As we age, many seniors discover new bruises on their body but have no memory of how they got there. The Medical News Today (MNT) explains this may be the result of the skin thinning and blood vessels weakening and/or that some people are just more prone to bruising. It can also run in families. Being a frequent, extreme bruiser includes having many bruises without remembering their cause; regularly developing bruises that take many weeks to heal and bleeding for longer than 10 minutes following an injury.
Excessive bruising and bleeding can be from medications, many of which seniors routinely take. These include drugs like warfarin, heparin, rivaroxaban, dabigatran, apixaban and aspirin. Doctors say even certain herbal remedies such as ginkgo biloba, ginseng, feverfew, large quantities of garlic, ginger, and willow bark can increase the risk of bleeding or cause a change to blood vessels. The same is true for drugs like corticosteroids and glucocorticoids of which one example is prednisone. MNT reports liver disease is also associated with excessive bruising. “As the disease progresses, the liver may stop producing the proteins that help the blood clot. As a result, a person may experience excessive bleeding and easy bruising.” Other blood disorders and diseases such as hemophilia, senile purpura, or even vitamin deficiencies can include bruising as a symptom. Experts say consult your healthcare provider if you suddenly begin bruising more easily, have symptoms such as yellow skin, fever and low energy, taking medication and begin bruising, or getting painful bruises that are slow to heal. The MorningStar at Golden Ridge senior living community offers 65 private suites for assisted living, and another 38 Casitas for independent living tucked into their own private neighborhood within our beautiful 8.8 acre campus. Our Reflections wing provides 35 secure suites devoted entirely to the individualized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. We are pet friendly and invite you to visit our website to learn more about the finest independent living & assisted living in the Peoria area. Also be sure to ask about our Move-in Specials. Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325525#causes
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The Medical News Today (MNT), an online medical journal, writes about the link between weight loss and managing type 2 diabetes. They note there have been discrepancies with various studies throughout the years in determining the best diet for diabetics and the role maintaining a healthy weight plays in treating the disease.
Agreeing on the most effective way to treat diabetes is important as the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) reports 1 in 10 adults are living with diabetes; and type 2 diabetes accounts for more than 90% of cases. By 2045, experts estimate 784 million people worldwide will be diabetic. While doctors have known losing weight is good for diabetics, there has been mixed success with a number of popular diet plans. This has added to doctors’ confusion as to what diet to prescribe for their patients. The MNT article reports on a team of international researchers who examined earlier studies that focused on various diets believed to be good for diabetics. Led by Prof. Michael Lean of the University of Glasgow in the UK, he states, “Our aim was to find the most effective dietary approach for losing weight, maintaining weight loss, and achieving remission from type 2 diabetes.” Their results showed “weight management programs that included very low energy diets and formula meal replacements provided greater weight losses than conventional low energy diets.” Formula meal replacements are low-calorie beverages (shake) or bars loaded with protein, carbohydrate and fat, fortified with vitamins and minerals. Low energy diets include foods from both plant and animal sources high in protein but low in fat and calories.* *If you are diabetic, consult with your healthcare provider before changing your diet. The MorningStar of Arvada’s all-inclusive community offers independent living and assisted living with all of the amenities, services and enrichment programs residents need for carefree retirement years. For individuals suffering from Alzheimer’s or dementia-related diseases, we provide 29 secure suites devoted to their specialized care. Our community is situated on 1.5 acres and encircled by historic Golden and the nearby Arvada Reservoir. Please visit our website for pricing and availability on the area’s most trusted independent living, assisted living and memory care in Arvada, CO. Ask about our Special offer: Memory Care Studios - $6000/MO ALL INCLUSIVE RENT & CARE. Source: medicalnewstoday.com/articles/managing-weight-in-diabetes-which-diets-are-most-effective If you are a senior who is having difficulty turning your neck to look behind you when driving, having problems getting up from a low chair or difficulty picking something up from the floor, you may find adding stretches to your routine can really improve these types of motions. Stretching exercises also help seniors improve flexibility and balance, both of which lower a person’s risk of falls and injuries. Experts explain stretching gives seniors a better range of movement in their joints, helps improve posture, increases circulation and releases muscle tension and soreness.
The Journal of Gerontology reported on the results of a 12-month stretch and flex program for older adults. It found “participants demonstrated positive changes in areas like physical fitness, self-efficacy, perceived functioning, and well-being. They also experienced a decrease in pain.” Along with the favorable benefits stretching provides, it can be done anywhere and does not require any special equipment. However, before beginning any new exercise routine, be sure to consult with your healthcare provider regarding your fitness level and the type of stretches most appropriate for you. Another thing to remember is it is important to warm up before stretching. Experts say it can be doing something as simple as a walk around the block. Additionally, they warn not to stretch to the point of pain, only to the point of tension. A stretch can typically be held for 30 seconds, but do not bounce when you stretch. MorningStar of Beaverton is a senior living community providing 66 private assisted living suites and another 38 secure suites devoted to specialized care of those with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Our goal is to enhance quality of life for our residents and we do this through a full range of care and hospitality services, amenities, and a component of wellness programs and activities. Please contact us or visit our website to learn more. We proudly provide the very best in assisted living and memory care with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. If you are looking for exceptional senior living, MorningStar of Beaverton may be your answer. Feeling blue every once in a while is normal but when those kinds of feelings last for weeks or months, it is a more serious problem. Depression can sap the joy from life and cause a sense of hopelessness, sadness, and lack of motivation and energy.
The National Institute on Aging (NIA) explains risk factors for depression include medical conditions like stroke or cancer; genetics (people with a family history are at higher risk), stress, sleep problems and addiction or alcoholism. Also at risk are individuals with functional disabilities that limit their activities as well as people who don’t get enough exercise. Studies have linked depression to social isolation and loneliness, which is in itself a problem for many older adults. While COVID-19 has focused more attention to the issue, the NIA says many elderly adults suffered from loneliness before the pandemic. If you are wondering if a loved one is depressed, experts say depression can look different in the elderly. For example, sadness is not the main symptom. It may be more of a feeling of numbness along with a lack of interest in activities they used to take joy in. Moreover the NIA cautions that many seniors are not willing to talk about their feelings. If you see worrying signs, encourage the person to visit their healthcare provider. If they need the support, go with them to their doctor visits and support groups. Also help them stick to their treatment plan and reach out for further help if needed. The NIA warns if left untreated, serious depression may lead to death by suicide. The MorningStar of Arvada community provides senior living that starts with a unique mission of honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Our residents enjoy a wide range of amenities, care services and wellness programs and activities that allow them to participate as much as they desire. Visit our website to learn more about the area’s most trusted independent living, assisted living and memory care in Arvada, CO. Source: nia.nih.gov/health/depression-and-older-adults Now that we are fully in flu season, you may find yourself wondering if you have a common cold or the flu. Experts say there are some clues to help ensure you get the right treatment.
While certain symptoms overlap, there are some differences. In both cases you may experience a cough, sore throat and a stuffy, running nose. However if you have a fever, chills, and body and muscle aches, it is probably the flu. Bad headaches and fatigue are another indication you most likely have more than the common cold. Children with the flu may also suffer from vomiting and diarrhea. As the flu can have more serious consequences, another way to determine if it is the flu or a cold is how the illness starts. The flu hits a person hard and fast, while a cold starts out much slower. For example, a person may start out a day feeling just fine but from the time they leave work to when they get home, they may become feverish with muscle aches throughout their body. Doctors stress the importance of getting an annual flu shot as every year adults and children are hospitalized with the flu. Complications include pneumonia and bacterial infections, with some of the worst cases leading to death. Both the flu and colds are spread through droplets spraying into the air when someone coughs, and can spread from contaminated surfaces that come into contact with the droplets. Most flu vaccines are free or low cost with insurance; however, if you are uninsured or underinsured there are options available. MorningStar Senior Living at Golden Ridge offers seniors a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community with an array of amenities and services. Our senior living options include assisted living and independent living along with memory care. We are dedicated to creating a true home for carefree retirement years. Please visit our website for contact information and to learn more about our home, our services and our company, and ask about our Move-in Specials. The MorningStar at Golden Ridge senior living community’s mission is to provide all the services needed to support and enhance residents’ physical, mental, spiritual and social wellbeing. As one of the top assisted living communities in the Phoenix area, residents are provided with 24/7 care managers, access to licensed nurses, medication managers, care plan reviews, scheduled health and wellness evaluations. Services also include scheduled physician visits, pharmacy services, transportation to doctor appointments and more. Wellness programs and activities are designed to keep residents as busy as they like.
It isn’t just our belief that these kinds of services, amenities and programs provide a higher quality of life for many older adults, but in fact, a number of studies have shown this to be true. Research finds “seniors in retirement communities may be living longer and stronger, meaning they become frail less quickly than those who remain in their own home. Residents of independent retirement communities enjoy better health and could potentially live longer because of it.” Moreover, several studies report that because of the support services, older adults with multiple chronic health problems in senior living communities are less likely to require high levels of hospitalization as compared to their peers who live alone. Experts believe the enhanced health of those living in retirement communities may also have something to do with the stress-free lifestyle that includes no longer needing to maintain a home. Meals are another part of MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s luxury amenities, so residents just relax and enjoy being served restaurant-style in our community dining room. To help you stay in your best shape, we provide exercise classes, a saline swimming pool with hot tub, and fitness center. Please visit the MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s website to learn more about our “passion to serve seniors.” When you are there, use our convenient online links to inquire about availability and pricing or set up a tour. MorningStar at Golden Ridge’s trusted senior living options include independent living, assisted living, and memory care in Peoria. Please ask about our Move-in Specials. Source: bethesdahealth.org/blog/2020/10/08/seniors-live-longer-happier-retirement-communities/ It is estimated that up to 90 percent of Americans experience one or more episodes of back pain each year. According to Dr. Richard S. Lee, a spine surgeon with Hoag Orthopedic Institute in Southern California, "As a medical symptom, back pain is second only to the common cold in this country."
Even though it is common, doctors have some suggestions to help ease the pain and perhaps even prevent or lessen reoccurring episodes. For many types of back pain, a good start is to use some sort of anti-inflammatory medication like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Dr. Whitney Luke, vice chair of clinical operations in the department of physical medicine and rehabilitation at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center in Columbus, cautions some cases of back pain may require something stronger like an oral steroid. Doctors also say exercise is a good way to relieve pain. In fact for many, chronic back pain should be treated by daily exercise focusing on building a strong core. The best exercises include aquatic therapy, Pilates and yoga, which also help strengthen your endurance and improve overall health. Other suggestions include focused breathing techniques and mediation. Heat and ice can help loosen up back muscles and bring down any swelling. Additionally your doctor may advice you to lose any excess weight, and if you smoke, to quit. If you experience severe pain that does not improve or have leg numbness or weakness, difficulty walking, difficulty urinating or having bowel movements, fever and/or chills, experts say to seek immediate medical attention.* The senior living community of MorningStar at Golden Ridge offers 38 Casitas (quadraplexes with attached garages) for independent living and another 65 private suites for assisted living. Our Reflections’ wing provides 35 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. MorningStar’s warm, loving environment includes exceptional architecture, resort-style amenities and a compassionate team of caregivers. Visit our website to learn more about trusted independent living & assisted living in Peoria. This blog is for informational purposes only, consult your healthcare provider with any medical problems or questions. Source: health.usnews.com/wellness/articles/tips-for-managing-back-pain?src=usn_nl_yourhealth&utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Your%20Health-Thu%20Aug%2005%2006:29:00%20EDT%202021&utm_term=Your%20Health Regardless of our age or station in life, helping others is one of the keys to true happiness. Saint Francis of Assisi is quoted as saying, “For it is in giving that we receive.” Leo Tolstoy wrote the “The sole meaning of life is to serve humanity,” and Winston Churchill said, “We make a living by what we get; we make a life by what we give.”
Researchers have used fMRI (functional magnetic resonance imaging) technology to show how “giving activates the same parts of the brain that are stimulated by food and sex.” Thus helping others may be the secret to a life that is not only happier but also healthier, wealthier, more productive, and meaningful. Experts recommend giving to causes you are passionate about and remember often time is more appreciated than money. At MorningStar at Golden Ridge we are a community founded on principles of serving others and along with our dedicated team, our remarkable residents are also ready to help. Our vision to love and honor others stretches beyond MorningStar’s senior living communities—and into the world. Starting at the top as Ken Jaeger, our Founder/CEO takes the lead. Ken does not mince words when it comes to inspiring others to live a life of selfless giving. Whether speaking to his MorningStar team or to any audience, his words are often these: “Don’t wait to serve. Serve now. Today. Get involved somewhere. It will make you a better person. And don’t wait to give until the day you make a million dollars. Don’t wait until your children are grown. Don’t wait until you retire. Give now, give generously. And just see what happens. For you cannot out-give God.” MorningStar’s volunteer efforts include local community nonprofits; organizations like the Alzheimer’s Association and helping people in need across the globe. Whenever possible, MorningStar residents are invited to join us in these acts of service by the giving of their time and talent as well. At MorningStar at Golden Ridge, our dedicated team knows seniors deserve to be treated with the utmost dignity and respect. Please visit our website to learn more about trusted independent living, assisted living and memory care in Peoria. Be sure to ask about our Move-In Specials. Doctors stress the importance of getting emergency medical help if you think you are having a stroke. They warn every second counts once the brain is deprived of the oxygen and nutrients provided by the blood as “brain cells die at a shocking rate of 1.9 million per minute.” Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death in the U.S. and a major cause of disability. Not only is it important to recognize the signs of a stroke but to learn how to prevent one in the first place.
While the risk for stroke is increased by family history and age, Harvard Medical School explains there are steps we can take to lessen our risk. The first is to lower high blood pressure. HBP presents the greatest risk for stroke and a reading of less than 120/80 is ideal. Doctors say to get HBP under control reduce salt in your diet to no more than 1,500 milligrams a day (about a half teaspoon); eat foods with polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats; and avoid saturated fats. Your daily diet should include 4 to 5 cups of fruits and vegetables, whole grains and low-fat dairy. Eat fish two to three times a week. If you smoke, quit. Additionally start exercising. Healthcare providers recommend at least 30 minutes a day or five days a week of moderate intensity exercise. They say exercise not only helps you lose weight and lower blood pressure, but in itself is a stroke reducer. If you drink alcohol, experts say no more than one glass a day. The standard size glass of wine is 5oz, beer is 12 oz. and hard liquor is 1.5 oz. Another step is to treat diabetes and keep blood sugar levels in control. Also get treatment for atrial fibrillation as it has an almost fivefold risk of stroke. Most importantly consult your doctor regarding any recommended treatments including medications. This article is informational only and not intended to replace medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician. At the MorningStar at Golden Ridge community, we offer a range of senior living options including independent living, assisted living, memory care, and short-term stays. Our 38 quadraplexes have attached garages and are designed for active seniors. The main building offers 65 assisted living suites where we provide a helping hand with daily personal care activities. MorningStar’s Reflections Neighborhood provides 35 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Visit our website to learn more about trusted senior living in Peoria, AZ. Several studies over the last couple of decades have provided evidence suggesting pet ownership offers a range of health benefits for seniors. One of the most consistent findings is the fact that owning and caring for a pet may help seniors feel less lonesome, and with almost 1/3 of all seniors saying they are lonely, this is a good thing. In one study of pet owners ages 50 to 80: “88% said their pets help them enjoy life; 86% said their pets make them feel loved; and 79% said their pets help reduce stress.”
In addition to a pet’s unconditionally love, caring for the animal provides an older person with a sense of purpose as their pet needs to be feed and cared for daily. For example, a dog encourages seniors to get outside and exercise both themselves and the animal. Studies show pets can help improve seniors’ cardiovascular health and their mental and emotional health. Other studies have shown benefits such as improved mobility, a longer life span, pain relief and a better heart attack recovery. While a pet can be a loving companion, it is important to pick one suited to the person’s physical health and their budget as vet bills can be costly. Cats and dogs make loyal friends but you may enjoy putting together and caring for an aquarium of exotic fish or raising songbirds. Whatever the choice, a pet is sure to bring a smile to the person’s face and help to keep them engaged on a daily basis. At MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Beaverton, we understand that your pet is an important part of your family and you would not wish to move somewhere that he or she was not welcome. If you decide to choose our beautiful senior living community for your new home, no worries – we are pet friendly! Please contact us to learn more about our amenities, care services, availability and pricing. MorningStar of Beaverton proudly provides the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Please visit our website to discover why MorningStar is a step above an ordinary assisted living facility. Source: aplaceformom.com/resources/pets-for-seniors |
At MorningStar Senior Living we strive to create a true home where you can enjoy your retirement years as carefree as possible. Offering a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community, our care team is committed to giving residents a quality of life that other senior living communities simply cannot match. Archives
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