Top Five Alternative Therapies for Seniors with Arthritis

As a senior with arthritis, you need to be extra cautious in terms of the treatment options you choose. This is because you may be taking medications for treating other health conditions, meaning that there is an increased risk of one medication reacting badly with another. As a result, many elderly arthritis patients opt for non-medicinal forms of treatment for their condition. Let’s take a look at the most popular and effective alternative therapies for arthritis:

• Green Tea – Green tea contains an active ingredient known as polyphenois, which shows promising results in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Several studies are being conducted to determine how exactly this ingredient affects the body to relieve the symptoms of these conditions. It is believed that the polyphenois strengthens the immune system and helps in fighting the substances responsible for joint damage in arthritis patients.
• Exercise – Regular exercise is highly beneficial for seniors who are living with some form of arthritis. The condition does not only result in pain but also stresses out the joints to cause more problems in the future. By exercising, you can maintain your strength and flexibility to prevent further deterioration of the joints. Since it is not easy for an arthritis patient to perform strenuous exercises, it is recommended that you choose moderate exercises like biking, swimming, walking, tai chi, and yoga.
  
• Mind-body therapies – Elderly individuals who suffer from arthritis tend to go through undue physical and mental stress because of their condition. An alternate treatment method known as mind-body therapy can be beneficial for them, as it involves using the mind to improve your physical health. Breathing exercises, biofeedback, guided relaxation, and mindfulness meditation are all a part of this therapy. Through these exercises, you can train your mind to focus on coping with physical pain. Tai chi and meditation are also known to improve mood as well as quality of life.
  
• Ayurveda – An ancient technique of treating medical problems, Ayurveda originated in India and involves the use of herbs and massage oils. It also incorporates detoxification programs and diet changes for overall therapy. This natural therapy may be able to relieve some of the symptoms of arthritis such as stiffness and pain.
  
• Hot and cold treatments – This form of treatment makes use of one of the simplest and most effective home remedies – heat. Painful muscles and joints can be relieved with a 15-20 minute hot shower or bath. You can even use a heating pad to apply heat to a certain area or an ice pack to cool it down. Try alternating between a hot pack and a cold pack for effective pain relief. However, make sure you don’t overdo this therapy to avoid aggravating the condition. You should consult your doctor about the safety concerns of hot and cold treatments.

There are a several other forms of alternate treatments for arthritis including massages and acupuncture. You can speak with Senior’s care provider first before you decide to start any of these therapies. Hopefully, you should be able to determine the right type of non-medicinal treatment to effectively relieve the pain and discomfort caused by arthritis.

How to Treat Anxiety in Seniors without Using Medication

Anxiety is highly common in the elderly, as their health deteriorates and they tend to worry about numerous issues. While there are medications to treat or relieve this problem, adding another medication to your daily regimen may not be the best option. You need to consider negative side effects that might occur when you mix a certain medication with another. Let’s take a look at some of the non-medication treatment options for anxiety:

• Meditation – Meditation is a highly recommended method of treating anxiety in the elderly. It relaxes your body and slows down the body’s processes such as breathing and heart rate. This technique of relaxation is especially useful for treating several diseases that are common in seniors including insomnia, high blood pressure, anxiety, and pain. In fact, there are chances that meditation can reduce your mortality risk by relieving stress and boosting your immune function.
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy – In 2007, the Journal of American Medical Association published a study, which reported that Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is among the best methods of treating anxiety in the elderly. Using this therapy, you can not only face your fears but also deconstruct them with the help of coping techniques like deep breathing. This technique can be highly beneficial for those who plan on fighting anxiety without the need for medication.Cognitive Behavioral Therapy also involves educating patients about their anxiety issues. They can pick up useful techniques like sleep management, which is a large part of anxiety treatment. The therapy also provides group as well as individual support, making it easier for patients to find comfort in times of difficulties.
• Nutritious meal plan – A nutrient-rich diet can have a huge impact on the condition of a person suffering from anxiety. Seniors living with this condition should consume plenty of vitamin B-complex, which can be found in foods like lentils, whole grains, and bananas. These vitamins are useful for maintaining a healthy nervous system and a sharp mental ability.Your daily diet should consist of dairy products and green vegetables, which can provide you with your daily calcium requirement. Mental confusion, anxiety, and mood swings can result from a deficiency in calcium. You should also try to eat plenty of foods that are rich in selenium, which is a trace element found in fish, mushroom, and Brazil nuts. This element is useful for fighting anxiety and relieving symptoms of senility. If necessary, use nutrient-dense and multivitamin supplements like fish oil, molasses, yeast, and wheat germ.
• Herbs – Herbs used in Ayurveda and naturopathy can have a positive effect on the symptoms of anxiety. Valerian root and kava are known to have calming properties, which can be beneficial for elderly anxiety patients. Consult a certified herbalist to find out which herb should be best for you, as some of these herbs may have negative side effects as well.

Senior living with anxiety should also participate in moderate physical exercise every once in a while. Exercise can relieve anxiety symptoms by increasing the body temperature and releasing endorphins in the body. These non-medication treatment methods for anxiety should be able to give you significant relief from the symptoms of anxiety and help you live your life to the fullest.

Blood Pressure Medications: Possible Treatment for Cognitive Diseases

When it comes to cognitive problems such as Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, one of the biggest challenges is in finding an effective solution for slowing down the development of their symptoms. A possible breakthrough in accomplishing this challenge is a recent study conducted by experts at University College Cork. The study discovered that ACE inhibitors, which are commonly used in regulating blood pressure, may alleviate or slow down some of the symptoms of these cognitive diseases.

Studies on ACE inhibitors and cognitive diseases

The study published in BMJ Open, involved a careful research on 800 different medical records of individuals with vascular dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers kept a track on how the disease progressed over a period of six months. The data suggested that individuals undergoing blood pressure treatments with ACE inhibitors experienced loss of memory at a rate 20-30% slower than those who didn’t use these medications.

A similar study was conducted at Lennox Hill Hospital, New York City. A team of researchers studied more than 350 elderly individuals living with a cognitive problem, out of which 1/4th were using ACE inhibitors. 30 more were started on the medications during the study. According to data collected, dementia patients who began using the medications experienced a slight improvement during the first six months. These medications work by entering the brain through the bloodstream. The most common of these medications include captopril (Capoten), rampiril (Altace), perindopril (Aceon), and fosinopril (Monopril).

According to the study, there was a decline of 1.8 points in the cognitive test scores of participants who were already using ACE inhibitors. For those who were not on the medications, there was a decline rate of 2.1 points. Patients who started using the medications during the study period had a 1.2 points rise in their test scores during the first six months,

Limitations on the studies

Despite the fact that these results are quite promising, extensive research is yet to be conducted for conclusive results. Experts believe that the research on cognitive diseases are still directed at the treatment for their symptoms, yet there is hardly any information on preventing and curing these conditions. Currently, symptomatic drugs are basically the medications used in the treatments of conditions such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Since they only have a temporary effect, there is much to be done in finding a medication for prevention of these conditions. What we have learned so far is that lifestyle choices may play an important role in whether or not an individual develops a cognitive disease.

However, these latest studies suggest that an individual’s cardiovascular health could be closely connected to their cognitive abilities. Past studies conducted by various research teams have revealed that individuals whose hearts pumped less blood are likely to have smaller brains than those with regular cardiac function. A study conducted by the Boston University School of Medicine reported that individuals with poor cardiac output tended to age two years faster than healthier individuals.

All these studies suggest that managing your blood pressure as well as other cardiovascular risk factors may be a key factor in preventing or slowing down the progression of dementia. Clinical trials are yet to be conducted to prove whether or not ACE inhibitors can effectively slow down the development of dementia symptoms.

 

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How to Choose the Right Independent Living Facility

Making a move to an independent living facility is a huge step. It requires delicate planning and making tough choices. Before you even decide on when to move in, you need to consider all the options available in independent living communities. It is highly recommended that you first visit a few facilities before you make your decision. Choosing the right independent living facilities requires careful consideration, so here are a few tips on how to make the right choice.

• Observe the people – During your visit to the facility, you need to pay close attention to the people living there. This includes both residents and staff. Observe how the staff interacts with the residents as well as with each other. Are they friendly and helpful?

  It would also do you good to observe whether or not the residents of the facility seem to be truly independent. Ask yourself if you are interested in getting to know them better. Can you find anyone who shares the same interests and hobbies as you? Can you see yourself fitting into the environment?

• Get a feel of the place – An important step to finding the right independent living facility is to compare the community with what you have in mind. For instance, if you are fonder of the peace and quiet, a small and quiet community would be a better option than a large one, bustling with active residents.

  Choose a place where you feel comfortable and easily adjusted. People who are used to living in houses may find it difficult to adjust to living in an apartment. Make sure you find out all the features of the facility you have shortlisted including its pet-friendliness, storage spaces, and ease of access. You also need to find out whether or not there are any restrictions that could prevent you from enjoying your life in the facility.

• Consider the activity options – If possible, request for the calendar of events at the facility. What types of activities are available and are you interested in joining any of them? Are there any special interest clubs you can join and benefit from? If religious services are important to you, you should also find out whether or not these services are offered at the community.

  Many senior citizens find that independent living communities are ideal for them because they get to socialize with other elderly adults. With a clear understanding of what activities are offered in the community, you can compare them with the activities that are important to you. This can play a huge role in your decision.

• Find out the quality of dining service – One of the major factors that should play a role in your choice of independent living community is the quality of food provided. Find out important points like the meals covered under the monthly fee and whether or not you can purchase additional meals. Menus planned by a dietician can provide an additional benefit for many individuals.

When considering all these factors, you shouldn’t have a hard time deciding on the best independent living facility for yourself. Always make it a point to compare the cost of living and accommodation with the benefits you can get from staying in the facility.

Best Safety Tips for the Independent Living Seniors

Independent living may be a good choice for many elderly adults who are fond of their freedom. However, there are many things you need to prepare for when you live alone. Growing older means our bodies also become weaker, preventing us from completing certain tasks and running some errands. You need to plan ahead and ensure a safe and happy life for yourself during your golden years. Here are few best independent living tips for  senior.

• Stay organized – You may not notice it right now, but your memory may not always stay as sharp as it used to be in your twenties. It is important to stay organized at all times, so you can avoid missed appointments and other issues. Keep a date book or an organizer, where you can make a note of the important dates and appointments. A proper system of organization can help you stay on top of things and avoid many problems.
• Keep fit – It is important for elderly adults to stay fit both mentally and physically. To maintain an alert and sharp mind, you can use brain-sharpening puzzles, games, and other activities. For instance, crossword puzzles and Sudoku are highly recommended.Growing older doesn’t mean you lose your ability to maintain your physical fitness. You can find physical activities and exercises that are especially designed for people your age. Whether you are suffering from a health condition or a physical disability that’s preventing you from performing normal exercises, you can still find suitable physical exercises to keep you fit. Maintaining your physical fitness can help you avoid age-related problems like joint aches, muscle pain, and other health issues.
• Maintain an updated medical record – Make sure you keep an updated record of your medical history, so that you can avoid misdiagnosis and other issues when going to a new doctor. Also, an updated medical record can be useful for your caretaker to ensure prompt treatment and care in case of any emergencies.Along with records of your previous visits to the doctor, you also need to include your past illnesses, tests, and procedures. You should also make it a point to keep all your insurance, Medicare, and Medigap information in one place.
• Keep your home organized – A clean and well-organized home can have a huge impact on your productivity. Living in a cluttered home means you end up spending more time completing a task than you normally do when living in a clean home. Also, regularly cleaning your home can prevent unsanitary circumstances like mold problems, which can be harmful for your health.You can try cleaning a little every day, so you don’t have to worry about cleaning up a huge clutter at the end of the week. If there are physical limitations preventing you from completing household chores, you might want to consider hiring a housekeeping service.

Elderly adults can also benefit greatly from maintaining an active social life and a useful support network. Not only will your quality of life improve, you will also have someone to call in times of emergencies. Hopefully, these four tips will be able to help you in ensuring your own safety when living independently.

Top Five Health Foods for Seniors with Diabetes

A healthy and nutritious diet plays an important role in long-term diabetes management. However, when developing a diabetes-friendly diet, it is easy to focus only on the foods that should be avoided and not on the healthy foods that can promote healthy blood sugar levels. There are several foods that are considered as ‘super foods’ for individuals living with diabetes. These food items are packed with the top 4 healthy nutrients that are necessary in diabetes management – fiber, vitamin D, calcium, and omega-3.

Top health foods

Let’s take a look at some of the top healthy foods that can help seniors in managing their diabetes:

• Beans – Beans are high in fiber, so they help in maintaining a steady blood sugar level and keep you feeling full for a long time. They have the ability to lower cholesterol level. Beans also contain sufficient amounts of calcium, helping your burn body fat. You can even get plenty of protein from beans, while limiting your intake of saturated fat. This means you get your required supply of protein without an increased risk of developing heart diseases, unlike when you use meat as a protein source.
• Salmon – Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are healthy fats that can help in preventing heart diseases. Regularly consuming salmon can promote healthy weight loss and an improved insulin resistance. The fatty acids can also reduce inflammation. Aside from omega-3 fatty acids, salmon is also a good source of vitamin D.
• Berries – Although berries are sweet and delicious, they are not harmful for your health unlike sugary cakes and cookies. Berries are rich in fiber and a type of antioxidant known as poly phenols. According to a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition in 2008, individuals with heart disease risk factors experienced a drop in blood pressure after eating berries for 8 weeks. These individuals also saw a boost in the level of “good” HDL cholesterol in their bodies.
• Dairy – Dairy is one of the best sources of vitamin D and calcium you could possibly find. This combination is ideal for controlling diabetes and reducing the risks of future complications. Yogurt, milk, and cottage cheese are highly recommended for seniors living with diabetes. Since the regular dairy products are high in saturated fat, it is recommended that you opt for the low-fat or fat-free versions.
• Oats – With their high fiber content, oats are highly effective for lowering your total cholesterol level as well as the level of ‘bad’ LDL cholesterol in your body. They can also improve your insulin resistance. The soluble fiber found in oats can slow down the rate at which carbohydrates are absorbed and broken down by your body. This means that you can get a table blood sugar level with regular consumption of oats.

These food items should be included in your daily meal plans to ensure efficient blood sugar and insulin management. Look for recipes online, so you can prepare them in different ways that are enjoyable for you. Implementing these food items to your diet can result in effective and long-term diabetes management.

Top Five Nutrients for Dementia Care in seniors

Would a healthy diet help in preventing dementia or slowing down its effects on seniors? Research conducted by experts at the Kingston University, U.K suggests that there are certain nutrients that can help in minimizing the risks of dementia and slowing down the effects of early-stage Alzheimer’s disease. Nutrients such as zinc, Vitamin D, and Omega-3s have been linked with prevention of cognitive impairment. Dementia care involves maintaining a healthy diet containing sufficient amounts of these essential nutrients.

Best nutrients for dementia care

We already know that a healthy diet is essential for a healthy mind and body, making it a necessity in dementia care. There have been many more studies proving the importance of basic nutrients for reducing dementia risk. Similarly, your diet also plays a huge role in determining the speed deterioration in dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

According to a recent study conducted by the Mayo Clinic, people who consume high amounts of sugar and carbohydrates are at an increased risk of developing mild cognitive impairment. Elderly individuals need sufficient supply of protein, especially lean protein in the form of fish and poultry. Let’s take a look at some of the top nutrients that can help in dementia care:

• Vitamin C – A study published by the Journal of Biological Chemistry in 2011 revealed that treatments using Vitamin C have been successful in eliminating amyloid plaques from the brains of mice. This is the same protein plaque found in individuals suffering from Alzheimer’s disease.
• Vitamin B12 – The journal Neurology published a study in 2011, which discovered that insufficient intake of Vitamin B12 can increase a person’s risk of developing cognitive impairment. The same journal published a study earlier in 2010, revealing that high levels of Vitamin B12 in the body have an association with minimized risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
• Vitamin D – In 2012, Current Alzheimer Research published a study conducted by experts at the Kingston University, U.K, which reported that low concentration of Vitamin D in the body is associated with Alzheimer’s disease. The Angers University Hospital in France also conducted a study in 2012, which confirmed that people who consume sufficient amounts of Vitamin D have a minimized risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
• Vitamin E – In 2010, the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease published a study showing that a higher plasma level of Vitamin E can help in reducing Alzheimer’s risk in elderly individuals.
• Zinc – Biofactors published a study in 2012, which showed that individuals suffering from Alzheimer’s disease tend to have zinc deficiency. This study also indicated that zinc treatments result in improved cognitive abilities in animal models.

Other nutrients for dementia care

It is important that you avoid taking vitamin supplements without consulting a specialist first because some vitamins can become toxic when consumed at high levels. Dementia care should involve providing a healthy meal rich in all the nutrients mentioned above. You can also include other nutrients such as Folic Acid, phosphatidylserine, Vitamin B1, and antioxidants like CoQ10, which are all promising for cognitive treatment. If you are looking for natural ingredients to add to your diet, you can turn to herbs like panax ginseng and Ginko Biloba.

 

Top Kidney Nurturing Foods for the Elderly

Did you know that over 26 million adults in the United States are suffering from chronic kidney disease? This is likely because of the high amounts of undesired fatty acids that are formed by the unhealthy diet we maintain. Excessive fatty acid oxidization in the body releases free radicals in the body, increasing your risk of developing chronic health problems including kidney diseases. Nurturing your kidney with healthy and nutritious foods is a necessity especially when you are in your golden years, as you are highly susceptible to developing problems related to the kidney.

Luckily, there are several foods that have been linked with the neutralization of free radicals in the body, contributing to the prevention of kidney diseases. Here are some of them which is required for senior care:

Cabbage – A half cup serving of cabbage contains 60 mg of potassium, 6 mg of sodium, and 9 mg of phosphorus. It is rich in a chemical compound called phytochemicals, which can break up the free radicals in your body. In fact, a type of phytochemical known as sulforaphane, which is found in cabbage, may even prevent the growth of cancer cell in the breast, prostate, lung, bladder, ovary, and colon.

Raw cabbage in the form of coleslaw or salad is highly recommended as part of your daily diet. Cabbage is also rich in fiber, folic acid, vitamin B6, vitamin C, and vitamin K.

Red bell pepper – A half cup serving of red bell pepper contains 88 mg of potassium, 1 mg of sodium, and 10 mg of phosphorus. Aside from their low potassium content, red bell peppers are highly recommended for kidney health because of their high antioxidant levels. They contain an antioxidant known as lycopene, which has been linked with the prevention of certain cancers.

Red bell peppers can be added to salads and sandwiches or even eaten raw as snacks. These peppers are also rich in folic acid and fiber as well as vitamin A, vitamin B6, and vitamin C.

Garlic – One clove of garlic contains 12 mg of potassium, 1 mg of sodium, and 4 mg of phosphorus. Garlic is an essential part of a healthy diet because it reduces inflammation and lowers your cholesterol levels. You can have it fresh, powdered, or mince. It tastes great with pasta dishes, meat, and vegetables.

Red grapes – A half cup serving of red grapes contains 88 mg of potassium, 1 mg of sodium, and 4 mg of phosphorus. The reddish color of these grapes is due to the high levels of flavonoids, which have been linked with the prevention of heart diseases and kidney problems. Flavonoids can prevent oxidation in the body and even minimize blood clots. Red grapes can be added to salads, made into juices, or even eaten raw as a mid-day snack.

Onions – A half cup serving of onions contains 116 mg of potassium, 3 mg of sodium, and 3 mg of phosphorus. Onions contain high levels of flavonoids and are ideal for people who wish to nurture their kidneys. They also contain a powerful antioxidant known as quercetin, which has been known to minimize the risks of heart diseases and certain types of cancer. Raw onions taste great with salads, burgers, and sandwiches.

Enjoy Healthy Eating Over 50 at Carlton Senior Living Facilities .

Top Benefits of Using Respite Care Facilities

The National Alliance of Care giving and AARP have reported that respite care services are used by only 12% of family caregivers. This disappointing number is mainly because many family caregivers do not want to admit that they need an occasional break. Considering the emotional strain and other difficulties that come with caring for a loved one, it is crucial for a caregiver to take a break every once in a while. In fact, using a respite care service during this short break can be beneficial for both you and your loved one.

Main advantages of using respite resort stay

There are many ways you and your loved one can benefit from respite care services. With emotional strain being the number one difficulty in providing care according to the University of Delaware, a short break from your responsibilities can help you relieve stress and provide quality care to your loved one. Let’s take a look at how you and your family member can benefit from using a respite resort stay:

• A respite care service gives you a much needed opportunity to travel or run important errands. By availing these services, your schedule frees up to a significant extent and enables you to take some time out for yourself. While you’re away, you also get the assurance that your loved one is being cared for by professionals.
• Respite is just the solution you need in case you fall ill and are unable to care for your loved one till you recover. Worrying about their wellbeing might worsen your illness, so having the assurance of professional care for your loved one is an added benefit.
• When you have an urgent business to attend to or if the entire family needs to travel, respite can assure quality care for your loved one. You get to experience the real benefit of respite resort stay facilities in times of emergencies.
• Respite helps you maintain a balance between living your life and providing care. Constantly living in a care-giving environment can be quite stressful for you and may even result in burnout. You can avoid this by taking a short break from the environment of senior care.
• Since some caregivers are susceptible to developing mental health problems such as depression, it is important that they make time for personal activities. That’s where respite resort stay facilities come in handy, as they provide quality health and personal care to seniors and offer relief to caregivers.
• Respite care also gives seniors the opportunity to meet new people and share new experiences. This can be beneficial for the emotional and mental health of seniors who are unable to get out much.
• You can find respite resort stay facilities that cater to the specific needs of seniors. For instance, you can find senior respite facilities especially for dementia patients. This can help you find a facility that will best care for the needs of your loved one.