At Phoenix Senior Living we know that one of the most common health issues among seniors is heart disease. Many seniors are now implementing new diets to help reduce the risk of developing the fatal disease. It may be difficult to change a complete diet, but by altering things a little bit, the chances of heart disease can be diminished. Below is a list of steps to take to alter a diet and lower the chances of heart disease.
1. Reduce the intake of cholesterol and unhealthy fats. This is one of the most important steps to lower cholesterol as well as the risk of heart disease.
2. Eat foods with low-fat protein. This can include fish, poultry and egg whites. Flaxseed, walnuts, beans and peas are high in protein and low in fat.
3. Increase the intake of fruits and vegetables. These foods are rich in fiber and low in calories. They also contain substances that can reduce the risk of heart disease.
4. Eat whole grains instead of bread with refined flour and cereals with sugar.
5. Reduce salt intake. Don’t forget that processed foods contain high amounts of salt. Reduce the intake of processed foods and avoid the addition of salt while cooking and eating at the table.
6. Eat in moderation and avoid filling your plate. Keep portions of food balanced.
7. Create daily menus to help you plan ahead.
If you are a caregiver, or know anyone with a heart condition, you could benefit from watching the following clip, which features a modified form of CPR called CCR that is easier to learn, easier to do and can save even more lives!
Many believe that older adults shouldn’t get behind the wheel because they pose a risk to themselves and others as their senses change, sometimes effecting their perception and reaction time. However, according to recently published information, our perception about older adults and driving need to start changing:
• As baby boomers age, there are more older drivers on the road
• Older drivers today seem to keep their licenses longer and are more comfortable traveling longer distances
• The number of fatal crashes involving older adults have declined, which has been a focus since seniors with health conditions, and that are physically more fragile can mean an accident has much more severe effects
• Older adults rarely pose a risk to other drivers on the road; when crashes do occur, often the only risk they pose is to themselves
• Today’s older adults are better recognizing their impairments, such as limited mobility and how that might impact their ability to drive. They adjust their driving habits accordingly
For many seniors with the state of the economy and longer lifespans, it’s necessary for them to work later in life than ever before. But many are wondering if it’s actually healthy for seniors to work into older adulthood, beyond the wealth of their bank account.
The good news is that studies have shown that seniors who work full or part-time after age 65 can actually prevent the onset of disease and illness later in life, because it’s good for both their physical and mental health. Working keeps seniors more active, and it also gives them a sense of purpose, providing greater benefits.
Benefits of Work on Senior Health:
• With a transition period from full-time work into retirement with part-time work, temporary work or work at home, seniors find it’s less of a shock to their mental health. Seniors who immediately retire from full-time work can find that feelings of loss of purpose can cause anxiety and depression
• Seniors who remain in the workforce longer, even part-time are more functional, and often have greater mobility while remaining active members of society
• Instances of high blood pressure, diabetes, cancer, lung disease, heart disease, and stroke are some of the common medical problems that are reduced in working seniors
Young children don’t necessarily know how to express their support when someone they love is struggling with breast cancer, but a great way to do it is with a product that supports breast cancer awareness. Simply giving a grandparent a gift that represents the appreciation for their fight can mean the most, and act as a reminder everyday as to how much they’re loved. Here are some ideas for breast cancer awareness gifts for grandparents.
1. Breast cancer awareness t-shirts: you don’t need to participate in an event with giveaways to receive a breast cancer awareness t-shirt. Buy one for a friend or loved one to honor their fight against breast cancer. T-shirts are available that take a light-hearted perspective to the disease and others are sentimental. Choose something that you know will mean the most to the recipient, although the gesture in itself will have the greatest meaning
2. Ribbon magnets – buying a magnet for someone who has survived breast cancer can allow them to put it on their fridge and be reminded everyday that their fight against the disease is appreciated by the people who love them. Even those who are still going through the fight will fight harder to survive if they know they are supported
3. Coffee Cups for breast cancer awareness – coffee cups can be used year-round, and like magnets, can remind recipients about the fight they’ve undergone and let them know that there’s someone to help them contribute to awareness and support towards a cure
4. Lapel pin – unlike other clothing items for breast cancer awareness, a lapel pin can be worn with any dress code, including office wear. If you purchase a lapel pin for someone who has gone through the fight against breast cancer, they can wear the accessory to show their support everywhere they go
