Taking control of your health
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Alzheimer's/Dementia
Alzheimer's Disease is a progressive brain disorder that affects memory, thinking, and behavior. It is the most common cause of dementia among older adults and currently, there is no cure. It not only affects the individuals but also their families and caregivers. This September, let us raise awareness for Alzheimer's disease and support those who are impacted by it. We can do our part by educating ourselves and others, supporting research efforts, and advocating for better care and resources for those affected. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those affected by this debilitating condition.
What Causes Alzheimer's Disease?
Black Americans and Alzheimer's
Insomnia Therapy for People With Mild Cognitive Impairment
Therapy for Caregivers of a Family Member With Dementia
Could brain fat droplets play a role in Alzheimer’s?
Bladder Health
As we grow older, changes in our bladder function become more common. These changes may include difficulty controlling the bladder, incontinence, or frequent urination. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to maintain bladder health as you age. Check out these articles to learn more about bladder health as you age.
5 Ways To Improve Your Bladder Health
15 Tips To Keep Your Bladder Healthy
Urinary Incontinence in Older Adults
Cancer
We would like to bring to attention that cancer is currently the second leading cause of death worldwide. This is a concerning issue that affects many individuals and families globally. Cancer can manifest in various forms and affects people of all ages, genders, and ethnicities. We urge individuals to prioritize their health and engage in preventative measures such as regular check-ups and healthy lifestyle choices to reduce the risk of developing cancer. Additionally, we encourage those currently battling cancer to seek proper medical care and support systems. We hope to raise awareness about the impact of cancer and encourage individuals to take proactive steps towards their health.
Diabetes
Diabetes is a condition characterized by high levels of glucose sugar in the blood. It occurs when the body is unable to produce enough insulin or use it effectively. Insulin is a hormone that helps the body use glucose for energy. Without insulin, glucose builds up in the blood, leading to a variety of health problems.
There are two main types of diabetes: Type 1 and Type 2. Type 1 diabetes occurs when the body's immune system attacks and destroys the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn't produce enough insulin to meet its needs.
Fall and Injury among Older Adults
As we age, our homes can become more dangerous due to the risk of falls and other accidents. According to recent statistics, falls are the leading cause of injuries, hospital admissions for trauma, and deaths due to injury among seniors. To prevent these accidents, it is important to take steps to improve home safety. This includes exercises to improve balance and strength, medication review, and home modifications such as installing grab bars and removing tripping hazards. Home security is also important to prevent intrusion, while home-based fire prevention devices should be in place and easy to use. By following these tips, we can help keep our loved ones safe and prevent accidents in the home.
Falls and Fractures in Older Adults: Causes and Prevention
Keep on Your Feet—Preventing Older Adult Falls
Stroke
It is important to recognize that anyone can have a stroke, regardless of age. However, there are certain risk factors that can increase your chances of experiencing a stroke. These risks include high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, high cholesterol, and a family history of stroke.
To protect yourself and your loved ones, it is crucial to understand your risk factors and how to control them. This can include making lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and managing chronic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure.
Hypertension
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a prevalent health issue among older adults. However, the good news is that it can be managed and controlled in most cases. If left untreated, high blood pressure can lead to serious health problems such as heart disease and stroke.
Therefore, it is important to take steps to manage and control blood pressure. This can be achieved through various lifestyle changes, including regular exercise, a healthy diet, and not smoking. Additionally, medication may be necessary to control blood pressure in some cases. If you are an older adult with high blood pressure, it is important to work with your healthcare provider to develop a personalized plan for managing your blood pressure and reducing your risk of complications.
Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson's disease is a chronic and progressive neurological disorder that affects the central nervous system. It primarily affects the dopamine-producing neurons in the brain, which leads to a range of symptoms, including tremors, stiffness, and difficulty with movement and coordination. The disease can also affect other parts of the body, such as the digestive system, the sleep-wake cycle, and the sense of smell.
Genetic
In recent years, scientists have made significant strides in unraveling the mysteries of genetics. Through extensive research and experimentation, they have gained a deeper understanding of how DNA works and how it can be manipulated to achieve specific outcomes. This breakthrough has practical applications in fields such as medicine and agriculture, where it can be used to develop new treatments for genetic disorders and improve crop yields. With continued research, we can expect even more exciting developments in this field in the years to come.
Heart Disease
Coronary artery disease occurs when the blood vessels that carry oxygen and nutrients to the heart become narrowed or blocked due to the build-up of plaque. This can lead to chest pain, shortness of breath, and in severe cases, heart attacks. It is a leading cause of death globally, making breakthrough even more significant.
Mental Health
Mental health refers to our emotional, psychological and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel and act, and how we handle stress, relate to others and make choices in life. Good mental health is essential to overall health and well-being, and it is just as important as physical health. It is important to understand and recognize the signs of mental health issues, so that we can seek help and support when needed. To learn more about mental health, read on.
Loneliness and Social Isolation
Nutrition
Proper nutrition is essential for a healthy lifestyle. It involves consuming a balanced diet that contains all the necessary nutrients, vitamins, and minerals required for the body to function optimally. A balanced diet includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. It is important to limit the intake of processed foods, sugary drinks, and high-fat foods. By following a healthy and balanced diet, you can maintain a healthy weight, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and improve your overall well-being. To learn more about proper nutrition and how it can benefit you, read on.
Healthy Meal Planning: Tips for Older Adults
Choosing Healthier Foods as You Age
Tips To Boost Your Health as You Age
Diet May Affect Risk of Sudden Cardiac death
Healthy Eating As You Age: Know Your Food Groups
How Much Should I Eat? Quantity and Quality
Obesity
Obesity is a medical condition characterized by excess body fat that can have a negative impact on a person's health. It is typically determined by measuring body mass index (BMI), which is a calculation based on a person's height and weight. A BMI of 30 or higher is considered obese.
Obesity can lead to a number of health problems, including diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and certain types of cancer. It can also affect a person's quality of life and lead to social and psychological problems.
What Are Overweight and Obesity?
Overweight & Obesity Statistics
Health Risks of Overweight & Obesity
Understanding Adult Overweight & Obesity
Physical Fitness
Physical fitness refers to the ability of an individual to perform daily activities with ease and without feeling exhausted. It is crucial to maintain good physical fitness as it not only benefits the body but also the mind. Regular physical activity can help prevent chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers. In addition, it can improve one's mental health by reducing stress and anxiety. Therefore, it is essential to incorporate physical activity into our daily routine to maintain good health and overall well-being.
Substance Abuse
Substance abuse is not limited to young people. Even seniors may engage in self-medication using legal and illegal drugs and alcohol, which can have serious health consequences. Moreover, seniors may unintentionally mix medications and alcohol, which can further exacerbate their health issues. Unfortunately, due to stereotypes about senior citizens, many medical professionals overlook the possibility of substance abuse among seniors. It is crucial for healthcare providers to ask seniors about their substance use to ensure their safety and well-being.
Drugs, Brains, and Behavior: The Science of Addiction
Understand Drug Use, Behavior, and the Brain
