Posted on Monday, June 27, 2016

Alzheimer’s Disease: Signs and Symptoms

As our parents age things seem to deteriorate. Their eye sight starts to go, their hearing diminishes and their cognition fades. And there comes a time where mom’s forgetfulness may be a more of an issue than you once realized. June is national Alzheimer’s awareness month, and today we will cover what Alzheimer’s disease is, what causes it, how doctors diagnose it, and the signs and symptoms that your loved one may have Alzheimer’s dementia.

First off, let’s define Alzheimer’s. Alzheimer’s is a general term for memory loss and decrease in mental capabilities. It is the most common form of dementia and makes up around 70% of all dementia occurances. Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease, meaning ones cognition severely worsens as the disease advances and eventually the person becomes introverted and unable to function in a social setting. Doctors don’t know exactly what causes dementia, however, there is usually some sort of genetic component, typically coupled with environmental and lifestyle factors. Sadly, there is no cure of Alzheimer’s dementia at this present time, however, we will discuss some ways to prevent it.

Second, here are some of the signs and symptoms to help you identify if your loved one may be struggling with memory loss or may be in the early stages of Alzheimer’s. Have you noticed that they frequently repeat themselves? Maybe they constantly ask you the same questions about the kids. Or maybe they’ve stopped recognizing family members or are getting lost going to and from once familiar places. Maybe they’re having trouble in crowds. Family dinners were once a breeze but now you may notice them getting really overwhelmed with all of the noise and commotion. These may be some of the early signs that your seniors memory is going. You may also notice mood swings, wandering, changes in their sleeping habits or even delusions of things you know aren’t real.

Third, the only definitive way to diagnose Alzheimer’s disease or dementia is to evaluate the brain after death. However, doctors can do a series of cognitive and behavioral tests to determine if your loved one has Alzheimer’s. They may also want to do other diagnostic tests to be sure there isn’t another underlying cause of the change in their behavior, such as a urinary tract infection. Simple things like this can cause major changes in behavior.

Fourth, there are several things one can do to combat the onset of Alzheimer’s dementia. Getting plenty of sleep, keeping stress under control, having an active social life, keeping your mind sharp, getting exercise and eating a balanced diet can all help delay the effects and onset of Alzheimer’s disease.

If you think your loved one may be suffering from Alzheimer’s dementia you should contact their doctor and set up an appointment for an evaluation. Prevention is key.

For more healthcare tips for you and your family, check out my workbook for dealing with caring for your children as well as your aging parents: Life in the Sandwich Generation. Life in the Sandwich Generation is a workbook filled with information, tips and tricks for managing the demands needing to care for your aging parents, as well as taking care of your children. It details how you can involve your children in the process, how to learn more about your parents health and finances, while still making time for yourself and your spouse. You can find it here for only $10!

Posted on Monday, June 20, 2016

How To Prepare For Swimsuit Season

Happy summer! Today is officially the first day of summer, and you know what that means: beaches, BBQs and bathing suits. Like me, many women aren’t too thrilled at the thought of slipping on a swimsuit. I’m right there with you. In fact, I leave for the beautiful beaches of Greece this weekend and I’ve been trying my best to prepare. Today I’m going to share some tips that will help you feel confident when you hit the pool or this beach this summer. They sure have helped me!

First, stay hydrated. It’s important to drink a lot of fluid when you’re out in the sun. You don’t want to risk getting dehydrated. Also, drinking water is the best way to flush excess water out of your system. Pack a coconut water in your beach bag to help rebalance those electrolytes. This will help you look slim and toned.

Second, put down that drink. Alcohol dehydrates you. You especially want to avoid beer or sugary drinks like piña coladas. If you have to have a drink stick to vodka mixed with sugar-free juices. Beer and sugar filled cocktails will cause you to bloat and look puffy.

Third, hit the gym. Get in a good sweat session the morning of your trip to the lake. Everyone feels better after a workout. Your muscles will show more once you get your heart pumping and your circulation going. So even if you and the gym haven’t been that close lately, it still won’t hurt to pick up a pair of dumbbells and climb on the stair-master. Knowing you worked out will make you feel extra confident in your bikini.

Fourth, steer clear of salty foods. Foods that are high in sodium can cause you to retain water, leading to unnecessary bloat. Instead, fuel up on lean protein, lots of veggies, and some fruit. You’ll feel fuller longer, with fewer calories.

Fifth, get glowing. Get a spray tan before you put on that swimsuit. Everyone feels more confident with a little bit of color, but tanning beds and tanning outside have dangerous health risks. Stick with a spray or bottled tan for a healthier glow. But don’t forget sunscreen, a fake tan won’t protect your skin from the sun, so you still need to use some SPF. A faux glow will make your legs look long and lean and your waist clinched in.

Sixth, shop for the perfect swimsuit for your shape. Curvy? Try something solid with an underwire. Athletic? Go for something with ruffles and bold colors. You want to add some curves to your frame. Fitting a suit that best fits your frame will give you the boost of confidence you need.

Seventh, remember, you are beautiful just the way you are.

A woman is most attractive when she is comfortable in her own skin. So put on a smile and rock that swimsuit.

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Posted on Monday, June 13, 2016

How To Keep The Men In Your Life Healthy

Men have a tendency to avoid going to the doctors. Whether it’s because they don’t have insurance, they don’t have a relationship with any doctors or they simply don’t see the need. Due to their less than proactive nature, their health is often left up to the women in their lives. June is Men’s Health Month, so take the time to place the focus on the men in your life. Give him the gift of health this Father’s Day. Not sure where to start? Here are some tips on how to keep the men in your life healthy.

First, get them to eat healthier. Keep healthy foods in the house. Help him make the right food choices by not tempting him with junk. When you’re making lunch for the kids pack a lunch for your husband too. Take healthy cooking lessons with your college bound son, give him the tools he needs to eat healthy even while away from home. A well balanced diet is essential to warding off diseases and illness that men are more susceptible to.

Second, get him to quit smoking. Men are more likely to smoke than women. Smoking can lead to increased blood pressure and stroke. The incidence of lung cancer is the same in women as it is in men, however men are more likely to die from lung cancer.

Third, get moving together. If your man tends to be a bit of a couch potato, motivate him to get up and get active. Suggest fun, outdoor activities like going for a bike ride. Or join a gym together. Not only is it great for your health, but it’s good for your relationship too. Finding common interests and sharing in fun activities will help your bond grow stronger.

Fourth, do most of the work for him. Most doctors’ offices won’t let you set up appointments for someone else, but you can get him the number. Make a note on your calendar as to when he’s due for his next physical. Even go as far as dialing their number and handing him the phone. It will force him to schedule that appointment!

Fifth, monitor him on a daily basis. Have you noticed that he’s gained weight? Is he more irritable than usual? Is he sleeping too much or too little? These can all be signs of depression in men. Depression manifests in a different way in men than in women. So it is important to pay attention to these changes in your guy. If you think he may be suffering from depression it’s time to call the doctor!

There’s a reason why women tend to live longer than men. Women tend to be more proactive about their health. And we want the men in our lives — whether it be our fathers, our husbands, or our sons — to be around for long time. So sometimes that means taking matters into our own hands.

For more healthcare tips for you and your family, check out my workbook for dealing with caring for your children as well as your aging parents: Life in Sandwich Generation. Life in the Sandwich Generation is a workbook filled with information, tips and tricks for managing the demands needing to care for your aging parents, as well as taking care of your children. It details how you can involve your children in the process, how to learn more about your parents health and finances, while still making time for yourself and your spouse. You can find it here for only $10!