BCR_Health Matters_031619

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Spring 2019

A publication of

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

The negative effects of stress on the human body Physical side effects

METRO NEWS SERVICE Stress affects people of all ages from all walks of life. Though work is a primary source of stress for many people, a recent survey from the American Psychological Association found that stress is more than just work-related. In its 2017 “Stress in America” survey, the APA found that the future of the nation, money, and violence and crime were significant sources of stress for more than half of survey participants. That’s a dangerous notion, as the Mayo Clinic notes that the effects of the stress on the human body are considerable. Though everyone experiences and responds to stress differently, these are some of the more common effects of stress, courtesy of the Mayo Clinic.

Stress affects more than the mind, manifesting itself physically in various ways. The Mayo Clinic reports that common physical side effects of stress include headache, muscle tension or pain, including chest pain, fatigue and a change in sex drive. Upset stomach also may be a byproduct of stress. People dealing with stress may even have trouble sleeping.

Behavioral side effects

Mental side effects Stress can have an adverse effect on mood and has even been linked to depression, which the World Health Organization reports is the leading cause of disability across the globe. People suffering from stress also may experience anxiety, restlessness and feelings of being overwhelmed.

Metro News Service

Coping strategies can be highly effective at alleviating stress and its negative side effects. Learn more about such strategies at www.stress.org. In addition, stress can compromise a person’s ability to focus, adversely affecting a person’s ability to complete their work-related tasks. That’s not

insignificant, as 61 percent of respondents in the 2017 “Stress in America” survey reported that work was a significant source of their stress.

Behavior also can be affected by stress, which may cause some people to abuse drugs or alcohol. Some may even turn to tobacco, either becoming a smoker or smoking more if they’re already smokers. Smoking has been linked to a host of negative physical side effects, including an increased risk of developing cancer. Angry outbursts, social withdrawal and overeating or undereating are some additional potential side effects of stress on the body. Coping strategies can be highly effective at alleviating stress and its negative side effects. Learn more about such strategies at www.stress.org.

AMERICAN OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY ASSOCIATION

How occupational therapy can help people live with arthritis METRO NEWS SERVICE Occupational therapy may sound like something exclusive to people who are injured on the job. Though occupational therapy helps people in the workplace every day, it also helps men and women, including those with arthritis, perform everyday activities that may or may not be work-related. Arthritis can take both a physical and financial toll. The Arthritis Foundation notes that it’s difficult to determine just how many people currently suffer from arthritis, as treatment often isn’t

sought until symptoms become severe. Conservative estimates from the AF suggest 54 million adults in the United States currently have arthritis, though the organization reports that a recent study suggested as many as 91 million might be dealing with this painful inflammation and stiffness of the joints. As if the pain from arthritis weren’t enough, the condition also can cause financial problems for those who cannot work or only work part-time, with annual medical costs and earnings loss estimates in the hundreds

of billions of dollars. Occupation therapy can help people with arthritis overcome their conditions. The American Occupational Therapy Association Inc. notes that most joints have the potential to develop arthritis, which can affect mobility, cause pain and even lead to deformity. However, the AOTA also states that OT practitioners aim to help people with arthritis maximize their ability to participate in activities like work or recreation while striving to help patients enhance their quality of life.

Because there are more than 100 different types of arthritis, men and women diagnosed with the condition can benefit greatly from individualized care. One-size-fits-all solutions may not work for arthritis sufferers, who can benefit from one-on-one interactions with OT practitioners. For example, the AOTA notes that OT practitioners may recommend personalized adaptive equipment to patients with arthritis who are experiencing pressure and discomfort in their hands when holding or working with objects.


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HEALTHY LIVING

METRO NEWS SERVICE In an ideal world, people young and old exercise each day. But as men and women age, finding time to work out is not so easy. Commitments to work and family often take precedence over daily exercise. As a result, many people 50 and over might not have exercised regularly or at all in many years. But as children grow up or even move out, people facing down their golden years are often compelled to get back in the gym. That’s a wise decision that can increase a person’s chances of being healthy and happy in retirement. But before beginning a new exercise regimen, men and women over 50 should take heed of the following safety tips to ensure their efforts are not derailed by accident or injury. • Speak with your physician. The National Institute on Aging notes that even people with chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes or arthritis can be physically active. However, anyone with such a condition and even those who don’t fall into those categories should consult

Exercising after 50 can help people live healthy well into retirement. But caution must be exercised when aging men and women return to exercise after a long break.

Metro News Service with their physicians and receive a full physical before exercising. Such a consultation and checkup can shed light on any unknown issues, and physicians can offer advice on how to safely manage any problems that may arise. • Begin with low-intensity exercises. Even if you feel great and have

maintained a healthy weight, don’t push yourself too hard at the start. Your body needs time to adjust to physical activity, so choose low-intensity exercises like walking and light strength training so your muscles, tendons and ligaments can adjust. Initially, exercise every other day so your body has ample time to

recover between workouts. • Choose the right places to exercise outdoors. Exercising outside provides the best of both worlds for many people, providing a chance to get healthy all while enjoying the great outdoors. When exercising outdoors, choose areas that are not remote and where others can see you and offer help if you suffer an injury or have an accident. Boardwalks, public parks and outdoor gyms are safer places to work out than wooded areas or other places well off the beaten path. • Stay hydrated. The NIA notes that many people lose their sense of thirst as they age. But just because you aren’t thirsty does not mean you don’t need water, especially while exercising. Water regulates body temperature and lubricates the joints, thereby decreasing your risk of injury during exercise. Exercising after 50 can help people live healthy well into retirement. But caution must be exercised when aging men and women return to exercise after a long break.

HEALTH MATTERS | Spring 2019

Exercise and aging: Working out safely after 50

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MENTAL HEALTH CONVERSATION Caring for your Mental Health is just as important as taking care of your physical health. Mental or emotional health refers to your overall psychological well-being. It includes the way you feel about yourself, the quality of your relationships and your ability to manage your feelings and deal with difficulties. Perry Memorial Hospital offers mental health services through the Perry Memorial Family Health Clinic and the Senior Behavioral Wellness program.

MEET ARIEL POZZI

Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Behavioral Health Therapist As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Ariel is trained to assess mental and emotional health in patients of all ages. Ariel also offers counseling for substance abuse and other addictions. So whether a person needs a brief course of focused treatment, or is in need of more intensive counseling, Ariel will work with patients to determine their needs and guide them to the most appropriate care. Schedule a mental health assessment by calling Ariel at the Perry Memorial Family Health Clinic Clinic, at 815-875-4531 815-875-4531.

MEET PERRY’S SENIOR BEHAVIORAL WELLNESS TEAM AM Dr. Scott Arbaugh (left)

Angie Hughes, LCPC, Program Director (right middle) Dave Roden, LCSW, Therapist (far right) Kris Menzel, LCPC, Therapist (right) HOW THE PROGRAM WORKS • Perry Memorial’s Senior Behavioral Wellness program develops an individualized unique plan of care. • Treatment can include a combination of group and/or individualized therapy and medication management. • Services are covered by Medicare-Primary and most supplemental insurance plans. • Transportation and lunch provided at no cost.

To inquire about Perry’s Senior Behavioral Wellness program, call Angie at 815-876-2004.


HEALTHY VISION

Amblyopia, color blindness just a few of the problems METRO NEWS SERVICE While a loss of visual acuity is often associated with senior citizens, various diseases and conditions of the eye can affect children. The American Academy of Opthalmology says many conditions and diseases can impact a child’s vision. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to improving a youngster’s eye health and helping him or her see and feel better. Learning about certain conditions and how to recognize their accompanying symptoms can help parents ensure kids get the treatment they need.

Amblyopia Often referred to as “lazy eye,” amblyopia may be characterized by reduced vision in an eye that has not received adequate use during early childhood. Amblyopia may result from misalignment of a child’s eyes or from one eye focusing better than the other. If left untreated, the weaker eye can continue to weaken until it is rendered useless. Sight in the affected eye can be restored if treatment is begun early, says Prevent Blindness America. Glasses, eye exercises or surgery may be prescribed to help fix the underlying causes of the condition.

Astigmatism Astigmatism is a condition wherein objects viewed at both a distance and close up can appear blurry. Experts say it occurs from the uneven curvature of the cornea or lens, which prevents rays of light from entering the eye and focusing on a single point on the retina, otherwise known as a refractive error. Prescription eyeglasses often fix astigmatism. All About Vision also says that refractive surgery may correct astigmatism.

Color blindness (color vision deficiency) The main symptom of color blindness is difficulty distinguishing between colors or making mistakes when identifying colors, particularly those shaded red and green. Typically by age 5, children with normal color vision will be able to identify

Metro News Service

Among the eye conditions that can affect children are amblyopia, often referred to as “lazy eye,” astigmatism, color blindness, pediatric glaucoma, strabismus, pink eye (conjunctivitis), diabetes-related eye problems and other refractive errors. Routine eye examinations can identify problems and get children the treatment they need. groups of colors, so if a school-aged child is having difficulty or showing disinterest in coloring, he or she may benefit from a colorblindness test. The National Eye Institute says color blindness is much more common in males than in females.

Pediatric glaucoma This rare condition, also known as congenital glaucoma, occurs in infants and young children. The Glaucoma Research Foundation says incorrect development of the eye’s drainage system before birth leads to increased intraocular pressure, which can damage the optic nerve. Enlarged eyes, corneal cloudiness and sensitivity to light can be symptoms. Medication and surgery are required in most cases.

Strabismus Strabismus is a condition of misaligned eyes. It occurs when the

eye muscles fail to work together and the eyes turn inward, outward, upward or downward. By the age of 3 to 4 months, an infant’s eyes should be able to focus and be straight and parallel. Parents should consult an eye care professional if they notice eye

alignment problems in their children. Pink eye (conjunctivitis), diabetes-related eye problems and other refractive errors also can occur in children. Routine eye examinations can identify problems and get children the treatment they need.

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HEALTH MATTERS | Spring 2019

Kids can be afflicted with several eye conditions

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PERSONAL HEALTH

Improve life expectancy by adopting healthy habits METRO NEWS SERVICE “Who Wants to Live Forever” is a song that appeared on the 1986 album “A Kind of Magic” by the rock band Queen. The song often sparks conversation about the potential benefits of immortality. Immortality may not be possible, but many people aspire to improve their chances to live a long and prosperous life. A study published in the journal Lancet analyzed data from the 2016 Global Burden of Diseases project to generate life expectancy predictions from 2017 to 2040 for most countries. The United States saw the largest decline in ranking among high-income countries, as life expectancies in the United States are projected to fall from 43rd in 2016 to 64th by 2040, with an average life expectancy of 79.8. Life expectancy in the U.S. has dropped in each of the past two years, according to annual reports by the National Center for Health Statistics. But there may be hope for Americans yet. Doctors and scientists continually study the lifestyles of people who outlive their life expectancies. While genetics can play a role, so can following healthy habits, which have been identified to promote longevity. • Don’t smoke. Many smokers have been told that smoking trims 10 years off their life expectancies, and that statement is corroborated by a study published in 2013 in The New England Journal of Medi-

cine that tracked participants over a span of several years. The good news is people who quit before the age of 35 can usually regain those lost years. • Avoid drug use. Accidental drug overdoses contributed to 63,600 deaths in the United States in 2016, according to the National Center for Health Statistics. Usage of prescription opioids and heroin has skyrocketed in recent years. Drug use also may exacerbate mental illnesses, potentially making drug users more vulnerable to suicide. • Maintain healthy body mass. Moderate to vigorous exercise regimens and diets loaded with healthy foods can keep weight in check. Maintaining a healthy weight has a host of positive side effects, including reduced risk of dying from cardiovascular disease. Cardiovascular disease is a leading killer in North America. According to the National Center for Health Statistics, nearly four in 10 adults and 18.5 percent of children in the United States are obese. • Limit alcohol consumption. Some evidence suggests that light drinking can be good for cardiovascular health. However, a paper published in the Lancet suggests every glass of wine or pint of beer over the daily recommended limit will cut half an hour from the expected lifespan of a 40-year-old. The paper says the risks are comparable to smoking. Simple, healthy lifestyle changes can help people increase their life expectancies.

Metro News Service

Simple, healthy lifestyle changes, such as starting to exercise regularly, can help people increase their life expectancies.

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ALZHEIMER’S AND DEMENTIA

METRO NEWS SERVICE Aging brings about many changes, including some that may compromise seniors’ ability to remain independent. In such instances, many families consider assisted living facilities for their aging relatives. More than 835,000 Americans currently reside in assisted living communities, according to the National Center for Assisted Living. While communities and homes provide various services, one service in particular may be needed for seniors with Alzheimer’s disease, other dementias or memory problems. Memory care units are separate facilities that cater to people with dementia or other memory issues. According to the senior residence referral and resource guide A Place for Mom, memory care is a distinct form of long-term skilled nursing. Also called special care units, memory care facilities provide 24-hour supervised care for individuals. This care is often carried out in a separate wing or floor of a residential facility or community. Memory care facilities aim to provide a safe and secure environment for residents. This means limiting entry or egress to other areas of the facility for those who may have trouble navigating and remembering where they started out. The Alzheimer’s Association notes that six in 10 people with dementia will wander and

become disoriented. This is dangerous for the individual and others. Memory care units often have alarms and “wander guard” precautions in place to make sure residents cannot roam unsupervised and risk injury. Another goal of memory care is to provide a stress-free, structured lifestyle that has set schedules and routines, states Brookdale Senior Living. This can help keep distress minimal and make for more comfortable and happy residents. In addition, memory care units offer programs that help slow the progression of dementias and cultivate cognitive skills. Fitness exercises, games, specialty food programs, activities and much more may be offered to make residents more comfortable. Memory care facilities include common spaces for socialization, meals and activities. “Alzheimer’s patients must maintain their activity, walking, interacting with music, and art,” says Lory Bright-Long, M.D., C.M.D., of the American Medical Directors Association. “We have to awaken the senses so that the memory can have a hook. This is accomplished in the memory care setting.” It is important for those considering assisted living and nursing home facilities to inquire about specific memory care units if a loved one requires this environment.

Metro News Service

It is important for those considering assisted living and nursing home facilities to inquire about specific memory care units if a loved one requires this environment.

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HEALTH MATTERS | Spring 2019

Memory care a component of assisted living

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