputation.
3.Because the valves in leg veins are often not able to work to capacity, blood often pools causing swelling of the lower extremeties.
4. The amount of red bone marrow decreases with age, causing a decline in the formation of new blood cells. Therefore, recovery from bleeding episodes will be slowed.
Blood Vessels
1. Blood vessel walls become thicker and tougher. Since the walls no longer have the elasticity to adjust to sudden changes in blood pressure, there is an increased risk of aneurysms.
2. As the inner surface of blood vessels become roughened, age-related changes cause an increased risk in the development of fatty plaques and of thrombus formation.
3. Weakened vascular walls also collect calcium salts, which increase the risk of heart attack or stroke.
4. As the walls of veins weaken and stretch, their valves become incompetent. This is more likely to occur in the legs where the walls are subject to greater pressure as the blood struggles to return to the heart against the force of gravity. As a result, distended superficial veins develop (varicose veins). An inflammation, called phlebitis, also occurs more often in the elderly.
Heart
1. There is a reduction in exercise cardiac output. Because the heart is not able to pump the blood as efficiently, circulation is slowed. In addition, the heart cannot respond as quickly, or as forcefully, to the increased workload of the exercised heart. Exertion, sudden movements, and changes in position may cause a decrease in cardiac output, resulting in dizziness and loss of balance. A reduction in cardiac output leads to pooling of blood in the legs, cold extremeties, and edema.
2. The health of the myocardium (the heart’s muscular wall) depends on blood supply, and with age, the likelihood of athersclerosis increases, causing the coronary arteries to narrow, restricting the vital blood supply.
3. High blood pressure (hypertension) causes the left ventricle to work harder. It may enlarge and outgrow its blood supply and thus becomes weaker.
4. Several structural changes in the heart contribute to the impaired response to exercise:
◦ heart muscle loses elasticity and becomes more rigid;
◦ heart valves become thickened by fibrosis and more rigid (leading to murmurs);
◦ the number of pacemaker cells decreases;
◦ aging heart cells have a decreased ability to use oxygen;
◦ arrythmias are more common with age as the cells of the conduction pathway become less efficient.
Original article: http://www.innvista.com/health/anatomy/cardage.htm
The walls of the arteries thicken, lose their elasticity, and become stiffer. This causes a decrease in blood flow to vital organs and causes blood pressure to rise. Major age-related changes include the following:
Blood
1. A decreased hematocrit (the number of erythrocytes in the whole blood) can lead to anemia, as well as certain dietary deficiencies.
Erythrocytes also help in the transport of oxygen and carbon dioxide and in maintaining a normal acid/base balance.
2. Peripheral veins become constricted or blocked by the formation of stationary blood clots (thrombus). These can dislodge, causing an embolism in the lungs or an extremity, thus shutting down circulation. When this happens, it most often means an amputation.
3.Because the valves in leg veins are often not able to work to capacity, blood often pools causing swelling of the lower extremeties.
4. The amount of red bone marrow decreases with age, causing a decline in the formation of new blood cells. Therefore, recovery from bleeding episodes will be slowed.
Blood Vessels
1. Blood vessel walls become thicker and tougher. Since the walls no longer have the elasticity to adjust to sudden changes in blood pressure, there is an increased risk of aneurysms.
2. As the inner surface of blood vessels become roughened, age-related changes cause an increased risk in the development of fatty plaques and of thrombus formation.
3. Weakened vascular walls also collect calcium salts, which increase the risk of heart attack or stroke.
4. As the walls of veins weaken and stretch, their valves become incompetent. This is more likely to occur in the legs where the walls are subject to greater pressure as the blood struggles to return to the heart against the force of gravity. As a result, distended superficial veins develop (varicose veins). An inflammation, called phlebitis, also occurs more often in the elderly.
Heart
1. There is a reduction in exercise cardiac output. Because the heart is not able to pump the blood as efficiently, circulation is slowed. In addition, the heart cannot respond as quickly, or as forcefully, to the increased workload of the exercised heart. Exertion, sudden movements, and changes in position may cause a decrease in cardiac output, resulting in dizziness and loss of balance. A reduction in cardiac output leads to pooling of blood in the legs, cold extremeties, and edema.
2. The health of the myocardium (the heart’s muscular wall) depends on blood supply, and with age, the likelihood of athersclerosis increases, causing the coronary arteries to narrow, restricting the vital blood supply.
3. High blood pressure (hypertension) causes the left ventricle to work harder. It may enlarge and outgrow its blood supply and thus becomes weaker.
4. Several structural changes in the heart contribute to the impaired response to exercise:
◦ heart muscle loses elasticity and becomes more rigid;
◦ heart valves become thickened by fibrosis and more rigid (leading to murmurs);
◦ the number of pacemaker cells decreases;
◦ aging heart cells have a decreased ability to use oxygen;
◦ arrythmias are more common with age as the cells of the conduction pathway become less efficient.
Original article: http://www.innvista.com/health/anatomy/cardage.htm
Ice and Seniors
27/12/10 13:18
Here are some home safety tips for seniors during the cold winter season:
1. A winter storm WATCH means a winter storm is possible in your area.
2. A winter storm WARNING means a winter storm is headed for your area.
3. A blizzard WARNING means strong winds, blinding wind-driven snow and dangerous wind chill are expected. Seek shelter immediately! When a Winter Storm Watch is issued . . .
4. Listen to the local radio and TV stations, or cable TV such as The Weather Channel for further updates.
5. Be alert to changing weather conditions.
6. Avoid unnecessary travel. When a Winter Storm Warning is issued . . .
7. Stay indoors during the storm. If you must go outside, several layers of lightweight clothing will keep you warmer than a single heavy coat. Gloves (or mittens) and a hat will prevent loss of body heat. Cover your mouth to protect your lungs.
8. Understand the hazards of wind chill, which combines the cooling effect of wind and cold temperatures on exposed skin.As winds increase, heat is carried away from a person's body at an accelerated rated, driving down the body temperature.
9. Walk carefully on snowy, icy, sidewalks.
10. After the storm, if you shovel snow, be extremely careful. It is physically strenuous work, so take frequent breaks. Avoid overexertion.
*For complete article: http://www.aginghomehealthcare.com/home_safety_tips_for_seniors.html
1. A winter storm WATCH means a winter storm is possible in your area.
2. A winter storm WARNING means a winter storm is headed for your area.
3. A blizzard WARNING means strong winds, blinding wind-driven snow and dangerous wind chill are expected. Seek shelter immediately! When a Winter Storm Watch is issued . . .
4. Listen to the local radio and TV stations, or cable TV such as The Weather Channel for further updates.
5. Be alert to changing weather conditions.
6. Avoid unnecessary travel. When a Winter Storm Warning is issued . . .
7. Stay indoors during the storm. If you must go outside, several layers of lightweight clothing will keep you warmer than a single heavy coat. Gloves (or mittens) and a hat will prevent loss of body heat. Cover your mouth to protect your lungs.
8. Understand the hazards of wind chill, which combines the cooling effect of wind and cold temperatures on exposed skin.As winds increase, heat is carried away from a person's body at an accelerated rated, driving down the body temperature.
9. Walk carefully on snowy, icy, sidewalks.
10. After the storm, if you shovel snow, be extremely careful. It is physically strenuous work, so take frequent breaks. Avoid overexertion.
*For complete article: http://www.aginghomehealthcare.com/home_safety_tips_for_seniors.html
Towns Distinctive Home Physical Therapy Travel to
23/12/10 08:45
Distinctive Home Physical Therapy travels to your home and gives you the care you need, without even leaving your house! We travel to your home in Nassau and Suffolk Long Island and Queens, NY. Look below to see if your town is on the list.
Here is a list of towns that we travel to:
Suffolk County: Amityville, Babylon, Bayshore, Bayport, Belle Terre, Bellport, Bohemia, Brentwood, Centereach, Centerport, Central Islip, Cold Spring Harbor, Commack, Coram, Deer Park, Dix Hills, East Northport, East Islip, Elwood, Farmingville, Fort Salonga, Greenlawn, Hauppauge, Holbrook, Holtsville, Huntington, Huntington Station, Islandia, Islip, Islip Terrace, Kings Park, Lake Grove, Lake Ronkonkoma, Lindenhurst, Oak Beach, Oakdale, Mastic, Medford, Melville, Miller Place, Middle Island, Mount Sinai, Nesconset, Northport, Patchogue, Port Jefferson, Port Jefferson Station, Rocky Point, Ronkonkoma, Sayville, Selden, Setauket, Smithtown, St. James, Stony Brook, West Babylon, West Islip, Wyandanch
Nassau County: Albertson, Atlantic Beach, Baldwin, Baxter Estates, Bayville, Bellerose, Bethpage, Brookville, Carle Place, Cedarhurst, East Meadow, East Norwich, East Rockaway, East Williston, Elmont, Farmingdale, Floral Park, Flower HIll, Franklin Square, Freeport, Garden City, Glen Cove, Glen Head, Green Acres, Greenvale, Great Neck, Hempstead, Herricks, Hewlett, Hicksville, Inwood, Island Park, Jericho, Kensington, Kings Point, Lawrence, Levittown, Locust Valley, Lynbrook, Malverne, Manhasset, Manorhaven, Massapequa, Merrick, New Hyde Park, Oceanside, Old Bethpage, Old Brookville, Old Westbury, Oyster Bay, Plainview, Port Washington, Rockville Centre, Roosevelt, Roslyn, Roslyn Heights, Russell Gardens, Saddle Rock, Sands Point, Sea Cliff, Seaford, Searingtown, Stewart Manor, Syosset, Uniondale, Westbury, Williston, Woodbury
Queens: Astoria, Bayside, Cambria Heights, College Point, Corona, Douglaston, Elmhurst, Far Rockaway, Flushing, Forest Hills, Fresh Meadows, Glen Oaks, Glen Dale, Hillside, Hollis, Jackson Heights, Jamaica, Kew Gardens, Laurelton, Little Neck, Locust Manor, Long Island City, Maspeth, Middle Village, Ozone Park, Queens Village, Rego Park, Richmond Hill, Rosedale, Saint Albans, Springfield Gardens, Sunnyside, Utopia, Whitestone, Woodside
Here is a list of towns that we travel to:
Suffolk County: Amityville, Babylon, Bayshore, Bayport, Belle Terre, Bellport, Bohemia, Brentwood, Centereach, Centerport, Central Islip, Cold Spring Harbor, Commack, Coram, Deer Park, Dix Hills, East Northport, East Islip, Elwood, Farmingville, Fort Salonga, Greenlawn, Hauppauge, Holbrook, Holtsville, Huntington, Huntington Station, Islandia, Islip, Islip Terrace, Kings Park, Lake Grove, Lake Ronkonkoma, Lindenhurst, Oak Beach, Oakdale, Mastic, Medford, Melville, Miller Place, Middle Island, Mount Sinai, Nesconset, Northport, Patchogue, Port Jefferson, Port Jefferson Station, Rocky Point, Ronkonkoma, Sayville, Selden, Setauket, Smithtown, St. James, Stony Brook, West Babylon, West Islip, Wyandanch
Nassau County: Albertson, Atlantic Beach, Baldwin, Baxter Estates, Bayville, Bellerose, Bethpage, Brookville, Carle Place, Cedarhurst, East Meadow, East Norwich, East Rockaway, East Williston, Elmont, Farmingdale, Floral Park, Flower HIll, Franklin Square, Freeport, Garden City, Glen Cove, Glen Head, Green Acres, Greenvale, Great Neck, Hempstead, Herricks, Hewlett, Hicksville, Inwood, Island Park, Jericho, Kensington, Kings Point, Lawrence, Levittown, Locust Valley, Lynbrook, Malverne, Manhasset, Manorhaven, Massapequa, Merrick, New Hyde Park, Oceanside, Old Bethpage, Old Brookville, Old Westbury, Oyster Bay, Plainview, Port Washington, Rockville Centre, Roosevelt, Roslyn, Roslyn Heights, Russell Gardens, Saddle Rock, Sands Point, Sea Cliff, Seaford, Searingtown, Stewart Manor, Syosset, Uniondale, Westbury, Williston, Woodbury
Queens: Astoria, Bayside, Cambria Heights, College Point, Corona, Douglaston, Elmhurst, Far Rockaway, Flushing, Forest Hills, Fresh Meadows, Glen Oaks, Glen Dale, Hillside, Hollis, Jackson Heights, Jamaica, Kew Gardens, Laurelton, Little Neck, Locust Manor, Long Island City, Maspeth, Middle Village, Ozone Park, Queens Village, Rego Park, Richmond Hill, Rosedale, Saint Albans, Springfield Gardens, Sunnyside, Utopia, Whitestone, Woodside
Seniors: More Protein to Improve Quality of Life
14/12/10 09:44
Scientists at the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston have good news for people who want to stay strong in their old age: older bodies are just as good as young ones at turning protein-rich food into muscle.
A newly published study suggests that a diet containing a moderate amount of protein-rich food such as beef, fish, pork, chicken, dairy or nuts may help slow the deterioration of elderly people's muscles.
Reducing the decline in muscle mass among the elderly is crucial to maintaining their health and independence, these researchers say. And they add that consuming adequate protein is essential for making and maintaining muscles. Since nutritional studies show that many elderly individuals eat less protein than the average person, researchers have reasoned that if the elderly simply increased their protein intake, they might slow down muscle loss -- as long as old age doesn't inherently interfere significantly with the ability to make muscles out of the protein in food.
"We wanted to know if there is some reason your grandmother's body, for example, can't stimulate muscle growth in response to eating the same protein-rich meal that you eat, which might over time contribute to muscle loss," said Douglas Paddon-Jones, an associate professor in UTMB's departments of physical therapy and internal medicine. Paddon-Jones is the senior author of a paper on the study published in the August issue of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition and now available online.
For complete article: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/79223.php
A newly published study suggests that a diet containing a moderate amount of protein-rich food such as beef, fish, pork, chicken, dairy or nuts may help slow the deterioration of elderly people's muscles.
Reducing the decline in muscle mass among the elderly is crucial to maintaining their health and independence, these researchers say. And they add that consuming adequate protein is essential for making and maintaining muscles. Since nutritional studies show that many elderly individuals eat less protein than the average person, researchers have reasoned that if the elderly simply increased their protein intake, they might slow down muscle loss -- as long as old age doesn't inherently interfere significantly with the ability to make muscles out of the protein in food.
"We wanted to know if there is some reason your grandmother's body, for example, can't stimulate muscle growth in response to eating the same protein-rich meal that you eat, which might over time contribute to muscle loss," said Douglas Paddon-Jones, an associate professor in UTMB's departments of physical therapy and internal medicine. Paddon-Jones is the senior author of a paper on the study published in the August issue of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition and now available online.
For complete article: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/79223.php
Yoga to Improve Balance for Seniors
13/12/10 09:15
Age-related muscle loss and bone loss increases the possibility of trips and falls in seniors. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about one-third of seniors have some type of fall every year, leading to debilitating injuries such as fractures and even death. Now research reports that yoga practice improves balance and stability in elderly women and may reduce the risk of falling.
The Study
The study, presented at the Annual Meeting of the Gait and Clinical Movement Analysis Society, examined the effect of yoga on balance and stability in elderly women. Researchers at the Gait Study Center at Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine, administered a yoga therapy program to 24 elderly women for 9 weeks. The yoga program was designed for seniors by study coauthor and certified senior Iyengar Yoga instructor Marian Garfinkel, Ed.D., and yoga master B.K.S. Iyengar. The yoga practice included postures (asanas) and breathing techniques.
The Results
The researchers found that the participants had increased lower body flexibility and strength, improved single-leg stance and faster stride. Furthermore, the participants had improved postural stability and balance. The study authors suggest that yoga practice may help reduce the risk of falling.
The Main Point
"We were very impressed at the progress our participants made by the end of the program," says researcher Dr. Jinsup Song, director of the Gait Study Center at Temple University, in a news release "Subjects demonstrated improved muscle strength in lower extremities, which helps with stability. There was also a pronounced difference in how pressure was distributed on the bottom of the foot, which helps to maintain balance."
This study is significant because it shows that yoga practice may help reduce the risk of falls and fractures in seniors. Practicing yoga can improve quality of life in our golden years.
Original article: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/2932346/yoga_improves_balance_in_seniors.html
The Study
The study, presented at the Annual Meeting of the Gait and Clinical Movement Analysis Society, examined the effect of yoga on balance and stability in elderly women. Researchers at the Gait Study Center at Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine, administered a yoga therapy program to 24 elderly women for 9 weeks. The yoga program was designed for seniors by study coauthor and certified senior Iyengar Yoga instructor Marian Garfinkel, Ed.D., and yoga master B.K.S. Iyengar. The yoga practice included postures (asanas) and breathing techniques.
The Results
The researchers found that the participants had increased lower body flexibility and strength, improved single-leg stance and faster stride. Furthermore, the participants had improved postural stability and balance. The study authors suggest that yoga practice may help reduce the risk of falling.
The Main Point
"We were very impressed at the progress our participants made by the end of the program," says researcher Dr. Jinsup Song, director of the Gait Study Center at Temple University, in a news release "Subjects demonstrated improved muscle strength in lower extremities, which helps with stability. There was also a pronounced difference in how pressure was distributed on the bottom of the foot, which helps to maintain balance."
This study is significant because it shows that yoga practice may help reduce the risk of falls and fractures in seniors. Practicing yoga can improve quality of life in our golden years.
Original article: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/2932346/yoga_improves_balance_in_seniors.html
Physical Therapy and Seniors: A Way to Get Back on Track
13/11/10 08:51
Physical Therapy a Boon for Seniors
Would you believe in a non-drug treatment that works for arthritis, cancer pain, Parkinson's, and incontinence and improves your strength and endurance? There is one -- physical therapy.
WebMD Feature
When a person gets injured or has a prolonged illness, doctors often recommend physical therapy. In the case of older people, though, sometimes this is seen as just something to "try." This could not be further from the truth. Physical therapy is "A-quality" therapy for many conditions affecting older people, from Alzheimer's to urinary incontinence. In fact, one researcher did a study in which you had to be 100 years of age to even participate!
According to Jennifer M. Bottomley, PhD, MS, PT, president of the geriatrics section of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) and adviser to the surgeon general, one of the main things that brings older people to the physical therapist is a fall. "They want and need to maintain their independence," she says.
"It's important to look at each individual," stresses Tim Kauffman, PT, PhD, professor of physical therapy at the Hahnemann campus of Drexel University in Philadelphia. "Every person of any age has an individual background, say an auto accident, football injury, genetic predispositions. No two 'old' people are the same."
According to APTA, physical therapy can restore or increase strength, range of motion, flexibility, coordination, and endurance -- as well as reduce pain. Another important role is to retrain the patient to do everyday tasks.
*For original article:
http://www.webmd.com/healthy-aging/features/physical-therapy-benefits-for-seniors
Would you believe in a non-drug treatment that works for arthritis, cancer pain, Parkinson's, and incontinence and improves your strength and endurance? There is one -- physical therapy.
WebMD Feature
When a person gets injured or has a prolonged illness, doctors often recommend physical therapy. In the case of older people, though, sometimes this is seen as just something to "try." This could not be further from the truth. Physical therapy is "A-quality" therapy for many conditions affecting older people, from Alzheimer's to urinary incontinence. In fact, one researcher did a study in which you had to be 100 years of age to even participate!
According to Jennifer M. Bottomley, PhD, MS, PT, president of the geriatrics section of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) and adviser to the surgeon general, one of the main things that brings older people to the physical therapist is a fall. "They want and need to maintain their independence," she says.
"It's important to look at each individual," stresses Tim Kauffman, PT, PhD, professor of physical therapy at the Hahnemann campus of Drexel University in Philadelphia. "Every person of any age has an individual background, say an auto accident, football injury, genetic predispositions. No two 'old' people are the same."
According to APTA, physical therapy can restore or increase strength, range of motion, flexibility, coordination, and endurance -- as well as reduce pain. Another important role is to retrain the patient to do everyday tasks.
*For original article:
http://www.webmd.com/healthy-aging/features/physical-therapy-benefits-for-seniors