Starting a discussion about care needs with a senior loved one can be difficult. Deciding when to start the conversation is important. It is never too early to discuss what care might be needed and the desires of the person that will be receiving care. 9 out of 10 seniors want to remain in their home as they age and in-home care can help them. There are many options for in-home care, from the type of care services to the number of hours a week. Making plans before there is an emergency or sudden problem in the senior’s home helps alleviate stress for everyone.
Community News
Acupuncture & Cognitive Decline
Acupuncture has shown promising potential in addressing cognitive decline. By improving cerebral blood flow, it enhances oxygen delivery and reduces stress hormones like cortisol while increasing serotonin, dopamine, and acetylcholine—specifically linked to memory. Acupuncture also promotes cholinergic and dopaminergic neural transmission, facilitates neurotrophin signaling and nerve growth factor, and protects cerebral neurons from apoptosis and oxidative damage. Furthermore, it regulates glucose metabolism, suppresses acetylcholinesterase, and decreases levels of amyloid beta proteins in the brain regions associated with cognitive decline. Research suggests that combining acupuncture with drug therapy may be more beneficial for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease than drug therapy alone, highlighting its complementary role in Western medicine.
Sleep Hygiene – Ending Insomnia
When insomnia is ongoing, try altering your sleep habits. There is ample clinical evidence supporting the effectiveness of a concept called Sleep Hygiene – recommendations that help with the specific aim of improving sleep quality. Even a few slight adjustments can mean the difference between sound sleep and a restless night. Have a bedtime routine, let your body know it’s time to sleep. Don’t go to bed hungry or stuffed and avoid nicotine, caffeine and alcohol. Create a restful bedroom environment that is cool, dark and quiet. Schedule ‘worry’ time for the next day and go to bed worry-free!
Is Your Cat’s Litter Toxic?
Since your cat’s litterbox is something he or she comes into contact with on a regular basis, it’s important to consider how safe the litter you’re using actually is. Each type of litter has its pros and cons. Clay litter contains silica, which can cause lung problems. Clumping litter can cause intestinal issues and blockages if your cat ingests it. Wheat, corn, pine, paper, or walnut shells cat litter: mostly safe, but could contain pesticides. Try to do some research to find out which litter is safest for you and your feline friend!
What is Vibroacoustic Therapy?
Vibroacoustic therapy, a unique form of treatment, combines the benefits of sound and vibration to promote relaxation and healing. By delivering low-frequency vibrations through specialized equipment, it stimulates the body’s sensory receptors and encourages a deep sense of relaxation. The vibrations have been found to reduce muscle tension, alleviate pain, and improve circulation. This therapy also utilizes soothing music or sound frequencies to enhance the therapeutic experience. It has shown promise in various conditions, including stress, anxiety, chronic pain, and sleep disorders. Vibroacoustic therapy offers a non-invasive and drug-free approach to wellness, harnessing the power of sound and vibration to promote physical and mental well-being.
Disability Tax Credit: Combating Inflation
The Disability Tax Credit (DTC) is a valuable tool in mitigating the impacts of inflation and rising costs of living for individuals with disabilities. By accessing this credit, individuals can receive financial relief that helps them manage their daily expenses. The DTC provides tax breaks for eligible individuals with disabilities, recognizing the additional costs associated with their condition. It offers a means to offset the financial burden imposed by inflation and increasing living expenses, such as medical costs, adaptive equipment, and specialized care. By claiming the DTC, individuals can access much-needed financial support, ensuring their ability to maintain a decent quality of life despite economic challenges.
Consistency and Caregiving
Consistency is important when it comes to caregiving for a variety of reasons, including: 1) Developing trust – Your loved one will see the same face each time and get to know their caregiver. 2) Facilitating communication – Good communication between family and caregivers is essential to doing what’s best for your loved one. 3) Reducing accidents – Avoiding medication mishaps, etc. 4) Being aware of health changes – Recognizing what’s normal and not normal for your loved one. 5) Preventing scheduling conflicts – Knowing you won’t have to step in unexpectedly. 6) Providing peace of mind – Helping everyone feel good about home care.
Acupuncture Benefits for Men’s Health
Around 72% of Canadian men engage in unhealthy habits, increasing their susceptibility to chronic diseases. Men generally pay less attention to their well-being compared to women, exhibiting higher rates of alcohol and tobacco use, risky behavior, and neglecting regular checkups. Men face common ailments like heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and depression, along with unique challenges such as prostate cancer. Adopting a healthy lifestyle, including exercise, a balanced diet, abstinence from smoking, stress management, and lowering alcohol consumption, can mitigate many health risks. Acupuncture has proven beneficial for supporting the prostate, addressing stress levels, reducing blood pressure, and providing overall physical and emotional support.
Are You A Mosquito Magnet?
Did you ever wonder why some people are mosquito magnets, while others are hardly bothered? One theory is based on the fact that your skin is a source of elimination. Eat too much garlic, and it will literally come through your pores. If sugars are not metabolized properly, the byproducts must be eliminated, and one of those pathways is the skin. It is believed that mosquitos are attracted to the excess metabolized sugar. Vitamin B1 is known to help the body burn sugars more efficiently, thereby reducing excess sugar coming out of the pores, and your skin from attracting mosquitos. Nutritional testing can reveal if you are lacking B1 and other essential nutrients that are making you a mosquito magnet.
Importance of Strength Training Over 40
Are you over 40 and ready to get into the best shape of your life? Regular strength training exercises help counteract age-related muscle loss and maintain muscle mass. Incorporating resistance training, such as weightlifting or bodyweight exercises, stimulates muscle growth and strength. It’s crucial to focus on progressive overload, gradually increasing the intensity and challenge of workouts. Adequate protein intake is also vital for muscle repair and growth. Additionally, prioritizing recovery through proper sleep, nutrition, and rest days is essential for optimal muscle development. With consistency and a well-designed exercise program, building muscle after 40 is achievable and can enhance physical performance and quality of life. Scan QR Code To Get your FREE Report: 5 Things To Consider Before Hiring a Personal Trainer
Osteoporosis & Bone Fracture Risk
Fractures can be the first sign of osteoporosis and can lead to more fractures. Most occur in the hip, spine, shoulder, or wrist. Spine fractures may not be painful but can cause height loss or a rounded back. If you’ve had a fracture, you’re at high risk for another. A spine or hip fracture greatly increases this risk and requires osteoporosis treatment. Broken hips are especially serious for older individuals, often resulting in disability. 22% of women and 33% of men who suffer a hip fracture die within a year. (osteoporosis.ca) Fractures after age 40 may require a bone density test and risk assessment. Find out if you are at risk by either having the scan in our office or in the comfort of your home.
