In Home Care San Diego CA, Home Health Care 858-456-7600

As you grow older, you may begin to wonder is healthy aging possible?  No matter how hard you try, some things about your body are going to change over time.  But you can make lifestyle choices that give you the best possible life in your senior years.

The best time to make good choice for healthy aging is when you’re young.  The choices you make beginning in your teenage years can have a big impact on how well you age.  For example, choosing to smoke while young can have lasting consequences on your health as you age.

But even if you’ve lived a pretty carefree lifestyle, it’s never too late to start making positive changes that lead to better health.  Let’s take a look at the major areas where you can make lifestyle improvements that will help you to have a high quality life as you get older.

Nutrition is an area that always makes a big impact.  When you eat healthy foods, you give your body what it needs to get strong and to heal.  Nutrition is critical to keep your memory, muscles, and bones strong.  It can also provide you with the energy you need to complete your daily tasks.

Eating foods that are nutritious can also help your skin age at a slower rate and keep your hair shiny and healthy.  As you age, your nutritional requirements change from your younger years.  It’s important to make sure you’re getting the right foods.

Exercise is another critical component of healthy aging.  Weight bearing exercise helps to keep muscles toned and your bones strong.  Aerobic exercises such as walking, jogging, cycling, or swimming help to keep your heart and lungs healthy. 

It’s also important as you age to continue to keep current with health screenings for your body.  For example you should have your blood pressure and cholesterol checked.  Women should have mammograms as advised by their doctors and men should make sure to get the PSA test for prostate cancer.

Knowing your current health status can help you to make changes to improve your health as you age.  You’ll be able to take control of how you feel in this wonderful season of your life.  Is healthy aging possible?

It absolutely is.  And when you’re at your best possible health, you’ll be able to enjoy this time of your life more.  For example, you’ll have the energy you need to spend time with your grandchildren.

You’ll have the ability to spend time with friends and go on new adventures.  You can live and move without pain and you can look your best a healthy body and healthy skin.  You’ll also be able to enjoy your independence as you age.

With good lifestyle choices and attention to your health, you can make your senior years the best years of your life.  Healthy aging is within your reach when you take care of your body and put your health on the top of your to do list.

People wanting to learn more are encouraged to visit the company website and pick up a copy of their free report “Critical Questions You Must Ask Before You Hire a Home Care Provider," Visit, http://FirstatOfSanDiego.com

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About Firstat Nursing Services
Linnea Goodrich is the owner of Firstat Nursing Services, which is the only Home care Agency in San Diego that is both State licensed and certified by the Alzheimer's Association.  Firstat Nursing Services has been providing a higher standard of home nursing, home health and home care services for elderly, disabled and injured people in the greater San Diego area since 1997.  To pick up a copy of her free report "Critical Questions You Must Ask Before You Hire a Home Care Provider," Visit, http://FirstatOfSanDiego.com

As you get older, concerns about aging and memory loss can be troubling.  You may have seen friends and loved ones experience this problem and you’ve seen how painful it can be.  There are some forms of memory loss that are mild while others can be severe.

While you may initially be concerned about memory loss caused by Alzheimer’s disease, there are actually many causes of memory loss that are not related to it.  If you have serious memory loss problems occurring, it’s important to discuss this with your healthcare provider.

Memory loss can be a side effect of some medications.  By changing to a different medication you may be able to combat the problem.  You may also have deficiencies in certain vitamins and minerals that lead to problems with memory.

Problems such as depression and loneliness can also be related to aging and memory loss.  In addition, experiencing a fall or other type of injury can lead to memory problems.  The use of too much alcohol has also been shown to impede memory.  Memory loss can also indicate an illness or injury that hasn’t been diagnosed.

If you’re already experiencing memory loss, it’s time to seek treatment.  There’s much that can be done to diagnose and treat memory problems as you age.  But if you’re currently experiencing a good memory, there are things you can do to prevent problems with memory.

Aging and memory loss don’t have to go hand in hand.  First, it’s important that you keep your mind active.  Reading, solving puzzles, and playing games of strategy help to keep your mind sharp.

It’s also important to keep your social life active.  When you spend time with friends you keep your mind active as well.  You also lower your risk of depression caused by loneliness and isolation.

Exercise is another critical part of keeping a strong memory.  It helps to increase blood flow all over the body and provides your brain with oxygen.  It prevents problems such as heart disease and hardened arteries that might lead to memory problems.

A nutritious diet that includes a variety of lean proteins, whole grains, and lean meats can insure that you get the vitamins and minerals you need.  You may also need to take a supplement that helps to fill in the gaps of your diet.

Smoking can be a major contributor to memory problems.  If you smoke, you should consider ending this habit if you want to protect your memory.  Smoking causes the blood vessels in your body to constrict and keeps you from getting all the oxygen you need.

Sleep is another important factor in preventing memory loss. Make sure you’re getting at least eight hours each night.  If you’re having sleep problems due to stress, insomnia, or pain make sure to discuss options with your doctor.

You don’t have to experience memory loss during your senior years.  Healthy lifestyle choices can make your memory stronger.  While you may be concerned about aging and memory loss, the best thing you can do is make healthy lifestyle choices.

People wanting to learn more are encouraged to visit the company website and pick up a copy of their free report “Critical Questions You Must Ask Before You Hire a Home Care Provider," Visit, http://FirstatOfSanDiego.com

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About Firstat Nursing Services

Linnea Goodrich is the owner of Firstat Nursing Services, which is the only Home care Agency in San Diego that is both State licensed and certified by the Alzheimer's Association.  Firstat Nursing Services has been providing a higher standard of home nursing, home health and home care services for elderly, disabled and injured people in the greater San Diego area since 1997.  To pick up a copy of her free report "Critical Questions You Must Ask Before You Hire a Home Care Provider," Visit, http://FirstatOfSanDiego.com

One of the main reasons that people develop cataracts is the aging process, but they can also occur if you have diabetes, high blood pressure, smoke, drink too much alcohol, have a family history of cataracts and numerous other medical problems. The first symptom of cataracts is usually that your vision is hampered by “cloudy” lens. Cataracts develop slowly and usually don’t impair your vision until later on.

Cataracts form on the lens part of the eye which is behind the iris. Lens use light that comes into your eye and send an image to the brain of what you’re seeing. If you have cataracts forming on your lens, they will cause the light to disperse and a clear image won’t be presented to the brain. Your vision then becomes blurred.

The aging process causes changes in the lens, such as inflexibility and thickness, and that clouds may form around the lens. As the cataracts begin to shadow over the lens, your vision becomes even more blurry. There are several types of cataracts including those you are born with, and others such as:

• Posterior sub capsular cataracts – This type of cataract forms in the back of the eye’s lens. You might notice glaring, especially at night -- and reduced ability to read.

• Nuclear cataracts – Nearsightedness is common to those with nuclear cataracts. You may also have double vision and have trouble seeing colors.

• Cortical cataracts – These cataracts affect the outer edge of the lens cortex and as they grow, streaks or opaque film moves more to the center of the lens. Some people experience night time glaring with this type of cataract.

Cataracts can occur in both your eyes or only one and can begin slowing so that you may not really notice big changes in your vision. But, as the cataract grows, you’ll begin to notice vision loss and cloudiness. When this occurs, it’s time to make an appointment with an ophthalmologist.

To prepare for your appointment thoroughly, be sure to jot down the symptoms you’re having and any questions that you may want to ask the doctor. Since some medications directly cause blurred vision, write down a list of all the medications you’re taking and present them to the doctor at your appointment. As with all important medical appointments, it’s good if you can take someone with you to possibly hear statements that you miss.

With an onset of cataracts, you’ll probably notice that you’re having difficulty reading and driving a car. Glasses may help at first, but if the cataracts begin to hinder your lifestyle, it’s time to see an ophthalmologist and think about cataract surgery. If you decide to have cataract surgery, you should know that it’s a fairly safe procedure and is usually very effective in restoring your vision.

People wanting to learn more are encouraged to visit the company website and pick up a copy of their free report “Critical Questions You Must Ask Before You Hire a Home Care Provider," Visit, http://FirstatOfSanDiego.com

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About Firstat Nursing Services
Linnea Goodrich is the owner of Firstat Nursing Services, which is the only Home care Agency in San Diego that is both State licensed and certified by the Alzheimer's Association.  Firstat Nursing Services has been providing a higher standard of home nursing, home health and

Every senior citizen and their close family members should know what the symptoms are for Alzheimer ’s Disease. The disease itself is devastating to the victim and his family and the sooner the disease is diagnosed, the quicker that medications can be prescribed to slow the onslaught and buy more quality time with the person afflicted with the disease.

Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease include more than merely losing your car keys once in a while or forgetting where you put your glasses. Alzheimer’s victims suffer memory loss because of destroyed brain cells, and every aspect of the person’s life may be affected, including work, socialization and unusual or bizarre behavior.

In the early stages of Alzheimer’s Disease, problems with concentration, memory and thinking clearly might signify that a test for the disease is in order. You might also notice that a person in the beginning stages needs a minimal amount of help with simple tasks and routines such as doing dishes or cooking a meal. He may get lost in areas that are familiar to him and confused about the day and time.

Later symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease may include trouble in making judgments, even for trivial decision-making or the victim’s speech may undergo change such as slurring or beginning sentences that are never finished. As the disease progresses and more brain cells die, these conditions will become worse.

Although there is yet no cure for Alzheimer’s Disease and no single test that can pinpoint a diagnosis, there are early tests that can determine if this disease is the likely culprit for the symptoms or if there are other reasons for the memory and skill loss. Your health care provider will probably begin with simple tests that check your memory and other mental abilities. She’ll also want to know your medical history, including any injuries, surgeries or illnesses and how you’re accomplishing certain daily tasks.

Medication history is also part of any medical examination that seeks to detect or reject the possibility of Alzheimer’s. Side effects from overdosing or combining certain medications with others are common causes of memory loss and confusion.

A neurological exam may also be ordered by your health care provider. This will include tests for coordination, movement, walking and sensory functioning and may show problems with the nervous system that are causing thinking and behavior problems.

If you’re seeking assistance for yourself or a loved one and suspect that Alzheimer’s Disease may be the cause of problems you’re experiencing, go to your primary health care provider first. There are currently no doctors who specialize specifically in the disease, but your primary provider should be able to order tests and refer you to specialists.

People wanting to learn more are encouraged to visit the company website and pick up a copy of their free report “Critical Questions You Must Ask Before You Hire a Home Care Provider," Visit, http://FirstatOfSanDiego.com

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About Firstat Nursing Services Linnea Goodrich is the owner of Firstat Nursing Services, which is the only Home care Agency in San Diego that is both State licensed and certified by the Alzheimer's Association. Firstat Nursing Services has been providing a higher standard of home nursing, home health and home care services for elderly, disabled and injured people in the greater San Diego area since 1997. To pick up a copy of her free report "Critical Questions You Must Ask Before You Hire a Home Care Provider," Visit, http://FirstatOfSanDiego.com

The buzz words for senior citizens today are “active aging.” Active aging means that we remain active and strong in our later years to prevent the loss of mobility. Loss of mobility in seniors can drastically change their lifestyles and some might never recover. But, a daily health plan that includes healthy diet and exercises designed to keep joints moving and the mind sharp can help us stay mobile far into our senior years. How’s that for an incentive?

As we age, we lose flexibility, muscle and bone – and our strength may falter. These losses may mean that we also lose mobility and independence and become fragile and at risk for falls and fractures – plus other diseases associated with aging. But, don’t be discouraged about those disheartening facts of getting older.

Regular exercise (emphasize regular) such as strength training (weights), flexibility (stretching), aerobics (for cardio health) and balance can greatly reduce your risk for mobility loss. Even if you already have a certain amount of mobility loss or health problems, there are things you can do to improve your well-being and your fitness level.

Older adults can exercise the rear, lower back and thighs by performing chair squats (holding on to the back of a sturdy chair and squatting, then pull yourself back up using the chair as support). Standing leg curls can be performed by curling your leg to the back while standing. Raise one leg at a time to the side to strengthen your legs and thighs or stand on your tip-toes to improve strength and build muscles in your calves, ankles and feet. Do these exercises in several repetitions 3 or 4 days per week.

If you’re new to exercise, begin slowly and build your endurance by exercising on a regular basis. If you’re unsure about how to start or which exercises you can do without causing harm to your body, you may want to consult a fitness trainer and let her provide the appropriate exercise guidelines for your level of fitness.

Cardiovascular exercises, like swimming, rapid walking or jogging, might be beyond your ability at the present time, but rather than spending 30 minutes or an hour at a time at these strenuous exercises, try breaking them up into several 10 minute periods at a time. Even a five minute walk around the house or down the street is better than nothing and can really make a difference.

Just realize that the absolute minimum of aerobic activity to keep you fit and reduce the risk of mobility loss is 30 minutes per day, five days a week. You also need to work strength training into your schedule. The advantage that strength training adds to your overall fitness plan is amazing. You’ll increase muscle mass, become more stable when you stand or walk and simply be more able to perform daily chores.

The goal you should have in mind when you exercise to increase your mobility and strength is to become fit rather than frail. Exercise is a way you can push back the aging process and remain young both in mind and body.

People wanting to learn more are encouraged to visit the company website and pick up a copy of their free report “Critical Questions You Must Ask Before You Hire a Home Care Provider," Visit, http://FirstatOfSanDiego.com

Keyword - Firstat Nursing Services San Diego

About Firstat Nursing Services
Linnea Goodrich is the owner of Firstat Nursing Services, which is the only Home care Agency in San Diego that is both State licensed and certified by the Alzheimer's Association.  Firstat Nursing Services has been providing a higher standard of home nursing, home health and home care services for elderly, disabled and injured people in the greater San Diego area since 1997.  To pick up a copy of her free report "Critical Questions You Must Ask Before You Hire a Home Care Provider," Visit, http://FirstatOfSanDiego.com

The effects that aging has on the brain and memory, in particular, are caused by inconsistencies about how the brain stores information and processes it for recall. And, brain cells need some of the hormones and chemicals that begin to slow down or disappear as you age.

The brain stores information in different ways, depending if it’s for short or long term memory. Short term memory might include someone’s name that you just met at a party and long term memory helps you recall childhood happenings. While short and long term memories aren’t usually affected by aging, recent situations such as where you parked your car in a big parking lot might be.

There are ways that you can help preserve your memory and keep remembering things you need to remember. For example, keep lists of things you need to do and follow a routine as closely as possible is a good way to safeguard your memory. Calendars are a great way to keep track of appointments, bills that are due and places you need to be.

Learn something new – from a table game such as chess to Latin dance classes. Dancing has an added benefit of keeping your body busy as well as your stimulating the mind. Include exercise in your daily health plan and stick to a diet that’s good for your mind and body. Everyone forgets a word they want to use once in awhile, but if this is happening often, practice recalling names, do crossword puzzles and play scrabble to keep a plethora of words in your memory.

Besides the side effects of aging, depression may cause memory loss as can dementia, medications, strokes, amount of alcohol consumed, and the worst – Alzheimer’s disease. If you suspect that any of these situations may be the problem causing your memory loss, see your doctor and be sure to write down all the symptoms so that she can better diagnose the problem.

Memory problems are irritating, but rarely severe. If it begins to affect your lifestyle and the problems begin to seriously permeate your daily existence, don’t hesitate to seek medical help. The sooner your memory problem is diagnosed, the quicker the condition can be improved with the proper help from your health care provider.

There are things you can do to prevent loss of memory caused by aging, including regular exercise. Aerobic exercising can help increase blood supply to the brain, encourage the development of neurons and helps them all to connect properly. Also, a balanced diet can do wonders for your memory. Research has proven that those who eat nutritional diets are smarter than those who frequent a high fat and unhealthy diet.

If you think you’re not getting enough vitamins and nutrients, take a supplement and to be sure that it benefits your brain, be sure to take folic acid, Vitamins C and E and B6 and B12. All of these lifestyle changes benefit your brain and act as insurance against memory loss. Remember, it’s never too late!

People wanting to learn more are encouraged to visit the company website and pick up a copy of their free report “Critical Questions You Must Ask Before You Hire a Home Care Provider," Visit, http://FirstatOfSanDiego.com

Keyword - Home Health Care Chula Vista

About Firstat Nursing Services
Linnea Goodrich is the owner of Firstat Nursing Services, which is the only Home care Agency in San Diego that is both State licensed and certified by the Alzheimer's Association. Firstat Nursing Services has been providing a higher standard of home nursing, home health and home care services for elderly, disabled and injured people in the greater San Diego area since 1997. To pick up a copy of her free report "Critical Questions You Must Ask Before You Hire a Home Care Provider," Visit,
http://FirstatOfSanDiego.com

There are many reasons that senior citizens should exercise on a regular basis, but the main one is that it helps to increase your overall health and ward off life-threatening diseases – especially those associated with aging. Simply put – exercising helps us age more gracefully.

Almost everyone knows the sort of problems we face when aging – slower metabolism, bone loss and stiffness in joints, muscle loss, balance problems, less endurance and heart and lung problems. We all want a quick fix to aging, such as injections and facelifts or a pill we can take to halt or reduce the aging process. But, in reality, regular exercise is the only thing we can do for ourselves that will increase our overall health and well-being.

Exercise can help us maintain the ability to do things we love and to accomplish everyday tasks that we need to do rather than depending on someone else. Even if you’re a very out of shape senior citizen, there are simple exercises you can do that will make you feel better and enjoy your life.

Stretching is simple to do (you can even stretch while sitting) and can make remarkable strides in improving your joints and muscles. You can find online stretching exercises, choose from the many television shows that promote exercising or get a book from the library or bookstore. You’ll want to be sure to choose exercises that stretch your back, arms, calves, thighs, stomach and chest – but don’t overdo it. Stretch for 5 to 20 minutes per day or whatever you feel up to.

Any activity that increases your endurance is great for senior citizens. Those exercises might include gardening, biking, swimming or simply walking the dog. Try to increase your breathing and heart rate, but don’t exercise so strenuously that you lose your ability to talk. Take it easy and you’ll benefit more than you realize.

Strength exercises are very important to engage in as you age. The more you can strengthen your muscles, the better able you’ll be to increase your metabolism (maintain a normal weight) and keep your blood sugar at normal levels. Strength exercises can be in the form of machines at a gym or fitness center – or, you can even use items around the house, such as books and cans of food.

Exercises designed to strengthen your back should be an important part of your exercise program. Back pain can be excruciating and life-changing and is common in senior citizens. Ask your doctor for a list of exercises you can do to strengthen back muscles or research on your own to find some that are right for you.

One of the worst maladies that can affect senior citizens is balance problems. Aging can cause loss of balance, but so can certain medications. There are exercises to specifically build your leg muscles and increase your perception of balance so that you’re less likely to fall. Keep in mind that in the United States, hospitals admit over 400,000 people per year for broken hips – and most are senior citizens.

People wanting to learn more are encouraged to visit the company website and pick up a copy of their free report “Critical Questions You Must Ask Before You Hire a Home Care Provider," Visit, http://FirstatOfSanDiego.com

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About Firstat Nursing Services Linnea Goodrich is the owner of Firstat Nursing Services, which is the only Home care Agency in San Diego that is both State licensed and certified by the Alzheimer's Association. Firstat Nursing Services has been providing a higher standard of home nursing, home health and home care services for elderly, disabled and injured people in the greater San Diego area since 1997. To pick up a copy of her free report "Critical Questions You Must Ask Before You Hire a Home Care Provider," Visit, http://FirstatOfSanDiego.com