Posts by modenabethesda
Seasonal 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…
Read More8 Things to Know About Heart Disease
Heart disease poses a significant concern for older adults due to a combination of age-related physiological changes and accumulated risk factors. As individuals age, the heart and blood vessels undergo structural and functional alterations, including increased stiffness of arterial walls, which can lead to elevated blood pressure and a higher workload on the heart. These…
Read MoreThe 3 Supplements You Might Actually Need After 50
As we age, our bodies undergo changes that can affect nutritional needs and nutrient absorption. Older adults may require higher amounts of certain vitamins and minerals to maintain optimal health. For example, calcium and vitamin D are crucial for bone health, helping to prevent osteoporosis and fractures. Vitamin B12 is another essential nutrient, as some…
Read MoreWhat to Know About Knee Replacement Surgery
Knee replacement surgery, also called knee arthroplasty, is a procedure in which a damaged or worn-out knee joint is replaced with an artificial joint. It is typically done to relieve pain and improve mobility in people with severe arthritis or knee injuries. Doctors may recommend knee replacement for people who have severe osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis causing chronic pain and…
Read MoreCorrecting Your Vision Could Lower Your Alzheimer’s Risk
Vision impairment is strongly linked to a higher risk of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease. This connection is due to how vision loss affects brain health, mental stimulation, and social interaction. Visual processing areas in the brain can overlap with regions affected by dementia. Vision impairment can signal early neurodegeneration in these shared areas, suggesting a common underlying pathology. In…
Read MoreWhat to Know About Renewing Your Driver’s License
Let’s face it, no one enjoys the process of renewing your driver’s license. Renewing a driver’s license can be a source of stress for older adults due to several factors. In many regions, individuals aged 79 and older are required to renew their driver’s licenses in person at a Department of Public Safety (DPS) office. This…
Read More7 Cancers Linked to Alcohol Consumption
Alcohol consumption can increase the risk of several types of cancer due to its harmful effects on the body at a cellular level. When alcohol is metabolized, it breaks down into acetaldehyde, a toxic chemical that can damage DNA and prevent cells from repairing themselves properly. This DNA damage can lead to uncontrolled cell growth,…
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