Various studies suggest a large portion of seniors with dementia have unrecognized, severe pain. A recent study out of the University of Rochester suggests that nearly a third of severe pain cases go unrecognized when seniors have dementia.1-3 Pain in dementia can lead to other problems such as agitation, aggression, hallucinations, delusions, depression, impaired physical […]
Dr. Cheryl Bushnell, a neurologist and director of the Comprehensive Stroke Center at Wake Forest Baptist Health, states preventions are “not just for preventing stroke, but for preventing dementia as well. You can do the same things to prevent both.” These are five ways to start on prevention: If you smoke, quit. Smoking is one […]
A stroke can be a scary thing to experience. Knowing the signs and symptoms of a stroke may assist in being able to take quick action and perhaps save a life. The signs of a stroke are: Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, usually on one side of the body. Sudden […]
Laughter has physiological effects on the body; it changes brain function and body chemistry.[1] Some examples of the changes are: Increases heart and respiratory rates as well as oxygen consumption. Increases stroke volume of the heart and dilates blood vessels. Lowers levels of the stress hormone, cortisol. Laughter also has the following effects on specific […]
A stroke happens when there is a loss of blood flow to part of the brain. Then brain cells cannot get the oxygen and nutrients they need from blood, and they start to die within a few minutes. This can cause lasting brain damage, long-term disability, or even death. There are two types of strokes: […]
With cardiovascular disease (CVD) being the leading cause of death[1] in the United States, and obesity and physical inactivity being at epidemic proportions, there is a great need for novel strategies and interventions to reduce the risk of CVD. Accordingly, the benefits of pet ownership have received considerable attention from the Centers for Disease Control […]
Looking for a heart-healthy way to eat a balanced, flexible diet that requires no special foods? The DASH eating plan might be for you! DASH stands for Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension. Researchers developed it more than 20 years ago. It is an eating plan that is based on research sponsored by the National Heart, Lung, and […]
According to the United States Census Bureau, by the year 2030, the number of individuals in the United States 65 years and over will reach 70 million, and all baby boomers will be over 65. It is important to note that muscle mass decreases as we age. It is essential to work on increasing exercise […]
In August 2008, the American Diabetes Association conducted an online survey to find out what people really fear most. The survey findings showed that, among a rare list of occurrences. The respondents feared the following: • 16% of being in a plane crash • 13% snake bites • 5% being hit by lightning • 4% […]
As we age, it is important to take part in physical activity to stay healthy and independent. There are so many benefits of exercising, from protecting us from diseases to boosting our mood. The National Institutes of Health recommends these four types of exercise to maximize those benefits. Strength exercises – builds muscle, increases metabolism, […]
