Article Section: Lifestyle in The Positive Voices
Recent Articles in Lifestyle
Unfortunately for many, hearing loss may prevent them from participating in activities they once enjoyed or may isolate them from family and friends. This doesn’t have to be the case; there are many resources to reduce the effects of hearing loss.
Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services (DHHS) in Kent County can provide equipment to help those experiencing hearing loss. Most people just think about hearing aids, which are often rather expensive and may not be an option financially. Staff at DHHS can meet with an individual to help determine what hearing changes they have and how to adapt to them.
Equipment is available at little to no cost, depending on income.
“Technology has come a long way to assist those with hearing loss,” says Katie Prins, Executive Director at Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services. “There are many low cost equipment options that help individuals become independent or maintain…
Sunday, August 1, 2010
"Eat Your Veggies!"
by Catherine's Health Center & Calvin College Nursing Students
We can all feel like Michigan summers are just too short—right as we adjust to the heat and long days it seems that autumn is upon us—but wait! There is still time to enjoy all that summer has to offer, including the fresh vegetables that local Michigan farmers have been working all year to produce.
The importance of vegetables has been reinforced in us since we were children. Most of us have been told, “Eat your vegetables and you will grow up to be strong and healthy!” But, how do we know that vegetables are good for us? What do vegetables really do for our health? Vegetables provide vital nutrients for the health and maintenance of our bodies.
According to the Mayo Clinic, a diet which includes vegetables reduces the risks of developing chronic diseases like cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and coronary heart disease. Not only that, vegetables may…
Exercise and staying active can help improve your health, make you feel better, help avoid the decline and deterioration often associated with aging, and bring more joy into life. Anyone can exercise, even if you have a medical condition—exercise can even help! However, it is important to consult your doctor before beginning any exercise plan. There are four types of exercises to include in a weekly exercise plan: endurance, strength, balance, and flexibility.
As you become more comfortable with these exercises, you can increase the amount and intensity of the activity, which over time can improve your physical functioning.
Remember, it is never too late to start exercising! 1. Endurance—activities that increase your heart rate and breathing for an extended period of time to build your energy.
Work up to getting 30 minutes of endurance most of the days of the week. This can be broken into 10 minute sessions…
“Often people don’t know where to turn or where to start looking,” says Julie Alicki, Independent Living Consultant at Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan (AAAWM). “That’s what makes my role so important.” Julie may be the first step to help families realize their options. As an Independent Living Consultant, she works with families, and other support systems, of older adults who are struggling to live independently.
Her responsibility is to listen to the person’s situation and determine what options are available. Often this can be as simple as arranging services to supplement what families are already doing or working with other family members to encourage participation.
There is a growing need for this service as funding declines and more adults are approaching the age where they may start having more complex health issues. Many programs have income guidelines and waiting lists, but the Choices for Independence (CI) program…
Caregiving is a big job and is often underappreciated or unnoticed. Many times the person receiving care, or other family members, may be unaware of how much mental and physical strain this can be.
Those providing care to an elderly family member may feel guilty about having someone other than themselves provide care, but taking time to rest is often vital to reducing or eliminating stress and burn-out.
Adult Day Services are a great option, especially for those who work. The programs provide appropriate physical, social and cognitive activities for older adults who are unable to be left home alone. Some adult day programs provide personal care, such as bathing, upon request. Transportation may be available, but be sure to ask about the qualifications. Visit the organization first and ask lots of questions to help alleviate any fears about bringing your family member there.
Caregiver Respite is another alternative. This…
