Young at Heart

For Heart and Vascular Care Go-To Place

Go-To Team:

MyMichigan’s comprehensive Heart and Vascular Program is served by an experienced team of physicians and advanced practice providers. These include cardiologists, interventional cardiologists, electrophysiologists, heart failure and structural heart specialists, as well as vascular and cardiovascular surgeons. So, where do you go, when you need heart and vascular care? You don’t need to go far, because you have a local, board certified go-to team ready to serve you. Additionally, a wide variety of diagnostic cardiac and vascular tests are available locally through MyMichigan Medical Center

Alpena. These include diagnostic cardiac catheterization, CT angiography, exercise and nuclear stress tests, echocardiograms, electrocardiograms (EKGs), Holter monitoring, carotid ultrasound, Doppler studies, ankle brachial index (ABI), vein mapping, arterial assessments and others. Should more advanced treatment become necessary, MyMichigan Medical Center Midland provides streamlined access to a full range of interventional procedures like angioplasty and stenting, structural heart procedures like TAVR, Watchman and MitraClip, as well as advanced vascular and cardiovascular surgery.

To schedule a local heart and vascular appointment, call (989) 356-0141.

MyMichigan Medical Center Alpena

Your

Kristen Kennedy, F.N.P.-C., B.S.N.; Scott Huffaker, D.O.; Sanjeev Arora, M.D.; and Daniel Harber, D.O.

How to use diet to combat age-related bodily changes that can affect your health

The human body is a marvel. How the body transforms over the course of an individual’s life is one of its more remarkable qualities, and those changes never cease, even as individuals near retirement age.

The changes associated with aging include physical transformations but also more subtle shifts the naked eye cannot see. For example, metabolism slows as individuals grow older, and aging also can lead to a decrease in bone density and muscle mass. These changes affect how men and women at or nearing retirement age should approach their diets in recognition of the various ways their nutritional needs change at this point in their lives. Any modifications to a diet should first be discussed with a physician, but the following are some ways aging adults can use diet to combat age-related changes to their bodies.

• Prioritize protein. The authors of a 2010 study published in the journal Current Opinion in Nutrition and Metabolic Care recom-

mended that older adults consume between 25 and 30 grams of protein with each meal. The researchers behind the study concluded that such consumption could limit inactivitymediated losses of muscle mass and function.

• Overcome reduced production of vitamin D. WebMD notes that people over 65 typically experience a decrease in natural production of vitamin D. Vitamin D is not naturally found in many foods, so aging men and women may need to rely on supplementation to ensure their bodies get enough of it. Vitamin D helps with anti-inflammation, immune system support and muscle function, among other benefits. So it’s vital that aging men and women find ways to get sufficient vitamin D.

• Consume ample dietary fiber. The National Resource Center on Nutrition & Aging notes that fiber plays an important role in the health of older adults. Fiber has been linked with heart health, healthy di-

gestion, feeling full, and preventing constipation, which the online medical resource Healthline notes is a common health problem among the elderly. Though the NRCNA notes that older adults need slightly less fiber than their younger counterparts, it’s still a vital component of a nutritious diet. The feeling of fullness that fiber consumption can provide also is significant, as it can ensure adults who aren’t burning as many calories as they used to aren’t overeating in order to feel satisfied. That can make it easier for such adults to maintain a healthy weight.

• Monitor intake of vitamin B12. The NRCNA notes that vitamin B12 is involved in a host of important functions in the body, including nerve function and the formation of red blood cells. Vitamin B12 is most easily found in animal products, which many aging men and women must largely avoid due to other health concerns. In such instances, men and women can discuss supplementation with their physicians as well as alternative food sources of B12, such as fortified cereals, salmon and other

Bodily changes related to aging increase the likelihood that men and women will need to alter their diets in order to maintain their overall health.

Did you know?

The burden on health care costs in retirement could be a significant hurdle for retirees without a sizable nest egg or effective strategy to cover such expenses. According to the Fidelity Retiree Health Care Cost Estimate, an average retired couple aged 65 in 2022 could need around $315,000 after taxes to cover their health care expenses in retirement. Thought traditional retirement goals like financing travel or relocating to a warmer climate are worthy pursuits, it’s vital that individuals of all ages, including those on the cusp of retirement, recognize the importance of saving for health care expenses as well. Such expenses, which include medication costs, are easy to take for granted when individuals are still working. However, Fidelity notes that generics, branded drugs and specialty drugs account for roughly 17 percent of retirement health care expenses. That equates to around $53,500 that might be needed to pay for medication alone.

Wednesday, February 15, 2023 ~ Young at Heart - 3

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How to protect long-term cognitive health

Cognitive health is not something to take for granted. Although a certain level of memory loss can be expected as people age, when the ability to clearly think, learn and remember is compromised, those changes can affect an individual’s ability to perform daily activities and should serve as a cause for concern.

Brain health should be a priority for everyone. The National Institute on Aging says brain health is an umbrella term that encompasses a host of factors, including:

• cognitive health, which is how well you think, learn and remember

• motor function, or how you make and control movements

• tactile function, which is how you feel sensations; and

• emotional function, or how emotions are interpreted and responded to.

Individuals can safeguard brain health — particularly cognitive health — by taking these steps.

Be more health-conscious

Working with doctors, individuals can put their health first. This includes getting routine screenings, managing chronic health problems, limiting or avoiding alcohol and nicotine products, and getting the recommended amount of sleep each night.

Manage high blood pressure

All chronic conditions cause long-term repercussions, but the NIA indicates that observational studies show having high blood pressure in mid-life increases the risk of cognitive decline later in life. Lowering blood pressure lowers the risk for mild cognitive impairment and possibly dementia.

Challenge your brain

Harvard Medical School says nurturing social contacts, engaging in stimulating mental activities like reading and doing puzzles, seeing new places, and learning new things can help keep the brain in top form.

Manage stress

Stress can take its toll on the body, and there is reason to believe that it may adversely affect cognitive health as well. Make every stride to reduce stress, whether that involves taking vacations, meditating, laughing with friends and family, or engaging in relaxing activities that relieve stress.

Get enough vitamin D

Vitamin D is linked to a host health benefits, including its potential to promote a healthy brain. Individuals can get more time outdoors to get vitamin D naturally from the sun and eat foods rich in vitamin D. If doctors find that vitamin D levels are exceptionally low, supplementation can help.

Pay attention to hearing loss

Certain hearing loss has been linked to cognitive decline, says Healthline. Researchers in Italy concluded that people with central hearing loss had a higher risk of mild cognitive impairment than those with no hearing loss or peripheral hearing loss. Individuals with central hearing loss are urged to speak to their physicians to determine if they can take preventive action to stave off further decline.

Cognitive health should be a priority. Adults can employ various strategies to reduce their risk of cognitive decline as they age.

Annual Wellness Exam is Key to a Healthy Year for Older Adults

(StatePoint) You’ve selected your insurance plan for the year. Now, it’s time to start using your benefits, beginning with an annual wellness exam.

An annual wellness exam with a health care provider is important for everyone, but especially for older adults. As we age, we are more likely to develop chronic health conditions, according to Dr. J.B. Sobel, chief medical officer for Cigna Medicare, which serves hundreds of thousands of older adults through its products. An annual wellness exam can help detect potential health issues early so they can be addressed before they worsen, he added.

“By meeting with your primary care provider early in the year, you can highlight the things that are important to you, and work together to develop a plan for your care for the year ahead,” Sobel said. “This will ensure you live each day with vitality, happiness and improved health.”

Many providers will reach out to schedule an annual wellness exam. If your provider doesn’t contact you, make sure to call them.

A number of annual check-ups are available at no extra cost to those with Medicare. They include a “Welcome to Medicare” visit for customers who have just reached Medicare eligibility and an “Annual Wellness Exam” for existing customers. Many Medicare Advantage (MA) plans offer more extensive annual visits at no extra cost. Some even offer incentives for completing a visit. Talk with your provider and Medicare insurer about your benefits.

Each annual exam may be a little different. Regardless of the type, Sobel offers the following tips to ensure you get the most from your visit.

Prepare. Before you go, write down anything you’d like to discuss with your health care provider, including changes to your health over

the past year. Bring your prescription and over-the-counter medications with you. Ask plenty of questions and take notes. You might even want to take along a family member, trusted friend or caregiver to ensure you understand everything your provider has shared.

Be open and honest. It’s tempting to make things look rosier than they are when talking to your health care provider, but minimizing what you are feeling can lead to an incorrect diagnosis or prescription. Speak openly about unhealthy habits, like smoking or lack of exercise. Your provider won’t judge you. Being honest is the only way your health care provider can help you reach your goals.

Mind mental health. Your emotional health impacts your physical health. Many people think depression is a natural part of aging, but it doesn’t have to be. Talk to your doctor if you are feeling sad, anxious or hopeless. Treatments, such as talk therapy, medication or both, may be covered by Medicare. Monitor medications. Adults age 65 and older tend to take more medications than other age groups, increasing the risk for adverse reactions, such as cognitive impair-

ment and falls. It’s a good idea to take your medications to your annual wellness exam and discuss any potential problems or side effects you’re experiencing. Don’t forget about over-the-counter drugs, vitamins or nutritional supplements you take.

Schedule screenings and get vaccines. There are a number of important health screenings and vaccines that you may need depending on your age and gender, such as colon cancer screening, bone density test, mammogram, flu shot or COVID-19 immunization. Ask your provider about the screenings and vaccines you’ve had already and schedule any you need as soon as possible. You may even be able to do that before you leave the office. Also, don’t forget to visit your eye doctor and dentist. These visits are covered by many MA plans as well. Find out more at www.cignamedicare.com.

“You wouldn’t drive your vehicle without proper preventive maintenance, so please don’t ignore preventive maintenance for your most prized possession – your health,” Sobel said. “An annual wellness exam is a great place to start!”

Fun ways for seniors to stay active

Physical activity is an important component of overall health. Health experts advise that exercise can increase lean body mass, prevent conditions like diabetes and cardiovascular disease, improve balance, and positively affect mental health/cognition. Exercise also can foster socialization with others, helping people overcome boredom and isolation.

As individuals get older, they may not be able to participate in all of the activities they enjoyed as youths, but that doesn’t mean older adults must resign themselves to sedentary lifestyles. There are plenty of entertaining ways to remain physically active that can accommodate any limitations a person

may have. Explore these methods for staying active.

Explore senior center offerings

Community senior centers often fill calendars with a vast array of activities, some of which can include physical activities. Hikes, walking tours, dances, and other activities all serve as entertaining ways to get out and about while meeting some fitness goals.

Garden or do yard work

The Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotions says adults should get 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week. Raking leaves, mowing the lawn, digging in flower beds, trim-

ming bushes, and other outdoor tasks could help a person meet this quota in a way that doesn’t seem like exercise at all.

Play games with grandchildren

Little kids may inspire older adults to be more active, as it can be difficult to keep up with those youngsters. Take infants or toddlers for walks or push them in strollers. Attach a child seat or towing carriage to a bicycle and ride around the neighborhood. Play games that require movement, such as hideand-seek or Marco Polo in the pool. If it’s snowing, have a snowball fight or make a snowman in the yard.

Take up a new hobby

Find hobbies that incorporate physical activity. Perhaps learning to salsa dance or taking Zumba™ will be fun?

Pickleball has caught on across the nation. The sport is a mix of tennis, racquetball and badminton that caters to all ages. Joining a bowling team is another way to get active and meet new people.

Physical activity is important at any age. Seniors can explore fun ways to stay in shape and be active to reap all the benefits of exercise.

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How seniors can engage with their communities

Though a significant percentage of individuals report desires to retire later in life, many people stop working around the age of 62. The desire for a later retirement may stem from financial concerns or because some people wonder just what they will do when they’re no longer working.

Retirement is a time for hardworking individuals to enjoy themselves and their newfound free time. Interacting with the community can keep the brain engaged and foster beneficial social connections. In recognition of the value of staying engaged, the following are a few ways for seniors to become more involved in their communities.

• Join a club or group. Identify an activity you find interesting and determine if there is a way to get involved with it in your community. Senior centers or adult activity providers may sponsor local programs.

lenging for many people who may find it hard to cover their expenses. Soup kitchens and food pantries can be a saving grace for those who might otherwise miss meals. Volunteering some hours at these organizations can do worlds of good and help you make a difference.

• Befriend neighbors. A passing “hi and bye” wave may have been the norm when you were busy working a job. Now that you have free time, you can get to know neighbors better and even take turns hosting get-togethers. Moving to a retirement or active adult community with others in similar positions may facilitate such friendships.

• Volunteer with local government. Find out ways you can become involved civically. Perhaps you can run in a local school board election or try to become a member of the town council?

The modern drug store where you are greeted with a friendly “Hello” and “How can we help you?”

We also provide FREE DELIVERY and have Alpena’s first drive-thru window.

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• Participate in worship. Many older adults find they want to reconnect with their faith at this point in their lives, even if attend ing services hadn’t been a top priority earlier in life. Reach out to your local house of wor ship and find out when services take place and which activities they offer.

• Read to children.

vices at the library by reading to youngsters. Interacting with other generations can be in spiring.

• Volunteer at a soup kitchen or food pantry.

• Become a substitute teacher or paraprofessional. Many schools are expe

you

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•Accepting all major health plans

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•Prescriptions dispensed by Personal and Friendly Pharmacists

We are your Home Town Independent Health Mart Pharmacy and we are accepting new patients!

If you need a new pharmacy to transfer your prescriptions towe are here and ready to help. Just bring in your prescription bottles or list of medications that you take with any insurance information.

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are greeted with a friendly “Hello” and “How can we help you?”