GREATER ST. LOUIS
area
Promoting Healthier Living in Your Community • Physical • Emotional • Nutritional
FREE
HealthyCells DECEMBER 2011
TM
www.healthycellsmagazine.com
A “Home-AwayFrom-Home” Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Metro St. Louis keeps families close to their seriously ill children while they receive medical treatment at area hospitals. page 12
Holiday Mail for Heroes page 5 How to Select a 2012 Medicare Plan page 22
Tips to Identify and Treat Concussions page 25
m a g a z i n e
DIAMONDS AREN’T A GIRL’S BEST FRIEND.
Looking good on the outside begins by being strong on the inside. That’s because later in life, especially for women, strong bones help prevent fractures and height loss. Your window to build maximum bone density is now, during your late teens and early twenties. So eat wisely, get plenty of calcium and vitamin D, and do weight-bearing exercises every day. To devise a plan that’s right for you, go to aaos.org or rjos.org.
December 2011 — Greater St. Louis Area — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 3
D E CEM BER
2011 Volume 1, Issue 9
5
Across The World: Holiday Mail for Heroes
6
Emotional: Holidays Are Meant to Be Happy, Not Hectic
8
Nutritional: Food Allergies
10
Physical: Don’t Miss a Beat
14
Movement: What Is Restless Legs Syndrome?
15
Financial Health: Checking Up On Mom’s Finances
16
Safety: RETHINKING Holiday Drinking
17
Bereavement: Coping With the Holidays After the Loss of a Loved One
18
Water Health: Proper Hydration is Your Body’s Most Precious Resource
20
Weight Loss: Burning Fat Matters More Than Losing Weight
21
Women’s Health: Menopause Basics
22
Healthcare Plan: How to Select a 2012 Medicare Plan
23
Appearance: A New Perspective on Thinning Hair and How to Treat It
24
Men’s Health: Do Guys Take Better Care of Their Cars or Themselves?
25
School Sports: Tips to Identify and Treat Concussions
26
Quality Care: Senior Living Isn’t What it Used to Be!
This Month’s Cover Story:
A “Home-Away-From-Home”
page 12
For information about this publication, contact Mike Kelly, owner at 314-558-0860, mikekelly@healthycellsmagazine.com Healthy Cells Magazine is a division of: 1711 W. Detweiller Dr., Peoria, IL 61615 Ph: 309-681-4418 Fax: 309-691-2187 info@limelightlink.com • www.healthycellsmagazine.com
Healthy Cells Magazine is intended to heighten awareness of health and fitness information and does not suggest diagnosis or treatment. This information is not a substitute for medical attention. See your healthcare professional for medical advice and treatment. The opinions, statements, and claims expressed by the columnists, advertisers, and contributors to Healthy Cells Magazine are not necessarily those of the editors or publisher. Healthy Cells Magazine is available FREE in high traffic locations throughout the Greater St. Louis area, including major grocery stores, hospitals, physicians’ offices, and health clubs. Healthy Cells Magazine is published monthly and welcomes contributions pertaining to healthier living. Limelight Communications, Inc. assumes no responsibility for their publication or return. Solicitations for articles shall pertain to physical, emotional, and nutritional health only. Mission: The objective of Healthy Cells Magazine is to promote a stronger health-conscious community by means of offering education and support through the cooperative efforts among esteemed health and fitness professionals in the greater St. Louis area.
I wish to thank all the advertisers for their support of Healthy Cells Magazine’s mission to bring positive health related information to our readers. Because of their generosity we are able to provide this publication FREE to you. – Mike Kelly
across the world
American Red Cross and Pitney Bowes Encourage Public to Thank American Service Members through Holiday Mail for Heroes Program Holiday Wishes Deliver “A Touch of Home” to U.S. Military Members, Veterans and Families
F
or a fifth year, the American Red Cross and Pitney Bowes Inc. are teaming up to deliver holiday cheer and greetings to service members, their families and veterans throughout the holiday season. The Holiday Mail for Heroes program provides Americans the opportunity to send holiday greetings to our men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces, any of whom will be far from home over the holidays, our nation’s veterans and their families. Between October 3 and December 9, the public is invited to send a “touch of home” through holiday cards that contain messages of cheer and appreciation. The Red Cross and Pitney Bowes will then screen cards for hazardous materials, sort and package the cards, and deliver them to military bases and hospitals, veteran’s hospitals and other locations during the holidays. Pitney Bowes is donating all screening, packaging and shipping to the cause. The Red Cross will mobilize hundreds of volunteers to sort and box cards for delivery to service men and women, veterans and family members in November and December. Locally, Red Cross volunteers will be distributing cards to hospitalized veterans and residents of Missouri veterans home. “All you need is a pen and piece of paper to share your appreciation of the sacrifices our men and women in uniform make each day in their service to our country,” said Cindy Erickson, Regional Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross St. Louis Area Chapter. “The American Red Cross serves and supports members of the military, veterans, and their families by providing emergency communications, educational resources, comfort and assistance each day. The Holiday Mail for Heroes program continues in the Red Cross tradition of service to those who serve.” Last year, with the help of Pitney Bowes, hundreds of volunteers screened, sorted and packaged cards that were delivered to military bases, veteran and military hospitals across the U.S. and around the world. “Sending a card is a simple way to show our gratitude for the tremendous sacrifice that our military personnel and their families make every single day on the nation’s behalf,” said Kevin Connolly, Vice President and General Manager of North American Service Delivery, Pitney Bowes Management Services and Vice President, Strategic Transformation for Pitney Bowes. “The holiday season is a perfect time for all Americans to take the opportunity to say ‘thank you.’ We are pleased to join forces with the Red Cross for the fifth year to help make that happen.” All holiday greetings should be addressed and sent to: Holiday Mail for Heroes P.O. Box 5456 Capitol Heights, MD 20791-5456
Cards must be postmarked no later than December 9; cards received after this date will be returned to senders. For reasons of processing and safety, participants are asked to refrain from sending “care packages,” monetary gifts, using glitter or including any inserts with the cards. Visit redcross.org/holidaymail for a full list of recommended guidelines and best practices for the Holiday Mail for Heroes program. The Red Cross is able to provide Service to the Armed Forces programs thanks to our generous donors. Locally, the American Red Cross St. Louis Area Chapter is a proud member agency of the United Way of Greater St. Louis, which makes significant investments every year in Red Cross services. To learn more about Red Cross programs, volunteer opportunities, and how you can help, contact the St. Louis Area Chapter at 314.516.2800 or www. redcrossstl.org.
December 2011 — Greater St. Louis Area — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 5
emotional
Holidays Are Meant to Be Happy, Not Hectic Stress is a feeling of emotional or physical tension. Emotional stress usually occurs in situations people consider difficult or challenging. Holidays can lead to emotional stress since we are trying to accomplish so much in a short amount of time. Stress management involves controlling and reducing the tension that occurs in stressful situations by making emotional and physical changes. Tips for dealing with stress during the Holidays: • Ease into the holiday season – don’t try to accomplish everything at one time. • Plan your meals before going to the grocery store, as well as making a list of other supplies needed to limit your trips. Page 6 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Greater St. Louis Area — December 2011
• Don’t let the busy holiday season sidetrack you – continue to exercise and eat healthy foods. • Don’t schedule so many events that you don’t allow for time to relax. • Holidays equal food and alcohol. Monitor your intake of both and make wise decisions on portions. FACTORS THAT AFFECT STRESS Attitude: A person’s attitude can influence whether or not a situation or emotion is stressful. A person with a negative attitude will often report more stress than would someone with a positive attitude. Diet: A poor diet puts the body in a state of physical stress and weakens the immune system. As a result, a person can be more likely
“A person’s attitude can influence whether or not a situation or emotion is stressful.” to get infections. A poor diet can mean unhealthy food choices, not eating enough, or not eating on a normal schedule. Physical activity: Not getting enough physical activity can put the body in a stressed state. Physical activity has many benefits, including promoting a feeling of well-being. Support systems: Almost everyone needs someone in their life they can rely on when they are having a hard time. Having little or no support makes stressful situations even more difficult to deal with. Relaxation: People with no outside interests, hobbies, or other ways to relax may be less able to handle stressful situations. AN INDIVIDUAL STRESS MANAGEMENT PROGRAM • Find the positive in situations, and don’t dwell on the negative. • Plan fun activities. • Take regular breaks. Physical activity: • Start a physical activity program. Most experts recommend 20 minutes of aerobic activity three times per week. • Decide on a specific type, amount, and level of physical activity. Fit this into your schedule so it can be part of your routine. • Find a buddy to exercise with — it is more fun and it will encourage you to stick with your routine. • You do not have to join a gym — 20 minutes of brisk walking outdoors is enough.
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Nutrition: • Eat foods that improve your health and well-being. For example, increase the amount of fruits and vegetables you eat. • Eat normal-sized portions on a regular schedule. Social support: • Make an effort to socialize. Even though you may feel tempted to avoid people when you feel stressed, meeting friends usually helps people feel less stressed. • Be good to yourself and others. Relaxation: • Learn about and try using relaxation techniques, such as guided imagery, listening to music, or practicing yoga or meditation. With some practice, these techniques should work for you. • Listen to your body when it tells you to slow down or take a break. • Make sure to get enough sleep. Good sleep habits are one of the best ways to manage stress. • Take time for personal interests and hobbies. RESOURCES If these stress management techniques do not work for you, there are professionals, such as licensed social workers, psychologists, and psychiatrists, who can help. Alexian Brothers has been enriching the lives of the St. Louis senior community for over 30 years, offering a complete array of services designed around the needs of their patients and residents. For more information or to schedule a visit, please call Alexian Brothers Senior Ministries at 1-800-251-4600.
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Alternative Hospice stands ready to serve as your emotional and spiritual guardian angels during this diff icult time. December 2011 — Greater St. Louis Area — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 7
nutritional
Food Allergies:
Reducing the Risks F
ood allergies can range from merely irritating to life-threatening. Approximately 30,000 Americans go to the emergency room each year to get treated for severe food allergies, according to the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network (FAAN). It is estimated that 150 to 200 Americans die each year because of allergic reactions to food. Food allergies affect about 2% of adults and 4 to 8 percent of children in the United States, and the number of young people with food allergies has increased over the last decade, according to a recent report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Children with food allergies are more likely to have asthma, eczema, and other types of allergies. Some food allergies can be outgrown. Studies have shown that the severity of food allergies can change throughout a person’s life. “There is no cure for food allergies,” says Stefano Luccioli, M.D., senior medical advisor in the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) Office of Food Additive Safety (OFAS). “The best way for consumers to protect themselves is by avoiding food items that will cause a reaction.” OFAS is part of FDA’s Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition (CFSAN). To reduce the risks from allergic reactions, FDA is working to ensure that major allergenic ingredients in food are accurately labeled in accordance with the Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act of 2004 (FALCPA). Allergenic ingredients are substances that are capable of causing an allergic reaction. In addition, there has been widespread use of allergen advisory labels on products that may have allergenic ingredients that were introduced by way of cross contact during the manufacturing process. Cross contact occurs when a residue or other trace amount of an allergenic food is unintentionally incorporated into another food. Because FALCPA does not require the declaration of allergenic ingredients introduced through cross contact, FDA is developing a long-term strategy that will help manufacturers use voluntary allergen advisory labeling that: • Is not misleading • Conveys a clear and uniform message • Adequately informs food-allergic consumers and their caregivers What is a Food Allergy? A food allergy is a specific type of adverse food reaction involving the immune system. The body produces what is called an allergic, or immunoglobulin E (IgE), antibody to a food. Once a specific food is ingested and binds with the IgE antibody, an allergic response ensues. Page 8 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Greater St. Louis Area — December 2011
A food allergy should not be confused with food intolerance or other non-allergic food reactions. Various epidemiological surveys have indicated that almost 80 percent of people who are asked if they have a food allergy respond that they do when, in fact, they do not have a true IgE-mediated food allergy. Food intolerance refers to an abnormal response to a food or additive, but it differs from an allergy in that it does not involve the immune system. For example, people who have recurring gastrointestinal problems when they drink milk may say they have a milk allergy. But they really may be lactose intolerant. “One of the main differences between food allergies and food intolerances is that food allergies can result in an immediate, life-threatening response,” says Luccioli. “Thus, compared to food intolerances, food allergic reactions pose a much greater health risk.” Signs and Symptoms Symptoms of a food allergy usually develop within about an hour after eating the offending food. The most common signs and symptoms of a food allergy include:
• Hives, itching, or skin rash • Swelling of the lips, face, tongue and throat, or other parts of the body • Wheezing, nasal congestion, or trouble breathing • Abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting • Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting In a severe allergic reaction to food – called anaphylaxis – you may have more extreme versions of the above reactions. Or you may experience life-threatening signs and symptoms such as: • Swelling of the throat and air passages that makes it difficult to breathe • Shock, with a severe drop in blood pressure • Rapid, irregular pulse • Loss of consciousness Major Food Allergens FALCPA, a comprehensive food labeling law, has been in effect since January 1, 2006. Under FALCPA, food labels are required to state clearly whether the food contains a major food allergen. A major food allergen is defined as one of the following foods or food groups, or is an ingredient that contains protein derived from one of the following foods or food groups: • Milk • Eggs • Peanuts • Tree nuts such as almonds, walnuts, and pecans • Soybeans • Wheat • Fish • Shellfish such as crab, lobster, and shrimp
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“These foods or food groups account for 90 percent of all food allergies in the United States, and FALCPA focuses on IgE-related food allergies. This law does not protect everyone with a food allergy, but should protect the majority of people who may have severe allergic responses to foods,” according to Luccioli. More than 160 different foods have been reported to cause allergies; the list of major allergens in the United States is limited to eight foods. “Other countries may have different foods on their lists because food allergies reflect patterns of consumption,” Luccioli says. “For example, in Europe there is a high prevalence of allergies to mustard and celery.” Advice for Consumers If you have food allergies, you must be prepared for unintentional exposures. To protect yourself, the National Institute of Allergies and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) recommends that you: • Wear a medical alert bracelet or necklace stating that you have a food allergy and are subject to severe reactions • Carry an auto-injector device containing epinephrine (adrenaline) that you can get by prescription and give to yourself if you think you are experiencing a food allergic reaction • Seek medical help immediately if you experience a food allergic reaction, even if you have already given yourself epinephrine, either by calling 911 or getting transportation to an emergency room For more information, visit Consumer Health Information at www.fda.gov/consumer.
W H AT T O O K Y O U A L I F E T I M E TO LEARN CAN BE LOST IN MINUTES.
WITH A STROKE, TIME LOST IS BRAIN LOST.
Le arn the warning signs at StrokeAssociation.org or 1-888-4-STROKE.
©2004 American Heart Association Made possible in part by a generous grant from The Bugher Foundation.
NOTE TO PUB: DO NOT PRINT INFO BELOW, FOR ID ONLY. NO ALTERING OF AD COUNCIL PSAs. American Stroke Association Magazine - (4 St. 5/8 xLouis 4 7/8) 4/C - ASNYR2-N-01065-T “Lifetime” 120 line— screen December 2011 -— Greater Area — Healthy Cells Magazine Page
digital files at Schawk: (212) 689-8585 Ref#:211214
9
physical
Don’t Miss a Beat What is Atrial Fibrillation (AFib)?
Page 10 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Greater St. Louis Area — December 2011
A
Fib is a common condition in the heart that causes the atria - the upper two chambers of the heart - to beat very fast and irregularly. When this happens, blood isn’t pumped through the heart as well as it should be, which makes people with AFib vulnerable to the formation of a blood clot in the atria. AFib is the most prevalent sustained cardiac arrhythmia (heart irregularity) in the United States, affecting more than 2.2 million Americans. In the past 20 years, there has been a 66 percent increase in hospital admissions for AFib, due to the aging population. Looking ahead, it is estimated that AFib will affect more than 12 million people in the U.S. by 2050. What are the symptoms of AFib? AFib can produce a broad range of symptoms, or none at all. Because it is characterized by an irregular and fast heart rate, patients often experience unpleasant palpitations or discomfort in the chest. The inefficient pumping ability of the heart may cause weakness, faintness, and shortness of breath. How do I know if I’m at risk? Age is a major risk factor for AFib; the average age of people with AFib is about 75, and approximately 70 percent of those people are between 65 and 85 years of age. Underlying heart disease and having had prior heart surgery are the most common risk factors of AFib. It is possible to have AFib when there are no other signs of a heart disorder. Other risk factors include diabetes, high blood pressure, hyperthyroidism (too much thyroid hormone), and excessive alcohol consumption.
AFib and stroke risk During AFib, the atria (upper chambers of the heart), don’t pump all of the blood in the ventricles (lower chambers of the heart). Some blood pools in the atria. When this happens, a blood clot can form. If the clot breaks off and travels to the brain, it can cause a stroke. People with AFib are at a five-fold increased risk for stroke compared with the general population. At least 15-20 percent of all strokes occur in patients with AFib. Several factors are considered when assessing the risk of a stroke for a person with AFib. People who have had a prior stroke are at high risk. Additional factors that increase risk of stroke in people with AFib include being 75 or older, high blood pressure, heart failure and diabetes. How can I manage stroke risk with AFib? People with AFib have treatment options to help reduce the risk of stroke, including medication that thins the blood to help prevent blood clot formation. Unfortunately, nearly half of people with AFib do not receive appropriate preventive medicine to help protect against the risk of stroke. Where can I go for more information? People with AFib should discuss their stroke risk management options with their health care provider. To learn more about stroke risk in atrial fibrillation, visit www.afibonetoone.com.
December 2011 — Greater St. Louis Area — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 11
feature story
A “Home-Away-From-Home” Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Metro St. Louis keeps families close to their seriously ill children while they receive medical treatment at area hospitals. By Katie Underhill Adrianne’s Story Adrianne Martin is a happy, bubbly baby, but her sunny smile belies the long road she has already traveled in her one year of life. On November 23, 2010, just hours after she was born, Adrianne was flown from her home in Poplar Bluff, MO., to SSM Cardinal Glennon Children’s Medical Center to be treated for Pierre Robin Sequence, a rare jaw deformity. Instead of taking their new baby home to meet the family over the Thanksgiving holiday, Adrianne’s parents, Bethar and Chad Martin, made the 2.5-hour trip to St. Louis, terrified for their seemingly healthy newborn. The Martins spent the next six days — including Thanksgiving Day — in the NICU (neonatal intensive care unit). But even during one of the most trying times in their lives, they found reasons to count their blessings. After nearly one week of living in the hospital, Bethar and Chad moved into the Ronald McDonald House on Park Avenue, where they stayed for nearly two months while Adrianne recovered from her first surgery. According to Bethar, over the next two months, the Ronald McDonald House became their “homeaway-from-home.” “It’s nice to have a home-cooked meal after a long day at the hospital,” says Bethar. “We ate Christmas dinner at the House and spent New Year’s Eve there, too. That’s something I’ll never forget.” On January 11, 2011, the Martins spent another important occasion at the Ronald McDonald House — their first night out of the hospital with Adrianne. The next day, they went home to Poplar Bluff, knowing they would be returning soon for check-ups and additional surgeries. Since then, Adrianne has endured two more operations to fix her jaw, and she will undergo another to repair a cleft palate. However, her parents take comfort in the support they continually find at the Ronald McDonald House. But the Martins are just one of the many families who have been helped by RMHC St. Louis over the past 30 years. In 2010 alone, more than 1,300 families called a St. Louis Ronald McDonald House “home.” The Power to Heal Hearts Having a child diagnosed with a catastrophic illness or injury is emotionally and financially devas-
Adrianne Martin, 11 months, gives Ronald McDonald a hug at the Ronald McDonald House on Park Avenue. tating to a family. They face weeks, months or even years of expensive treatment at medical centers, some of which are a considerable distance from their homes. RMHC St. Louis offers families a reprieve from the financial burden of hotel bills and constant travel by providing temporary housing with a home-like atmosphere, as well as the common bond of shared experience with other families of seriously ill children. Although RMHC St. Louis is not a medical care provider, its services do have the power to heal. Research has demonstrated the importance of family involvement in a child’s care to improve both the clinical outcome and the psychosocial impact of the diagnosis of a serious illness. Ronald McDonald Houses allow families to stay close to their hospitalized child, which allows them to better communicate with their child’s medical team and adhere to treatment protocols. Not surprisingly, studies have also shown that children cope better when their parents are coping well. These outcomes have led many children’s hospitals to emphasize a culture of “family-centered care.” In addition to the support families receive from hospital staff, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Metro St. Louis gives families the opportunity to interact with other parents who are facing similar situations. Because of the incredible advances St. Louis pediatric facilities are making, the need for family support and care continues to grow. Since the city’s first Ronald
Page 12 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Greater St. Louis Area — December 2011
McDonald House opened in 1981 on West Pine Blvd., the nonprofit organization has grown from an eightbedroom facility to now include three Houses, as well as eight extended-stay apartments. On September 29, 2010, the 300th Ronald McDonald House in the world opened on the campus of Mercy Children’s Hospital in West St. Louis County. All together, St. Louis’ three Ronald McDonald Houses provide lodging for 59 families every night. To stay at a St. Louis Ronald McDonald House, a family must live at least 50 miles away and have a child under the age of 18 who is receiving treatment at a St. Louis hospital. Families are asked to contribute $5 per night, but no family is ever turned away because they cannot pay. The organization also helps families of seriously ill children who aren’t staying at one of its three Houses. In 2010, at least 5,300 new families, both from St. Louis and all over the globe, experienced the welcoming respite of St. Louis’ three Ronald McDonald Family Rooms, located inside Mercy Children’s Hospital, St. Louis Children’s Hospital and SSM Cardinal Glennon Children’s Medical Center. These rooms offer families a break from the hospital environment, where they can take a shower, do laundry, grab a snack, check their e-mail or catch the news on TV — all just steps away from their child’s hospital room. More than 80 families every day find comfort and care in one of these Family Rooms. How You Can Help Ronald McDonald House Charities of Metro St. Louis is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. It is able to serve families, like the Martins, through a dedicated network of volunteers, committees and the generosity of donors. For more information on how you can help provide a “homeaway-from-home” to families of seriously ill children, visit www.rmhcstl.com or call 314-773-1100.
ABOVE - Adrianne Martin, 11 months, and her mother, Bethar, enjoy a fall day while visiting the Ronald McDonald House after a check-up at SSM Cardinal Glennon Children’s Medical Center. LEFT - Adrianne Martin, 11 months, climbs the stairs at the Ronald McDonald House on Park Avenue.
December 2011 — Greater St. Louis Area — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 13
movement
What Is Restless Legs Syndrome? R
estless legs syndrome (RLS) is a disorder that causes a strong urge to move your legs. This urge to move often occurs with strange and unpleasant feelings in your legs. Moving your legs relieves the urge and the unpleasant feelings. People who have RLS describe the unpleasant feelings as creeping, crawling, pulling, itching, tingling, burning, aching, or electric shocks. Sometimes, these feelings also occur in the arms. The urge to move and unpleasant feelings happen when you’re resting and inactive. Thus, they tend to be worse in the evening and at night. Overview RLS can make it hard to fall asleep and stay asleep. It may make you feel tired and sleepy during the day. This can make it hard to learn, work, and do other daily activities. Not getting enough sleep also can cause depression, mood swings, or other health problems. RLS can range from mild to severe based on: • The strength of your symptoms and how often they occur • How easily moving around relieves your symptoms • How much your symptoms disturb your sleep One type of RLS usually starts early in life (before 45 years of age) and tends to run in families. It may even start in childhood. Once this type of RLS starts, it usually lasts for the rest of your life. Over time, symptoms slowly get worse and occur more often. If you have a mild case, you may have long periods with no symptoms. Another type of RLS usually starts later in life (after 45 years of age). It generally doesn’t run in families. This type of RLS tends to have a more abrupt onset. The symptoms usually don’t get worse over time. Some diseases, conditions, and medicines may trigger RLS. For example, the disorder has been linked to kidney failure, Parkinson’s disease, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, pregnancy, and iron deficiency. When a disease, condition, or medicine causes RLS, the symptoms usually start suddenly. Medical conditions or medicines often cause or worsen the type of RLS that starts later in life. Page 14 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Greater St. Louis Area — December 2011
Outlook RLS symptoms often get worse over time. However, some people’s symptoms go away for weeks to months. If a medical condition or medicine triggers RLS, the disorder may go away if the trigger is relieved or stopped. For example, RLS that occurs due to pregnancy tends to go away after giving birth. Kidney transplants (but not dialysis) relieve RLS linked to kidney failure. Treatments for RLS include lifestyle changes and medicines. Some simple lifestyle changes often help relieve mild cases of RLS. Medicines often can relieve or prevent the symptoms of more severe RLS. Research is ongoing to better understand the causes of RLS and to find better treatments. For more information please visit www.nih.gov.
financial health
Checking Up On Mom’s Finances By Joel Kamil, Certified Public Accountant
T
he aging process is not easy. Over time many of us will lose the ability to perform ordinary tasks we now take for granted. One crucial area which can become a real problem for seniors and their families is the daily routine of maintaining a check book and paying bills. Left unchecked loved ones may forget to pay for rent, utilities, telephone, cable TV, charge cards and other items. Soon they begin accruing late fees and termination notices. In worst case scenarios power and telephone can be shut off and landlords may come knocking on the door asking for payments for the last three months. As a certified public accountant with over 40 years of experience, who works with seniors on a daily basis, here are some tips to help your loved one maintain their financial health. • Review your parent’s bills each month, more often if necessary. Make sure all invoices are paid on time or according to a payment schedule. Look for late fees and other indicators that could indicate a problem. • Check bank statements and look for missing checks. Obviously you want to reconcile your parent’s check book with the bank statement, but also look to see if checks are missing. A lost check could mean your parent simply skipped over it or misplaced it, or it could mean something else. Call your bank if necessary to see if the check is in the system for processing. • Look for unusual payments to unknown individuals. Seniors are easy prey for scam artists. A visitor may come to your parent’s door, or call by phone, and “sell” them an item at a prohibitive cost. They may also write an extremely large check to a worker who helps them bring in groceries or other items, simply thinking they are repaying them for their service. Some charities prey on seniors and get very large contributions from them. • Analyze checks to ensure they are written by your loved one. Your loved one may ask a repair person or other frequent visitor to help them pay their bills. The end result may be the check writer padding their payment or writing themselves a check to the tune of a few hundred or a few thousand dollars. Carefully look at each check to make sure they are in your parent’s handwriting. Some seniors, like my mother, suffer from macular degeneration and cannot see well enough to verify a check was written properly. This could be a problem regarding payments to family members. • Finally, assume control and responsibility for your parent’s finances. Should your loved one become totally incapable of managing their own finances it may be necessary for you to gain control over
the check book, investments and other related items. A lawyer can determine your ability to serve as power of attorney. Once that control is gained the family must decide which family member will handle this responsibility. In many cases the family will decide to assign this duty to a third party to avoid conflicts and provide reporting to all family members. This task can be outsourced to a professional organization skilled in working with seniors and related financial matters. According to Edwin D. Wolfgram, MD, “As a physician specializing in the elderly, professional assistance with bill paying is helpful. Stress is reduced for all family members and independent living may be sustained.” The goal is to reduce the burden and confusion of this task for your loved one so they can enjoy more freedom to do other fun-filled activities. Joel Kamil is a St. Louis certified public accountant with over 40 years experience and the owner/operator of Checks & Balances Plus, LLC, an organization helping seniors and busy professionals with the task and details of organizing, managing and paying their bills, or those of family members, each month. For a small monthly fee the firm will open, scan and pay bills monthly, help protect your accounts from fraud and unnecessary late fees with established controls, track and ensure timely payments, provide a detailed monthly bill payment history and provide a summary report to help in year-end income tax preparation. For additional information visit www.cbp-stl.com or call 636-449-1298. December 2011 — Greater St. Louis Area — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 15
safety
RETHINKING Holiday Drinking Alcohol-related Traffic Deaths Jump on New Year’s Eve
S
ome New Year’s predictions are, tragically, very reliable. For example, more people are likely to die in alcohol-related traffic crashes on New Year’s Eve than on other mid-week winter evenings. Just look at the numbers. A recent analysis of National Highway Traffic Safety Administration statistics shows that, by the time our country finished ringing in the year 2011, 59 people had died in alcoholrelated traffic crashes in the 12-hour span between 6:00 p.m. on New Year’s Eve and 5:59 a.m. the next morning. Two weeks later, on the same night of the week, the death toll dropped to 13. Myths Persist Even though many of us are aware of the higher rates of alcoholrelated traffic fatalities on New Year’s Eve, myths about drinking and Page 16 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Greater St. Louis Area — December 2011
driving persist—myths that, for some, can prove fatal. Scientific studies supported by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) on how alcohol affects our brains and bodies provide important information that challenges these commonly held—but incorrect— beliefs. These myths are related to how quickly alcohol affects the body and how long these effects can last. Alcohol’s Effects Begin Quickly Many New Year’s revelers get into trouble because they generally do not recognize that critical driving-related skills and decision-making abilities are diminished long before they begin to show the obvious physical signs of intoxication. Initially, alcohol acts as a stimulant and if you drink you may temporarily feel upbeat and excited. But don’t be fooled. Inhibitions and
bereavement judgment are soon affected, increasing the chance of making reckless decisions behind the wheel. As more alcohol is consumed, fine motor skills and reaction time begin to suffer and behavior becomes poorly controlled and sometimes aggressive, compromising driving abilities even further. Continued drinking can lead to the slurred speech and loss of coordination and balance that we typically associate with being “drunk.” At higher levels alcohol acts as a depressant, which causes people to become sleepy and sometimes pass out.
“Do not underestimate the effects
Coping With the Holidays After the Loss of a Loved One
of alcohol. Don’t believe you can beat them. Pace yourself and be aware of how much you’ve consumed throughout the night.” Even When Drinking Stops—Alcohol’s Effects Do Not During a night of drinking, it’s also easy to misjudge alcohol’s lasting effects. Many revelers believe that they can drive safely once they have stopped drinking for the night and have had a strong cup of coffee. The truth is that alcohol continues to affect the brain and body long after the last drink has been downed. Even after someone stops drinking, alcohol in the stomach and intestine continues to enter the bloodstream and circulate through the body. As a result, judgment and coordination can be impaired for hours after drinking. Driving home late at night is especially hazardous because natural drowsiness is magnified by the depressant action of alcohol. Driving abilities may even be impaired the next day, when any alcohol remaining in the system, or the general headache and disorientation associated with hangovers, contributes to the general feelings of sluggishness, even though the person no longer feels “drunk.” Before You Celebrate—Plan Ahead No one intends to harm anyone when they get behind the wheel on New Year’s Eve. Yet traffic fatalities persist and myths about drinking live on—even though scientific studies have documented how alcohol affects the brain and body. Because individuals are so different, it is difficult to give specific advice about drinking. But certain facts are clear—there’s no way to speed up the brain’s recovery from alcohol and no way to make good decisions when you are drinking too much, too fast. On an evening like New Year’s Eve (or any other evening, for that matter), rapid consumption of large amounts of alcohol is especially dangerous. So this New Year’s Eve, do not underestimate the effects of alcohol. Don’t believe you can beat them. Pace yourself and be aware of how much you’ve consumed throughout the night. And as you think about the consequences of an arrest or a potentially fatal traffic crash, make alternative plans to get home safely. For more information please visit www.niaaa.nih.gov
By Nadine Friesen
W
ith holiday season in full swing, there is no doubt a steady stream of family gatherings taking place. For many, this is a time of great joy, but for someone dealing with the death of a loved one, this season can be very difficult. The journey of grief finds some of its greatest challenges during times of celebration and gatherings of family and friends – or when one is alone. There is no way to ignore the fact that someone who was loved dearly is no longer physically present. While others may be experiencing joy and happiness, someone struggling with loss may sense sadness and heaviness. While others may seem to have energy and excitement about holiday preparations and celebrations, a grieving person may feel tired and have little interest in all that can be part of this season. Remember the challenging and exhausting process that grief can be. Your life has most likely undergone major changes in the past year. A grieving heart needs patience and gentleness to heal in order for a person to re-discover his or her identity and incorporate the death into everyday life. Here are a few suggestions to help those anticipating the first holiday season without a loved one: • Communicate your feelings with those closest to you. • Give yourself the freedom to say, “yes” or “no” to traditions and events as you feel able to participate in ways that are meaningful to you. • Get enough rest. • Plan for ways to specifically remember and honor your loved one. Place their picture among your decorations, buy an ornament or donate a gift in their memory. Invite family and friends to reminisce about him or her. • Attend a holiday gathering at hospice or your church with others who have also experienced a loss. • Don’t assume that the holiday season will only be filled with challenges. The holiday season can be a special reminder of the gift of hope — even as this time of year may be filled with extra sadness. Peace, joy and hope may pleasantly surprise you in ways you don’t expect. Nadine Friesen is a chaplain and bereavement coordinator. AmHeart Hospice offers bereavement services including follow-up with patient families for 13 months after losing a loved one, grief groups and seminars. Call 1-800-HOSPICE to learn more.
December 2011 — Greater St. Louis Area — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 17
water health
Proper Hydration is Your Body’s Most Precious Resource By Jon Frieda, Neels Pharmacy and Ed Heigl, Crestview Senior Living
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ne of the most practical ways to stay hydrated throughout the year is to drink enough water. While that is an obvious statement, approximately 75% of the people that you encounter on any given day are chronically dehydrated, and there are many symptoms of dehydration that can be misdiagnosed. You don’t need to be stuck outside in 100 degree weather to feel the effects of dehydration. Symptoms of dehydration include but are not limited to, sticky or dry mouth, sleepiness or tiredness; brain fog accompanied by headache, and decreased urine output. Sunken eyes, dry paper like skin that does not bounce back when you pinch it, fever, low blood pressure, lack of sweating, and rapid heart-beat can also be more serious indicators of severe or chronic dehydration. Unfortunately, thirst is not always the best indicator of dehydration, especially in older adults. Dehydration is one of the leading causes of hospitalization for older adults. Dehydration is more likely to occur in older adults with cancer, cardiac disease, and diabetes. Older individuals with urinary tract infections, upper respiratory infections and pneumonia should be particularly careful of becoming dehydrated. Often severe dehydration requires fluids to be restored intravenously. If the electrolyte salts and other minerals for the proper functioning of vital organs become imbalanced, simply drinking more water may not be enough to correct the problem. The treatment under these circumstances must be medically supervised, often requiring hospitalization. In addition to physical illness that causes loss of fluids, emotional illness, trauma, exercise, weather conditions and how much clothing you are wearing can also increase the likelihood of becoming dehydrated. If you are over dressed for the conditions indoors or outdoors this can cause fluid loss. Quite often because of poor circulation, seniors will over-dress for outdoor conditions and will wear too much clothing or keep the thermostat set too high while indoors, both of which will cause increased perspiration and loss of fluid and electrolytes. Water intake is mainly stimulated by the thirst sensation, and as we age our thirst sensation and water intake decline. This trend is the same for our appetite and food intake. These circumstances may often be accompanied by a decrease in mental function as well. Of particular risk to older adults is that dehydration affects metabolism and the proper absorption of foods and medications. The risk factors for dehydration in older individuals can lead to loss of autonomy and cognitive ability. If left untreated, researchers now believe that diseases like Alzheimer’s are due in large part to a lifetime of chronic dehydration. Executive Director of Crestview Senior Living, Ed Heigl reports, “In my experience working with seniors over the last thirty years I have seen that most hospitalizations result from falls. Quite often dehydration is one of the main factors that contributed to the fall. Falls from dehydration often lead to other complications, like broken bones, and end up being a life changing event, negatively impacting the quality of life for the rest of the person’s life.” Some seniors may have certain health conditions that limit their intake of water such as congestive heart failure or poor kidney function in which case they should contact their physician because it is possible to drink too much water. Family members, caregivers, and health professionals should be aware of the risk factors and signs of dehydration in elderly patients, especially if they appear confused or lethargic. Crestview Senior Living offers independent retirement services in the heart of Crestwood. For more information, please contact us at 314-842-3939 or on the Web at www.crestviewseniorliving.com
Page 18 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Greater St. Louis Area — December 2011
December 2011 — Greater St. Louis Area — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 19
weight loss
Burning Fat Matters More Than Losing Weight W
hen it comes to losing weight, most Americans are impatient, seeking to shed pounds as quickly as possible. But many traditional diet and exercise plans often lead to disappointment and frustration — and can even make you less healthy. The problem may stem from the fact that basically every diet tells us we need to lose weight. But for most people, it’s more important to focus on ways to accelerate fat loss, rather than weight loss. “Many conventional diets and popular exercise routines can actually make you fatter and more frustrated,” say Dian Griesel, co-author with her brother Tom Griesel of the new diet and fitness book “TurboCharged.” “The only thing any of us wants to lose is excess body fat, not our bones, muscle, water or other essentials. Yet, these are what typically deteriorate or are lost in most diets focused on ‘weight’ loss.” The problem starts with how we are all told to measure success. A standard weight measuring scale gives little information. Someone can actually be very lean with a well-hydrated and muscular body, yet they may weigh in at a higher number than someone of the same height that is actually fatter. After all, muscle is denser than fat. “Throw away your traditional scale,” says Tom Griesel. “The only relevant measurement is your body fat percentage. This can be easily calculated with a neck and waist measurement for men, and neck, waist and hip measurements for women.” Interestingly, even if you are not overweight, a waist measurement of over 33 inches, regardless of your weight, increases health risks like cardiovascular disease. A healthy lean male should have a body fat percentage in the 8 to 18 percent range, and a healthy female between 16 and 24 perPage 20 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Greater St. Louis Area — December 2011
“‘Throw away your traditional scale,’ says Tom Griesel. ‘The only relevant measurement is your body fat percentage’”. cent. The younger you are, the lower the acceptable healthy range. To find out your body fat percentage, enter your measurements into the free body fat calculator designed by the U.S. Navy, available at www.turbocharged.us.com. The primary reason for excess fat is often improper diet along with a lack of activity. Stress complicates things further by triggering release of the hormone cortisol that causes the liver to produce excess sugar. The excess sugar triggers hunger, so we’re more likely to eat more when stressed and, as a result, gain more fat. The Griesel’s recommend a diet consisting of fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, meats and fish. They also suggest you gradually increase your overall activity level. Walking is a great way to reduce fat and improve your overall health, but so is cleaning your home, chasing your kids, washing your car or gardening. Activity is activity, whether you call it exercise, running errands or having fun. The most important thing is that you put together a plan that’s best for you — one that helps you lose fat, not muscle, while living a fuller, more active life.
women’s health
Menopause Basics First in a Series Submitted by Dr. Edward S. Levy, Metropolitan Ob-GYN and Urogynecology What is menopause? Menopause is the point in time when a woman’s menstrual periods stop. Menopause happens because the ovaries stop producing the hormones estrogen and progesterone. Once you have gone through menopause, you can’t get pregnant anymore. Some people call the years leading up to a woman’s last period menopause, but that time actually is the menopausal transition, or perimenopause. During the time of the menopausal transition (perimenopause), your periods can stop for a while and then start again. Therefore, the only way to know if you have gone through menopause is if you have not had your period for one year (and it’s not menopause if your periods stop for some other reason, like being sick). The average age of menopause is 51, but for some women it happens as early as 40 or as late as 55. Some women worry about menopause, and it can cause uncomfortable symptoms, but there are many ways to treat symptoms and stay active and strong. Your gynecologist has expertise in discussing various options for the symptoms that bother you. Symptoms Menopause affects every woman differently. Some women have no symptoms, but some women have changes in several areas of their lives. It’s not always possible to tell if these changes are related to aging, menopause, or both. Some changes that might start in the years around menopause include: • Irregular periods. Your periods can come more often or less, last more days or fewer, and be lighter or heavier. Do not assume that missing a couple of periods means you are beginning the menopausal transition. Check with your doctor to see if you are pregnant or if there is another medical cause for your missed periods. Also, if you have not had a period for a year and start “spotting,” see your doctor. Spotting could be caused by cancer or another health condition. • Hot flashes. Also called hot flushes, these are a sudden feeling of heat in the upper part or all of your body. Your face and neck may become red. Red blotches may appear on your chest, back, and arms. Heavy sweating and cold shivering can follow. • Trouble sleeping. You may find it hard to sleep through the night. You may have night sweats, which are hot flashes that make you perspire while you sleep. You may also feel extra tired during the day. • Vaginal and urinary problems. These problems may start or increase in the time around menopause. The walls of your vagina may get drier and thinner because of
lower levels of the hormone estrogen. Estrogen also helps protect the health of your bladder and urethra, the tube that empties your urine. With less estrogen, sex may become less comfortable. You also could have more vaginal infections or urinary tract infections. Some women find it hard to hold their urine long enough to get to the bathroom (which is called urinary urge incontinence). Urine might also leak out when you sneeze, cough, or laugh (called urinary stress incontinence). • Mood changes. You could have mood swings, feel crabby, or have crying spells. If you had mood swings before your monthly periods or if you had depression after giving birth, you may have more mood issues around the time of menopause. Mood changes at this time also could be coming from stress, family changes, or feeling tired. Mood swings are not the same as depression. • Changing feelings about sex. Some women feel less aroused, while others feel more comfortable with their sexuality after menopause. Some women may be less interested in sex because sex can be more physically uncomfortable. • Osteoporosis (OS-tee-oh-poh-ROH-sis). This is a condition in which your bones get thin and weak. It can lead to loss of height and broken bones. • Other changes. You might become forgetful or have trouble focusing. Your waist could become larger. You could lose muscle and gain fat. Your joints and muscles also could feel stiff and achy. Experts do not know if some of these changes are a result of the lower estrogen levels of menopause or are a result of growing older. For more information, please contact the office of Dr. Edward S. Levy, MD at Metropolitan Ob-Gyn and Urogynecology, 314-686-4990, 816 South Kirkwood Rd., Suite 100, Kirkwood, MO 63122. December 2011 — Greater St. Louis Area — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 21
healthcare plan
How to Select a 2012 Medicare Plan
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egardless on the number of times you’ve gone through the Medicare process, it is important that you look closely at your plan options and make well-informed choices during this year’s enrollment period. Enrollment for 2012 plans is open now and closes on December 7, 2011. After December 7, the only change you may make to your 2012 plan is to disenroll. The annual election period is earlier than in the past, so it’s very important not to delay. Here are some helpful tips from health and benefits company, Humana, on how to make the best decisions regarding your Medicare plan: • Conduct a “health care audit”: Review last year’s records to see how much you spent on health care, including charges for doctors, hospitals, drugs and medical supplies. If you don’t have records, ask your doctor or pharmacy. • Watch for important dates: Benefit and premium information is available now for all 2012 Medicare plans, including prescription drug plans, and until December 7, 2011 Medicare beneficiaries can enroll in a Medicare plan for 2012 – such as a Medicare Advantage plan, Original Medicare, or a stand-alone prescription drug plan. • Identify health care needs and options: Evaluate the coverage plans available based on your estimated medical needs. Also consider the costs, benefits and provider network(s) associated with each plan. For example, frequent travelers and people who reside in another state for several months out of the year will want to ensure they are covered when they are away from home. You may also consider prescription drug coverage or home health coverage. • Consider current and future costs: Your goal is balancing cost with coverage. To accomplish this, research each plan’s five costsharing types – premium (the monthly cost to participate in a plan); deductible (the amount the individual pays before the plan begins to pay); copayments/coinsurance (the amount an individual pays outof-pocket for medical services or prescription drugs); initial coverage limit and coverage gap (both related to Medicare Part D – Prescription Drug Coverage only). • Take advantage of additional resources: Humana offers valuable information for Medicare beneficiaries through its website: www. humana-medicare.com. Another other valuable resource is the Medicare website: medicare.gov. Page 22 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Greater St. Louis Area — December 2011
•G uard against fraud: Don’t give personal information to any uninvited home visitors or solicitors who call selling Medicare-related products. If your Medicare card is lost or stolen, call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213. Finally, if you suspect someone has used your personal information, report your concerns immediately. All Medicare beneficiaries should also contact the Social Security Administration or their Medicaid office to see if they qualify for financial assistance. As a final note, if you are satisfied with your current Medicare coverage, then no action is necessary. You will be automatically re-enrolled in the same plan for 2012. However, you’ll still want to review a summary of benefits for 2012 and check for any changes to your coverage. The enrollment period is a good time to review how you used your plan this year and think about if your needs will change in the coming year. To learn more about choosing a Medicare plan, visit youtube.com/ humana where you can find videos on: • What is Medicare and how do I use it? • What is the Medicare process and how does it work? • What is Medicare Advantage?
appearance
A New Perspective on Thinning Hair and How to Treat It
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s noticeable hair shedding or limper-looking style causing you to worry? As many as three out of four people in the U.S. experience thinning hair, yet few can actually define it. It is a common misconception that thinning hair refers to balding; however, it speaks to simple hair shedding, breakage and decreased fullness, regardless of gender. Diet, stress, daily overstyling, constant chemical treatments and genetics can all cause your hair to thin, but there are simple ways to amp up your hair volume and make the most of the hair you have. As hair thinning is one of the largest and fastest growing categories in the beauty industry, education is key. To bring better awareness to the topic, Nioxin, the No. 1 stylist choice for thinning hair, brought together an interdisciplinary panel of experts for information on how to control the issue. Leading dermatologist Dr. Valerie Callender and Nioxin Stylist Design Team member Danielle Caputo share their expert tips to keep your crowning glory in full effect.
are a number of easy, quick fixes to pump up your volume, but if your hair is thinning it’s best to treat it from the source,” Caputo notes. “Nioxin Hair and Scalp Systems provide a customized approach to hair thinning. The three-part systems include a cleanser, scalp therapy and scalp treatment designed to deliver thicker, fuller-looking hair, and it’s backed up with a 30-day guarantee.” Love the hair you have: Work what you’ve got. Don’t let thinning hair affect your self-confidence and don’t let it stress you out, which could exacerbate the problem. Use hair care products that bestow fuller, thicker, more voluminous hair and shine-enhancing stylers to make your tresses glisten. Experiment with different hairstyles and most of all; wear your hair with pride.
Gain awareness: If you start noticing hair on your bathroom tile or in your shower, don’t worry - it’s perfectly normal to lose up to 100 hairs a day. But if you feel like you’re losing more, it’s important to acknowledge the issue. Take note of how much you’re losing and pay attention to your daily routine as you think about the potential causes. “You are not alone,” says Callender. “Seek information and talk to family and friends about the changes you’re experiencing. Chances are someone you know may be experiencing the same thing.” Consult a dermatologist: Talk to your dermatologist to get to the root of the problem. Whether it’s an unhealthy scalp environment, or a skin disorder, diagnosis is the first step toward treatment. “Don’t be afraid to seek a doctor’s opinion, no matter how slight or extreme the situation may be,” Callender says. “The solution may be as simple as changing your diet or hair care routine.” Visit your stylist or salon: Stylists are around hair all day and can help to advise you on what products to use or how to cut and style your hair for a healthier, thicker appearance. “There December 2011 — Greater St. Louis Area — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 23
men’s health
Do Guys Take Better Care of Their Cars or Themselves? more than 40 percent reported they would be more likely to address issues with their car than their health. Men may bring their cars in for service when an issue arises, and schedule regular tune ups to ensure that things are running smoothly, but they might not address their health in the same way. As a result, some men may be ignoring the symptoms of certain health conditions because they are reluctant to visit the doctor, the survey found. If men treated their bodies the way they treat their cars, they would schedule regular doctor’s appointments in the same way that they schedule regular tune ups. The survey is part of “T-Talk Tune-Up,” a new national campaign to raise awareness of men’s health issues. Racing champion Terry Labonte and national men’s health expert Dr. Harry Fisch have teamed up to lead the campaign and encourage men to schedule annual checkups with their doctors. “For many men, tuning up our cars is easier than getting checkups for our health,” says Labonte. “With the help of my wife, Kim, I began to think about my body and my health in the same way I think about the care of my cars. As a result, I scheduled a doctor’s appointment and a series of tests to help stay on top of my health.” Dr. Fisch recommends five health tests every man should discuss with his doctor, including a testicular exam, prostate exam, cholesterol test, testosterone test and blood pressure screening. “It is important to schedule annual checkups because some men may not recognize the symptoms of many treatable conditions such as low testosterone,” says Fisch, board certified urologist and clinical professor of medicine at New York Presbyterian Hospital/ Weill Cornell Medical College and director of the Male Reproductive Center. Millions of American men are estimated to have low testosterone, but it may be overlooked because the symptoms are subtle and similar to those caused by other conditions. Men may experience symptoms such as sexual dysfunction, decreased sexual desire, decreased muscle mass, loss of body hair, low sperm count, decreased bone mineral density or increased body fat as a result of having low testosterone.
I
t’s no secret that guys love their cars, but are they more likely to always change the oil on time than to visit the doctor for their annual checkup? Almost 70 percent of men find it easier to care for their cars than for their personal health, according to findings from a new survey of 501 men ages 45 to 65 commissioned by Men’s Health Network and Abbott. In addition, Page 24 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Greater St. Louis Area — December 2011
To learn more about the importance of men’s health visit www.TTalkTuneUp.com. The site provides men with tips for caring for their cars and their bodies, including a free health maintenance guide. The guide includes information on important tests guys should know about and tips to help keep their bodies running as smoothly as their cars.
school sports
Tips to Identify and Treat Concussions T
he crunch of pads followed by a tweet of a whistle, the thump of a basketball with a staccato of footfalls to accompany it, and even the thwack of a hockey puck against Plexiglass means one thing: school sports are in season. Coaches, parents and players are all getting ready for the game and practices are hard and grueling. But many sports involve contact and potential injuries, so coaches and parents need to educate themselves about serious injuries like concussions. At the professional level, more and more attention is being paid to the hard hits players are taking. The NFL is changing rules on helmet-to-helmet contact in hopes of reducing the number and severity of concussions suffered by players. But, head injuries also happen at much lower levels of play, and can be very serious. “Coaches and parents need to understand the extreme care that is needed when returning younger athletes to a game or practice who may have experienced a sports concussion,” says Dr. Jeffrey Kutcher, chair of the American Academy of Neurology’s Sports Neurology Section and also director of the University of Michigan’s Neurosport program. Signs of a concussion that can be observed during a game or practice are: • Behavior or personality change • False or imagined memories • Loss of consciousness • Empty stare • Disorientation Athletes may also report the following when suffering a concussion: • Blurry vision • Confusion • Dizziness • Feeling hazy, foggy or groggy • Headache The American Academy of Neurology’s website at www.aan. com/concussion offers two online safety courses created by the
University of Michigan Neurosport program and endorsed by the Academy to help high school and youth coaches recognize the signs of concussion and what to do if a player gets a head injury during a game. Each 20-minute safety course is free and a printable certificate is available after passing the online quiz. Coaches Cards are also downloadable from the Academy’s website providing easy-to-access information on how to spot a concussion and what to do if a player experiences one. Coaches and players are encouraged to keep these cards with their athletic gear for easy access. Some states have passed laws on managing concussions. If you are a coach or parent of a younger athlete, make sure you educate yourself on the laws and concussion signs to keep the athlete safe. “If for any reason you suspect an athlete has a concussion, remove the athlete from play and be sure the athlete is carefully evaluated by a person trained in concussion management, such as a neurologist,” Kutcher says. “Rushing this part of the process may lead to a serious setback, or worsen the injury.” High school and youth sporting events are meant to get athletes playing the games they love. But, a head injury needs to be addressed very carefully in order to ensure the athlete returns to the field safely for many more games to be played, both now and well into the future. December 2011 — Greater St. Louis Area — Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 25
quality care
Senior Living Isn’t What it Used to Be! By Cindy Paige
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he face of senior living looks very different today, literally and figuratively. Senior living communities are changing how they look – but more importantly how they serve their residents. The baby boomer generation has had a profound cultural impact on society, and senior living is no exception. As Andy Warhol said, “They say that time changes things, but you actually have to change them yourself.” For senior living the change has come, and it couldn’t be a more exciting time to open a new community in the St. Louis marketplace. What’s different in Senior Living Health care? Plenty. Gone are the sterile medical model facilities with large nurses’ stations and impersonal living space. Gone are inflexible routines, and residents who are known by their condition, rather than by their uniqueness as an individual. Residents can now live in a world in which the seniors truly direct their own care and make their own choices about how they spend their time. “Culture change” works to create home wherever we live. The term culture change refers to a transformation of long-term care services. Culture change focuses on persondirected care, sometimes also referred to as person-centered care. Person-directed care values include dignity, respect, purposeful living, and having the freedom to make informed choices about daily life and health care. Residents wake up, go to bed, eat, and bathe when they choose to. Staff alters their work routines to honor residents’ preferences. New senior communities strive to create a lifestyle that encourages participation, physical activity, life-long learning and choices. Activities are developed in ways that engage and attract family participation. Campus models of living provide a continuum of care in a homelike environment and amenities to seniors at all levels of need; including independent living, assisted living, memory support and skilled nursing. Lifestyle choices are many. Fine dining or café style meals. Your dog wants to retire with you? Great. Pets are welcome. Fitness/wellness centers with Yoga, Tai Chi, Pilates and water aerobics, educational opportunities, and so much more. Less bingo and more Wii. Page 26 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Greater St. Louis Area — December 2011
As residents move through the continuum of care from independent living, the neighborhood model breaks up traditional nursing units into smaller, functional areas, and introduces resident centered dining. The goal is to create areas that in size and scale feel more like home, not like big institutional buildings. Additionally, common space in the form of small living rooms decentralize traditionally large, sterile gathering areas. These household models have self-contained living areas with 15 or fewer residents which contain their own full kitchen, living room and dining room. These changes, and more, help to build a true community in a homelike environment. Creating environments that support lifestyles is the present, and the future, of senior living. Cindy Woods, Healthcare Administrator at Aberdeen Heights says, “We are dedicated to creating a future where quality of life is optimized, and our programs are dedicated to achieving this mission.” Cindy Paige is the Director of Sales at The Glen at Aberdeen Heights in Kirkwood, opening in the fall of 2011. The Glen will include assisted living, memory support and skilled nursing on their campus with the apartments of Aberdeen Heights. For more information or to schedule a personal visit, please contact Cindy at 314.909.6083.