July Newsletter
July Newsletter: Self Reflection on Post COVID-19
How has living with COVID-19 pandemic changed you, and how did your life choices change because of it?
At Active Aging 365, my staff and I are comforted by the fact we are surrounded by people like you, who make wise healthy choices to thrive happy lives. To help you continue your venture for tangible health and delightful journey, we want to share a “deep introspective and mindfulness as an exercise” with you. Yes! It's as simple as “making your daily life easier and ensuring your future health better" with an important life decision you choose everyday of your life, which is “happy."
As these last few months “zoomed” by (literally on ZOOM, which I love...by the way... It kept me close to friends, family, clients, and business partners in the comfort of each residence). Then, I found some subtle joy and even a deep comfort in odd place of hoping to be back in routine again called the "Summer Heat!" Oh, Yah! Why do I feel this comfort you ask? It's because I know when July is in full swing, we can finally say,
“Good-bye to the unpredictable days and the events of June Gloom,” and
“Hello to our hot fun in the Summer sun and the festivities of July Bloom!”
July earmarks the beginning of the hot Summer heat, but personally, focusing on the weather, (the hot sun, and even scorching heat, that I normally dread) made me forget about the nagging COVID-19 going on in the last few months (sigh). The thought of redirecting my attention to a constant of July heat was comforting as I felt a little flutter of excitement for the Summer Vacation yet to come. Yay, even if it’s only going to reside in my own backyard with sprinklers and BBQ with the family.
Upon reflection, I realized why I was feeling comforted by anticipating a simple thought of this hot Summer weather: What I felt during this time of total disarray and random upheaval in my daily life has been more than unsettling and rather profusely confusing. However, knowing for certain that Summer Heat is inevitable and to have the one remaining routine and constant, that truly felt important to me. Basically it felt good to have an absolute in my life, because a lot of important life events and routines have been completely disrupted even now.
Furthermore, it has been even more difficult to wrap my head around the fact that the daily News media dictates my livelihood with ever-changing factors in both major to minuscule areas of daily life. For example, just a short year ago, everyone had family plans to travel about on weekends and holidays, but now we can't even walk on our own beaches.
With an equally unsettling fact is that everyone once had an office, businesses, or school as an infrastructure to be tethered, but now, even an essential formality of our educational institutions has been completely disrupted. Most kids no longer have an expected date of return to actual school in August, and there is no certainty to return “as it was," As it appears in the foreseeable future, there are conflicting information about when or how students of all ages will return to school. Obviously, it goes without saying but life is definitely unsettling and scary for most parents with an added anxiety-inducing stress, especially for those of us who like to be in control.
To confuse the matter further, most places had started to ease off a bit for restaurants with some retail stores back in service. However, State officials are reversing the public roll-out rules, which may lead back to stronger lock-down mandates. As we face increased number of viruses being reported, the initial mandatory face masks, social distancing, and even stay-at-home orders are becoming a daily norm again. So the feelings of progression turned to feelings of regression, which is disheartening and sad to be quite honest. The tighter restrictions are causing another spike of anxiety and stress for many people, and in lieu of all this uncertainty, I was hoping for total forward movements to our Summer freedom fun, like 4th of July, Independence Day.
As we have talked before about how important it is to maintain a healthy and positive attitude during this pandemic. Given the length of time we have been living in the current pandemic world in addition to the recent changes, it is time to reevaluate. To lend this effort, our July Newsletter will be different as we will dig deep to complete a multi-step exercise that will require you to be mindful and introspective about your personal behavior and emotions in this “new world” in which we currently live.
This is a crucial time for you to be sure you understand and acknowledge the truth about your current physical and mental health and well-being. Moreover, whether you are aware of it or not, we are each undergoing personal changes that affect every aspects of our lives.
Self reflect: Find new strength
The step-by-step assessment is important to complete because it will ensure to understand where your new strengths lie as well as what no longer works. Just like pruning a plant, cut out unnecessary things in life to make more room for what you find that works now. You can cut away the old and make room for new growth (especially for your personal health).
If you are feeling skeptical, here is a little old school science to help you process and embrace what I have said thus far. Life has peaks and valleys throughout time, which is to be expected. However, what we are experiencing right now is not a peak or valley but a complete cessation of our lives prior to this pandemic. And I assure you, being forced to change your life, your habits and routines, in addition to the uncertainty of what the future holds, changes a person (in the way one thinks, lives, and moves. (Yes, we are living proof and that’s a fact.)
It is exactly like the scientifically proven theories of “survival of the fittest” and adaptation. This dates back to Darwin’s Theory of Natural Selection; one must adapt to survive. Thus, it is very reasonable to think that there is a significant chance that your strengths have changed or adapted to fit your new way of life.
Change: Positive self
This is one of the major reasons that right now is the perfect time to sit down and take a hard look at how this new way of living has changed you. Change is a positive thing here, but to make change work for us instead of against us, we need to first understand exactly what each of us are dealing with on an individual level.
Goal: Take a break
Now, when I say a purposeful assessment, I literally mean sitting down to complete an actual activity. (Yes, sit down and give yourself a break.) Think of it as taking a time-out for yourself. Remember, you are no good to anybody else if you are not taking care of yourself first. This self-assessment is going to help you take care of yourself; that is the goal.
Sit: Start with pen & paper
Please read the instructions carefully, as some of the words I use might first bring a definition to your mind that is different than the intended definition used here. So, pay close attention to each explanation.
Strength: What you enjoy
To begin, find your inner strengths and not physical (for now although this is very important too). Assess the strengths you currently possess, like talent. Remember, you can be good at something and yet it brings no joy or sense of purpose, so leave those out for now. More importantly think about what brings out a true sense of positive energy and enjoyment into your life.
The reason we are assessing strengths this way is to help you to function and perform at the highest level possible. Find things you think you are good at but leave out things you don’t enjoy or things that bring you down.
Again, in order to complete this exercise properly and to make it effective, you need to follow my directions closely. If you have never done anything like this before, it might feel a little odd or cumbersome when you first get started, but it will help you feel better each day.
Schedule daily: Let the ideas flow
Make sure you schedule plenty of time dedicated to completing this activity. I encourage you to schedule time on a daily basis over the span of at least an entire week. The level of mindfulness and introspection this activity requires takes a significant amount of time. Additionally, once you get started, thoughts and ideas will come to you over time. Make sure the time you set aside will be uninterrupted time to reflect and record.
Journaling: Identify strength
To begin, I want you to sit down and make a list of your strengths, keeping in mind the way I described what is considered to be a strength. Make a list of as many strengths you can think of that are relevant and helpful to you in your life as it is right now.
For scientific explanation, studies show that people who feel like they have identified and utilize their strengths to the best of their ability in their life are happier and more productive than those who are not aware of their strengths. Studies also show that people who don’t understand their strengths are unhappy, less productive, and face many difficulties in their ability to function on a daily basis.
Thus, completing this activity to identify your personal strength is good for your happy mind!
I understand that this type of self-reflection work might be new, so if you struggle with mindfulness or introspection, here are some tips below:
Outside in: Find your true emotions
Try and look at your behaviors from an outsider’s point of view. In your mind, go back and think through your weekly routines; make a point to think about your actions and behaviors and note if they are having a positive or negative effect on you.
Record it: What works for you
Also think about how different events and other people make you feel. Make sure to record all of the information that you deem important to figuring out what is working for you and what is working against you.
Be honest: Strengthens over time
The point is to be truthful with yourself about your actions and emotions and how they are affecting your life. You have to be honest with yourself; your intentions do not count here, only actions and emotions that truly produce positive feelings or help your productivity or functionality count here.
Write it down: Releases stress
The action of writing down whatever it is that I am thinking or what I am grateful for brings me real joy, and it helps me cope with life. It is crucial in helping me understand my feelings in a much better and different way than before. When I did not engage in this behavior, I literally felt the hours, days, and weeks slip by until I stopped it with a positive action like journaling.
Journey Tap: Personal insight
This is like a journey which helps me stay mindful about the things in my life and how they are affecting me. Just as like my own personal insight, I hope you will begin to feel happy and healthy by this you tapped source of energy for you, just release stress.
Steps in mental exercise: Analyze what feels good
1 - After you have made your list of your current strengths, let’s analyze and record how much or how frequently you utilize each strength daily.
2 - Next, analyze and record where in your life you are utilizing your strengths, as in what environment or setting you are in when utilizing your strengths.
3 - The last part is to analyze and record the people you are around when you are using one of your strengths.
4 - Also, make sure to record how the people in your life make you feel about yourself. For example, do they help you feel good about yourself and your life, or are they a negative force that is pulling you down? You want to make sure that you surround yourself with positive people who help lift you up.
Finally: Next blog to keep you going
Also, please be on the lookout for our next blog post that is coming soon. This blog will continue on the same type of information we discussed in this newsletter, along with additional blog on “personal focus on values.” Again, as life has changed, possibly too have your values or your priorities.
So, stay tuned for more ideas and information on how to understand the changes in you that have come as a result of our change in life circumstances because of COVID-19.
STRIVE HAPPY and STAY HEALTHY.
- Active Aging 365 Team
Self Reflection: July Fireworks at Night
June Newsletter
June Newsletter: Alzheimer Awareness
June is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month. We at Active Aging 365 is extremely passionate and well educated in Alzheimer, and we want to make sure you know that dealing with Alzheimer’s is our specialty. We found that coping with a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease is extremely difficult on everyone in the family. There are many different aspects to consider when discussing an individualized care plan for the future of your loved ones and your entire family or support group. Since we specialize in Alzheimer’s disease and this type of care plan in particular, we invite you to call us for your important first step to an initial consultation at (310) 962-7502.
Again, since Alzheimer’s is a topic we are well-versed in, this month’s newsletter is written a little differently than our other monthly newsletters. In an effort to provide our readers with as much information and education as possible, the newsletter is broken down into sections with headings that explain exactly what is covered in that specific section. Of special interest in this newsletter is the extensive amount of information and guidance we integrated into the newsletter. The instructions written are highly detailed explanations that you will not find anywhere else. We also have provided comprehensive information about what it means to be a caregiver and where to find support. An extensive amount of time and expertise went into the writing of this newsletter. We sincerely hope that you find it to be insightful, instructional, and most importantly helpful.
Please download below files on Alzheimer and addition reference can be found on this link. Thank you for joining us at Active Aging 365, Strive Happy and Stay Healthy.
Continue reading...
What is Alzheimer’s Disease?
Alzheimer’s is a degenerative brain disorder. It effects the brain in several different ways, ultimately resulting in the deterioration of brain cells to the point of their death. According to this website, https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers-disease-fact-sheet
Alzheimer’s disease is currently ranked as the sixth leading cause of death in the United States. However, some estimates have the disease ranked at third for cause of death in the US, after heart disease and cancer.
There are two different types of Alzheimer’s disease, Early-onset and Late-onset. Unfortunately, scientists don’t know what causes Alzheimer’s and there is no cure. Some scientists believe a type of genetic mutation might be the cause of Early-onset Alzheimer’s, but they have yet to identify a particular gene that is responsible. Likewise, the cause for Late-onset Alzheimer’s is a mystery, although scientists speculate it is a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Unfortunately, just like Early-onset, there is only scientific speculation regarding a cause.
The most common form of Alzheimer’s is Late-onset. Symptoms usually begin to manifest in people in their mid-60’s. The fact that Alzheimer’s predominantly affects older adults is one of Science’s greatest mysteries. Researchers continue to study the brain, but they have yet to determine a specific cause or reason Alzheimer’s effects the 60 plus population at such a higher rate than any other age group. There are of course changes that occur in the brain as a person ages but of the identified age-related issues scientists have discovered thus far, none have been identified as the causal factor in Late-onset Alzheimer’s.
Signs & Symptoms
Typically, issues surrounding memory is the first indication that cognitive issues may be present. Unfortunately, due to the degenerative nature of this disease, such memory impairments only worsen over time. The severity of the cognitive impairment determines the extent to which a person’s everyday life is affected. Similarly, the level of cognitive dysfunction determines the level of independence lost by the patient. For some, memory impairment is not the first symptom of Alzheimer’s. Cognitive symptoms can vary in the part of the brain they effect. Thus, sometimes symptoms manifest as impaired reasoning and judgement, visual and spatial issues, or problems with tasks such as word recall ability. However, when most people think about Alzheimer’s, they associate it with memory loss, which is most commonly related to Dementia.
Alzheimer’s is the most common cause of Dementia, which usually occurs in older adults. Dementia is characterized by the loss of cognitive abilities such as thoughts, memory, retention of information, and processes involved with decision making. Further complications due to brain deterioration include impulse control problems. The inability to control impulses can cause a patient to exhibit inappropriate behaviors and act erroneously, often manifesting in extreme or aggressive behavioral outbursts.
Each patient is affected differently because cognitive impairments are individual in nature. This means the type and severity of symptoms a patient experiences is directly linked to the level of brain deterioration. If a patient’s cognitive abilities become extremely compromised, it results in the loss of their independence. This contributes to the many reasons why people diagnosed with Alzheimer’s often experience a significant amount of mental health problems such as depression, grief, anxiety, anger, and fear. Symptoms of Alzheimer’s can come on suddenly, especially in people over the age of 65. Therefore, if you or a loved one notice changes in cognitive abilities, be safe and make an appointment to see a doctor. If you are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, there are treatment options available to you.
Diagnosis & Treatment
The most important factor in diagnosis is self-reporting of symptoms or reporting for a family member. For this type of reporting, the patient or family must provide key information regarding the problems they are experiencing in addition to specifics regarding how the problems are affecting their daily life. A diagnosis of Alzheimer’s is usually determined after patients are given a full diagnostic work up. This includes the following types of tests: physical and neurological examinations, lab tests, mental status exams, neuropsychological testing, and various brain imaging procedures. According to the Mayo Clinic website, the results from these full diagnostic panels are designed to detect dementia, “and can determine with relatively high accuracy whether Alzheimer’s disease or another condition is the cause.” Ultimately, this means despite a patient undergoing numerous and complicated tests, doctors cannot be certain if a person truly has Alzheimer’s disease. The only time a doctor can be certain a patient had Alzheimer’s is upon their death and subsequent examination of their brain.
Again, just to be clear, despite the extensive number of tests a patient is given, Alzheimer’s disease can never truly be diagnosed with complete certainty while the patient is alive.
Active Aging 365 is Designed to Help
It is the mission of our staff here at Active Aging 365 to help families during times such as the unexpected diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease, or the suspicion that a patient has Alzheimer’s disease. Our staff is specially trained in helping families to manage all of the issues that arise from such a diagnosis. We have staff that include Aging Care Specialists and Elder Care Specialists, who ensure that the appropriate healthcare management is achieved through the development of specialized, individual care plans. Click the following link to be taken directly to this page on our website for more information. https://activeaging365.com/our-services
We offer consultations, so please feel free to contact us so that we can help, as this is our specialty and passion. If you choose to handle the care of your family member yourself, we understand and respect your decision. Despite how you choose to handle this process, the staff here at Active Aging 365 feels so passionate about helping, we worked to assemble the most pertinent information and directions to advise you. If you apply the information provided here, the results will prove to be invaluable for your family.
Taking Charge of the Situation
When life-altering news such as this type of diagnosis is being discussed, it is absolutely imperative that one member of the family take charge of the patient’s health care. To be clear about technical terms in health care, the family member that takes charge of the situation and plans on taking care of the patient is called, “the caregiver” like the one mentioned in NorthStarElderCare.com. Despite the fact, the most caregivers handle the mechanics of the treatment, it is most critical for other family members to educate themselves to ensure appropriate and informed decisions can be made regarding the patient’s health. For example, it is plausible that a patient or caregiver would ask their clinician why they feel compelled to go to such extensive lengths of testing for an undeterminable disease. What is to be gained from these pervasive and probative diagnostic panels? Seemingly, the mental health of the patient would not be aided in any way, but rather it would be hindered. It would also seem that such invasive tests would be detrimental to the mental health of the patient, which, as we know, is already at least somewhat unstable. When making decisions, caregivers need to think about what is best for their family and act accordingly. For example, maybe instead of having the patient complete all the suggested tests, your key family decides on a few tests that seem reasonable and the results helpful. Again, it is up to the family to decide, with the caregiver usually having the “ultimate final decision-making power.” In this respect, role of caregiver is a huge responsibility in this type of situation.
The information below is designed to help the caregiver and the family members from the beginning. The reference of a beginning as it is used here, means from the time your family decides that there are abnormal cognitive issues, and the decision is made that it is time to consult a physician for help. As issues may already be affecting day-to-day independence or threatening personal capacity of cognition, one or more family members of the elder must have alerted the need to make an appointment.
Once this decision has been made and an appointment is set, there is much preparation to complete before the first appointment.
Information to Prepare Before Going to the Doctor
The following is a fairly comprehensive list of information you and your family should put together before going to your first doctor’s appointment. Preparation here means assimilating as much information as possible prior to the appointment, all of which you will take with you to the appointment. Here are some examples of information you need to have prepared. You will need access to the patient’s medical history in addition to the patient’s maternal, paternal, and any sibling’s medical information and medical history. You will also need up to date contact information for any member of the patient’s current medical team if applicable, a record of all current medications and supplements the patient takes including dosage amounts and prescriber information, and most importantly, information regarding the current symptoms being exhibited along with an explanation as to what extent they are affecting the patient’s ability to be independent. Teamwork is crucial during this time because both the patient and the caregiver need the ability to provide their personal insight into the situation.
We know this is all overwhelming, particularly the part where you need to record the cognitive issues exhibited complete with an explanation of how this negatively effects the patient’s ability to function independently. Our staff at Active Aging 365 suggests that in order to best explain what you have witnessed, best practice is to schedule yourself a generous and specific amount of time to gather your thoughts. During this time, you need to sit down in a quiet place where you will not be disturbed. You can either write or type out the reasons for your visit, using as much detail to explain all aspects of the situation. Furthermore, it is helpful to ask other people who know the patient and have constant contact for any information they can provide that could possibly help or further validate the issues you are witnessing. Written documentation of this information will need to be included. The reason each person close to the patient needs to complete this process is because often different people see different things based on setting or time of day, and each person’s perception as to how the cognitive problems being witnessed are affecting the patient are all valid. All of the information you have put together will not replace the paperwork you have to fill out at the doctor’s office, but it will be invaluable information to have on hand when filling out the office paperwork.
When it is time for the initial appointment, remember to bring all the information you assembled with you to the doctor. If possible, bring a copy for the doctor’s file, or ask the employees at the doctor’s front desk to make a copy of the information you bring to place in your patient file; this ensures the doctor’s file will have all of the information you have already assimilated to reference during the appointment and later when reviewing the patient’s file.
The First Office Visit
The doctor will ask a multitude of questions that the aforementioned preparation will help you answer. Here are some examples of information the doctor’s office will want to know regarding patient’s basic mental health status. Be prepared to answer questions like the following: have the patient’s eating or sleeping habits changed? Are they acting more depressed or moody? Has there been any physical changes that limit the patient in any way? Has the patient’s behavior changed, and if so, how? How is their energy level compared to before the symptoms came about? The more information you can provide the doctor with, the better. When you prepare beforehand, you are placing yourself in the best position possible for the situation. When you are in a meeting with doctors, discussing such serious subject matter, it is very stressful, and trying to provide the type of information required in this situation is an impossible task to complete with no prior thoughts on the subject. Preparation is key; it will help in any decisions that need to be made in addition to completing treatment options and plans for the future.
Too often, people make the mistake of simply following any and all orders the doctor gives without question. Please understand that now is not the time for that type of passive behavior. If your doctor does not invite the family, the caregiver in particular, to be involved in the health care plan and decision making, the caregiver must insist on taking an active role in the patient’s health care and treatment plan. Lifestyles and lives literally depend on the caregiver assuming a leadership position in which they assert themselves into the planning and decision making, particularly regarding diagnosis and treatment plans.
Because there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, there are medications which can possibly help the patient by slowing the deterioration or help with managing some symptoms. There are programs and supports out there designed to help patients with Alzheimer’s as well as their caregivers. Caring for a loved one who has Alzheimer’s can prove to be extremely taxing on the caregiver. These are some reasons that insisting on taking an active role in your loved one’s care is imperative, as your family needs to help decide what is best as far as diagnosis and treatment options. If the subject to an exhaustive battery of invasive tests will help your loved ones, then you do not have to participate. It is your right to decide what you do and do not want for your loved one. It is imperative that you understand this concept.
Your health and the health of your family is your responsibility, and it is up to you to determine what is appropriate for your family. Just because a doctor recommends something does not mean you have to accept and follow their advice. Do not let yourself be intimidated by doctors trying to force medical assessments or treatments on you or your family. Furthermore, no one should feel pressured to make decisions on the spot. It is absolutely acceptable to take some time in order to study your options and discuss what you learn with your family before making any final decisions. Caregivers, must always take the final health decisions on behalf of the family and that is and abundant amount of responsibility caregivers handle.
The Caregiver
As a caregiver, you are the final decision maker, especially as the patient’s level of independence digresses. This responsibility is demanding and oppressive. Caring for someone who has Alzheimer’s is physically and emotionally demanding and extremely exhausting, especially to face a multitude of obstacles when attending to their loved ones.
Caregivers often face their own battles with depression, anger, grief, sadness, and stress. A caregiver must pay attention to their own health as well as the patient’s, otherwise they burn out quickly, causing more problems. Additionally, a caregiver must have a support system of their own to be able to ask for and receive help when it is needed. As stated earlier, you must learn all you can about Alzheimer’s to make the best decisions with the information at hand and on time. Throughout the process, you must ask questions of doctors, nurses, and any other member of your loved one’s treatment team. If this is your job as caregiver, do not be afraid to speak up, ask questions, or even change clinicians if you don’t feel that your doctor is the right one for you and your family. The right team is crucial to a caregiver’s effectiveness. Additionally, it is helpful for caregivers to join support groups and work through feelings and emotions to really understand that they are not alone. Support groups also share information and ideas about taking care of someone with Alzheimer’s disease that make life somewhat easier when you can implement them.
There are huge networks of support for caregivers and in particular area focusing on Alzheimer. Contact us at Active Aging 365 or your local Alzheimer’s Association affiliate to connect you with the support and resources for caregivers with a patient with Alzheimer’s. Remember, no one should be alone in this and there is abundant help, so please take advantage to maintain your own health before others. Never undermine your own health care needs to take the time to take care of yourself. We all know why the flight attendants in an airplane offers the oxygen masks to you first then the others you support, they do this as an effective measure to save the most lives in a catastrophic incidents. You are most effective by making sure you are well protected before you become the protector.
Again, Alzheimer’s is a terrible disease with no cure and no known cause, especially when we watch our very own loved ones digress to less than perfect wit and charm of themselves. So if you or your loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, please learn all you can to find support; our specialized RN here at Active Aging 365 has been certified by the NCCDP (The National Council of Certified Dementia Care Practitioners) – as a CADDCT (Certified Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Trainer). www.nccdp.org
We are here to specialize in this type of initial diagnosis and trained to help you with proper education, resources, and advocacy while developing an individualized plan to help you and your family in your time of need. Please reach out, we are passionate about helping families in exactly this type of situation. You can fill out a message to send on our website, or feel free to call us at (310) 335-2005. If it is after hours, call (310) 962-7502. We are here for you.
Above are “extra” information for this month.
The following information is a list of article topics from this website:
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers/caregiving
These articles are all based on topics that involve helping caregivers manage and take care of themselves. Each title is a link to the article itself. The staff here at Active Aging 365 hope you find the support you need. Remember, we are here and have extensive knowledge in dealing with patients and families affected by Alzheimer’s disease. Do not hesitate to reach out to us; we are here to help.
These are the 10 article titles/links to the articles from the website listed above.
· Alzheimer's Caregiving: Changes in Communication Skills
· Managing Personality and Behavior Changes in Alzheimer's
· Coping with Agitation and Aggression in Alzheimer's Disease
· Alzheimer's and Hallucinations, Delusions, and Paranoia
· 6 Tips for Managing Sleep Problems in Alzheimer's
· Adapting Activities for People with Alzheimer's Disease
· Managing Medicines for a Person with Alzheimer's
· Going to the Hospital: Tips for Dementia Caregivers
Alzheimer Elder Trying to Remember
May Newsletter
May Newsletter: Healthy Focus on You!
As we get moving again mentally and emotionally to power through the remainder of the unforeseen challenges that lie ahead, our Active Aging 365 community is still facing our daily “new norm” orders from official reports and government recommendations.
In order to power through, we want to share that May is among one of our favorite months; it is time when flowers are blooming, sun is shining, and Spring is staging all the additional fun days including: National Nurses Week, Cinco de Mayo on 5/5, Mother’s Day on 5/8, Armed Forces Day on 5/16, Memorial Day on 5/25 and the National Physical Fitness and Sports Month (not to mention the potential “Re-opening of our Nation on 5/15” per our U.S. President). For this article, as such, we want to direct your attention away from the 2 previous months dealing with the intensity of serious issues due to the coronavirus pandemic of COVID-19, but rather for this month in May to reflect on a more hopeful, fun, and exciting topic. We want to help you focus on you! The best way to do this is to share happy topics of health and wellness, fitness and sports, and highlight the National Physical Fitness and Sports. May’s National awareness campaign was created to help promote healthier living habits with the bigger goal of improving overall quality of life.
Without a doubt, this year’s National Physical Fitness and Sports Month is going to look extremely different from the initial years spanning from the onset in 1983 and progression through 2019. In fact, in 2020 during this COVID-19 era, physical fitness and sports look quite different than ever imagined. There is a “new norm” for everything and especially for rules of engagement in the realm of physical fitness and working out. In particular, as the social distancing and shelter-in-place orders came into effect, our society had to adapt quickly to maintain physical fitness.
Currently, we are no longer free to exercise in our gyms or go to classes with other people; we can’t walk at a crowded hiking trail; and we don’t have the option to congregate with other exercise buddies in a common space. This is a struggle for many people, since gym is form of meeting and scheduling social interactions, which in the past has helped many people keep a level of healthy accountability in groups.
According to researchers at Kansas State University, working out with a friend could increase workout time and intensity up to 200%. This statistic alone easily explains how some people find it is much easier to be inspired or push harder among friends. Unfortunately, despite one’s extrinsic need for motivation to be successful in physical fitness, everybody had to invent new physical fitness routines away from the old form of gym and work-out buddies in closed community space. We have even seen Olympians convert their home as a training area for developing muscle movements, high jumps, and even gymnastics.
So now what does the “new-norm” in physical fitness look like for an average person, a non-Olympian?
The “new-norm” in physical fitness is more like working out at home with equipment purchased to incorporate in a personal workout space. For example, the “new-norm” for some may look like a Peloton bike, which can be purchased by paying a monthly premium to stream a workout instructor and class, thus making it seem like you are in a social arena, although physically, you are in your own home. The “new norm” can also like a free version of YouTube streaming classes or your outdated DVD’s you purchased years ago with the best intentions to workout on your free time.
May Article Continued...
Download our May Newsletter for full details on the extra information.
Woman Relaxing after a Workout and Exercise
April Newsletter
April Newsletter: The new norm...
This year 2020 has brought unprecedented challenges, and now in the month of April, we are dealing with daily changes such as “Social distancing,” “Wearing a face mask,” and “Sheltering-in-place.” These are the new norms that can be stressful to say the least, especially the “Shelter-in-place” mandate which have rolled out to each of our local communities.
At the most rudimentary level, what is being asked of each person is to stay at home to “flatten the curve” because the uncertainty of the “apex” of this pandemic has yet to be reached. There are a few exceptions that allow mobility, including exception of travel for workers in the “essential industries,” such as the grocery workers, pharmacists, aerospace fields, mechanics, plumbers, electricians, accountants, and take-out businesses. So when our jobs are considered non-essential or non-operable in the office, most Americans including many business owners are staying home or working from home. In this same scenario, this new norm calls for an extensive time at home that many people are not used to having. With abundant time at home, all of us are having to reassess and reallocate activities and time to all things that have become challenges and obstacles themselves. The challenge of home stay caused uncertainties especially in our fast track society that had lacked the patience or pause that the new norm requires.
Therefore, this month’s newsletter is dedicated to making sure we are helping to resolve any issues that arise along this brand-new societal path. We also want to share the new ways to survive and thrive while staying at home. At Active Aging 365, we have actively vested interest in making ourselves to stay positive individually so our emotional levels can overflow optimism to our loved ones to be kind and respectful, especially during this time when everyone is in close quarters including children, spouses, and/or aging parents in one residence.
(Download below April Newsletter to read our full story.)
Staying Home to Enjoy a Self Help
April Special Newsletter
Special April Newsletter: Reflecting on Health with Active Aging 365
This was written some years ago, yet it’s truly relevant and really needed today! Thanks to writer Taylor Jones RD, we at Active Aging 365 would like to share with you our insight on managing your health.
These are the 15 best foods to eat when sick.
Hippocrates famously said, "Let food be thy medicine, and medicine be thy food."
It's true that food can do much more than provide energy.
And when you're sick, eating the right foods is more important than ever.
Certain foods have powerful properties that can support your body while it's fighting an illness.
They may relieve certain symptoms and even help you heal more quickly.
1. CHICKEN SOUP (more below)
2. BROTHS (more below)
3. GARLIC (more below)
4. COCONUT WATER (more below)
5. HOT TEA (more below)
6. HONEY (more below)
7. GINGER (more below)
8. SPICY FOODS (more below)
9. BANANAS (more below)
10. OATMEAL (more below)
11. YOGURT (more below)
12. CERTAIN FRUITS (more below)
13. AVOCADO (more below)
14. LEAFY, GREEN VEGETABLES (more below)
15. SALMON (more below)
Take Home Message
Resting, drinking fluids and getting proper nutrition are some of the most important things you can do to feel better and recover faster when sick. But some foods have benefits that go beyond just providing your body with nutrients. While no food alone can cure sickness, eating the right foods can support your body's immune system and help relieve certain symptoms.
(Download below April 15 Healthy Foods for the full original article.)
Colorful Fruits and Vegetables for Health
March Newsletter
March is Women’s History Month: How to Live and Thrive in Today’s World
In deference to women everywhere, we are springing into March by celebrating Women’s History Month. From pioneers and suffragettes, to the iconic Rosie the Riveter, we would like to pay homage to all of the women who have come before us. To honor the unrelenting strength of character and valiant nature of the women who have paved the way for the women of today, we are grateful. At Active Aging 365, we believe the best way to show our gratitude is by living a long and healthy life.
Here at Active Aging 365, we were inspired by the Because of Her Story, featured alongside American Women’s History Initiative, referenced by and through the Smithsonian Institution. We want to add to this idea here on our site. The idea is to amplify women’s voices in order to honor the past, inform the present, and inspire the future. (Reference https://womenshistorymonth.gov/)
Do you have an inspiring story to share? Are there any women in your life that should be recognized? Send us your story, and you might be chosen as our spotlight this week! Inspiration is one of the greatest gifts we can be given.
Oscar Wilde said, “To live is the rarest thing in the world. Most people exist, that is all.” Here at Active Aging 365, we want you to live! Not only to live, but to thrive, so let us help you by providing an individualized, Comprehensive Health Compass. We strive to help you configure your own Road Map for your future. So, let’s go!
Of course, we must begin by answering the following question. Why do you need a Road Map when planning for your future? Let us help you understand and evaluate the reasons.
...for a full article please click to FIND OUT MORE.
Woman Relaxing and Enjoying Nature in a Yoga Pose
February Newsletter
National American Heart Month
National American Heart Month:
Rejuvenate
Working It Out and Pumping It Up!
February is National American Heart Month. This month, we want to raise awareness across the nation about heart health and educate those around us to help prevent heart disease.
Why do we care so much about Heart Health Month?
It is pertinent to know that Heart Disease is the leading cause of death in the US today for men and women. It is a problem we need to address by taking action and educating ourselves on how to help our hearts stay healthy.
I am going to help you learn about heart health and show you how easy it is to take those first steps towards a more heart-healthy lifestyle. Even better, I am going to do so in just a few easy steps. This will be easy to comprehend information and education combined with some realistic suggestions to help you make some small changes that will increase your longevity by helping your heart stay healthy!
For those of you on a more advanced level, congratulations! Just remember, the heart is a muscle, so keep pumping it up! See my blogs later in the week for more information!
What Exactly Is Heart Disease?
Heart Disease is a catch-all category for various conditions that affect the heart, its structure, and its function. You are probably most familiar with Coronary Heart Disease, which is when plaque hardens in your arteries, so blood cannot get to the heart appropriately.
There are more examples that fall under Heart Disease such as Arrhythmia and Myocardial Infarction.
The good news is that with these few easy steps, you can reduce your risk for heart disease and educate yourself and those you love! Afterall, the heart is a muscle, so let’s work it out and pump it up!
One of the best things we can do for our heart is to be more active. I know how hard it can be to get started on a workout routine, so let’s discuss some ways to get started.
1. Start slow. Make small and easily attainable goals to begin with. Nothing is too small, and nobody has to know about your goals if you don’t want them to. There is nothing to be ashamed about when you are starting out! Do not make unattainable goals! If you think you can walk comfortably for 5 minutes, start there and then buildup as you can. Remember, every little bit helps!
2. See if there is a friend or neighbor who can work out with you; it is always better with a friend…and if you go it alone, remember songs and playlists are your friends too!
3. Make a journal of your progress so you can see how far you have come.
4. Remember, you don’t have to work out or do cardio 7 days a week, most definitely 3-4 days is great! If you can or want to do more, then do it!
5. You will find that once you start exercising, you will not want to eat as much junk as you regularly do, and by default, you will make better eating choices.
6. Physical activity actually, I swear, gives you more energy.
7. Physical activity helps you sleep better.
8. A huge benefit to any kind of physical activity is to help you manage stress. Stress is extremely hard on your body and on your heart! You could even take up a kick boxing class or something!
I am going to challenge myself to begin keeping a workout journal starting TODAY in 2020. Being held accountable, if only to yourself, always helps, so if you would like to challenge yourself to begin a workout journal too, please sign up with your e-mail here, and we will send you a FREE digital workout journal!
What Else Can You Do to be Proactive?
· Get your doctor or test your cholesterol and blood pressure
· Own your lifestyle – take those small steps to exercise
· Teach your family about heart health
· Realize your risk for heart disease and talk to your doctor
· Drink alcohol in moderation
· Eat more heart-healthy food
Please take the time to look at these 3 wonderful resources provided to us by the US Dept of Health and Human Services, found at https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/
These are great visuals with lots of short, helpful information!
· 25 ways to take part in Heart Month
· 28 days towards a heathy heart
· Taking care of our hearts together
Pump Up Your Heart With Me!
Focus View with Hand Heart
January Newsletter
Welcome to 2020!
Welcome to year 2020!
What an amazing year of opportunities and we are so excited to share our information and passion with you. As we look towards the future, we realize today is the best day ever and planning…there is no time like the present! New ideas and inventions happen in the future, but the purposeful planning starts now with the current information and input you have today. In our efforts at Active Aging 365 to help you make the best decision TODAY, we would like to share following terms and researching of our team members’ research from 2019. Thanks Monique…so here we go…
Common Concerns Elderly Face in America
· Physical Aging/Health – Understanding the changes that come with aging will help seniors be better prepared for changes when they start to take effect. Staying physical will promote and maintain a healthy weight and a balanced lifestyle. Practicing healthy eating habits will make you feel better about physical changes.
· Healthcare Costs – As we get older, we need more healthcare. Having screenings for diseases and other natural health problems, that come with age becomes more and more important. As visits to physicians and other medical facilities become more frequent, medical costs are becoming more expensive. Which will have an effect on an aging adult’s budget. Medical/Medicare are offered to seniors to help with the cost of health care.
· Diseases – Osteoporosis, dementia, Alzheimer’s, high pressure and more are major health problems. They all put a person’s everyday independence at risk. Health issues come with age, naturally. So learning to cope with them prior to them happening is Important and prepares a person mentally. Always communicate with your doctor and keep notes. Keep up with your medication and dosages, as well as their side effects.
· Mental Health – Lifeseniors.org says that, “As many as one in five adults experience mental health concerns that are not a normal part of aging. Anxiety and depression are some of the most common mood disorders.” Older seniors will go through a lot of losses and rooted sadness that suppressed, could lead to depression. So seeking help is important. If a mental health illness goes undiagnosed or untreated, it could have a serious impact on aging seniors and their loved ones.
· Financial Security – Medical care’s high healthcare cost and debt that has accumulated over the years, plays a big role in why seniors have no financial security.
Here is a list of some other financial issues aging adults face today:
o Running out of money
o Poverty
o Lack of financial planning
o Fraud
o Increasing medical care cost
o Social security funding
o Assisting adult children
o Living with adult children
o Legal issues when spouse dies
Well that wraps-up just a tip of the iceberg. There are so much we can share and cater to your exact needs. So call us or contact us at Active Aging 365, we are here to guide you. Stay healthy, stay strong, stay happy with us in 2020! For more info. click here...
Happy Family with kids, grandparents, and couple
