Healt h & Wellness
The B enefits of C hiropractic C are
Chiropractic care is a form of complementary medicine in which a licenced chiropractic doctor uses his or her hands as well as certain machinery to manipulate joints in the body.
Subluxation is a term used in chiropractic medicine that refers to the misalignment of vertebrae or joints. Subluxation can occur from injury, repetitive motion or certain medical issues, says Verywell Health. When joints do not work properly, range of motion can be compromised and chronic pain may present in the joint or elsewhere in the body.
Chiropractic care can be instrumental in helping a person feel better without having to take pain medications. Chiropractors can treat musculoskeletal pain anywhere in the body, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Adjustments can gently realign joints to decrease pain and increase range of motion. Soft-tissue therapy may be used to relax tight muscles and relieve spasms. A chiropractor also may be able to advise as to exercises and stretches that can maintain joint stability and mobility.
Chiropractic treatment also may decrease tension and boost blood circulation, which could help
reduce stressful feelings in the body. Similarly, such treatment may alleviate tension headaches and migraines by realigning the joints in the neck and back that may be contributing to the headaches. Healthline reports a possible reduction of osteoarthritis symptoms from chiropractic care as well. When joints are properly aligned, it will reduce how much bones rub together.
One of the more profound benefits of chiropractic adjustment is the potential to reduce reliance on opioid drugs prescribed to relieve pain. Because of the efficacy of opioids, people can easily find themselves addicted to them. When their prescriptions are up, they may turn to illegal opioids to chase the pain relief and high they have grown accustomed to. The National Institute on Drug Abuse says more than 106,000 drug overdoses deaths were reported in 2021, and synthetic opioid deaths (primarily fentanyl) continue to rise, advises the NIDA.
Chiropractic care can help people live fuller lives without pain. Individuals with remaining questions can speak with their doctors about chiropractic medicine.
Find Relief With Proper Foot Care
Many people lament having tired, achy feet. That’s especially so among women who routinely squeeze into uncomfortable shoes in the name of fashion.
Feet carry the weight of the entire body while a person is upright. That can mean hours of enduring pressure from walking or standing.
The Pedorthic Association of Canada says that, when a person stands, the same muscles in the feet fire repeatedly as the pressure on them remains constant. This differs from when one walks about and the pressure shifts to and from different areas of the foot so the same muscles aren’t working all the time. That is why feet may not ache as much after walking as they do after long periods of standing still.
These factors may be exacerbated by wearing uncomfortable shoes or high heels. Heels position the foot to point the toes downwards, which can put stress on the balls of the feet and also on the toes. Stress fractures of the metatarsal bones can occur if the strain is great enough. Pain also may extend into the knees and lower back.
These foot-pampering steps can help women take care of their feet.
• Wear supportive shoes. Podiatrists state that foot and heel pain is a common byproduct of plantar fasciitis, which is a stabbing pain felt under the soft part of the foot and around the heel. Proper arch support can relieve such pain. Supportive shoes or custom insoles can provide ample support to the arches.
• Stretch your feet. Regularly stretching the feet or practicing yoga can help alleviate tight muscles in the feet and around the ankles that can contribute to discomfort.
• Skip the flip-flops. We know that flip-flops are the ultimate warm-weather footwear, but the lack of support such footwear offers can lead to pain. Furthermore, trying to keep the flip-flops on by “toe scrunching” can trigger tendinitis, offers the custom shoe insole company Wiivv. Opt for more supportive and secure sandals.
• Soak and massage feet. Epsom salt soaks are great for dealing with muscle aches and reducing inflammation. After the soak, rub on an essential oil moisturizer and either massage your feet or ask a partner to do so. Don a pair of cotton socks to let the oils penetrate and moisturize the feet.
• Don’t walk barefoot. Walking barefoot on hard surfaces, even indoors at home, can lead the
foot to collapse. This can lead to a tremendous amount of stress on the foot and the rest of the body, advises Dr. Miguel Cunha, a podiatrist and the founder of Gotham Footcare in New York. Going barefoot also exposes the feet to bacteria and fungi that can infect the skin.
Women who are concerned about the health of their feet and any feelings of discomfort in their feet should speak with a podiatrist.
Are you noticing your feet constantly aching? It may be time to see a podiatrist. Give Jonathan Kletz, D.P.M at Texas Foot Works a call at (903) 887-4341 or (903) 677-9090.
Best ways to find relief in your feet...
· Choose comfortable & supportive shoes.
· Get the right fit.
· Compression socks.
· Alternate footwear.
· Skip the flip-flops.
· Stretch your feet.
· Get a massage.
C
The Role of a Home Health Aide
aregivers come from all walks of life. Doctors and nurses may be the frontline medical providers people encounter most frequently, but there are plenty of others who do their part to maintain the well-being of individuals, including home health aides.
Home health aides, sometimes called personal care aides, are brought in to assist a person with activities of daily life. An HHA typically helps a person who may need some assistance with tasks they cannot perform due to illness or disability.
HHAs may work in a person’s home, in a group home or in another care facility.
AARP says home health aides are considered health care paraprofessionals and must meet established training requirements, which vary by location.
HHAs may perform various duties, including:
• assistance with personal care, such as dressing, toileting, feeding, and moving from bed to chair, etc.
• checking vital signs
• monitoring a client
• light housekeeping
• meal planning and cooking
• picking up prescriptions
• companionship
HHAs typically will not provide skilled nursing care and may not be able to offer recommendations on treatment or medications.
Individuals can find the services of HHAs who may work independently or are placed through agencies. Sometimes a doctor or hospital will have connections to HHA services and can make referrals. It can be useful to interview several potential HHAs to find one who will fit with the needs and personality of the person requiring assistance. A good HHA will be compassionate, patient and flexible. As illness or injury also can affect a person’s mood, HHAs must be able to adjust if a client is reluctant to receive help or is depressed or anxious from his or her limitations.
Home health aides serve vital roles in the health care community by providing care and companionship to those who can no longer live independently.
Dr. Carla Russo PhD., ND,
MSc., RYT
In her own words...
“I see the inherent goodness, resilience and wholeness in each individual I work with. I know that when people are allowed to express their unique significance and gifts in the most joyful, passionate and fulfilling way, they achieve ever-expanding success and prosperity in all areas of their lives.
When individuals act from a unique sense of purpose, fueled by passion, I see them collaborating with others in mutually respectful and loving relationships to artfully create a world of magnificent abundance. I see them creating resilient and sustainable passionbased families, businesses and communities around the globe.
As a Quantum Transformational Life Coach, I believe we must live in our truth and integrity, connect from our hearts and use tools that will move us from obstacles to a new framework of abundance and success.
Following my passions allows me to follow my heart always and in all ways. Now it’s your turn!”
– Dr. Carla Russo, PhD., ND, MSc., RYT
Dr. Russo is a Quantum Transformational Life Coach who incorporates Integrative & Functional Wellness in her sessions for individuals as well as teams. Dr. Russo holds a PhD., is a Professor of Integrative & Functional Wellness with an emphasis on Holistic Nutrition and Health Sciences, a Board Certified Naturopathic Doctor (ND), holds a Master of Science in Clinical Nutrition, holds a sub-specialty certification in Human Behavior, is a Certified Addiction & Recovery Life Coach, is trained in MBSR, and is a Registered Yoga Instructor specializing in Therapeutic and Rehabilitative technique.
Well sought out and highly respected expert in her field. As a life coach and keynote speaker, Dr. Russo has co-chaired and been an organizing committee member to various conferences around the globe. She has been invited to speak at prestigious universities such as Harvard and University of Texas.
Dr. Russo’s research in servant leadership led her to discover the core principles that are fundamental to the creation of high-performing enlightened individuals and teams. Through coaching and speaking, she helps individuals and groups recognize that enlightened and enlivened mindset and teamwork accelerate their path to greater success, contribution, and purposeful fulfillment.
Impacts her clients and audience-at-large with an educational emphasis on the power of positive thinking and mindset cultivating mindfulness in everyday living. She pairs western and eastern scientific philosophies and practices with essential holistic wellness practices to improve overall wellbeing emotionally and physically.
Get kids on a healthy track
Childhood obesity is a serious medical issue affecting children around the world, but notably in North America.
Being less physically active, overweight and eating the wrong foods can start children on a path toward problems that once were only considered conditions of adulthood, namely hypertension, diabetes and high cholesterol, offers the Mayo Clinic. To reverse course, parents, guardians and educators can focus on helping children become more physically fit. The following are a few ways to do so.
• Encourage participation in sports or other physical activities. Sports practices, games, competitions, and other activities may keep children moving for an hour or more several days per week. However, the American Academy of Pediatrics states that only 25 percent of children get the recommended 60 minutes of physical activity per day. Emphasize a fun activity with a focus on movement that produces shortness of breath, body warmth and sweat. These are indicators that the heart rate is really pumping.
• Use exercise as a reward and not a punishment. Make exercise something kids can look forward to. Reward a job well done on a test
with extra time biking with friends or a hiking trip to a scenic national park,. Kids will be begin to associate exercise with fun.
• Offer a variety of foods. Kids who eat a variety of foods are more likely to get the nutrients the body needs, according to Kids Health¨ by Nemours. These healthy foods should include at least five servings of fruits and vegetables a day, with an emphasis on vegetables.
• Limit screen time. Children may be inclined to entertain themselves by heading for the television, mobile phone or tablet first, especially after a year-plus of being stuck indoors. But parents can make a concerted effort to limit kids’ screen time in favor of more physically challenging pursuits.
• Teach healthy eating habits. Teach children that weight loss is accomplished when more calories are burned than consumed. Pay attention to portion sizes and explain how beverages like fruit juices can be sneaky sources of extra calories.
Children may need a little extra help getting fit Teaching healthy habits now can help kids enjoy healthy futures.
What To Do About Wellness After 50
Reaching one’s fiftieth birthday in optimal health is an accomplishment to be proud of. The hard work required to be healthy in midlife includes adhering to a nutritious diet and exercising regularly. Once individuals cross the threshold and enter their 50s, they can look to some additional strategies to maintain their physical and mental well-being for decades to come.
• Get a pet. Many people 50 and older qualify as ‘empty nesters,’ a term applied to adults whose children have grown up and moved out of their homes. Some empty nesters experience a phenomenon known as Òempty nest syndrome,Ó which the Mayo Clinic notes can be marked by feelings of sadness or loss. Pets can help people over 50 with no children at home overcome feelings linked to empty nest syndrome. In 2018, the University of Michigan National Poll on Healthy Aging found that 86 percent of pet owners felt their pets make them feel loved while 73 percent said their pets provided a sense of purpose. Pets also can ensure individuals over 50 stay physically active and provide opportunities to connect with other people.
• Prioritize learning. Whether it’s taking music lessons, going back to school or mastering a new hobby, learning has a profound effect on aging brains. For example, a 2013 study published in the journal Psychological Science found that memory function is improved by engagement in demanding everyday tasks. That study reported that people who learned new skills experienced
greater memory improvement than people who only socialized or participated in activities that were not as cognitively engaging.
• Make an effort to improve balance. Various factors contribute to a decline in balance as adults age. For example, a decline in muscle mass that begins when people are in their 30s is a normal part of aging. Over time, that natural decline affects strength and agility. Balance exercises can be a valuable component of a fitness regimen that help individuals reduce their risk for falling as they advance through their 50s and into their 60s and 70s. That’s a significant benefit, as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that one out of every three adults age 65 and older experiences a fall each year, and as many as 30 percent of those falls lead to serious injury.
• Embrace your inner socialite. Socialization is important for people of all ages, including individuals 50 and over. A 2017 study from researchers at Michigan State found that valuing friendships was a strong predictor of health and happiness among older adults. Opportunities to socialize with friends may increase as people navigate their 50s and children move out or become more independent. Individuals can take advantage of opportunities to socialize whenever possible.
Various strategies can help people maintain mental and physical wellness as they make their way through their 50s and beyond.
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Daily dental hygiene tips for optimal oral health
D
ental health is an important component of daily life. Although clean teeth and gums make for a healthy mouth, oral health also is tied to general health throughout the body. Guardian Insurance indicates that, if left unaddressed, bacteria in the mouth can multiply and spread elsewhere through the bloodstream. Gum disease has been linked to diabetes, respiratory ailments, heart disease, and even Alzheimer’s disease. As a result, it is essential to maintain proper dental hygiene.
Best practices for maintaining healthy teeth and gums involve various techniques. Here’s how to brush up on maintaining a healthy mouth.
Brush at least twice per day
Utilizing toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush, be sure to brush teeth each morning and night. Be sure to brush all tooth surfaces, including the backs and the sides. Brushing after every meal also can be done to keep teeth even cleaner.
Brush correctly
Position the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle toward the gums. This will help sweep away plaque and bacteria at the gum line, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Do not use a medium- or hard-bristled brush, which can damage the gums
and tooth enamel. Move the toothbrush in gentle, circular motions to remove plaque. Don’t neglect your tongue
Bacteria also can build up on the tongue, leading to bad mouth odor and additional oral health problems. Gently brush the tongue along with the teeth.
Use toothpaste with fluoride
Fluoride has come under scrutiny due to its potential effects on overall health. However, fluoride is a leading defender against tooth decay. It fights the germs that can lead to decay and provides a barrier for the teeth.
Use an antibacterial mouthwash
Use an antibacterial mouthwash each day to help reduce oral bacteria. This helps wash away food and debris, and also can help reduce the buildup of plaque.
Avoid smoking and tobacco
Smoking is a leading cause of gum disease and oral cancer. Quit smoking and do not use other tobacco products to improve mouth health. Oral health is vital to overall health. Daily attention can improve tooth and gum health.
Fall and Winter Skincare Tips
As summer transitions to fall, many changes take place. In addition to changing landscapes, men and women may need to adapt their health and wellness habits to ensure that they stay healthy and happy. Part of that daily regimen includes how to care for skin as the seasons change.
Just as skin requires certain protection from the sun and heat in the summer, skin has special needs in the fall and winter. Fall and winter are often characterized by cold, dry weather, which can make these times of year particularly challenging for people with dry or sensitive skin. These tips can help people maintain their skin’s appearance and health.
• Don’t skip the sunscreen. Sunscreen is not a summer-only requirement. UV rays can damage the skin any time of year, even if the rays are not as strong as during the summer. UV radiation accelerates and increases the risk of skin cancer. It also can lead to premature aging. Utilize a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day.
• Invest in a humidifier. Dry, cold temperatures can rob the skin of essential moisture, even indoors. Dermatologists suggest using a humidifier
at home to boost the amount of moisture in the air. This can make skin more comfortable and can have other health benefits as well.
• Skip hot showers. It can be tempting to sit under a hot stream of water to warm up. However, hot water dries out the skin by depleting its stores of natural oils, says Glacier Med Spa. Take warm showers instead and don’t stay in for longer than 15 minutes.
• Limit exfoliation. While exfoliation can remove dead skin, overdoing it can make already sensitive skin more raw. Increase the time between exfoliation treatments. Consult with a dermatologist for more advice about dealing with flaky skin.
• Don’t forget your lips. Using a thicker moisturizer on the body and face can help add and retain moisture. But pay attention to your lips and eyes as well. Something as simple as petroleum jelly on the lips can help prevent chapping. Invest in a quality eye cream to help the delicate skin around the eyes as well.
Modifications must be made to skincare routines in anticipation of seasonal weather changes.
How to protect your hearing over the long haul
Hearing loss is often seen as an inevitable part of aging. However, data from the National Institutes of Health indicates one in two people over the age of 85 has hearing loss, which suggests half of all individuals in that age bracket have no such issue. That should be encouraging to individuals concerned by the prospect of losing their hearing in their golden years.
The American Academy of Audiology notes that age-related hearing loss is known as presbycusis. Presbycusis can develop due to a combination of variables, including changes to blood flow and the structures of the inner ear as the body ages and shifts in how the brain processes speech and sounds. Certain medications and medical issues, including diabetes and poor circulation, also can exacerbate age-related hearing loss.
Though some hearing loss as individuals grow older may be related to age, Father Time cannot bear all the blame when individuals begin to lose their hearing. In fact, the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, using data from the 2015-2020 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, notes that roughly 5 percent of adults between the ages of 45 and 54 have disabling hearing loss. Such losses are unlikely to be a byproduct of aging, and more likely indicative that individual behaviors can affect the degree to which a person loses or maintains his or her hearing.
Preventive health care is vital to protecting the body long-term, and such maintenance can include steps to safeguard hearing over the long haul. The Hearing Health Foundation notes the following are some simple ways individuals can protect their
hearing in the years to come.
Keep the volume down. The HHF advises individuals listen to personal audio devices at 50 to 60 percent of maximum audio level. Some smartphones are pre-programmed to alert users when they attempt to exceed these levels, and users are urged to heed these warnings when adjusting the volume on their devices.
Lower the volume the longer you listen. Prolonged listening at high volumes can be especially harmful to hearing, even if users are listening at 50 to 60 percent of the maximum audio level. If you intend to listen for a long period of time, lower the volume even further.
Take listening breaks. The HHF recommends routine listening breaks from personal audio devices. Individuals who listen to personal devices throughout a workday are urged to take breaks at least once every hour.
Wear over-the-ear headphones. The HHF recommends individuals choose over-the-ear, noise-cancelling headphones over earbuds. Overthe-ear headphones are more effective at creating a seal that blocks out ambient sounds, which means users are less likely to turn up the volume on their headphones than they might be when using earbuds.
Routine hearing examinations are an effective way to monitor hearing, and individuals are urged to make them part of their preventive health care regimen. When measures are taken to protect long-term hearing, individuals may find it easier to manage age-related hearing loss if they experience it.
How Exercise Builds A Stronger Heart
The benefits of physical activity are welldocumented. Adults may be reminded of the shortand long-term benefits of exercise when visiting their physicians for annual well visits or to treat an illness. Though exercise is often viewed as a means to losing weight, it’s equally important for people of all ages to recognize the many other ways physical activity benefits the body, including its role in heart health.
The World Health Organization reports that cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading causes of death across the globe. A host of variables can lead to a CVD diagnosis, and a sedentary lifestyle is among them. By including exercise in their daily routines, individuals can build a stronger heart that benefits their bodies in myriad ways.
Exercise, the heart and lung function
The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute notes that regular moderate- and vigorous-intensity physical activity strengthens the heart muscle. A stronger heart is more capable of pumping blood to the lungs, which the NHLBI notes ensures a stronger blood flow to the muscles.
Exercise and blood oxygen levels
Exercise helps to increase oxygen levels in the blood by improving the ability of the heart to pump blood not only to the lungs, but throughout the body. That’s a notable benefit, as the Cleveland Clinic notes hypoxia, a condition marked by low
blood oxygen levels, can lead to adverse health conditions, such as damage to individual organ systems, including the brain.
Exercise and coronary heart disease
Coronary heart disease is a condition marked by the buildup of plaque in the coronary arteries, which the NHLBI notes supply the heart muscle with oxygen-rich blood. Moderate- and vigorousintensity aerobic activity has been linked to a lower risk for coronary heart disease because it can help people lower their blood pressure; reduce a type of fat in the blood known as triglycerides; increase ÒgoodÓ cholesterol levels; help the body manage its blood sugar and insulin levels; and reduce levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), which is a sign of inflammation associated with a higher risk of heart disease.
These are just a handful of the ways that exercise can help individuals build a stronger heart. Individuals who have already been diagnosed with heart disease and have lived a largely sedentary lifestyle are urged to speak with their physicians about safe ways to incorporate exercise into their daily routines. Vigorous aerobic activity may not be safe for people who have heart disease, so anyone in that situation should not simply begin exercising on their own.
A healthy heart is a building block of a long life. More information about exercise and heart health can be found at nhlbi.nih.gov.
What People Can Do To Prevent Stroke
Stroke has been described as a "brain attack." Stroke occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain becomes blocked or when a blood vessel in the brain breaks, which can damage or kill brain cells. The Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion says stroke is a leading cause of death and long-term disability in adults. It also can cause irreversible damage to the brain.
Individuals who experience stroke may end up with memory problems or experience difficulty thinking or forming words. Mobility issues like difficulty walking or paralysis and weakness may occur. Some individuals also may experience incontinence and other issues resulting from neurological damage.
Although stroke can come out of the blue and is not always preventable, there are several steps people can take to help reduce their risk for stroke.
• Reduce blood pressure numbers. High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a significant risk factor for stroke, says Harvard Health. Doctors may advise patients to work to lower blood pressure to between 140/90 to 120/80.
• Work to lower BMI. Overweight or obesity increases risk for stroke, says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
• Exercise more often. Routine physical activity can not only help a person lose weight, but also lower cholesterol and blood pressure levels - all of which are risk factors for stroke. The U.S. Surgeon General recommends individuals get a minimum of two hours and 20 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week.
• Get a cholesterol check. High cholesterol can increase risk of stroke, which makes routine cholesterol checks important.
• Drink only in moderation. Individuals should reduce their alcohol intake, with one drink or less for women and two drinks or less for men per day.
• Treat heart disease. Do not delay medical treatment for heart disease. Heart conditions like coronary artery disease or atrial fibrillation should be addressed promptly to prevent stroke.
Stroke is a serious medical condition that can leave a person debilitated. That is why it is key to reduce risk of stroke throughout one's life.
Paul Guttuso, M.D.
BRecreational sports that make for a great workout
illions of people across the globe share a passion for sports. Whether it’s youngsters playing on sandlots, adolescents competing in scholastic sports or even professional athletes locking horns at the highest level, there’s no denying that sports appeals to people of all ages.
The thrill of competition undoubtedly compels many athletes to engage in sports, but playing a sport also makes for great exercise. That’s even the case for various recreational sports, which many athletes look to after their more formal playing days have ended. In fact, the following recreational sports are not only fun, but also make for a great workout.
Pickleball
Perhaps no recreational sport has enjoyed a surge popularity as significant as pickleball in recent years. The 2023 Topline Participation Report from the Sports & Fitness Industry Association indicates participation in pickleball grew by 159 percent between 2019 and 2022. Pickleball is something of a hybrid sport that combines elements of tennis and ping-pong to form a fun activity that’s also great exercise. An ongoing examination of pickleball by Apple has found that participation in the sports helps players reach moderate to vigorous heart rate zones, which cardiologists note can improve cardiac fitness. In addition, a 2023 study published in the journal Frontiers in Psychology found that pickleball players enjoyed significant improvements in happiness, life satisfaction and personal wellbeing after taking up the sport.
Basketball
Basketball is among the more accessible recreational sports, as it’s not uncommon for players to find a pickup game at their local park on a nice spring or summer afternoon or evening. Basketball combines various components of a great workout, including cardiovascular exercise, coordination and balance and weight-bearing activity. A 2018 study published in the Journal of Sport and Health Science found that both half-court and full-court basketball helped to increase lean body mass, bone mineral density and oxygen uptake, each of which helps to make recreational basketball a great way for players to improve their overall health.
Golf
The serene setting of a typical golf course can make it easy to see the sport as fun but not necessarily a great workout. But that’s a misconception, as a round of 18 can make for great exercise. A 2016 study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine noted that golf can be a useful ally in the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases such as heart attack, stroke, certain cancers, and diabetes, among other conditions. Walking the course, as opposed to renting a cart during a round, makes for excellent cardiovascular exercise as well.
Athletes may embrace recreational sports for fun, but these physical activities also can make for a great workout.
Tips To Find A Home Health Aide
A desire to live independently seems to be part of human nature. Though that desire may continue to burn as individuals approach retirement age, unforeseen circumstances like medical issues or the death of a partner may result in a need to work with a professional caregiver.
Home health aides (HHAs) can help aging individuals or those with certain physical or cognitive limitations live full lives without requiring them to move into assisted living facilities or seek alternative housing arrangements. HHAs provide a host of services, and individuals living in well-populated areas may have no shortage of options as they seek to hire a professional to help themselves or a loved one with the tasks of daily life. Individuals or families beginning their search for a home health aide can keep these tips in mind.
• Identify the services required. The Family Caregiver Alliance¨ notes there are several main areas to assess when identifying which services individuals may need help with. Personal care consists of bathing, eating, dressing, toileting, and grooming. Household care involves cooking, cleaning, laundry, and shopping. HHAs who provide medical care may help clients manage medications,
provide physical therapy and help clients get to their doctor’s appointments. Companionship is a component of emotional care, which also may entail engaging clients in meaningful activities and conversation. Identifying the services required can help individuals and their families zero in on the professionals who can help them.
• Seek recommendations from trusted doctors and confidantes. An individual who needs daily assistance at home can ask his or her physician for recommendations (family members can ask as well). Physicians undoubtedly have had previous patients who have benefited from the services of HHAs, so they can likely recommend local professionals.
• Contact a local agency. The FCA notes that contacting a local Home Care Agency is a formal way to find an HHA for yourself or a loved one. Contacting a local Home Care Agency can put individuals and their families in contact with professionals who can help match people with particular needs with HHAs who specialize in such care or have extensive experience providing a range of home care services.
Hundreds of millions of people across the globe rely on medications for their survival. In fact, the percentage of people using prescription medications may surprise people who work outside the health care industry.
According to the National Center for Health Statistics’ National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2015-16, nearly 46 percent of the population of the United States used prescription drugs in 2015-16. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that prescription drug use is similar in Canada, where the Canadian Health Measures Survey found that roughly two-thirds of adults between the ages of 40 and 79 used at least one prescription drug in a 30-day period.
Prescription drugs may be vital to many people’s survival, but they also can prove deadly if mismanaged. That’s especially true for people taking more than one medication. Taking multiple medications each day may be necessary, but it’s equally necessary that people taking more than one medication every day take steps to avoid drug interactions.
• Discuss all medications with each of your doctors. Primary care physicians and specialists should be kept in the loop regarding which medications their patients are taking. Patients should never assume their doctors know every medication they’re taking. When prescribed a new medication, mention to your prescribing doctor what else you are taking. Include prescription
How to avoid drug interactions
medications but also over-the-counter, or OTC, drugs, supplements and even vitamins. Use a notes app on your smartphone to create a running list of your medications so you can easily access it during doctor’s appointments.
• Read all labels. Prescription drugs and OTC medications list potential side effects in different ways. Each prescription medication comes with a lengthy list of potential side effects, while OTC labels cite potential side effects in the ‘Warnings’ section on their labels. Familiarize yourself with all potential side effects of a given medication prior to taking it. Err on the side of caution and wait to speak with your physician before taking an OTC medication you’re unfamiliar with.
• Order all prescriptions from the same pharmacy. Ordering all prescriptions from the same pharmacy makes it easy to access all prescriptions. Pharmacists can look up all prescriptions and crosscheck interactions that may result from taking certain medications at the same time. This safety net can be useful and convenient.
• Utilize online resources. The Drug Interactions checker at www.drugs.com/drug_interactions.html is a convenient way to learn about the potential interactions that can result when taking more than one medication or even mixing it with certain foods or beverages.
Drug interactions can be deadly, which only underscores the importance of being careful when taking more than one medication at a time.
Potential dangers of mixing herbal and prescription meds
Medications improve the lives of billions of people across the globe every day. Without access to medication, millions may die while countless others would experience a dramatic decline in their quality of life.
Though there’s no denying the positive effects of medication, the efficacy of herbal supplements and prescription drugs does not mean each are risk-free. Risks may even be compounded when individuals take herbal supplements and prescription medications concurrently. According to the Mayo Clinic, herbal supplements do not always interact well with prescription medications. For example, herbal supplements can interact with medicines utilized to treat issues affected the heart and blood vessels. That includes conditions like high blood pressure.
Mixing medications has always been risky, but a growing reliance on herbal medicines has potentially elevated that risk. That’s perhaps due to perceptions of herbal supplements as wholly
natural, leading some to conclude that a substance that’s wholly natural cannot jeopardize the human body. However, an analysis published in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology detailed more than a dozen instances of adverse drug reactions affecting individuals who took herbal medicines alongside various prescription medications.
The potential dangers of mixing herbal and prescription medications underscore the need to engage in honest and open discussions with a physician before taking any herbal or prescription medications. Individuals currently taking a prescription medication should consult with their physician before taking any herbal supplements, while those who take herbal medicines and supplements should bring that up with their physicians if they are prescribed a new medication.
MABANK FAMILY PHARMACY
Amassage may be seen as the ideal way to unwind at the end of a long week. However, massages provide more than just a relaxing way to cap off a hectic week. According to the Mayo Clinic, massage is a component of integrative medicine that is increasingly being offered along with standard treatments for a host of medical conditions and situations. Massage has long been associated with helping to reduce stress, pain, muscle soreness, and tension. And massage also can help improve circulation and lower heart rate and blood pressure.
However, various studies also have suggested massage can be utilized to treat a range of additional conditions, including anxiety, headaches, fibromyalgia, and nerve pain. The Mayo Clinic notes that more study is needed to confirm the benefits of massage for treating such conditions, but massage can remain a beneficial component of wellness regimens.
The good, the bad and the confusing about cholesterol
Cholesterol can be a complicated subject that many people might admit they do not fully understand.
Most people have been taught that cholesterol is a bad thing. And for a while it was thought that dietary cholesterol, which is the cholesterol found in food, had a big impact on raising cholesterol in the blood. However, Healthline reports that more recent science indicates this is not the case for most people. Is it any wonder that cholesterol is still a mystery to so many?
hardening of the blood vessels.
Dietary cholesterol vs. blood cholesterol
The amount of cholesterol in the blood and the amount in one’s diet are two different things. Typically, eating foods that contain cholesterol
What is cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a fat-like, waxy substance that occurs naturally in the body. Although widely believed to be harmful, cholesterol is actually necessary for the body to function. Healthline says the body needs it to make hormones and vitamin D, and cholesterol contributes to the membrane structure of every cell in the body.
What are lipoproteins?
When people talk about heart health and cholesterol, they’re really speaking about lipoproteins and not about cholesterol itself. Lipoproteins are structures that carry cholesterol through the blood. There are two main types of lipoproteins: high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL). HDL is typically called the ‘good’ cholesterol, because it moves extra cholesterol from the bloodstream to the liver where it is cleaned out, says the Cleveland Clinic. LDL is the ‘bad’ cholesterol because, when amounts of it are excessive, that contributes to plaque buildup in the arteries. You need some LDL to carry cholesterol to the body’s cells, but having too much can be troublesome. HDL carries some LDL away from the arteries but other steps are needed to lower HDL. Another lipid in the blood includes triglyceride, which is a type of fat. High levels of triglycerides also can put a person at risk for heart issues, including atherosclerosis, which is a
does not directly correspond to an elevated blood cholesterol level. Blood cholesterol is mainly determined by the amount of fats and carbohydrates in the diet, as well as genetics. Some people are simply genetically prone to high cholesterol levels. Even for people whose blood cholesterol is affected by dietary cholesterol (hyperresponders), research shows dietary cholesterol only moderately increases LDL, and in these cases it does not seem to increase their risk of heart disease, offers Healthline.
How to maintain good cholesterol health?
According to Piedmont Healthcare, there are ways to control cholesterol and lipoproteins so they are beneficial to the body.
• Choose foods lower in saturated fat and be mindful of foods that can impact blood sugar levels.
• Quit smoking
• Reduce stress levels, which may help you avoid eating high-fat foods as a coping mechanism.
• Exercise regularly
• Weight loss can both increase HDL and lower LDL
• Choose low-fat or nonfat dairy products and lean meats
• Incorporate more fiber into your diet, which will help remove excess LDL.
There is much confusion about cholesterol among the general public. But learning the basics of cholesterol can help individuals make more informed decisions about their diet and overall health.
What To Know About Disease Transmission Between Pets and People
Just like humans, animals can develop and spread illnesses. People who welcome pets into their homes may be concerned about transmission from pets to people as well as other animals to pets. To alleviate some fears, here’s some information about disease transmission among pets, people and other animals.
Heartworm
Heartworm cannot spread from pets to people, and humans rarely get heartworm. Heartworm cannot be caught from another pet like a cold or flu. It only spreads through mosquito bites. Two pets in the same household would each have to be bitten by infected mosquitoes to contract heartworm.
Roundworm and hookworm
These are parasites that can be found in dogs and cats. The worms’ eggs and larvae are passed from pets through stool. People can get hookworms through the skin by walking barefoot outside (a common reason why dogs tend to be off-limits on beaches during swimming season). Anyone may also accidentally eat roundworm eggs from touching the mouth or eating after inadvertently touching the eggs and failing to wash their hands.
Tapeworm
Tapeworm is an intestinal parasite that cats and dogs can get when bitten by an infected flea. However, humans contract it from eating contaminated meats.
Rabies
Although it’s essentially been eradicated from
domestic pet populations, rabies remains a concern among wild animals. A bite or scratch to a human or pet from a wild animal is cause for concern and should be brought to the attention of a veterinarian.
Toxoplasmosis
Toxoplasmosis is a parasitic infection in cat feces that doesn’t produce symptoms in healthy adults, but is a concern for pregnant women and their unborn children.
Cryptococcosis and psittacosis
Cryptococcosis is a yeast present in bird droppings, especially from pigeons, that can cause pneumonia and meningitis in people with weak immune systems.
Individuals with pet birds should be aware of psittacosis, which is a bacteria that can infect pet birds. Someone who cleans the cage can become infected after breathing the dust from accumulated droppings. Symptoms include coughing and high fever.
Leptospirosis
This disease typically spreads through the urine of wildlife. So dogs or cats that spend time outdoors may come in contact with contaminated urine from wild animals, or drink from contaminated puddles. Many vets now immunize against leptospirosis.
These are just a few of the illnesses that can affect pets, wild animals and humans. Proper hygiene, medical care and observation of symptoms should be paramount in homes with pets.
Is your precious pooch joining you at the bathroom sink each day when you brush your teeth? If so, you may want to think about having him or her learn the proper technique to keeping teeth clean - with your help, of course. Cleaning a dog’s teeth is just as essential to the pet’s health as a nutritious diet, grooming and regular exercise. According to the American Kennel Club, keeping a dog’s teeth clean comes down to a few basic steps.
• Brush teeth. Teeth brushing is the foundation of good oral health. Brush a dog’s teeth at least once a week or more frequently. Use toothpaste specifically designed for dogs. Never use toothpaste made for humans.
• Offer dental chews. Rely on a dog’s natural inclination to chew with treats that also clean the teeth. Chews are designed to minimize the buildup of plaque.
• Use special oral sprays: Investigate dog dental sprays that kill bacteria that can make a dog’s breath smell bad and contribute to tartar and plaque.
• Provide plenty of chew toys. In addition to dental chews, regular chew toys also scour the teeth and improve oral health. Rotate several toys to prevent boredom.
• Schedule professional cleanings. Dogs need dental cleanings and examinations at least every year. Some dogs are more susceptible to periodontal disease and will require more frequent cleanings. Consult a
It may take some time for dogs to get acclimated to having their mouths handled and their teeth brushed, but over time they can grow accustomed to the process. Some dogs may even enjoy it.
The Link Between Sleep and Healthy Aging
Agood night’s rest can be just what the body needs to feel revitalized and ready to tackle a new day. Indeed, rest is important for people of all ages, including seniors.
The National Council on Aging notes the brain needs sleep to regulate the body, restore energy and repair damage. Recognition of that is vital for aging men and women, some of whom may be more vulnerable to sleeping problems than they realize. In addition to being more vulnerable to age-related health problems that can interrupt their sleep, thus affecting its quality, aging men and women may find their sleep routines change over time. For example, a 2019 study published in the journal BMC Geriatrics found that active elderly people reported it took them longer to fall asleep as they got older.
The NCOA says it’s a misconception that older adults need more sleep than younger people, noting adults of all ages require the same amount of nightly rest. However, things may change for seniors in regard to how much time they need to spend in bed. The NCOA notes this is because adults may be more likely to experience poor sleep quality and continuity. When that occurs, adults still need the recommended minimum of seven hours of nightly sleep, but they may need to spend more time in bed since it’s taking them longer to fall asleep.
It’s important that aging adults recognize that they can spend too much time sleeping as well. A 2019 study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found that too much sleep is linked to the same health problems as too little sleep, issues that include an elevated risk for heart disease and falls.
Sleep issues affecting older adults also may be a byproduct of various contributing factors. The NCOA notes that frequent contributors to sleep concerns include:
• Pain that affects the back, neck, or joints
• Mental health issues, including anxiety and depression
• Neurodegenerative disorders that are more frequent among aging populations, such as dementia and Alzheimer’s
• Sleep apnea or disordered breathing at night
• Restless leg syndrome, a condition that tends to worsen with age and is characterized by an urge to move limbs often
• Nocturia, a condition marked by a need to urinate at night
• Stimulating medications or medication interactions
• Decreased exposure to sunlight
• Sedentary lifestyle
Aging men and women who are experiencing difficulty sleeping should know that such issues are treatable and not something that needs to be accepted as a normal part of growing older. For example, individuals whose sleep is routinely interrupted by a need to urinate can avoid certain beverages, including alcohol and caffeinated drinks.
Sleep and healthy aging go hand in hand. Aging adults experiencing difficulty sleeping can consult their physicians and visit ncoa.org to learn more about overcoming sleep-related issues.
