Vitamin D supplements significantly reduce risk of falls in elderly

Vitamin D supplements significantly reduce risk of falls in elderly.

Falls are one of the leading reasons I see the elderly move into assisted living.  I see it too often where a family’s loved one has been living on their own and independently, has a fall and ends up in the hospital and rehab.  Then they are told they cannot go back home but need to move to assisted living.  This is a very traumatic experience.  If a daily supplement of Vitamin D can help prevent this, why not?    ~ Becky

Patients Respond To Aquariums

I have a 100 gallon saltwater aquarium that I have professionally cleaned once a month.  Last week while the guys were here, I had an interesting discussion with them regarding aquariums in assisted living communities.  I have noticed that the many of the nicer communities all have salt water aquariums and my guys maintain many of them.  They told me that they have done some research on the subject and learned that it is believed that aquariums are a benefit to those suffering from Alzheimer’s Disease or other dementias.  Based on this discussion, I did some research of my own and found this interesting article…  ~ Becky

Patients Respond To Aquariums
by Nancy E. Edwards and Alan M. Beck

 

 

 

Senior Weightlifting Wonder

We’ve all had those excuses for the weight creeping up and the mysterious aches and pains that keep us from working out as we get older.  Well, for me, those excuses are stopping today.  Take a look at this senior wonder!  I know I’ll be spending a little more time on my exercise program knowing that there is a chance I could be as fit as her at 72.  You go, girl!    ~ Becky

Seniors Get Fit With SilverSneakers Program

We all know the importance of getting in shape and staying fit.  Everywhere we turn, we are being reminded of how our nation is heavier and less fit than ever before and the physical problems that can occur because of it.  However, our mental health is suffering as well.  People who maintain a healthy weight have a lower risk of dementia compared with those who are underweight or obese, according to a study by researchers at Johns Hopkins University and the University of Iowa.  With Alzheimer’s disease and other related dementias reaching epidemic proportions, exercise and a healthy diet should be a priority for all.

Silver Sneakers is a fun, energizing program that helps older adults take greater control of their health by encouraging physical activity and offering social events.

Unlock the door to greater independence and a healthier life with SilverSneakers. Health plans around the country offer our award-winning program to people who are eligible for Medicare or to group retirees. SilverSneakers provides a fitness center membership to any participating location across the country. This great benefit includes:

• access to conditioning classes, exercise equipment, pool, sauna and other available amenities
• customized SilverSneakers classes designed exclusively for older adults who want to improve their strength, flexibility, balance and endurance
• health education seminars and other events that promote the benefits of a healthy lifestyle
• a specially trained Senior Advisor^SM at the fitness center to introduce you to SilverSneakers and help you get started
• member-only access to online support that can help you lose weight, quit smoking or reduce your stress
• SilverSneakers Steps for members without convenient access to a location

I would recommend Silver Sneakers to any older adult that wants to take control and maintain their health for as long as possible.    ~ Becky

Nutrition and Senior Citizens

I have long believed that seniors don’t always follow a sound diet or get the nutrition that they need in order to maintain their health.  This has been confirmed over and over again based on my experiences of placing seniors in assisted living and seeing how their overall mental and physical health can improve once they start eating a balanced diet at regular intervals.  I have seen insulin dependent diabetics go off the insulin after a few months at a care facility, I have seen residents that came out of rehabilitation and weren’t expected to live for more than a month turn around and get stronger, and I have seen residents improve to the point that they could return home if they so chose to do so.  These are just a few examples of what a proper diet and proper nutrition can do.  The following video is interesting proof to my theory that seniors aren’t getting what they need even if they look healthy.  ~ Becky