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Aunt Ann's Home Care Newsletter
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Greetings!
September is Healthy Aging month, and Aunt Ann's applauds all seniors striving for healthy habits as well as those who assist them with their health goals. The studies demonstrating the benefits of a healthy diet and exercise for seniors are endless. A healthy lifestyle can even prevent or reduce symptoms of countless ailments and diseases. Education is often a first step towards healthier living, and with that in mind, we've included some information and new studies on healthy aging. Additionally, we've included information on other eldercare topics we hope you will find informative and beneficial.
Thank you,
Vicki Paul
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 Study Shows Healthy Living Can Prevent Half of Alzheimer's Cases
For many people, particularly those who have watched a loved one suffer with it, Alzheimer's is a frightening disease. However, recent studies have revealed that more than 50% of Alzheimer's cases could be prevented through lifestyle changes. According to researchers, reducing major Alzheimer's risk factors like smoking, lack of exercise, and obesity can have a huge impact on preventing Alzheimer's and dementia. This article from Medical News Today provides more details on this exciting study. To read an abstract of the study printed in The Lancet Neurology or to purchase the entire study, click here. |
 Exercise Keeps More than Seniors' Bodies Fit
We all know that exercise benefits our bodies in numerous ways, but two new studies are showing that regular exercise helps lower the rate of cognitive decline as we age, keeping the brain sharper longer. Both studies revealed that participants who exercised the most showed substantially less memory loss and other cognitive impairments.
Check out this article from WebMD to find out more about how exercise keeps you sharp.
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 Planning on Family Caregiving? How to Financially Prepare
On average, working Americans lose an estimated $3 trillion in wages, pension, and Social Security benefits when they take time off to care for an aging family member, according to a 2011 study. If you are considering taking on the care of a family member, there are some key financial aspects to consider, from knowing about government financing programs to planning for your own future and retirement. If you need help planning the financial aspects of becoming a family caregiver, read this list of financial planning tips and this study on baby boomers caring for aging parents from MetLife. |
 93-Year-Old Ballet Teacher Dancing Through Golden Years You're never too old to dance! At 93 years young, Ms. Therrell Camille Smith is keeping kids on their toes, teaching younger generations the importance of dance and the arts. Read more about her inspiring story. |
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 Online Games for Seniors to Exercise the Brain Keeping the mind sharp requires mental exercise. The following website offers free, easy-to-use interactive games and puzzles such as soduku, brain age, crossword puzzles, word searches, jigsaw puzzles and more to help stimulate brain activity. |
Fall Prevention Recipe
- Avoid throw rugs; secure rugs with nonskid tape as well as carpet edges
- Reduce clutter; keep walkways clear of any obstacles
- Remove all cords, telephone or electrical, from walkways
- Have adequate lightening and avoid glares
- Maintain nightlights or motion-sensitive lighting through the house
- Install appropriate grab bars on the wall around the tub and toilet (Make sure to use a knowledgeable resource for installation to insure proper placement and to avoid accidents)
- Add non-skid mats or strips to floor surfaces, tub and shower
- Add a padded bath or shower bench and hand held shower head
- Keep commonly used items within reach
- Remove wheels or castors from all furniture
- Use the remote control for the TV and a cordless phone whenever possible
- Install tightly fastened handrails to both sides of all stairways
- Make sure there is adequate lighting in stairways, hallways and pathways, with light switches at both ends
Follow these simple recommendations, maintain an active, healthy lifestyle, plan and follow through with an exercise program recommended by your physician to help prevent falls at home.
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