20 minute read
Herbs for health
Herb gardening: six useful tips every gardener needs to know
Ayushi Singh on the proven health benefits of herbs
Relieves mental stress: Gardening can help maintain good mental health and wellbeing.
Are you looking for a satisfying indoor activity for yourself? Gardening is one of the common activities which is often recommended to older people.
According to The Royal Horticultural Society, “Gardening can help to keep you fit and healthy. Gardeners might be delighted to learn that the number of calories burnt from 30 minutes of gardening is comparable to playing badminton, volleyball or practicing yoga.’ Nature and human beings are linked together and it has an impact on our wellbeing. For some people, gardening is much more than a hobby.
Benefits of herb gardening for seniors -
Reduce the risk of dementia: The positive benefits associated with herb gardening is that horticulture therapy may help improve memory, learn new skills and regain lost skills for people with dementia. Gardening or simply walking through green spaces could therefore be important in preventing and treating ill health. Gardening was found to be more effective than walking, as reported by Royal College of Physicians.
Good exercise: Working in a garden uses every muscle in the body. Gardening is also a form of exercise that helps you to make you relaxed and boost your mood. According to a study, “Working in the garden restores dexterity and strength, and the aerobic exercise that is involved can easily use the same number of calories as might be expended in a gym.”
Gardening tools for seniors -
If you want the most fresh produce possible, consider planting your own herb garden. There are a lot of great tools that make gardening fun and safe for senior adults. Follow these easy steps using gardening tools for successfully starting your own herb garden.
■ Pruning shears is one of the most commonly used gardening tools for older people. They are used to cut branches and remove unwanted growth from shrubs. Pruning shears should be easy to handle and sharp.
■ Garden scissors are good for cutting flowers, herbs, leaves and twigs from plants.
■ Use garden gloves for the protection of your fingers and fingernails. You can also use gloves for planting herbs.
■ A spray container to water plants instead of using a heavy watering can is a must for older herb gardeners.
■ Create raised beds to better drainage and that also allow you to sit on the side while gardening.
Best herbs with medicinal benefits -
Planting an herb garden is a great way to give pleasure to the eyes and nose. But did you also know that fresh herbs may have many health benefits apart from their quality of bringing appetizing taste to your food. Thyme: Thyme is an aromatic herb rich in iron, magnesium, vitamins and minerals.
Thyme is a great source of vitamin K and it helps in reducing the risk of bone diseases. Thyme used in savory dishes like roasted meat, pasta, pizza and sauces.
Sage: Sage is an herb, a member of the mint family. Sage is a good source of vitamin A, which is best known for eye health. Sage might help to improve memory and thinking skills and prevent Alzheimer's disease in healthy senior adults. Better known by its common name, sage, Salvia Officinalis has several benefits for mental health. Salvia Officinalis has been shown to reduce inflammation and act as an antioxidant. Inflammation and oxidants are both
Thyme is an aromatic herb rich in iron, magnesium
Sage is a good source of vitamin A, which is best known for eye health.
believed to be significant contributors to the damage seen in Alzheimer’s disease.’ (The Alzheimer's Organization)
The herb has been used for treating indigestion and good at lowering cholesterol levels and diabetes. Sage is used as flavourful garnish, meat marinades, teas and soups.
Rosemary: A very strongly flavoured herb, rosemary may improve brain function in elderly with dementia. Rosemary was commonly used to cure muscle aches, boost immunity systems and improve gut health. In cooking, rosemary is used to season meats, soups, salads and it can be added to biscuit or bread dough.
Dill: Dill is a commonly used herb that is packed with fibre, calcium, manganese, and iron. Dill is also a great source of vitamin A and C that helps your body to improve immune system, eye health and skin. Dill is often used in vegetable dishes, pickles, soups and dipping sauce. bugs into your herb garden. Marjoram has been used as an herbal medicine because it has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. The fresh or dried leaves of marjoram can be brewed as a tea, or you can use it as garnish salads, marinate vegetables and meat dishes.
Lemon Balm: Lemon balm is a lemonscented herb. It has traditionally been used to soothe symptoms of stress, anxiety and insomnia. It has a lemony aroma and flavour so it is often used to marinate fish or chicken, add flavour to baked items and teas.
Parsley: Parsley is one of the most widely used herbs. Parsley is rich in vitamins A, C and K. It is a great source of antioxidants that may lower the risk of certain cancers.
Parsley is used in salads, sauces, garnish and vegetables to add flavours to food and also to make it look good.
Fennel: Fennel is a flavourful herb with pleasant-smelling. It is used for treating heartburn, digestive problems and loss of appetite. Fennel seeds used in baked foods, beverages, and also can be used as spice for sausage and pickling.
Caraway Seeds: Caraway is a multifaceted herb. Caraway seeds have been used to treat digestion, gas, and bloating. Caraway seeds are commonly used in Irish soda bread, roast chicken and sausages.
Lavender: Lavender is a unique and versatile herb for cooking. Lavender may be useful for treating insomnia, stress, chronic pain and asthma. Culinary lavender is used to make cookies and cakes, cocktails and marinated meat dishes.
Rosemary was commonly used to cure muscle aches, boost immunity systems and improve gut health.
Dill is a commonly used herb that is packed with fibre, calcium, manganese Marjoram has been used as an herbal medicine because it has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
Lemon balm is a lemon-scented herb. It has traditionally been used to soothe symptoms of stress, anxiety and insomnia. Parsley is one of the most versatile herbs. Parsley is rich in vitamins A, C and K. It is a great source of antioxidants that may lower the risk of certain cancers.
Prof. Alex Kalache, Director of the Institute of Longevity Brazil and DCU President Daire Keogh
Michiel Drost AFU Participant
DCU established the Ten Principles of an Age-Friendly University (AFU) in 2012 and leads a global network of over 100 universities representing Europe, South East Asia, North and South America and Australia.
Despite being a "young" university, DCU's commitment to increasing age diversity is evident in the number of older people on campus. It is not unusual to see AFU participants meeting between modules in the Helix for coffee or taking advantage of the DCU Sports Centre Active for Life Programme. There are events and activities on an ongoing basis open to all who wish to take part in educational, research, social and cultural opportunities and make new friendships.
For those considering a course of study to experience university without committing to a four-year programme, it is possible to undertake a single module from a selection of undergraduate programmes without the need complete assignments or take exams. It is a perfect option for those curious about a topic who want to keep their minds active and engage in a learning experience. This audit option provides participants with a student card, email address and library access. With over 150 modules to choose from, there is plenty of variety and the opportunity to experience intergenerational engagement with the traditional student cohort. These programmes run from September to December and January to April and are modestly priced at €100. One can also choose to take these modules for credit which cost €500 which is ideal for those who need an accredited module for their work.
A Love of Lifelong Learning Programme runs concurrently during the academic year and offers modules in Music, Genealogy, Life Writing, History, English, Botanical Art and specialist modules. DCU lecturers deliver these 6-week programmes and are very popular with older people. They not only offer a learning experience but also help participants understand how to navigate around the university and experience different lecturing styles. There is also a social aspect to both programmes with seasonal get-togethers, and cultural visits.
John Mullins served in the Garda Síochána for 37 years and joined a DCU music appreciation course as part of the Love of Lifelong Learning programme. Not having had the opportunity to go to university, he was delighted to be on campus, interact with the students and lecturers, and found the experience incredibly uplifting. During the course, John played music with his classmates and extended his knowledge about the history and construction of music. He made lifelong friendships and often went for a meal together after the class with the other participants.
When Catherine Clancy first heard about the AFU, she was inspired to join the life writing programme and signed up to improve her writing skills. It was the impetus Catherine needed to write her memoirs as a legacy for her grandchildren. “I also made new friends and opportunities to engage in research projects in the university” said Catherine.
Michiel Drost said “DCU’s AFU scheme has enriched my life and opened up new horizons for me - I signed up for a photography course. Every Wednesday morning for eight weeks. A number of different teachers, all very knowledgeable on their subjects, delivered the lectures. It was not just an instructive occasion but also a very social affair as the students compared cameras and notes. A few months later I enrolled for one semester of the philosophy module on an audit basis for one hour three mornings a week. Our lecturer Dr. Ian Leask, delivered the subject in a very engaging fashion, always drawing the students into the mind-set of the philosopher. One of the lectures about Michel Foucault’s book “Discipline and Punish – The birth of the Prison” introduced me to the former penal colony for young offenders in Mettray, near Tours in France where the cult writer Jean Genet spent some of his teenage years. I went to visit the place. "
There are unlimited opportunities to engage in DCU under the AFU programme, whether it is to continue the lifelong learning journey, contribute to research, wellness social, and cultural opportunities so why not give it a go?
We have regular social and cultural events, visits to sites of interest as well as a choir and a dedicated Coordinator and support staff
Join us on Friday, August 26th, for the annual "Taste of DCU" to hear more about the range and breadth of courses and other activities we offer in DCU. It provides an opportunity to visit the campus, meet with DCU staff and students and experience lectures and workshops on various subjects. The event is free, refreshments will be provided, and more seasoned participants will be on hand to share their Age-friendly University experiences.
Register here for the Taste of DCU event.
Visit our website www.dcu.ie/agefriendly or contact us at afuinfo@dcu.ie
Being Social Without Alcohol
Covid-19 has changed our lives in many ways with consequences for our health and wellbeing. It brought with it many unexpected and unplanned changes to all our lives but in particular affected those in the older age category. Older people generally followed the rules regarding isolation and remained indoors when the world became a much smaller place. Extra precautions were taken to stay safe. This for some, initially, meant loneliness and isolation, leading to anxiety and depression. For others, initially, it meant having time for themselves, no longer minding grandchildren and a reduction in social interactions with others. for some advice & tips, consider all the benefits associated with drinking less or not at all.
• Improved mental health • Better long-term physical health • Better sleep & more energy • Saving money.
Perhaps you find it easy to socialise without alcohol but are still struggling to reconnect with others. Take a look at some different ways to reconnect with others:
Now with the lifting of restrictions and the summer months in full swing, we are in a period of transition which brings both opportunities and stress, moving from our smaller world of silence and isolation to a bigger world of crowds, chat, and social events and expectations.
Transitioning from the “new normal” to reconnecting with our customary way of “living” can bring with it the anxiety of re-engaging, having social connections, and doing the things we previously enjoyed. Habits create needs and we may have adapted to and became comfortable with the restrictions and the fewer expectations on us to socialise. Now, reconnecting with our previous lifestyle will involve a change in mindset and habits and doing things we are not used to.
It takes small changes and steps to reconnect with our old, social world. If you find yourself relying on alcohol to jump back into your social life or find yourself thinking you need to have a drink when out socialising, why not try some alternatives instead?
· Practice mindful drinking. Are you drinking because you feel anxious? Take note of how each drink makes you feel and remember alcohol can make feelings of anxiety worse. · Try swapping to alcohol-free alternatives. · Alternate each alcoholic drink with a glass of water. · Explore new ways to socialise without alcohol. For example, taking up a hobby with your friends, or spending time in nature.
Ways to reconnect:
· Firstly, if resisting reconnecting is due to being anxious, ask yourself why you are feeling anxious. Is it a fear you may get the virus or tiredness? Knowing what is causing the anxiety can help you to be in control of it.
· You may find it hard to acknowledge you are anxious or depressed. Feeling anxious coming out of isolation is normal. By reconnecting with your social life and doing things you enjoy you may become happier and less stressed/anxious.
· Get involved in activities that bring you comfort and peace e.g., listening to music, going to see a film.
· Plan your day as this will leave less time for focusing on fears. Look at how you will mind yourself today.
· Exercise for at least 30mins each day. Go for a walk locally, at own pace, chat your neighbours.
· Reconnect with nature as it can have a calming effect
· Grieve your losses and the changes that have taken place
· Being healthy involves seeking and accessing support and help for yourself when needed. Join a group - you are not alone.
Remember to be KIND to yourself. Live one moment at a time. If feelings of anxiety and loneliness persist, know that you are not alone, and visit your local GP if you’re in need of extra support.
During the various lockdowns, you might have noticed that your drinking increased to levels you weren’t happy with, if you still feel that you’d like to cut down/out alcohol visit drinkaware.ie
Home from Home
Mairead Robinson meets Silver Stream CEO, Tom Finn, to hear about the latest developments in their nursing home care
While I start from the premise that nobody wants to live in a nursing home, I come to realise that for many of us this can be not only a relief but also a very welcome phase in our lives. In recent times there has been more emphasis on keeping people in their own homes for as long as possible, and certainly none of us would argue with that. We all want to stay in our homes surrounded by family, neighbours and the familiar area while enjoying a good degree of independence. But there does come a time in many people’s lives when due to physical or mental issues, this option is no longer possible and nursing home care is required. This can bring great relief not just to the person themselves, but also to their families when the safety and wellbeing of their relative is assured.
For the many of us who will spend time in a nursing home, it is very encouraging to learn of the developments in the sector where there is no longer a fear of being locked away from our previous lives, maybe heavily medicated and perhaps also all but forgotten about. That is very much an outdated view, and certainly not one that is borne out after my discussion recently with the CEO of Silver Stream Healthcare Group, Tom Finn.
First of all the group, Silver Stream itself was bought over by Dutch private equity firm Waterland in July 2019. They currently have seven nursing homes within the group located in Dublin, Wicklow, Meath and Tipperary. Tom came on board in January of this year, an extremely difficult time for the sector as the third wave of Covid hit the country. However Tom stresses that their homes had the resources to deal with the situation, and once the second vaccine was administered, the numbers dropped and life for everybody vastly improved. His remit now is to grow the company, and to increase bed numbers from three hundred and fifty, to one thousand. These will be spread throughout the country, and will incorporate existing facilities together with new builds. Indeed, it is a daunting prospect in these times when many other companies are looking to buy into the sector, but it is one that Tom is very happy to take on.
Silver Stream Nursing Home, Nenagh
Tom Finn (centre) and his management team after winning their award at the Public Service Awards
Home from Home is very much the model that Tom is focussed on, and while each of the nursing homes within the group has its own identity and personality, the ethos is firmly on the care of the residents, their health, happiness and wellbeing. He has begun refurbishing aspects of the homes, and his “resident first” approach extends to encouraging each new person who moves in, together with their families, to choose the décor and paint colour of their room. In this way the resident can stamp their personality on their new home and make it their own. It also helps to make the move less traumatic for those who find the change mentally difficult or disorienting. “I am fascinated by the science when it comes to care for the elderly” Tom insists, when our conversation turns to the difficult subject of dementia. He is very sensitive when it comes to how the progression
The Croft Nursing Home
of this disease can affect the person who suffers with this condition, from the early diagnosis to a progressed condition. “It is very distressing for a person to learn that this is an illness they are facing, and also for their families too” he says, and so with the care of dementia suffers in Silver Stream nursing homes his focus is to make the sufferer as comfortable as possible in their new environment. This is done in conversation with their families and with the input from new residents to accommodate their preferences and needs. He is undertaking further refurbishments at the homes to this end by taking out lino and blinds and installing more modern and contemporary décor including anti-microbial carpets and curtains.
As part of modernizing the nursing homes, Tom is aware of how animals and children can enhance the lives of many residents, and he is also keen to incorporate music and singing into their daily lives. Depending on the location of each home, there may be chickens or horses in the grounds, or a crèche next door. All of these things help to engage residents with life as it continues around them. Ideally each resident will have lived in the area previously, have family living nearby or even may have grown up close by and so the neighbourhood is familiar.
Residential care has changed fundamentally over the past number of years, and with people staying in their own homes for longer, they generally come to a nursing home later in life. These days up to eighty-five percent of residents in nursing homes are suffering from some degree of dementia. As we return to this topic, we discuss research trialling AI systems which can diagnose dementia after one brain scan. The system works by comparing brain scans of people who suspect they might have dementia, with those who have already been diagnosed. If early intervention treatments can kick in, it will slow down the progression of the disease. Tom reiterates how keenly interested he is on the ongoing research and development in the treatment of dementia. “I want the science of elderly care to be at the centre of everything we do”, he explains. He is following the latest findings in this area and is keen to incorporate every little change and improvement in Silver Stream Homes to enhance the lives of the residents. So what attracted him to this role, particularly at a time that is so very challenging for the sector? Tom grew up on a farm in Carlow and having studied both general and psychiatric nursing here, he took the opportunity to work in the US. He told me how excited he was as a young graduate to take up the opportunity to work and experience life stateside. He subsequently spent 12 years working on the front line in Los Angeles, where working in the ER he was at the centre of many dramatic events, including caring for those caught up in the violent Rodney King riots in 1992. He ran a laser eye-surgery firm for a while, and became CEO of a group of three companies called Pacific Oaks Medical Group. They ran all of the HIV wards in LA with about 4,000 HIV patients. They delivered anti-retroviral drugs that were so important in tackling Aids. Following that he was involved in developing the HPV vaccine, something which he is very proud of.
He also told me of his stint in Saudi where he took on a medical diagnostics project. When Covid first hit, he was unable to travel home and unfortunately his father passed away during that time. So subsequently, after all his travels and varied roles within the medical world, when the opportunity came up to take on Silver Stream, he was delighted to return home to Ireland to take it on. He has long had an interest in care of the elderly, and while there are many groups buying up nursing homes in Ireland, he is delighted to be fronting Silver Stream as they embark on increasing their capacity three fold.
“We are looking at existing homes with between fifty and one hundred beds. This allows for a more intimate type of nursing environment, which is what we are all about”. While the company will grow throughout the country with further nursing homes coming under the Silver Stream umbrella, the ethos of Home from Home will be to the forefront of each and every one of them. And for a sport-loving CEO who likes nothing better than to watch a game with one of his ninety year old residents, also a sport enthusiast, it is clear that Tom Finn himself knows exactly what Home from Home feels like.
