|
Will Exercise Keep You Young?
|
|
There really is a fountain of youth — it's a glass of water following a good workout. Research has shown that exercise can actually reverse some of the effects of aging. There is evidence that it helps repair mitochondria, tiny organelles that stabilize cells and keep the tissue healthy. Physically active adults tend to have fewer disabilities and live longer.
Dr. Tarnopolsky, professor of pediatrics at McMaster University, did an interesting study by placing one group of lab mice on a regular exercise routine, three times a week. The lab mice that lacked exercise eventually became frail, had weak hearts, and grew patchy, gray fur, while the exercising mice had almost maintained their entire muscle mass, brain volume, and dark fur over the same time period.
Although researchers are still unaware of precisely how exercise alters the aging process, they do know the positive benefits it has on aging. It's never too late to increase physical activity. Professional caregivers often help elders with regular exercise and stretching routines as an important part of home care. Read more about the benefits of exercise at http://tiny.cc/cta79.
|
|
Dear Katy
By Kate Dougherty, Certified Senior Advisor
|
|
Dear Katy - My mother's dementia seems to be getting worse, what are the different ways a home caregiver can help with her dementia? T.M., San Jose, CA.
Dear T.M. - There are many different challenging behaviors that accompany dementia. The greatest way in which a caregiver can assist your mom is to create a daily routine that is followed very closely. Furthermore, most caregivers are trained to explain what they are doing with dementia clients before care begins. For example, a client will likely resist or may possibly become aggressive if the caregiver tries to perform personal care without explaining first why they are touching them. Without knowing exactly what behaviors your mother is exhibiting, it is difficult to offer specific advice. The Alzheimer’s Association has an excellent resource available that outlines many common behaviors and how to work around them. The brochure can be found at:
http://www.alz.org/national/documents/brochure_behaviors.pdf
Dear Katy- Can a home care agency work with my doctor when developing a plan of care and how often should it be updated? C.P., Ogden, UT
Dear C.P. - Absolutely! In fact I would recommend that the family has a conversation with the doctor regarding home care. Most clients will listen to the advice of their doctor over a loved one and will be more open to the idea. The other reason I suggest this is the doctor will probably have opinions on what activities of daily living (ADLs) your loved one needs assistance with. The agency can also contact the doctor directly, but due to HIPAA Privacy Rules, the doctor will not be able to discuss any information without signed consent. While the agency can do all of the legwork for you, I recommend that the family remains involved in the care to insure that everyone is on the same page in respect to the plan of care. The plan of care is constantly changing as the needs change. For this reason, it is especially important for the agency, family and doctor to have an open line of communication.
(Submit your questions to kdougherty@professionalhc.com. Follow her on twitter .)
|
|
6 Great Exercises Around the Home
|
|
|
Below are a few exercise activities you could try around the home:
1. Play a fun and active game with grandchildren, like tag or
running races. Not only are you burning calories and getting
your heart pumping, but you get to have some fun and
spend quality time with your grandchildren in the process.
2. Splash around in a pool. If you don't own one, go to a
community pool with family or friends. Swimming burns
calories while building muscles.
3. Invite a friend or family member to participate in an
at-home exercise program or an active video game console
(Nintendo Wii).
4. Take a walk around your neighborhood. You will get a
great workout and you may meet new neighbors.
5. Dancing is a great exercise routine for the heart. It can lift
your spirit and mind.
6. Play a sport outside. Whether it's a fun game of basketball
or tennis, playing a sport will keep you active and social.
|
|
|
Step 1 Pedometer
Record steps, distance, and calories burned on this digital device. Includes stopwatch and a clip to wear around the waist band.
More Info
|
|
Decorah Bald Eagles
Check out a live shot of Decorah Eagles in their nest tree at Decorah, Iowa. The video is streamed online 24/7.
More Info
|
|
...at age 90, Pablo Picasso was producing drawings and engravings?
|
|
|
