Health Beat, 2022

YOUR COMPREHENSIVE HEALTH DIRECTORY OF THE AREA’S LOCAL BUSINESSES

Heather is thorough, compassionate, and genuinely cares for her patients. She turned away from the computer, turned towards me, and took the time to learn more about me, my personal life, and upcoming plans. I'm not just another person in an exam room. Heather goes the extra mile to make her patients feel cared for.

” Shelia I.

Tri-State Clearwater Medical 1522 17th Street

Lewiston, ID

P: 208.743.8416

Mon – Fri, 7:30am – 5:00pm

Tri-State Family Practice & Internal Medicine

1119 Highland Avenue Suite 10, Clarkston, WA

P: 509.758.1450

Mon – Thur, 8:00am – 5:00pm

Fri, 8:00am – 4:30pm

Tri-State Family Practice Lewiston 2841 Juniper Drive Suite 2, Lewiston, ID

P: 208.848.9001

Mon – Thur, 8:00am – 5:30pm

Fri, 8:00am – 4:00pm

To schedule an appointment, call 509.769.2014 or email newpatients@tsmh.org

Metro Editorial

Living life to the fullest does not need to stop when adults near or reach retirement age. Age-restricted housing communities once bore the stereotype of having limited recreational options and dated surroundings. But modern seniorhomesandfacilities are all about catering to active lifestyles - with some communities offering resort-like amenities and pristine properties. Furthermore, certain communities providenicheofferingsfor people who are looking forsomethingevenalittle moredifferent.

Eligibilitytoliveinthese

communities varies, but generally speaking one resident in the home must be age 55 or older. According to research by TRI Pointe Homes, of the 75 million people who comprise the Baby Boomer generation who are eligible for agequalified communities, more than 32 million would consider living in such a community. The website 55places. com,whichspecializesin promoting age-restricted communities, indicates Floridahasthemostagerestricted communities in the country, followed by NewJersey.ArbutusRidge Seaside Community for Active Adults was the first comprehensive

retirement community builtinCanada.

ismostsuitableforthem.

HOME

LIFESTYLES

to

Call Us for Information or Tours. Assisted Living • Dementia Care Adult Day Care • Temporary Living/Respite Care 612656F_22 Senior Living Community 2114 Vineyard Ave. Lewiston, ID 83501 (208) 743-4545 • wedgewoodterrace.com Wedgewood Terrace

activities, and campusfeaturesprovideenjoyment,comfort, and convenience

WHEN COMMUNICATION BECOMES DIFFICULT

Metro Editorial

Trouble communicating with others can be a symptom of various disorders. Difficulty conveying words or emotions can be a condition of autism spectrum disorder, but quite frequently it occurs whenaneurologicalinjury affects the portion of the brain responsible for language.

The National Aphasia Association states that aphasia is an impairment of language that affects the comprehension or the production of speech as

well as the ability to read and write. Aphasia results from an injury to the brain, including head trauma, braintumors,infections,and stroke.

The Cleveland Clinic notesapersonwithaphasia may experience difficulty speaking, writing, reading, and understanding language. Impairments canrangefrommildtovery severe (nearly impossible to communicate). While aphasiamayonlyaffectone area of communication, usually limitations occur acrossmanyareas.

Oneofthemorecommon

AUDIOLOGY & TINNITUS

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symptoms of aphasia is word-finding issues. This can be characterized by challenges remembering thenamesofpeople,events or things. Sometimes an individual may not be able to think of the word he or she wants to say. In other instances, that person may saythewrongwordentirely, suchasusing“rope”forthe word “ball.” The American Speech-Language-Hearing Associationalsostatesthatit iscommonforsomeonewith aphasia to switch sounds in words, like “wishdasher” for “dishwasher.” Often sentences are difficult to comeby,andsinglewords maybeeasier.

middle-agedandolder.The NAA says roughly 180,000 peoplearediagnosedwith aphasia each year. Even though brain injury is a primary cause of aphasia, it also can create other language-related issues, such as weakness in the muscles that control the faceormouthoraninability to move the lips or tongue in the right way to make sounds.

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Trouble communicating also extends to a person with aphasia having challenges understanding what others are saying, particularly when they speak fast or in long sentences. The situation maybeexacerbatedwhen itisnoisyorapersonisina groupsetting.

Aphasia can affect anyone.However,itismore common in those who are

People with aphasia can benefit from working with a speech-language pathologist as early as possible. This professional canpresentmanystrategies to help manage deficits or potentially return some measureofcommunication. Augmentative and alternativecommunication, such as using images or a computer to tell what a person wants, may be options in more severe casesofaphasia.

Aphasia affects many peopleandcanrobthemof the ability to communicate effectively without intervention.

LEARN ABOUT THE CAUSES OF ADULT HEARING LOSS

Metro Editorial

Hearing loss is quite commonandcanimpact people’slivesinprofound ways. Although there are some treatments that can improve one’s ability to hear and communicate, many people are interested in learning about the ways they may be able to prevent hearing loss in thefirstplace.

Medical experts from the American Speech-

Language-Hearing Association advise that hearing loss can be caused by different factors. Learning about these causes can help individuals make smart decisionsatayoungage to prevent future hearing loss when possible. In certain circumstances, hearing loss may be unavoidable. In such

HEARING

continued on page 23

• Hearing Aid evaluation, fitting and management

• Diagnostic Hearing Evaluations

• Quality hearing aids customized for your listening needs and lifestyle

• Hearing Assistive Technology

• Tinnitus evaluation and management Save

VALLEY FACIAL PLASTICS & ENT

At Valley Facial Plastics & ENT, we have the ability to offer unique service to the community. On staff are two Otolaryngologist’s and an Audiologist. This allows us the opportunity to fully cover all of you hearing needs from medical intervention to quality hearing aids in one location.

CHIROPRACTORS CAN HELP WITH VARIOUS AILMENTS

Metro Editorial

Anyone who has experienced pain understandsthatitcanbe debilitating.Paincanmake it challenging to manage everyday tasks and can affect relationships and physical and mental health in many ways. Pain medications were once the norm, but with the rise of the opioid epidemic, it may be wise to take a differentapproachtopain treatment.

StatisticsfromtheCenters for Disease Control and Prevention, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality and the United States Department of Health and Human Services reveal that as manyasoneinfivepeople received prescription

opioids long-term for noncancerpaininprimary caresettingsin2016.While opioid use for pain does notalwaysleadtoabuseof these medications, opioid addiction has become a widespread problem across North America. These same agencies report that approximately 1,000peoplearetreatedin emergencydepartmentsin theUnitedStateseachday for misuse of prescription opioids. Between 2016 and 2017, opioid poisoning hospitalization rates went upby8percentinCanada, resulting in an average of 17 hospitalizations each day.

continued on page 22

THE IMPORTANCE OF BRUSHING AND FLOSSING

Metro Editorial

Brushing and flossing ensures the removal of plaque and bacteria, which are culprits in tooth decay and gum disease. Periodontal disease is caused by a buildup of suchbacteriaandplaque. Brushing removes materials from the surface of the teeth, while floss gets in between teeth where toothbrush bristles cannot reach. The American DentalAssociationsaysthat a combination of brushing

and flossing is the key to good oral health. While both brushing and flossing are necessary, some oral health experts says that, if done correctly, flossing actually may be slightly more important since it getstohard-to-reachspots wherethemostdestructive microbeslive.

Oral hygiene does not justkeepthemouthclean; it also can prevent serious disease. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says extensive

research shows that the bacteria that flourish in an unhealthy mouth can harm the rest of the body, potentially contributing to diabetes, respiratory illness andheartdisease,whichis theleadingcauseofdeath intheUnitedStates.

Brushingandflossingalso canmakedentalcleanings and examinations go smoothly. Plaque is the precursor to tartar and is sticky, but soft and pliable. Tartar forms when plaque has been left undisturbed.

Once on teeth, tartar can’t be removed without professional help. By removingplaquebeforeit’s had a chance to harden into tartar, people can reduce time spent in the dentist’schair.Furthermore, thosewhocleantheirteeth andgumsregularlywillhave a lower risk for gingivitis, which is inflammation and bleedinginthegums.

Flossingandbrushingare important components of oral hygiene and also are vitaltooverallhealth.

REASONS TO VISIT A PRIMARY CARE PHYSICIAN

Metro Editorial

Itisvitaltomakepersonal health a priority. Despite that widely accepted truth, far too often people delay trips to see their doctors. The coronavirus pandemic only compounded this issue. An April 2020 report from Modern Healthcare found roughly one in three Americans delayed medical care as they coped with the financial

loss and stress caused by COVID-19.AreportfromCTV indicatedCanadiancancer diagnoses were down 16 percent from 2018 to 2020 due to closed facilities or fear of getting COVID-19 frommedicaloffices.

Concerns about the pandemic are not the only reasonsindividualsmayskip doctor visits. Some avoid going to the doctor due to fear of the unknown.

Dr.

BarbaraCox,apsychologist based in San Diego, told NBCNewsthatit’scommon to feel reticent and anxious about going to the doctor. Around 3 percent of the population actually suffers from iatrophobia, the medical name for fear of doctors. Most just worry aboutgettingbadnews.

A refresher course on the benefits of visiting a primary care doctor may compel millions to schedule appointmentsandgetback ontopoftheiroverallhealth.

CHRONIC DISEASE MANAGEMENT

An individual with a chronic disease, such as kidney disease, diabetes or hypertension,shouldconsult with a doctor about the idealfrequencyofvisitsand to coordinate medication andtestingwithspecialists.

VACCINES AND SHOTS

Primary care providers (PCPs) offer routine vaccinationsandcanensure that individuals are up-todate on the immunizations they need to stay safe. Tetanus,diphtheria,shingles, pertussis, flu, and now COVID-19 vaccines are vital

tooverallhealth.

MEDICAL REFERRALS

APCPcanassessahealth situationandreferapatient to the correct specialist if more extensive care is needed. However, many chronic conditions can be monitored and addressed byaPCP.

CANCER SCREENINGS

UW Medicine, which specializes in patient care, research and physician training in Seattle, says most people will need a few cancer screenings as they age, including colonoscopies,Papsmears, mammograms, and other important diagnostic tests forcancer.PCPsareusually

the first line of defense against cancer and can ensurepatientsreceivethe screeningstheyneed.

NON-LIFETHREATENING ILLNESSES OR INJURIES

Unless a situation is lifethreatening or severe, thereby warranting a trip to the emergency room, mostpeoplecanvisittheir PCPs for help treating a variety of conditions. Whenindoubt,individuals should first consult with their general practitioners about the right course of treatment.

ROUTINE LAB WORK

Blood and urine tests

often are part of annual well visit checks. Many PCP offices have phlebotomists on staff so that lab work can be conducted in the convenience of one place andthensentoutfortesting.

WORK OR SPORTS PHYSICALS

Certainemployersrequire physical examinations, as doschoolsandrecreational sports leagues. PCP offices aretheplacetogoforthese types of examinations, which are generally recommendedannually.

Primary care physicians are often the first people to turn to for a bevy of health andwellnessneeds.

SNAKE RIVER COMMUNITY CLINIC

WHAT TO DO ABOUT WELLNESS AFTER 50

Reachingone’sfiftiethbirthdayinoptimal healthisanaccomplishmenttobeproud of. The hard work required to be healthy inmidlifeincludesadheringtoanutritious diet and exercising regularly. Once individuals cross the threshold and enter their50s,theycanlooktosomeadditional strategies to maintain their physical and mentalwell-beingfordecadestocome.

GET A PET

Many people 50 and older qualify as “empty nesters,” a term applied to adults whose children have grown up and moved out of their homes. Some empty nestersexperienceaphenomenonknown as “empty nest syndrome,” which the

Mayo Clinic notes can be marked by feelings of sadness or loss. Pets can help people over 50 with no children at home overcome feelings linked to empty nest syndrome. In 2018, the University of Michigan National Poll on Healthy Aging found that 86 percent of pet owners felt their pets make them feel loved while73percentsaidtheir pets provided a sense of purpose. Pets also can ensure individuals over 50 stay physically active andprovideopportunities to connect with other people.

PRIORITIZE LEARNING

Whether it’s taking musiclessons,goingback to school or mastering a new hobby, learning has a profound effect on aging brains. For example, a 2013 study published in the journal Psychological Science found that memory function is improved by engagement in demanding everyday tasks. That study reported that people who learned new skills experienced greater memory improvement than people who only socialized or participated in activities that were not ascognitivelyengaging.

MAKE AN EFFORT TO IMPROVE BALANCE

Various factors contribute to a decline in balance as adults age. For example, a decline in

muscle mass that begins when people are in their 30s is a normal part of aging. Over time, that natural decline affects strength and agility. Balanceexercisescanbe a valuable component of a fitness regimen that help individuals reduce theirriskforfallingasthey advancethroughtheir50s andintotheir60sand70s. That’sasignificantbenefit, astheCentersforDisease Control and Prevention reports that one out of every three adults age 65 and older experiences a fall each year, and as many as 30 percent of those falls lead to serious injury.

EMBRACE YOUR INNER SOCIALITE

Socialization is important for people of all ages, including individuals 50 and over. A 2017 study from researchers at Michigan State found that valuing friendships was a strong predictor of health and happiness among older adults. Opportunities to socialize with friends may increase as people navigate their 50s and children move out or become more independent. Individuals can take advantage of opportunities to socialize wheneverpossible.

Various strategies can help people maintain mental and physical wellness as they make theirwaythroughtheir50s andbeyond.

AND HOW PT CAN BENEFIT RECOVERY

Softtissueinjuriesaremore common than people may realize. In fact, anyone with an undiagnosed pain in his orherbodymaybesuffering fromasofttissueinjury.

According to Delaware IntegrativeHealthcare,bone injuries garner significant attention because broken bonesandfracturescanbe very serious. But soft tissue injuries, when left untreated, also can be troublesome and jeopardize individuals’ athleticpursuits.

Very well Health defines softtissueinjuriesastraumato any muscle, skin, tendon, or ligamentinthebody.Injuries may result from overuse or acute trauma, which is an externalforceappliedtothe body. Common examples of soft tissue injuries are lacerations, abrasions, contusions, sprains/strains, bursitis,andtendinitis.

Strains are injuries to muscles or tendons and sprains are injuries to ligaments, which are elastic bands of tissue that connect and stabilize

bones. Both strains and sprains are common soft tissue injuries. Bursitis and tendinitisalsoarecommon. Bursitisisaninflammationof the bursa, a fluid-filled sac that provides a cushion between the bones and muscles or tendons. Tendinitisisaninflammation of the tendons, which connectmusclestobones.

Manyminor(Grade1)soft tissue injuries that involve muscles, tendons and ligaments may heal when injured persons follow the protocol known as R.I.C.E., which is an acronym for Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. R.I.C.E. is widely recommended for these types of injuries. However, moreserioussofttissueinjuries may take extended time to heal. Some of these injuries alsomayleadtopermanent changesinmuscles,tendons and ligaments, causing certainbodypartstocease functioning how they used to. That may be the case with Grade 2 (moderate)

on page 18

Metro Editorial

Metro Editorial

Millions of adults go to great lengths to protect theirassets.Thosemeasures runthegamutfromsimple everydayeffortslikeutilizing two-factor authentication when accessing financial accounts via online or mobile banking apps to more complicated undertakings like estate planning. Life insurance is a component of estate planning that is vital to anyone looking to protect their assets in the event of theirdeath.

EXPLAINING LIFE INSURANCE

Life insurance is both similartoanddifferentfrom other types of insurance. Like homeowners and auto insurance policies,

WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT LIFE INSURANCE

life insurance provides financial protection in difficult circumstances.

A life insurance policy is a contract between an insurance provider and a policy holder that guarantees a payout to beneficiaries designated bytheinsuredindividualin thewakeofthatindividual’s death.

PERSONAL HISTORY

Insurance providers differ, but individuals interested in life insurance can expect to be asked about their medical historiesandlifestylehabits when discussing policies. Prospective policy holders will often be asked to sign

continued on page 19

9 SIGNS YOUR CHILD IS HAVING VISION PROBLEMS

Metro Editorial

As many a parent can attest, decoding a youngster’s needs can be challenging when that child is not yet able to fully communicate. Diagnosing health issues may require a little trial and error. So it’s no wonder many parents are notawareiftheirchildrenare havingissueswithvision.

Routine wellness exams by your child’s physician can help to determine if a child is having problems with his or her vision. Doctors may detectsubtletiesthatparents may not see, including signs that suggest kids are having troublewiththeirvision.

The American Optometric Association recommends vision exams at age six months, three years and before entering first grade, as well as every two years thereafter until age 18. Initial vision assessments typically takeplaceinapediatrician’s office.Parentscanspeakwith their children’s pediatrician andaskifheorshecanlook for signs of vision trouble in their sons or daughters. Some pediatricians may recommend children visit an optometrist or ophthalmologist.

Inadditiontospeakingwith their children’s pediatricians, parents can keep an eye out for the following warning signs children may exhibit when they’re experiencing

visiondisorders.

· Squinting, which can be a sign of compensating forpoorvision.

· Sitting too close to the television or holding a tablet screen close to the face.

·Coveringorshuttingone eye.

· Rubbing eyes due to visual fatigue and not generalfatigue.

· Pulling toys or other objectscloser.

·Headtilting,whichcould be a signal that vision may be better in one eye thantheother.

· Inability to make steady eye contact or track an object in an infant older thanthreemonthsofage.

· Crossed or misaligned eyes after age four months.

· Children who are easily distracted in learning situationsorhavedifficulty paying attention may be losing interest due to troublewiththeirvision.

A proactive approach to eye health by parents when children are young can help correct problems early on and ensure children can see and function successfully through the years. Early treatmentcanleadtomajor, long-term improvements in vision.

CHOOSING THE APPROPRIATE EYE DOCTOR

Metro Editorial

Eye health should be a priority for people of all ages.However,it’seasyto forget about eye health untilsomethinggoesawry.

Many eye care professionals recommend comprehensiveeyeexams every one to two years, depending on age, risk factors and whether a personiscurrentlywearing eyeglasses or contact lenses. If a person has been diagnosed with a particular eye condition, diabetes or is recovering from an eye surgery, a doctor may recommend morefrequentexams.

Choosing an eye care professionaltocareforone’s eyesmeansunderstanding thedifferenttypesofvision experts available. Prevent

Blindness America, a leading eye health and wellnessorganization,offers thefollowinginformationto helpconsumersdistinguish between eye care professionals.

OPHTHALMOLOGIST

An ophthalmologist is a physician who is qualified by medical education, training and experience to diagnose, treat and manage all eye and visual symptom problems. An opthalmologist is a doctor of osteopathic medicine (DO) who generally completes four yearsofcollege,fouryears of medical school, one year of internship, and a minimum of three years of DOCTOR

continued on page 18

• 24 hr assistance with personal and daily living activities

• Medication Monitoring, Administration, and Assistance

• Specialized Alzheimer, Dementia and End of Life Care

• Registered Nurse available 24 hrs a day

• Daily menus and specialized diets by registered dietitian.

• Beauty Salon and many more amenities

• Family owned and operated providing Elderly Care in the Valley since 1987

continued from page 14

or Grade 3 (severe) injuries. Further medical attention may be needed and physical therapy may be prescribed.

The Ace Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine Institute says soft tissue injuries account for most of the injuries that outpatient physical therapists treat. A therapist will analyze the type of injury and the pain or impairment it is causing to develop a rehabilitation program. Physical therapists often perform various treatments geared toward reducing swelling and inflammation. Manual therapies to help restore

normal motion also are part of soft tissue treatment plans. Stretching and strengtheningexercisesmay beincorporatedtoimprove endurance and repair soft tissue. Orthotic therapy may be needed to correct certainimbalances,advises Algonquin Chiropractic Center. Physical therapists also can educate patients about how to strengthen thebodytohelpreducerisk forfutureinjuries.

Soft tissue injuries are common and usually can resolve with rest. Guided physical therapy may be prescribed for more severe cases.

OPTOMETRY

KlempOptometry andAssociates

DOCTOR

continued from page 17

hospital-based residency in ophthalmology. He or she can perform routine vision services as well as manage medical conditions and perform surgery on the eyes. A pediatric ophthalmologist isadoctorwhospecializes in pediatric cases. Opthalmologistsmayhave certain specialties to treat particular conditions, such asdiseasesoftheretinaor glaucoma.

OPTOMETRIST

Anoptometristisahealth care professional trained and licensed to provide primaryeyecareservices, such as comprehensive eye examinations and eye health assessments. Heorshemaybeableto perform certain surgical procedures and can guide patients through low vision rehabilitation, contact lenses, and other visiontherapies.

OPTICIAN

Unlike optometrists

and ophthalmologists, opticians are not eye doctors. Rather, opticians aretechnicalpractitioners who design, fit and dispensecorrectivelenses. Opticiansuseprescriptions fromeyedoctorstofitand sell eyeglasses and other eyewear. Opticians are an important part of an eye care team. In some areas, opticians must be licensed and complete an optionary training program.

Individuals with eye problemsshouldseekcare from skilled and highly trainedeyedoctors,offers AllAboutVision.Someeye doctors collaborate as a teamtotreatpatients.

People can find reputable eye care professionals through their insurance companies, by getting referrals from friends and family, and by visiting the American Optometric Association at www.aoa.org/doctorlocator-search?tab=basic .

KLEMP OPTOMETRY OPTOMETRY

BRYDEN FAMILY VISION

INSURANCE

continued from page 15

waiversthatallowproviders to access their medical records. This is necessary so companies can get an idea of the health of the person applying for life insurance, which will determine the cost of a policy. That information, as well as family history, is important because it can serve as an indicator of future health risks. Some variables,includinglifestyle habits like smoking, won’t necessarily appear on an individual’smedicalhistory. In an effort to address that, insurance providers typically ask prospective policy holders to answer a variety of questions about their lifestyle, including whether or not they smoke and how much alcohol they consume. It’s vital that individuals answer these questions honestly, as companies can deny payouts to beneficiaries if they determine policy holdersmisledthemduring theapplicationprocess.

COVERAGE

Coverage needs vary depending on the individual. Life insurance is intended to provide for lovedonesintheaftermath of a policy holder’s death. How much money will those individuals need to pay their bills? Young adults who are just starting their families may want morecoveragethanaging adults who have already

paid off their homes and saved a considerable amount for retirement. The National Association of Insurance Commissioners recommends that individuals ask themselves how much of the family income they provide and if anyone else, such as an aging parent, depends on them for financial support. Answering these questions can help individuals determine how much coveragetheyneed.

TYPES OF COVERAGE

Insurance providers offer various types of life insurance policies. Term lifepoliciesareamongthe most popular because theytendtobeaffordable while offering substantial coverage. There are different types of term life policies, but policies tend to run for anywhere from 10 to 30 years and expire aroundthetimeindividuals reach retirement age. That’s because many people save enough for retirement and don’t have the sizable expenses, such asamortgage,toaccount foratthispointintheirlives. That means loved ones won’t necessarily need to beprovidedforinthewake ofapolicyholder’sdeath.

Permanent life insurance policies last until the policy holder’s death so long as heorshecontinuestopay the premiums on time. Financialadvisorscanhelp individuals understand the ins and outs of the various types of permanent life insurance policies, which

differ from term life policies becausetheycanserveas investment vehicles and sources of loans in certain instances.

Life insurance is a vital component of asset

protection that can offer peace of mind to policy holders who want to ensuretheirlovedonesare providedforinthewakeof theirdeath.

CHIROPRACTOR

continued from page 8

Chiropractic care may be one avenue to pursue as a viable alternative to pain medications. While chiropractic manipulations are most often associated with backandneckpain,there aremanydifferentbenefits - some of which may surprise those unfamiliar withchiropracticcare-for thistypeofcare.

MIGRAINES AND HEADACHES

Research shows that spinal manipulation can be an effective way to treat migraines,

tension headaches and headaches that begin in the neck. In clinical trials conducted at Macquarie University, 72 percent of migraine sufferers had noticeable or substantial improvementafteraperiod ofchiropractictreatment.

ACCIDENT INJURIES

Chiropractors can assess musculoskeletal anomalies caused by motor vehicle accidents as well as slips and falls. Whiplash is a common issue in car crashes, and thismaybeaddressedby achiropractor.

ANXIETY AND STRESS

The fight or flight mechanism that is

activated when a person experiences stress and anxiety can take its toll on various parts of the body. Because stress involves nerve impulses, chiropractorsmaybeable to work primarily with the spinewheretheseimpulses originate to help release tensionandnerveirritation. In addition, adjustments can improve blood circulation,whichmayhelp signalthebraintoturnoffits “rallytoaction”responseto stressfulsituations.

FIBROMYALGIA

Fibromyalgia is marked by widespread musculoskeletalpaininthe joints, muscles, tendons, and other soft tissues. It

can be combined with temporomandibular joint syndrome, or TMJ, as well as irritable bowel syndrome, among other illnesses. Chiropractors can remove subluxations, which are misalignments of the vertebrae in the spine and joints that lead to pain responses. A Florida State University study found that those with fibromyalgia who combined resistance training with chiropractic treatmenttwotimesaweek saw improvements in their symptoms.

Chiropractic care may be an asset for pain management, as well as a way to improve overall health.

HEARING

continued from page 7

instances, audiologists, or doctors specializing in hearing,canhelp.

CONDUCTIVE HEARING LOSS

Conductive hearing loss refers to problems with the ear canal, ear drum or middle ear and its bones, states the Hearing Loss Association of America. Some of the causes of conductive hearinglossinclude:

· Otitis media is an infection of the middle ear in which fluid accumulation can interfere with the movement of the eardrumandossicles.

· Impacted earwax alsocancausehearing problems.

·Fluidinthemiddleear

LIFESTYLES

continued from page 5

single-floor units. Certain communities may be comprisedofapartments, condos or townhouses, whileothersmaybesingle, detachedresidences.

AMENITIES

When comparing agerestricted communities, consider the amenities available. Do they include on-site dining, transportation, travel assistance, pools, fitness

mayobstructhearing.

· Otosclerosis, which is a middle ear disease, can make it difficult for the tiny bones in the middle ear to move. Surgerycancorrectthe problem.

· Malformation of the outer ear, ear canal or middle ear structure can impact hearing as well.

SENSORINEURAL HEARING LOSS

Sensorineural hearing loss,orSNHL,occursdue to problems of the inner ear. It is often referred to as nerve-related hearing loss.

· Aging is a common cause of hearing loss that may not be reversible. Age-related hearing loss is called presbycusis and is marked by muffled or unclear speech.

Treatmentwithassistive hearing devices can helpimprovehearing.

· Trauma to the ear or head may impact hearing. Wearing protective gear during sportsorotheractivities can protect against neurological damage thatmaycausehearing loss.

· Damage to the inner ear can result from prolonged exposure to loud noises, states the Mayo Clinic. These noises cause wear and tear on the hairs or nerve cells in the cochlea that send sound signals to the brain. When these hairs or nerve cells are damaged or missing, electrical signals aren’t transmitted as efficiently, and hearing loss occurs. Using hearing protection and turning down the

· Ménière’s disease is an inner ear problem of unknown origins. It usually starts in people betweentheagesof30 and 50. Dizziness and ringing of the ear are common, and hearing loss comes and goes. Somelosscanbecome permanent.

· Viruses and diseases aswellasfamilyhistory also may play a role in SNHL.

In some instances, hearing loss may be the resultofacombinationof factors. Anyone finding theirhearinghasbecome less acute should visit with an audiologist. One resource to visit is www.asha.org/profind. The doctor can then prescribe a treatment plan to help improve hearing.

centers, walking trails, or outdoor sports facilities? Some communities have “aging in place” amenities, which means residents can move from independent living to assisted living to skilled nursingcareastheirneeds change. Make a list of interests and then match themtoacommunitythat canfityourneeds.

COSTS

Costs vary considerably. Investopedia advises seniors to consider the community’s location and

what is being offered, as these factors will affect costs. In addition to rent or mortgages, most communities also have monthly maintenance or homeowners association fees that need to be comparedandconsidered. Readcontractscarefullyto see which other costs are included.

SPECIALIZED FEATURES

Uniquemenandwomen callforuniquecommunities. If standard age-restricted

communities do not fit the bill, 55places.com says there are specialized offerings for people who spendretirementinanRV; desirehomesthatalignwith theirheritage;communities just for postal workers; or communitiestiedtoalocal collegetocontinuelifelong learning.

Age-restrictedretirement communities are evolving and many specialize in catering to active lifestyles.