January 2012 Newsletter

Dear Subscriber,

Happy New Year! The holiday sweets, meats and gravies are past and more than a few people may be steeling themselves for getting back to healthier dietary choices along with increased activity. For seniors especially, it is important to eat right and get some form of exercise or activity. Because seniors require less calories but the same amount (or more) of nutrients as younger people, every bite counts. Nutrient dense/low calorie foods are best for seniors such as low fat milk, lean meats, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. Additionally, the protection that a healthy diet and exercise provide against several diseases is well documented. Enjoy some quality time this month with a favorite senior by preparing a healthy meal together, perhaps even taking a short walk together afterwards.

In the spirit of education and cooperation, we hope you will find the following articles informative and beneficial. We look forward to a wonderful 2012 filled with compassionate caregiving that enriches the lives of seniors.

Thank you,
The Team at Home Care 4 Seniors

Alzheimer’s: Is Time Being Wasted Searching for a Cure?

For years, scientists, against mounting social pressures, have been striving to find a cure for Alzheimer’s disease. However, in the December issue of the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, a group of researchers from the University of South Florida posits that perhaps this terrible disease has no cure and is simply an inevitable part of aging.

This study does not mean that Alzheimer’s research will stop, but it could lead many scientists to refocus their efforts from searching for a cure to searching for prevention and treatment. For more information on this study, read this article from the Los Angeles Times.

A Simpler, More Effective CPR Method

Many people do not realize that there is a new form of CPR that is simpler and more effective than the old method. The new CPR, known as Continuous-Chest-Compression CPR, is now the accepted method of CPR for individuals in cardiac arrest. Because “rescue breathing” is not recommended for cardiac arrest sufferers, it eliminates the need for mouth-to-mouth, which means more bystanders will be likely to help out in an emergency. The best part is that individuals do not need to be certified in order to perform this simple, lifesaving maneuver. To find out more about Continuous-Chest-Compression CPR, read this article from the American Heart Association or watch this video from the Arizona Health Sciences Center.

Click here for the CPR printable document.

Is It Dementia, Old Age or Just Low Vitamin B12?

As we age, memory issues become increasingly common. But when does forgetfulness become a problem? And does progressive memory loss always point to Alzheimer’s disease? Not necessarily. Studies show that Alzheimer’s disease and dementia are not the only culprits when it comes to age-related memory loss and confusion.

Vitamin B12 is an important nutrient that plays an essential role in many areas of the body, and many seniors suffer from B12 deficiencies without ever knowing it. This article from the New York Times outlines who may be at risk for B12 deficiency and why this vitamin is so vital to mental health.