Tips for Motivating Seniors to Exercise

Below are some tips on ways to motivate seniors to exercise:

1.  Educate– teach them that regular physical activity- including endurance, muscle strengthening, balance, and flexibility exercises are essential for healthy aging.
2. Help them set realistic goals and develop an exercise plan.
3. Create a chart, or “prescription” and make easy to understand:  type of exercise, frequency, intensity, how much time spent in each activity.  Check up with them on their progress and re-evaluate goals over time.
4. Refer seniors to community resources such as senior fitness classes at the YMCA or other such groups.
5. Help them connect to support groups on-line.

For more information please visit:

http://www.nia.nih.gov/Go4Life

Live Life to the Fullest

Obesity and Cancer

This is a topic I am very passionate about because while many things in life are out of our control, what we choose to consume and do with our free time (having an active life-style, or not) is something we have a great deal of control over.  On that note, I think it is critical to be aware of the health impacts our bodies face if we are obese.  The good thing about our body weight, is that we can choose to take charge, choose a different path, and make better choices…. beginning today.  Today, we can be healthier.  Today we can take a step toward a longer life expectancy.

Below is an excerpt from an article I found very interesting (see link below).

“A study published Thursday in The New England Journal of Medicine found excess weight was linked to eight additional types of cancer— stomach, liver, gall bladder, pancreas, ovary, the brain tumor meningioma, thyroid cancer and multiple myeloma— after reviewing more than 1,000 related studies.”

http://www.foxnews.com/health/2016/08/25/being-overweight-may-increase-risk-8-cancers.html

The Top 10 Causes Of Death In 1900 And 2010.

The Top 10 Causes Of Death In 1900 And 2010..

Are you curious about the primary causes of death in the US in 1900 vs. 2010?  This graph from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention list cancer and heart disease as the largest reason for death in 2010.  It is believed that changing life-style habits and diet are the primary reason for this.  It is well-known in the medical community that significant improvements can be made to a person’s health by: eating a healthier diet, increasing your daily exercise, reducing your stress level, stopping smoking, and by taking blood pressure medication (when needed).  What can you do today to reduce your risk for cancer and heart disease?

Alzheimer’s Disease: What You Eat Influences Your Risk Factor

Alzheimer's disease: What you eat influences your risk factor – CBS News.

This is a great video on foods you should avoid in order to help protect your brain.

You should reduce/avoid:
-saturated fat (red meat and dairy high in fat)
-trans fat (cake, donuts, chips)
-cooking in these metal pans: iron, copper, aluminum

The article discusses that it is better to cook in a stainless steel pan (rather than cast iron).

You should eat:
-fruits
-vegetables
-whole grains
-beans
(*Almonds are particularly good for the brain)

Don’t forget exercising: Getting out three times a week, (even for a brisk walk) for 30-40 minutes changes your brain for the better!

Seniors- Running in Your 90’s

http://www.oprah.com/own-our-america-lisa-ling/Secret-Lives-of-Seniors-97-Year-Old-Breaks-Track-Record-Video

If you want to see an inspiring video that makes you want to put your very best foot forward, try watching this 97 year old African American woman who is still running races!  This is a short video, but very touching.

Developing Cancer In Old Age- Can Still Affect Your Children

Developing cancer in old age still imparts risk to offspring | Fox News.

You often hear about how the risk of cancer is increased for children of a parent who has cancer at a young age.  Apparently, there is still a risk for children to get cancer even if the parent gets cancer after 80.  New research shows this (see article).  With this knowledge, you can take steps to improve your overall health– good diet, exercise, and regular health screenings.

 

A New Hobby

Have you ever experienced the loss of a hobby?  Perhaps due to a decline in your health, relocation, or just not having the funds to support the hobby?  A few months back, I met an older woman and her husband here in Germany.  She was very friendly and described one of her favorite past times: square dancing (who knew Germans square danced?).

She and her husband danced for many years, even when they retired.  They traveled to different countries, such as the US in competitions.  Dancing was a love for her.  It gave her physical exercise, social interaction with new people, allowed her to visit new cities and countries, and provided an activity she and her husband could enjoy together (thus strengthening their marriage).

Seniors and Sleep Deprivation

Seniors and sleep: Why seniors are often sleep deprived.

Would you say you sleep well at night?  Have you considered how much sleep seniors need or reasons why they don’t sleep very well?  A good night’s sleep affects so many aspects of your life- certainly your energy level and other things like your mental outlook.  If you feel rested, you are more likely to be in a good mood.  I have two bulging disks in my lower back and haven’t slept well for about 10 years…. even with anti-inflammatory medication and trying different mattresses.  I am able to relate to those who struggle to have a good night’s sleep.

Maxine Cartoon

I absolutely love Maxine cartoons (that came out years ago)….