SENIOR Lifestyles
Inside • Reading nutrition labels • Importance of regular checkups • Memory care
THURSDAY AND FRIDAY JULY 23 & 24, 2020
Ready, set, wellness
Park Centre residents find ways to remain active during the pandemic By Dustin Teays Newton News
W
hile the coronavirus pandemic has prompted people to want to spend more time indoors, the residents at Park Centre in Newton have had plenty of ways to stay active as everyone navigates through this unusual time. Residents of the independent and assisted living facility have been able to participate in a variety of activities during the pandemic. Staff of the facility be sure to plan fun and safe activities and initiatives to keep residents active. One program is the 600 minute club which is a tracker for minutes residents have been active in a month. “Residents individually track their own exercise each month,” Park Centre Wellness Director Alyssa McCarl said. The club also offers different monthly challenges. Currently, the challenge is a friendly competition versus the various departments at Park Centre. The competitions encourage residents to get the recommended
600 minutes of exercise per month. “At the end of the month, they come down and they get a little badge if they hit their 600 minutes and then we do a drawing for a prize,” McCarl said. Additionally, there are other ways that Park Centre staff has tried to give residents the ability to stay active. Fitness classes are streamed to inhouse channels for residents to watch and participate. They also help residents get outside by doing yard games like cornhole and horseshoes. “Hardly any of them have really skipped a beat. We just provide so many options,” McCarl said. “The 600 minute club does really help.” The residents have enjoyed the things Park Centre has implemented as the pandemic has continued to impact everyone. Plenty of activities have been implemented that give plenty of options for residents to choose. “They have generally developed so many things going on I can’t keep up with it,” resident at Park Centre Dwight Stanfield said through laughter. Some residents choose to do more things on there own. Stanfield likes to do things like weight lifting a n d walking every day. He also l i k e s participating in the balcony fitness exercises organized by the wellness staff. The efforts have all served an
Troy Hyde/Daily News Ardis Morgan, an Independent Living resident of Park Centre, takes part in balcony fitness in April. Group fitness classes were shut down due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but Wellness Director Alyssa McCarl and Wellness Coordinator Brittany Hopwood created a few workouts outside as residents exercised from their balconies or inside their rooms.
Submitted Photo Residents at Park Centre in Newton have had plenty of ways to stay active as the coronavirus pandemic has continued.
important role in physical and mental health. “I think they have done everything they could do,” Stanfield said. “They have looked at the whole picture.” While these new implementations to keep residents active have been popular it has also kept residents fit during these times of quarantine. McCarl said recent fitness assessments of residents has shown they have been doing a good job staying active. “We have seen actually because of the individuals that are out walking more, outside of the building or even just walking the halls that their endurance has actually gone up. Those numbers spiked. So that was kind of interesting to see,” McCarl said. The pandemic has created challenges for various organi-
zations throughout the world but they all seem to be finding creative ways to work together and persevere through these challenges. “Being active is not only good for your physi-
cal well-being but also your mental well-being and it does build your immune system,” McCarl said. Contact Dustin Teays at dteays@newtondailynews.com
Submitted Photo Whether it is activities outside or the 600 minute club residents have had plenty to do to keep themselves active at Park Centre during the coronavirus pandemic.
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3 tips when reading nutrition facts labels Much about trips to the grocery store has changed since many adults were children. Many grocery stores are considerably larger than they were as recently as 20 years ago and now sell everything from traditional grocery store fare to clothing to items one might expect to find in a hardware store. Another aspect of grocery shopping that has changed over the years is the groceries themselves. Nutrition labels have been around for decades, though today’s labels contain considerably more information than they did in years past. As a result, many shoppers, even those who make sure to read product labels before placing items in their shopping carts, may not know exactly what they’re buying. Nutrition labels can be complicated, and ingredients that are beneficial for some consumers may be harmful to others. Seniors and people with existing medical conditions should always discuss their diets with their physicians, asking if there are specific foods they should avoid or seek out. In addition, the following three tips, courtesy of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, can help consumers understand nutrition labels and make sound choices.
1
ingredients like sodium that can be harmful if consumed in excess, a person is eating.
2
Pay attention to calorie count.
3
Let percent daily values guide you.
Read the serving size information.
Serving size information on nutrition labels indicates both the recommended serving size and the number of servings contained in the package. The AND recommends that consumers compare the portion size they actually eat to the serving size listed on the label. Some people may consume more than one serving size per meal, and that can affect just how much of each ingredient, including
Nutrition labels contain calorie counts, which can help people maintain healthy weights. Being at a healthy weight has been linked to a reduced risk for various conditions, including type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Nutrition labels list calories per serving, so people trying limit their calorie intake to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight should pay particular attention to this information.
The AND notes that percent daily values, which are listed as “DV” on food labels, help consumers determine how particular foods fit into their daily meal plans. These values are based on a 2,000 calorie per day diet, though some people may need more or fewer calories than that. In addition, some people may need more than the 100 percent recommended daily value of a given nutrient. Consumers should discuss their specific needs regarding calorie and nutrient intake with their physicians. For those advised to heed the daily values recommendations, ingredients that are listed at 5 percent DV or less are considered low, while those that are 20 percent DV or higher are considered high. The AND recommends aiming low for ingredients like sodium, saturated fat and cholesterol, while high in vitamins, minerals and fiber can be beneficial. More information about nutrition labels can be found at www.eatingright.org. — Metro Creative
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Why routine checkups are vital to overall health
R
egular visits with a medical professional are an important part of a healthy lifestyle. Too often people visit the doctor only when they are ill, as they may not realize just how essential well visits and physical exams are. Routine checkups are the smartest way for people in all age groups to stay on top of their health, but they can be especially valuable for those age 50 and older. Regular checkups enable physicians to check current health against past visits, ensuring that any anomalies can be investigated and treated efficiently and promptly. This can make the difference in slowing down the progression of a disease that has already developed or prevent something from becoming a full-fledged issue. The Mayo Clinic says there are no hard and fast rules about how often seniors should visit health care providers. Those who are in generally good health may only require one medical checkup a year. At this point vital signs will be checked, medications reviewed and lifestyle topics discussed. Doctors may even recommend or discuss tests. Patients also can bring up any issues they may be experiencing, however insignificant they may seem. Anything from sleep disturbances to memory loss to unexplained fatigue or pain can be addressed. Sometimes getting everything out in the open and being reassured that there’s nothing to worry about can be helpful. General care and geriatric doctors also are adept at asking questions to get a sense of how patients are faring in the world. This may include topics that seemingly have no relevance to health but can be quite important. A provider may ask about topics such as bathing or dressing. Questions about social interaction or typical routines can paint a better picture of both
Don’t get caught off guard by glaucoma
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physical and mental health. The recommended frequency of doctor visits may change as health issues arise or if follow-up is needed after a treatment plan or injury, according to the caregiver company Home Care Assistance. Some seniors may have to visit a provider once a week or once a month. Doctors, nurses and therapists will design a regimen based on a patient’s current health needs. The following are some compelling reasons to be diligent with provider visits. • Frequently health issues can be silent and not noticed early on by a patient, according to Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore. • Patients will be less likely to
forget about important screenings, like mammography, prostate tests, cholesterol tests, and more. • Vaccines can be administered, as even adults need certain immunizations to stay healthy. • Patients can discuss potential lifestyle changes, like going on a diet or taking up a new fitness regimen. It is essential to follow through with health care provider visits, even if they seem redundant. Physicians may detect issues that warrant close observation. Patients are urged to have an open dialogue with their doctors so they understand the reason behind health care visits and expectations in the future. — Metro Creative
Games that can challenge the brain
G
ames are as popular as ever. For evidence of that, one need look no further than his or her own smartphone. The number of hours people spend playing games on their smartphones might surprise even the most ardent players. According to the mobile research firm Apptopia, between May and July of 2018, mobile users spent a whopping 3.38 billion hours playing the wildly popular strategy game “Clash of Clans,” making it the most popular smartphone game in the world during that time period. Games might be seen as a way to unwind, but some games can potentially do more than merely provide a way to escape the daily grind. Brain teasers, riddles and
crossword puzzles are just some of the types of games that can help people engage and challenge their brains while still providing a bit of escapism. A Healthier Michigan, which is sponsored by Blue Cross Blue Shield Michigan and aims to help locals adopt healthier lifestyles, notes that the following exercises, games and platforms can help men and women challenge their brains in unique ways. • BrainHQ: According to Posit Science, which created the system, BrainHQ (www.aarp.brainhq.com) is a system of training the brain that was developed by neuroscientists and other brain experts. The BrainHQ platform includes various brain training exercises with hundreds of lev-
els that can help people improve their brain function, including memory and retention. • Writing in the Stars: Similar to a crossword puzzle, this game provides a list of nine words to users, who must then find the six words that connect to from a sixpoint star before they can move on the next level. Available at www.happy-neuron.com, Writing in the Stars aims to help users improve their logical reasoning. • Private Eye: With a goal of helping users improve their focused attention and concentration, Private Eye (www.happy-neuron.com) asks players to peruse a grid full of intricate layers and symbols in an effort to find the item that does not belong. — Metro Creative
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ision should never be taken for granted. Appreciating one’s sense of sight involves scheduling routine eye exams and taking steps to protect one’s eyes. But safeguarding vision also involves understanding the various conditions that can affect eye health. Glaucoma is a group of eye disorders that can lead to progressive damage to the optic nerve. People who experience glaucoma can lose nerve tissue and eventually suffer vision loss. Understanding what contributes to glaucoma can help people take the steps necessary to reduce their risk. The American Optometric Association says that glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness for people over the age of 60 — although it can occur at any age. The Mayo Clinic states that many forms of glaucoma produce no warning signs and changes in vision may occur so gradually they are not detected until the condition has reached an advanced stage. There are various types of glaucoma. However, primary open-angle glaucoma is the most common form, affecting about three million Americans, indicates the Glaucoma Research Foundation. Primary open-angle glaucoma occurs when the eye’s drainage canals become clogged over time and fluid cannot drain out of the eye. As a result, intraocular pressure rises and damages the optic nerve, which is responsible for transmitting signals from the eye to the brain. People with a family history of glaucoma, African Americans over age 40 and Hispan-
ics over the age of 60 have an increased risk, says the AOA. Those with thin corneas, which is the outer layer of the eye, also are at an elevated risk of developing glaucoma. A less common type of glaucoma is called acute-closure glaucoma, which occurs due to an abrupt and rapid increase of eye pressure. This is an emergency situation that requires prompt care to prevent vision loss. An eye doctor will conduct various tests to determine if a patient is at risk for glaucoma. The Mayo Clinic says tonometry is commonly used to measures intraocular pressure. During this test, the eye surface will be anesthetized with special drops. A tonometer will be applied lightly to the cornea, indenting it slightly. The resistance will be measured and calculated to determine if pressure is present. Other tests include the following: • imaging tests that look for optic nerve damage that involve a dilated eye examination; • visual field tests to check for areas of vision loss; • pachymetry, which measures corneal thickness; and • an inspection of the drainage angle of the eye. The effects of glaucoma cannot be reversed, but glaucoma can be caught early. Medications and lifestyle changes, like more frequent eye exams, can improve symptoms. Prescription eye drops can reduce the production of aqueous humor (fluid) in the eye and improve outflow of that fluid. Oral medications and surgery are other options as well. — Metro Creative
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Memory care a component of assisted living
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ging brings about many changes, including some that may compromise seniors’ ability to remain independent. In such instances, many families consider assisted living facilities for their aging relatives. More than 835,000 Americans currently reside in assisted living communities, according to the National Center for Assisted Living. While communities and homes provide various services, one service in particular may be needed for seniors with Alzheimer’s disease, other dementias or memory problems. Memory care units are separate facilities that cater to people with dementia or other memory issues.
According to the senior residence referral and resource guide A Place for Mom, memory care is a distinct form of long-term skilled nursing. Also called special care units, memory care facilities provide 24-hour supervised care for individuals. This care is often carried out in a separate wing or floor of a residential facility or community. Memory care facilities aim to provide a safe and secure environment for residents. This means limiting entry or egress to other areas of the facility for those who may have trouble navigating and remembering where they started out. The Alzheimer’s Association notes that six in 10 people with dementia will wander and become dis-
oriented. This is dangerous for the individual and others. Memory care units often have alarms and “wander guard” precautions in place to make sure residents cannot roam unsupervised and risk injury. Another goal of memory care is to provide a stress-free, structured lifestyle that has set schedules and routines, states Brookdale Senior Living. This can help keep distress minimal and make for more comfortable and happy residents. In addition, memory care units offer programs that help slow the progression of dementias and cultivate cognitive skills. Fitness exercises, games, specialty food programs, activities, and much more may be offered to make
residents more comfortable. Memory care facilities include common spaces for socialization, meals and activities. “Alzheimer’s patients must maintain their activity, walking, interacting with music, and art,” says Lory Bright-Long, MD, CMD, of the American Medical Directors Association. “We have to awaken the senses so that the memory can have a hook. This is accomplished in the memory care setting.” It is important for those considering assisted living and nursing home facilities to inquire about specific memory care units if a loved one requires this environment. Start the search at APlaceForMom. com. — Metro Creative
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