Posts by modenabethesda
Can Heat Impact Your Aging?
With the arrival of summer comes the chance for extreme temperatures. It’s important to know that hot weather can have an impact on our bodies and how they age. Extreme heat can accelerate aging in several ways, primarily by increasing oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. When exposed to high temperatures, the body produces…
Read MoreWays to Enhance Your Social Connections
The benefits of socializing with friends, neighbors and loved ones for older adults are numerous. These interactions impact our physical, mental and emotional health in positive ways. Seniors can extend their friendships and connections by actively seeking out social opportunities that align with their interests and lifestyle. Joining community centers, hobby clubs, or local senior…
Read MoreWhat You Need to Know About Vascular Dementia
Vascular dementia is a type of dementia caused by reduced blood flow to the brain, often due to strokes, small vessel disease, or other conditions that damage blood vessels. Unlike Alzheimer’s disease, which typically starts with memory loss, vascular dementia may begin with problems in thinking, organization, decision-making, or concentration. These symptoms can appear suddenly…
Read MoreHow LEGOS Can be More Than Child’s Play for Those with Dementia
While LEGOS are most often associated with children as a way to stimulate creativity and imagination, did you also know that they can be very useful in the treatment of older adults with dementia? LEGO bricks can be a highly effective and engaging tool for older adults with dementia, offering a range of cognitive, emotional,…
Read MoreBe Wary of Phone Scams Impacting Older Adults
A phone scam targeting seniors is a fraudulent call designed to deceive older adults into giving away money, personal information, or access to their financial accounts. Scammers often exploit common vulnerabilities such as loneliness, trust, or lack of familiarity with modern technology. These calls may involve impersonating government agencies, technical support, family members in distress,…
Read MoreBad Habits That Can Impact Your Liver Health
Several habits can significantly harm liver health over time. Excessive alcohol consumption is one of the most damaging, as it can lead to liver inflammation, fatty liver disease, and eventually cirrhosis. A poor diet high in sugar, unhealthy fats, and processed foods can contribute to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). In addition to alcohol abuse…
Read MoreSeasonal Allergies and Tips for Older Adults
Allergies seem to be prevalent year-round these days! Seasonal allergies, also known as hay fever or allergic rhinitis, occur when the immune system overreacts to allergens like pollen, mold spores, or grasses that are more prevalent during certain times of the year—especially spring and fall. Symptoms can include sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, nasal congestion,…
Read MoreCan Viruses Trigger Alzheimer’s Disease?
Emerging research suggests a potential connection between certain viral infections and the development of Alzheimer’s disease. Scientists have found evidence that viruses, particularly herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), may play a role in triggering or accelerating the disease in genetically susceptible individuals. The theory is that viral infections can cause chronic inflammation or activate…
Read MoreHow Aging Affects the Digestive System
As individuals age, the digestive system undergoes several changes that can impact its function. The muscles of the esophagus may contract less forcefully, but this typically does not significantly hinder the movement of food to the stomach. In the stomach, the mucus membrane tends to thin, leading to decreased production of mucus, hydrochloric acid, and…
Read MoreIs It Too Soon to Diagnose Alzheimer’s in People With No Symptoms?
Did you know that you don’t have to experience memory loss or other common dementia-related symptoms to be diagnosed with Alzheimer’s? Alzheimer’s disease often begins with subtle signs that progressively impact daily life. One of the earliest indicators is memory loss, particularly forgetting recently learned information, important dates, or events, and frequently asking the same…
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