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Tips to protect your hearing when using headphones

Submitted by emily.griffin on

Technology is great. You can listen to your favorite music, podcast or book almost anywhere with a phone and headphones. While enjoying your entertainment, protect your hearing so you can keep listening to what you want for years. 

 

 

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Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Tips to protect your hearing when using headphones

(Quiz) While enjoying your entertainment, protect your hearing so you can keep listening to what you want for years. 

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Outfit the person who has everything with confidence

Submitted by emily.griffin on

We all have an older person in our life that is almost impossible to shop for. Whether the gift is for a holiday, a birthday, an anniversary or retirement, after a certain age, many people don’t need, or want, anything.  

Here’s a thought. A University of Kansas study of 926 people aged 65 and older found that nearly half had some fear of falling, and 65% of those fearful folks had restricted their activity as a result.  

Other studies report that fear of falling increases the risk of falling because people stiffen and change their gait.  

So how about the gift of confidence? Here are some items that can help balance their fear. (Pun intended.)  

Adaptive clothing  

Clothes and shoes that don’t fit well cause falls. It's easy to take a few steps and trip over excess fabric if pants are too long. Look for adaptive clothing. Adaptive wear provides easy dressing solutions for seniors, the disabled and wheelchair users. An open-back shirt allows the caregiver to dress the senior without making them stand. Open-side pants let a senior dress themselves. Feeling more in control of one’s life is a great gift.  

Adaptive shoes  

Quality shoes that supply comfort and security are important for seniors. Look for shoes that:  

 

  • Have slip-resistant soles for added security and safety with each step. 

  • Are available in wide widths – Terrific for swollen feet or ankles. 

  • Are adjustable, with easy touch closures – Arthritis and diabetes often lead to swelling. Adjustable openings and fasteners support different levels of swelling.  

  • Fit their feet – Shoes that do not fit well are a major cause of falls.  

 

A gift that adds to your loved one’s quality of life is sure to be a hit. 

 

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Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Outfit the person who has everything with confidence

Give the gift of confidence to your loved ones with the help of adaptive clothing. Here are some items that can help balance their fear. 

 

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DASH to lower blood pressure

Submitted by emily.griffin on

Doctors often suggest patients start following the DASH diet, which isn’t a diet at all. DASH stands for Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension. a flexible and balanced eating plan that helps create a heart-healthy eating style for life.  

 

It’s not just for hypertension (high blood pressure). The DASH plan improves the lipid panel, helps people lose weight and reduces the risk of Type 2 diabetes and heart disease.  

 

The plan emphasizes vegetables, fruits and whole grains and includes fish, poultry, beans, nuts and healthy oils. It limits foods high in saturated fat, such as fatty meats and full-fat dairy products, and tropical oils such as coconut, palm kernel and palm oils. 

 

The science behind the DASH plan  

The DASH diet has been the subject of several studies funded by the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI). One study tested the diet’s health benefits by comparing it with the typical American diet.  

 

Another study, The Premier Clinical Trial, followed three groups that participated in a different program to lower blood pressure, lose weight and improve health. After six months, the participants whose study included the DASH diet had the greatest reductions in blood pressure. 

 

Not sold yet? Take it for a test drive 

Here’s a sample of one day of DASH meals.  

 

Breakfast 

  • 1 cup mixed fruit such as melon and grapes 

  • 1/2 whole-wheat bagel 

  • 1 tablespoon natural peanut butter 

  • 1 cup skim milk 

  • Coffee, tea or water 

  •  

Lunch 

  • Spinach salad: 

    • 3 cups fresh spinach leaves 

    • 1 sliced pear 

    • 1/2 cup canned mandarin oranges 

    • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar 

    • 1 tablespoon olive oil 

    • 1 ounce of goat cheese 

    • 3 ounces of cooked chicken 

  • 1 small whole-wheat roll 

  • Water 

 

Dinner 

  • Vegetarian pasta: 

    • 1/2 cup marinara sauce 

    • 1 cup chopped summer squash 

    • 1/2 cup frozen chopped spinach 

    • 1 1/2 cup whole-wheat pasta 

  • 1 cup melon 

  • 1 cup skim milk 

 

Snack (anytime) 

  • 1/4 cup trail mix, unsalted 

 

Here’s a tip to make adopting the DASH diet easier:  

The Internet is a fantastic resource for DASH information. You’ll find meal plan ideas like those above, links to sites where you can have personalized DASH meal plans created for you (some for a fee), study information and cookbooks galore.  

 

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Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

DASH to lower blood pressure

DASH stands for Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension. a flexible and balanced eating plan that helps create a heart-healthy eating style for life.  

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Need motivation to exercise? Read this.

Submitted by emily.griffin on

You have probably heard, “Use it or lose it.” Or “Sitting is the new smoking.” Everywhere you turn, experts encourage exercise. We know it is good for us, but do you know just how good it is? And do you know the immediate benefits?  

In the short term, exercise can:  

  • Help control your appetite. 

  • Boost your mood. 

  • Improve sleep. 

The connection to better sleep is easy. You exercise, you get tired, you sleep better.  

However, exercise can help control your appetite? Research is still delivering mixed results, but multiple studies indicate that exercise, especially longer workouts that are harder to do, often decreases a person’s appetite for hours. You can review one study on the National Library of Medicine website.  

As for boosting your mood, when you exercise, your brain releases the “feel good” hormone dopamine, into your bloodstream, which often makes you feel better. Want to learn more about dopamine? Read this article on Harvard Health Publishing.  

Now that you have extra motivation to exercise, what should you do? For adults, the standard recommendation is 150 minutes of exercise per week. It is easier than you think. You can break it into 30-minute sessions five days a week and still have two days off. For more specifics, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website. You will find recommendations for moderate-intensity aerobic (i.e., walking), vigorous-intensity aerobic (i.e., running) and a mix of both.  

For more insight, read this article on Harvard Health Publishing that explains exercise types, including aerobic, strength training, stretching and balance.  

Before starting any workout program, talk to your family doctor for recommendations so you can safely begin at the appropriate level.  

 

 

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Sign up for our digital newsletter to receive health tips, recipes, success stories for inspiration and information about new doctors to help you on your journey to better health.

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Need motivation to exercise? Read this.

Everywhere you turn, experts encourage exercise. We know it is good for us, but do you know just how good it is? And do you know the immediate benefits?  

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Have the vision to keep your eyesight

Submitted by emily.griffin on

As we age, it is natural for our health and senses to decline. So, if you want to keep your vision strong to see your grandchildren, retirement sunsets and the things on your bucket list, follow the guidelines below to keep your eyes healthy and seeing all they can. 

 

Wear sunglasses 

The benefits of sunglasses go far beyond fashion. Look for sunglasses that block 99 to 100 of UV-A and UV-B radiation.  

 

Watch your blood sugar 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 90% of blindness caused by diabetes is preventable. The general rule of thumb is to keep your A1C below 7%. However, based on other health factors, you may have a different goal. Talk to your doctor for recommendations on preventing and living with diabetes.  

 

Refocus  

Staring at a computer screen, TV or reading for several hours can take a toll on your eyes. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, you should look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.  

 

Eat more than carrots 

In addition to carrots, research has shown eating lots of fruits and vegetables, including spinach, kale and collard greens, is good for your eyes. The CDC also refers to studies that say fish high in omega-3 fatty acids is beneficial. Try salmon, tuna and halibut.  

 

Get your dilated eye exam 

According to the National Eye Institute, a dilated eye exam is the best thing you can do to keep your eyes healthy. The exam can detect diseases that don’t have symptoms and enables your eye doctor to treat them earlier, increasing your odds of successfully dealing with them.  

 

Best practices 

As always, if you have concerns about your eye health, contact your eye doctor.  

 

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Sign up for our digital newsletter to receive health tips, recipes, success stories for inspiration and information about new doctors to help you on your journey to better health.

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Have the vision to keep your eyesight

If you want to keep your vision strong, follow these guidelines to keep your eyes healthy and seeing all they can. 

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The staying power of playing

Submitted by emily.griffin on

In 2017, a group of researchers released the findings of one of the first studies on the benefits of adult play, especially with younger generations. 

 

If you are waiting (patiently, we know) for grandchildren, let your kids know that playing with your grandchildren will help keep you young. Maybe that’ll spur them on.  

 

According to research from the National Institute for Play, “Making play a regular part of your life is incredibly powerful. Play supports our mental health, improves our ability to relate to others and increases our drive and hope for the future.”  

 

Here are some ways that playing with your “grands,” as some people call them, improves your life. 

 

Physical play 

Playing with grandkids often involves physical activities like running around, playing sports or going for walks. Staying active can help maintain your physical health and mobility, which can contribute to a more youthful feeling. 

 

Brain play 

Engaging with young children provides mental stimulation as you interact with them, answer their questions and participate in their games and activities. This helps keep your mind active and may contribute to cognitive health and acuity. 

 

Emotional bonding 

Spending time with grandchildren can bring joy, laughter and a sense of purpose. Building strong emotional bonds with family members can contribute to overall happiness and a positive outlook on life. 

 

Keeping your cool 

Interacting with younger generations can help you stay connected to current trends, technologies and cultural shifts, which can contribute to a sense of relevance and engagement with the world around you. 

 

Relaxing 

Playing with grandchildren can provide a break from the stresses of adulthood, allowing you to enjoy playful, carefree moments and focus on the simple pleasures of life. 

 

Overall, the combination of physical activity, mental engagement, emotional fulfillment, social connection and reduced stress that comes from playing with grandkids can contribute to a sense of youthfulness and vitality. As we all know, you are as young as you feel. 

 

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Sign up for our digital newsletter to receive health tips, recipes, success stories for inspiration and information about new doctors to help you on your journey to better health.

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

The staying power of playing

Here are some ways that playing with your “grands,” as some people call them, improves your life. 

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Pickleball’s health benefits for the young and old

Submitted by emily.griffin on

Raise your hand if sticking to an exercise routine is a challenge.  

Look around. If there are two-to-four people with their hands raised, you’ve got a pickleball team. If you’ve got a pickleball team, sticking to an exercise routine just became a lot easier.   

Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the United States. In early 2023, the USA Pickleball Association reported there were more than 8.9 million players nationwide. 

It’s a great workout for people of all ages, it’s easy to learn and the rules are simple. You can play at a slower pace or go for the gold with a team of fierce competitors. (Going for the gold is just a saying. It’s not an Olympic sport. Yet.)  

 

What is pickleball? 

Pickleball is often described as a cross between tennis, badminton and table tennis. It can be played as singles or doubles, and all you need to bring to the court is a ball, a paddle and a pair of sneakers.  

It was invented in the summer of 1965 by a group of fathers in response to their children claiming they had nothing to do, and it took off from there.  

It has a reputation as a sport for older adults, but that’s changing. Here are some of the benefits of this rapidly growing sport. 

 

Improved heart health 

Because pickleball is such an intense cardio workout, it’s great for heart health. In fact, one study showed that playing pickleball may lower the risk of heart disease by reducing common risk factors like high cholesterol or high blood pressure.  

Pickleball also helps improve lung function and control blood sugar levels. 

 

Exercise for the brain 

Pickleball is a fast-paced game that requires split-second decisions. Research has shown that playing pickleball can help improve cognitive function and memory recall. Another bonus is an improvement in hand-eye coordination over time.

 

Easy on the joints 

Pickleball is a low-impact sport. Unlike tennis or running, pickleball doesn’t put a lot of stress on joints and muscles. The Parkinson’s Foundation lists pickleball as an ideal sport for Parkinson’s patients who need exercise and movement to help slow the progression of the disease.

 

Stress relief 

Aerobic activities like pickleball release endorphins, the feel-good neurotransmitters that help relieve stress and anxiety. Players report that focusing on the rules and guidelines is a positive and enjoyable replacement for worries.

 

Best of all, it’s social  

Pickleball is a social sport. It’s a great way to meet people and make new friends, especially for those who join a club or league. Studies have shown that the social components of pickleball protect players, especially older players, from loneliness, depression and the physical illnesses that can be caused by or made worse by depression. 

Finally, it’s fun, which is probably the strongest selling point.  

 

 

Ready to get healthy?

Sign up for our digital newsletter to receive health tips, recipes, success stories for inspiration and information about new doctors to help you on your journey to better health.

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Pickleball

Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the United States. In early 2023, the USA Pickleball Association reported there were more than 8.9 million players nationwide. 

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Does your toothbrush have fecal matter on it? Gulp.

Submitted by emily.griffin on

Brush your teeth twice a day. Brush after sugary snacks. Replace your toothbrush occasionally.  

 

Toothbrush care seems simple, right? Actually, there is more to it, and some of the things you have been doing could lead to disgusting results we don’t want to think about.  

 

Take our quiz to learn more. 

 

For more tips on taking care of your toothbrush and mouth, talk to your dentist, who you should see at least twice a year.  

References:

Penn Medicine

CDC (Centers for Diseases Control)

American Dental Association

 

Ready to get healthy?

Sign up for our digital newsletter to receive health tips, recipes, success stories for inspiration and information about new doctors to help you on your journey to better health.

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Does your toothbrush have fecal matter on it? Gulp.

(Quiz) Toothbrush care seems simple, right? Actually, there is more to it, and some of the things you have been doing could lead to disgusting results we don’t want to think about. Take our quiz to learn more. 

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4 questions to ask yourself before you take health advice from someone on social media

Submitted by emily.griffin on

Social media is a great way to stay connected to loved ones, learn new things and engage in our interests. It can also be a huge source of misinformation, especially for health and wellness topics.  

A study featured in the Journal of Medical Internet Research found that health misinformation on social media is generally linked to the following six domains: (1) vaccines, (2) diets and eating disorders, (3) drugs and new tobacco products, (4) pandemics and communicable diseases, (5) noncommunicable diseases and (6) medical treatments and health interventions. 

There isn’t anything wrong with watching or reading about others’ health experiences or recommendations. In fact, this can give us great ideas and questions to bring to our doctor and help us feel less alone in our health and wellness journeys. 

However, health advice on social media should only serve as a starting point for further discussion or exploration – not as an official diagnosis, instant answer to your question or solution to your problem.  

Next time you watch a video or read a post from someone sharing health or wellness information, ask yourself these four questions: 

1. Are they a licensed or credentialed professional? 

Especially when it comes to medical advice, check to see if they are a licensed professional. They will likely have their credentials listed on their profile. Once you identify which licenses and credentials they hold, you can verify them online.  

2. Are they promising a quick fix? 

We’ve all heard the expression, “If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.” This also applies to anything you see on social media. If someone promises you incredible results by doing “just one thing,” just one workout, just one supplement, just one change to your diet, it’s worth researching a little more closely. 

3. Are they trying to sell you something? 

Many people use social media to build their businesses. If they are trying to sell their health-related services, products, or plans, they will naturally be more biased in their posts and videos. Make sure to do your research on their claims, especially before you make a purchase. 

4. Is their advice one-size-fits-all? 

Each of us has a unique health history. That means each of us has different needs and responses. Without your entire health history, even a professional cannot accurately diagnose you. If someone is just sharing their personal success story, keep in mind that just because something works for them doesn’t mean it will work for you. 

Even after asking yourself these questions, checking with your primary care provider is the best way to ensure the advice you are receiving is legitimate and safe. 

 

Ready to get healthy?

Sign up for our digital newsletter to receive health tips, recipes, success stories for inspiration and information about new doctors to help you on your journey to better health.

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

4 questions to ask yourself before you take health advice from someone on social media

Social media is a great way to stay connected to loved ones, learn new things and engage in our interests. It can also be a huge source of misinformation, especially for health and wellness topics.  

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Do superfoods lead to super health?

Submitted by emily.griffin on

Mostly everyone has heard the phrase superfood. Do we really know what superfoods are and if they live up to the hype? Take our short quiz to find out. 

 

If you are considering changing your diet drastically, you should talk to your doctor first. Superfoods are a great source of nutrients. However, everyone’s needs are different.  

 

Ready to get healthy?

Sign up for our digital newsletter to receive health tips, recipes, success stories for inspiration and information about new doctors to help you on your journey to better health.

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Do superfoods lead to super health?

(Quiz) Mostly everyone has heard the phrase superfood. Do we really know what superfoods are and if they live up to the hype? Take our short quiz to find out. 

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