Why it’s important to celebrate the caregivers in your community

Every year on the third Friday in February, thousands of people across the United States celebrate National Caregivers Day. This year, the event takes place on February 17, 2023. This day is dedicated to individuals who selflessly provide personal care and physical and emotional assistance to those who are elderly, young or in need of direct aid.

Did you know that millions of caregivers across the United States aren’t compensated for their efforts? In fact, more than one in five adults, or about 53 million adult Americans, are unpaid family caregivers. While most are responsible for one adult, 15 percent of family caregivers are responsible for two adults and three percent are responsible for three or more adults. However, the true value of caregivers far exceeds any monetary worth. By providing invaluable support, caregivers contribute to the fabric of the overall community.

Research shows that when caregivers receive recognition and support, their depression, stress and anxiety rates decrease. This improves their well-being and the quality of the care they provide. This National Caregivers Day, make a point of supporting and uplifting a caregiver friend, family member or colleague you care about. You can do this by helping them provide care, writing a thankyou note or donating to an organization that supports caregivers.

4 Common Digestive Problems In Seniors

Getting older sometimes comes with an increase in health issues, or at least an increased risk of developing them. Digestive illnesses and disorders are among the most unpleasant ones. Here are four of the most common.

• Constipation. Moving food through your body involves a series of rhythmic muscular contractions. With age, these processes can become less efficient, making it difficult for you to pass stool.

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease. While gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can occur at any age, it’s more common in older adults. GERD may cause a burning sensation, sore throat, coughing, bitter regurgitation and bad breath.

• Functional dyspepsia.

How to choose the right multivitamin

Multivitamins contain a combination of at least three vitamins. Some also contain minerals like calcium and iron and natural substances like omega-3s. Do you have a health concern or feel the need to supplement your diet with a multivitamin? Here’s how to choose the best one for you.

Age. Your nutrient needs vary according to several factors, including your age. Consequently, children, adults and seniors require different multivitamins. For example, formulas for seniors contain higher doses of calcium to reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

Gender. Women should look for a multivitamin high in iron to replenish what the body loses during menstruation. Moreover, women wanting to conceive a child, are pregnant or are breastfeeding should consider a multivitamin with folic acid.

Dose. The doses of vitamins and minerals and the number of tablets to take daily can vary considerably from one product to another. Moderation is best. Avoid formulas that contain a higher dose than you need.

It’s best to consult your doctor or pharmacist before buying a multivitamin.

This chronic condition is quite common in the general population and has no known cause. It’s characterized primarily by pain in the upper abdomen, bloating, nausea and belching.

• Colorectal cancer. This serious illness affects about five percent of the population. It poses a higher risk in older adults who have

Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Regular screening makes it possible to diagnose the disease early and treat it effectively. Even if your chances of getting digestive issues increase with age, you can mitigate the risk with healthy lifestyle habits and a balanced diet. Speak with your doctor if you have any concerns about your health.