Helping Loved Ones Stay Home
Living with early-onset dementia doesn’t mean that someone cannot manage their own life. With adjustments in their environment they can often remain independent and safe.
Am I At Risk For a Fall?
Falls are the leading cause of injury among older Canadians and are largely preventable. Injuries are a serious health concern as they can lead to disability, chronic pain, loss of independence and a reduced quality of life. If you answer yes to one or more you may be at risk:
• Have you fallen in the past 6-12 months?
YES ___ NO ___
• Do you ever feel dizzy or lose your balance?
YES ___ NO ___
• Do you have weak muscles or stiff joints?
YES ___ NO ___
• Do you have problems seeing or hearing?
YES ___ NO ___
• Do you have foot problems?
YES ___ NO ___
• Do you drink alcohol or take medications?
YES ___ NO ___
Do At-Home COVID-19 Test Kits Expire?
Yes…. Rapid antigen kits for self testing do have an expiration date. It’s generally under a year but timing varies by manufacturer. Check your package for both expiry dates and storage recommendations. The tests aren’t designed to withstand moisture, extreme humidity, or freezing temperatures. Experts suggest that using a test that is out-of-date or poorly stored may provide inaccurate results.
Best Stretches
Exercising and stretching can have tremendous benefits when it comes to reducing the chance of injuries and make daily tasks more comfortable. Check with your doctor for advice but for most people even a few minutes a day of stretching can reduce muscle tensions. This will not only improve your posture and reduce back pain but also increase range of motion and flexibility, and keep muscles looser to lower the chance of nasty aches and pains. Stretching also improves blood circulation. During your session, you should breathe deeply so your body can release stress.
Avoiding Caregiver Burnout
Too often we don’t take care of ourselves because we’re so focused on looking after others. These healthy reminders may be helpful:
1) Stay active and social. Finding an activity that you enjoy with others can help you feel less stressed, improve your mood and increase your energy level.
2) Eat on time. Skipping meals can decrease energy and bring on irritability.
3) Make sleep a priority. Lack of sleep affects your mood and memory, and can increase anxiety and risk of depression.
Did You Know?
57%
of physicians are male.
43%
of physicians are female.
26%
of physicians are 60+.
61%
of dentists are male.
