Health is Your Wealth “FOR EVERYONE IN RECOVERY & THEIR FAMILIES”
Feature Articles
Regular Articles
Headway (ABI Week) Help for Heroes Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Bi Polar Disorder Alzheimer's Disease Mobility friendly fun activities
Physiotherapy Speech and Language Occupational Health Mental Illness Importance of Nutrition Children's Corner Family Relationships Sexual Issues Brain Training True Stories Book & Film Review Top Tips For Independence Importance of a Routine
June 2015 Issue
www.HealthisYourWealth.co.uk
Editors Message
Well it's nearly summer! I can smell the BBQ & firepit already! For the last couple of months I have been doing brain training and got the results last week. Long story short 80% of the exercises show zero percent progress and the other 20% show improvement of 7% and 18%. In one way this is a little disappointing considering the level of effort that goes into this. However the small amount of progress its better than no at all ! Maybe I just wasn't ready yet and repeating the process in six months may yield a different result. Keep trying & Don‘t give up !
Dominic Chief
Readers Letters … Send letters to: letters@healthisyourwealth.co.uk
Please note that some of these articles are written by patients who are still in recovery. These articles are unchanged and may contain spellings, punctuation and grammar mistakes. A copy of our medical disclaimer is on our website I read your article on ―The frustrations of doing DIY‖ and can relate to it even though I don‘t have a medical condition! Stephen, Coventry
The ―taking medicine long term‖ made me think about the stuff I‘m on and whether I still need it! John, Spain ―Returning to driving‖ in the April issue is a challenge many people face. Since my car accident I don‘t feel I have the confidence! Thanks for your letters and kind words. We can‘t acknowledge all the letters but will aim to respond to each one!
Please note that errors and omissions are exempt from this publication. For terms and conditions please see www.HealthisYourWealth.co.uk
Health is Your Wealth Magazine
Page 2
Health is Your Wealth “FOR EVERYONE IN RECOVERY & THEIR FAMILIES”
Positive Mental Attitude
Front Cover: Designed by Gem White
31-32
Editors message and Reader Letters
2
Help For Heroes
33
Contents
3
Sexual Issues
34-36
Contributors
4
Exercise -Body Maintenance
37-38
Key Contacts
5
Speech Matters
39
Customer Testimonials
6
Mental Health— 100% Perfect
40
Motor Neurone Disease
7-8
Fun Activities—mobility friendly 41
Family Relationships
9-11
Train Your Brain
42-44
Children's Corner
12-13
Mental Health
45-46
Alzheimer‘s Society
14-16
Brain Training Applications
47-49
A Parents Uncertainty
17-19
Golden Nuggets
50
Living with Brain Injury
20
Importance of Nutrition
51-53
To Do: Dying Matters
21
Learn to pace yourself
54
Do you know what M.E. is?
22-24
Book Review
55
Acquired Brain Injury Week
25-29
Film Review
56
Statistics
30
Subscriptions
57
Health is Your Wealth Magazine
Page 3
Contributors To this issue Thank you to the authors who had input to this magazine. Without your valuable content this issue would not have happened! Kieran Booker for Headway
Parents Uncertainty: Dr IM
Exercise: Body Maintenance:
Speech Matters: Thomas
Carrie Smith for ME association
Brain Training: mybraintrining.com
Family Relationships: Sharon Marks Children's Corner: Cora Marks
Mental Health: Becky Wickes Living With Brain Injury: Theresa Barron Importance of Nutrition: Chris H Sexual Issues: Simon and Julie
Health is Your Wealth Magazine
Page 4
Key Contacts Sales/ Advertising gs@HealthisYourWealth.co.uk ratecard@HealthisYourWealth.co.uk Positive Mental Attitude PMA@HealthisYourWealth.co.uk Feedback / Comments / Testimonials
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Classified Adverts adverts@HealthisYourWealth.co.uk Website / BLOG for: www.HealthisYourWealth.co.uk Contact:
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www.facebook.com/HealthisYourWealthMag
Editor: Editor@HealthisYourWealth.co.uk
@hiywmag
Health is Your Wealth Magazine
Page 5
Customer Testimonials “Improvement through listening to constructive feedback” Winston Churchill
Feedback … Send feedback to: feedback@healthisyourwealth.co.uk
Make the text divider a dotted line. Yvonne, West Australia
Perhaps have the spaces
Thanks for your feedback, keep
between the lines a little larger
it coming so that we can make
to make the text easier to read
more improvements !
the for visually impaired. Reuben, East Midlands
Split the magazine into sections, colour coding each part. Abbey, Michigan, USA
Available on ALL Tablets Enlarge the pictures! David, Berlin, Germany
Apple Android Windows
Health is Your Wealth Magazine
Page 6
Motor Neurone 21st June 2015 Disease Global Awareness Day Association (MNDA) Each year, the Motor Neurone
This means messages gradually stop
Disease Association dedicates the
reaching muscles, which leads to
month of June to raising awareness
weakness and wasting.
of motor neurone disease (MND) and Global Awareness Day of MND
MND can affect how you walk, talk,
is on 21 June. In partnership with
eat, drink and breathe. However, not
the other member groups of the
all symptoms necessarily happen to
international Alliance of ALS/MND
everyone and it is unlikely they will
Associations, the MND Association
all develop at the same time, or in any
aims to use this day as a landmark
specific order.
event each year in its mission to improve care, fund and promote
Although there is currently no cure for
research and also campaign and
MND, symptoms can be managed to
raise awareness of MND.
help you achieve the best possible quality of life.
“There is currently no cure for MND�
After a successful 12 months of high profile awareness opportunities for Association thanks to the viral spread
MND is a progressive disease
of the Ice Bucket Challenge and the
that attacks the motor neurones, or
blockbuster release of The Theory of
nerves, in the brain and spinal cord.
Everything, this years events can be
Health is Your Wealth Magazine
Page 7
seen as a celebration of the
affected by MND, either through
breakthroughs made so far but also
living with it themselves or helping
of the next push in the battle to
to look after somebody who does.
generate awareness. If you are interested in helping to In celebration of the day supporters
raise funds or get involved with the
from around the world come
annual Jump Fest then you still can!
together across social media to share
All of the details can be found at:
stories of how MND has affected them, inform their friends about the disease and take part in a range of activities in an attempt to raise funds and awareness of the campaign. As well as 21 June being Global Awareness Day, this year‘s events
www.mndassociation.org/jump-fest-2015
or maybe you just want to set up your own fundraising event on the day or at any time, if so there is an amazing social media presence from people connected to all aspects of MND who
also coincide with the Association‘s Jump Fest in which sky dives take place all over the UK with all the funds raised going directly towards helping people whose lives are
can possibly help you.
Written by Kieran Booker on behalf of
MND
Derbyshire
(@mndderbyshire)
Health is Your Wealth Magazine
Page 8
Branch
• I wonder why no one returns my calls.
Family Relationships.
“What Happens to Relationships After Brain Injury?”
• It seems like everyone at work has lost my phone number. • I haven't talked to anyone in weeks. • Seems like nobody wants to talk to me.
Many survivors and family members
• Nobody has any idea what I am going through. They don't understand me.
describe
their
After injury, many survivors describe
relationships after the injury. They
feeling lonely — even when they are
may not hear much from friends, co-
surrounded by other people. This
workers and family members. Others
loneliness may arise for many different
notice that their phone calls, emails,
reasons.
changes
within
and letters are left unanswered. Some survivors find themselves feeling alone even when they spend much of their time with family members or friends. Here are some of the things people say about their relationships after brain injury.
• Difficulty talking to other people or understanding what others are saying are common problems survivors face after injury. Communication problems can make relating to other people and explaining your thoughts and feelings very difficult. These problems can lead
• I can't relate to other people. It's easier to be by myself.
to feeling misunderstood and isolated.
• What happened to all the friends who came to visit me in the hospital?
• Many survivors feel self-conscious after their injuries. They may worry
• People seem to avoid me.
Health is Your Wealth Magazine
Page 9
about being different or less capable
spend time with friends and family.
than other people. Self-consciousness
Family and friends may also worry
can make it harder to spend time with
about tiring you out when they invite
other people or seek out new
you to do something.
relationships.
• Pain and other physical problems
• After injury, many survivors worry
often make it harder for survivors to
about what others will think of them
do things they used to enjoy. You may
and may feel nervous about being
also have trouble leaving the house,
around other people. They may be
travelling, or visiting other people.
afraid of being hurt or rejected by
Injury-related limitations make it
other people.
harder to nurture and build plus
•
Many survivors notice they are
maintain relationships.
more irritable after their injuries.
•Many survivors are not able to drive
When irritated, they may say or do
or work after their injury. Lack of
things they regret later on. Some
transportation and money may make it
survivors try to stay away from those
hard to visit others or do things you
they care about for fear of behaving
enjoy.
poorly. Family and friends may also avoid you if they are worried about what you might say or do.
People generally make friends through work or being involved in social or recreational activities. After injury,
Fatigue and low energy are
survivors often stop working and may
common problems after brain injury.
not be involved in sports, church, and
Survivors may not have the energy to
other activities. You may lose contact
do things they used to enjoy or to
with friends and co-workers because
•
Health is Your Wealth Magazine
Page 10
you don't see them as much. Friends
and
family may feel
uncomfortable because they don't know what to say, how to act, or how to help. Discomfort may make it harder for them to relate to you or spend time with you. Help them out by letting them know about your positive and negative feelings and what they can do to help you. You can get help working through these issues by contacting Headway which is detail on Page 19
Sharon Marks Health is Your Wealth Magazine Proprietor
Health is Your Wealth Magazine
Page 11
Children’s Corner
letter with a spoon to spell out words, one of us saying the alphabet slowly and him squeezing
our
hand
or
“Communication is something
blinking to the right letter or just
we take for granted every
certain facial expressions showing
day�
what he wants or needed.
I never realised how important it was
As you can probably imagine it was
for us to talk to one another and hard
very upsetting and frustrating for both
it is to live your life every day
us and my dad, he wanted to talk to us
without the ability to do it until my
and say things and reassure us but he
dad's accident. As I understand, he
couldn't because he didn't have a voice
was put onto a ventilator to make his
and when he did day something or get
lungs inflate because they weren't
the right letters and it didn't make
doing it themselves and to do this he
sense and we told him he would get
had a trachea put it (like a tube thing
very frustrated and upset. It was
that he is fed through into his throat I
upsetting to see him in a state like this.
think). Consequently it stopped him
I found that the best way to deal with
from being able to talk and
this was to just stop everything,
communicate with us properly for
breathe in and count to 5 and then
about 3 months.
breathe out. simple, effective and
I think these months were the hardest
discreet.
of all. We progressed through many
After several months of speech
methods
of
c o m mu n i c a t i o n ,
including him pointing at the right
therapy for my dad he regained his ability to speak. But he had a
Health is Your Wealth Magazine
Page 12
completely different voice. Same
I would briefly like to thank Tim my
man. Same looks. Same personality.
dad's speech therapist for giving him
Different voice. It doesn't seem like a
back his voice so he can tell us he
big change but it actually is. The
loves us every night before we go to
voice that you have grown up hearing
bed and everybody that has had
is gone. It was upsetting at first but
patience, helped and stood by my dad
after a while you get used to it and it
through the whole rehabilitation
becomes part of your every day life.
process, and those who are still
We did have a voice mail on the
standing by and involved with our
phone of my dad saying he was
family.
coming home from work in what we
Talk to your family and your friends
refer to as his "old voice" and was
and your dog and your cat and your
nice to listen to but I don't really like
fish. Whoever you are able to talk to
to because it's kind of upsetting.
do it. Ask the business man you're
I remember dad's old voice being
stood next to on the train what his
very deep and moderately posh (even
favourite colour is. Sing loudly and
though he wasn't at all). His new
laugh even louder because you never
voice is different (slightly higher and
know when things are going to
slower) but very understandable.
change.
Sometimes because he is a bit slower than he was a little more patience is needed but that's all that's different really; as goes for all cases, all you need is patience, respect and to be able to listen.
Cora, age 15 Health is Your Wealth Magazine
Page 13
Dementia Awareness Week is also supported by a host of Alzheimer's Society celebrity ambassadors and supporters. This year, screen actresses Carey Mulligan, Naomie Harris and Laura Haddock backed the week.
Dementia Awareness Week 2015
They were joined by television presenters, Ruth Langsford, Fearne Cotton, Fiona Phillips and Robbie Savage; all of whom have family
Alzheimer‘s Society research shows
members affected by the condition.
that 850,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia. To raise awareness and increase understanding about the condition, Alzheimer‘s Society run a yearly Dementia Awareness Week in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. During the week-long campaign hundreds of events take place around the UK. Activities range from Dementia Friends sessions, to taster sessions for Alzheimer‘s Society‘s services such as singing from the brain.
Each year the campaign has a different message and this year‘s theme highlighted Alzheimer‘s Society belief that life doesn‘t have to end when dementia begins. During the week, people were encouraged to ‗do something new‘ and share their experiences on social media. Images were loaded up on #DoSomethingNew and included simple things like dining at a new restaurant or visiting a museum, to more extreme activities such as going on safari in Africa.
Health is Your Wealth Magazine
Page 14
feeling
isolated
and
alone.
For the first time ever, Dementia
Alzheimer‘s Society do everything
Aw a r e n e s s
also
they can to keep people connected to
accompanied by a hard-hitting
their lives and the people who matter
advertising campaign, which showed
most. More information about the
the isolation and loneliness that
symptoms and diagnosis are available
people with Dementia often face.
on the Alzheimer‘s Society website
We e k
was
www. alzheimers.org.uk
What is Dementia? Is there a cure? The word dementia describes a set of symptoms that may include memory loss and difficulties with thinking, problem-solving
or
language.
Dementia is caused when the brain is damaged by diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease or a series of strokes. Dementia is progressive, which means the symptoms will gradually get worse.
Dementia can affect a person‘s relationships and their connection to the world they love, leaving them
This year an estimated 225,000 will develop dementia, that‘s one every three minutes. There is no cure for dementia and it is impossible to say when one will be found with any certainty. The UK spends seven times more on cancer research than on dementia research and there are more clinical trials ongoing into hay fever than into some forms of dementia.
Although over the past few years awareness of dementia has received increased recognition in the public and
Health is Your Wealth Magazine
Page 15
political agenda, Alzheimer‘s Society
problems with memory and thinking,
say this needs to be matched by a
and getting some forms of dementia.
step change in research funding in order to see the same results for people with dementia. It‘s also not just about a cure –research also needs to focus on how they can live better with the condition, which people with dementia say is their top priority.
Can people do anything to reduce their risk of dementia?
For help and advice
Alzheimer‘s Society say the best way
From dementia cafés and one to one
to reduce your risk of dementia is to
support workers, to a national helpline
adapt various aspects of your
and online forum, Alzheimer‘s Society
lifestyle, including eating certain
services provide essential help and
foods, taking regular exercise, not
advice.
smoking, and maintaining normal blood pressure and cholesterol.
They also say there is good evidence that eating a Mediterranean-style diet can reduce the risk of developing
Call 0300 222 1122 or email helpline@alzheimers.org.uk. For
mo r e
i n fo rma t i on
Alzheimer‘s Society visit www.alzheimers.org.uk
Health is Your Wealth Magazine
Page 16
ab out
“A Parents Uncertainty”
family, Their emotional health and the strength of her relationships,
Although no two children or brain injuries are alike, many children struggle with similar emotions and challenges after TBI. These include: • Denial that the injury will have a long-term impact, • Grief over their loss of function and skill, •
Frustration with the recovery
process, and •
Limited awareness of the
differences in themselves.
Your child‘s ability to cope with or develop strategies for dealing with these changes will vary depending on many factors. Some of these may include: Your child‘s previous coping skills, Their intellect and personality, Support available from friends and
Plus the extent of the injury.
As a parent, you will play a key role in helping others understand your child. Ultimately your unique experience parenting your child, you will be able to provide the medical team with valuable information and insight into your child‘s personality traits.
To help you better assist your child, each issue we will examine some of the changes that children with TBI commonly face during the acute, rehabilitation, and back-at-home phases of the recovery process.
These articles will also offer suggestions for helping your child cope with and adjust to these changes.
Health is Your Wealth Magazine
Page 17
“Your Child During the Acute
Emerging from Coma.
Phase” Once your child‘s condition has stabilized and they are beginning to emerge from coma, you may then feel some reassurance. There is joy, relief, and hope but still uncertainty. You try not to be overjoyed, as the road ahead is still uncertain, but you experience some slight relief, a small lift of the burden. This was the small step, the sign that everyone has been waiting for. From this moment forward,
your
experience
Each child‘s beginning steps of recovery are unique and marked by varying memories. The environment is unfamiliar and your child‘s memories leading up to the injury may be unclear and uncertain. Usually, there is no memory of the actual injury. Uncertainty and unfamiliarity mark the beginning of the road ahead that your child now faces in coping with the changes in themselves.
of
parenting your child is changed
When your child is emerging from coma, there will be times when they
forever.
are not alert or responsive. Providing In the early stage, as you are trying to manage the emotional roller coaster ride, you find yourself asking, ―What should I be doing for my child?‖ Below are some suggestions for supporting your child as she emerges from coma.
stimulation, support, voice, and touch can be helpful to your child. Even if your child is not responsive, providing this support can help you feel connected to your child. If possible, surround your child with familiar items, including pictures of family members and friends, mementos from
Health is Your Wealth Magazine
Page 18
home, and familiar music. Try to
you should be secure in knowledge
create a familiar environment within
that you are surrounded by people
the unfamiliar hospital room. When
who have spent their whole lives
you are ready, encourage close family
learning and experiencing these type
members to visit your child. You and
of situations on unfortunately an
your family members should keep
increasingly frequent basis, see page
talking to your child, providing those
19 for further details.
familiar voices and reassuring words
Next issue we will discuss the next
of love and support.
stage your child will go through!
Certainly this is a traumatic time and you may feel that some of you simple questions have not been answered and although these questions are important however difficult it maybe
Is this magazine in your doctors waiting room yet?
Ashbourne TAXIS door to door taxi service. Specialist in providing transfers to and from the doctors office /hospitals / airports. Co-ordinating with airport special assistance and hospital porters so that both your destination and pickup is stress free. When making a booking please specify that you would like special services included and we will be only happy to help and make sure you get to your destination with ease.
IF NOT GO TO www.HealthisYourWealth.co.uk
and click on subscriptions.
Health is Your Wealth Magazine
Page 19
“Living With Brain Injury The functional sections or lobes of the brain are also divided into right and left sides. The right side and the left side of the brain are responsible for different functions. General patterns of dysfunction can occur if an injury is on the right or left side of the brain.
can cause: •Visual-spatial impairment •Visual memory deficits •Left neglect (inattention to the left side of the body) •Decreased awareness of deficits •Altered creativity and music perception •Loss of “the big picture” type of thinking •Decreased control over left-sided body movements Diffuse Brain Injury (The injuries are scattered throughout both sides of the brain) can cause: •Reduced thinking speed •Confusion •Reduced attention and concentration •Fatigue •Impaired cognitive (thinking) skills in all areas
Injuries of the left side of the brain can cause: •Difficulties in understanding language (receptive language) •Difficulties in speaking or verbal output (expressive language) •Catastrophic reactions (depression, anxiety) •Verbal memory deficits •Impaired logic •Sequencing difficulties •Decreased control over right-sided body movements Injuries of the right side of the brain
Understanding a little more about which part of your brain is damaged can explain how the therapy will work for you and how much level of focus / priority you put into each area. It is not possible to work on all the things simultaneously therefore you will have to agree with your therapist what do first! It is better to do one thing well than many mediocre !
Health is Your Wealth Magazine
Page 20
and colleges; academic bodies; trade unions; the legal profession and the
“#DyingMatters”
funeral sector. Since the Dying Matters Coalition was
Horrible at it may seem with all the medical advances there are still some conditions that are terminal.
The
people who have these illnesses are usually quit ―matter of fact‖ about this topic and each May an awareness campaign is scheduled to socialize this subject and you can learn more
set a wide range of resources have been created to help people start conversations about dying, death and bereavement. These have been a great success: to date more than 750,000 different items, from DVDs, posters and leaflets through to pens, postcards and balloons have been distributed.
about by visiting: www.dyingmatters.org This campaign has been in place since 2009 and includes organisations from across the NHS, voluntary and
“Why plan ahead?” By planning ahead you will also make the financial, legal and practical consequences of illness and death easier for your family.
independent health and care sectors (including hospices, care homes,
Here‘s a checklist of things that you
charities supporting old people,
might like to consider:
children and bereavement); social care and housing sectors; range
of
faith
a wide
organisations;
community organisations; schools
Write your will Record your funeral wishes Plan your future care and support Consider registering as an organ donor Tell your loved ones your wishes
Health is Your Wealth Magazine
Page 21
Do you know what
heard of it would tell me vaguely that it ―makes you more tired than
„Myalgic
normal‖. Although she spared me
Encephalomyelitis‟
she had told me that the illness
is ?
Glandular Fever when she was a
many of the details to begin with, developed after having a bad bout of teenager.
The M.E. Association is a charity very close to my heart. My good
I didn‘t notice the severity of her
friend
illness until her health deteriorated in
suffers
from
Encephalomyelitis severe
Myalgic a
our second year. We were living in a
condition
student house together and this is
(M.E.);
neurological
which has literally taken over her
when
I
truly
saw
just
how
life.
debilitating M.E. can be. While the severe fatigue is a huge part of the
I met my friend at university and
condition, I had no idea about the
she was studying Law, like me. I
other terrible symptoms that can
hadn‘t seen her around until about
come hand in hand with it. These
a month into the first semester,
range from horrifying muscle and
and, after asking where she had
head pain, vertigo, memory loss and
been
the fun of
terrible concentration problems. Any
Fresher‘s Week, she told me she
kind of exertion will leave the
suffered from a condition called
sufferer with days or even weeks of
M.E.
pain and unimaginable lack of
during all
energy that no amount of sleep or I had never heard of this illness
caffeine will improve.
before. Anyone else who had With all of these things getting
Health is Your Wealth Magazine
Page 22
steadily worse, she could rarely
it can be. Many patients feel alone and
muster up the energy to attend
do not always get a proper diagnosis
lectures or make dinner for herself,
for months or even years, as it is so
let alone see friends or lead a normal
under-researched and so many doctors
university lifestyle, as everyone else
are under the incorrect impression that
was doing. While I helped any way I
the symptoms are psychological.
could, I felt completely useless the majority of the time.
The M.E. Association is a wonderful charity that is there to support
“Many people suffering from M.E.
sufferers and their families in any way
are unable to go to school or work�
possible. They help encourage and financially support biological research
With incredible strength of spirit and
into the causes of M.E. and the
determination, she still managed to
possible treatments for it. They also
complete her Law degree; securing a
strive to educate the public on the
very impressive 2:1. Many people
condition so that anyone who is
suffering from M.E. are unable to go
affected by it can receive the
to school or work, and many are bed
understanding and support they
bound for years at a time, so I know
deserve.
she felt so lucky to be just well enough to achieve the degree and the
When I heard that the M.E.
result she deserved and worked hard
Association was one of the charities in
for.
the Bupa London 10k in May of this year, I knew this was my chance to
One of the worst things about M.E. is
support my friend, her family and
the lack of knowledge surrounding it.
anyone else who is affected by this
I had never heard of the illness, and
condition. I have always been a
many of the people that have heard of
terrible runner so, for me, a 10k was
it don‘t fully understand just how bad
quite an undertaking and I knew I
Health is Your Wealth Magazine
Page 23
would have to train hard in order to
of medicine. And if I have helped out
run it comfortably.
just one person out there suffering from this illness, even if it‘s just them
For the past five months I have
knowing that someone is there to
trained and fundraised as hard as I
support them, then I will feel that I
can. After surpassing my minimum
have done my job well.
sponsorship goal of £250 in the first month of fundraising I decided
If you would like to visit my
to set a higher target of £500 to
fundraising page please follow the
work towards. Through using
link:
Twitter, word of mouth and getting
www.justgiving.com/CarolineRebeccaSmith
an article in my local paper, I have now managed to fundraise over
There is also more information about
£600 which I am incredibly happy
Myalgic Encephalomyelitis on the M.E. Association website:
about. While raising money for charity is
www.meassociation.org.uk
really important, to me, a huge part of my fundraising was actually about raising awareness as well as finance. Small charities do not get the widespread advertising that big charities do, so it is vital to spread as much awareness as possible. I hope that by doing this run for the M.E. Association I have helped contribute
financially
to
the
promotion of research in this area
Health is Your Wealth Magazine
Page 24
and a variety of additional conditions. This is the first time a picture of incidence rates for all ABI in the UK has been published, with the figures
New statistics reveal shocking
highlighting a concerning growth in
increase in brain injury
the number of people sustaining injuries to the brain each year.
admissions The number of people admitted to
Key findings from the research
the hospital in the UK with an
include:
acquired brain injury (ABI) related
diagnosis has increased by 10%
There
were
348,934
UK
admissions to hospital with
since 2005-06, according a new
acquired brain injury (ABI) in
report issued by brain injury charity
2013-14. That is 566 admissions
Headway.
per 100,000 of the population.
The statistics also reveal that while males remain 1.6 times more likely
have increased by 10% since
to be admitted for a head injury, the
2005-6.
number of females being admitted to hospitals in the UK with non-
ABI admissions in the UK
There were approximately 956
superficial head injuries has risen by
ABI admissions per day to UK
a shocking 24% since 2005-06.
hospitals in 2013-14 – or one every 90 seconds.
Using hospital admissions statistics, Headway has compiled the first
In 2013-14, there were 162,544
dataset on ABI-related hospital
admissions for head injury.
admissions in the UK. These include
That equates to 445 every day,
non-superficial
or one every three minutes.
head
injuries,
strokes, brain tumours, encephalitis,
Health is Your Wealth Magazine
Page 25
Men are 1.6 times more
further research is urgently needed in
likely than women to be
order to identify ways to understand
admitted for head injury.
this alarming increase.‖
However, female head injury
Dr Andy Tyerman, consultant clinical
admissions have risen 24%
neuropsychologist in the Community
since 2005-6.
Head
In
2013-14,
there
were
130,551 UK admissions for stroke. That is an increase of 9% since 2005-6 and equates
Injury
Service
in
Buckinghamshire, said: ―What this excellent piece of research suggests is that not only are more women sustaining head injuries each year, but also that we do not know the
to one every four minutes.
reasons behind this silent epidemic. ―These statistics make for uneasy reading,‖
said
Luke
Griggs,
Director of Communications at Headway.
―Every 90
seconds
someone is admitted to a UK hospital
with
diagnosis that
an
ABI-related
could
lead
to
―Historical chronic underfunding into research that could help identify the severity and causes of acquired brain injuries, particularly traumatic injuries, has hampered efforts to understand and hopefully reduce the number of people affected each year.‖
significant long-term disability, with the number of people affected
What
increasing year-on-year.
circumstances or behaviour of
has
changed
about
the
women to explain the worrying rise ―Perhaps of greatest concern is the
in head injury identified?
dramatic rise in the number of
―This research may be the first step
females
in finding the answers we desperately
admitted
with
head
injuries. It is difficult to pinpoint
need.‖
the exact reasons for this, and
Health is Your Wealth Magazine
Page 26
across the UK to help people rebuild
Impact While not every person admitted to hospital with an ABI will be left with
long-term
deficits
their lives and regain a degree of independence.
or
―This increased demand for support
disability, Headway believes the
is evidenced by almost two million
increase in the number of ABI-
page views of the Headway website
related diagnoses is evidence of a
in 2014, and a 60% increase in calls
growing
acute
to the UK-wide helpline in the past
community-
five years alone. Sadly, it comes at a
demand
rehabilitation
and
for
based support services. ―Many of those admitted
time when Headway groups and to
hospital will face an arduous battle to rebuild their lives and relearn lost skills most of us take for granted, including walking and talking,‖ said Luke. ―Even those
branches are struggling to survive due to reduced local authority funding.
―It‘s a great shame that at a time when more and more people in need of help, local authorities are reducing the financial support they are providing.‖
who make good recoveries are still likely to require some short-term
The Headway study builds on a 2005
support and information.
report by Professor Alan Tennant that fed into the National Service
―Such a significant increase in the number of people admitted to hospital with ABI-related diagnoses, coupled with the fact the majority of these people will survive, suggests an ever-increasing demand on support services.‖
Framework
These
rehabilitation
head injury incidence in England
services provided by Headway
over two years, whereas Headway‘s
include
for
Long-term
(Neurological) Conditions. Professor Tennant, widely regarded as the leading expert in the epidemiology of brain injury in this country, examined
current research has analysed as
Health is Your Wealth Magazine
Page 27
many conditions which lead to
―The report also provides up-to-date
acquired brain injury as possible,
evidence with which to approach
across the entire UK, over a 14-
commissioners, and to request
year period since the start of the
funding for rehabilitation and support
century.
services in areas of the greatest need.
Commenting on the Headway
―I sincerely hope that this excellent
report, Professor Tennant said: ―It
research receives the attention it
is ten years since I published a
warrants in order to contribute to an
Department of Health-funded study
improvement in future service
entitled
provision.‖
„Admission following
to
head
hospital injury
in
England: Incidence and socio -economic association.‟
Headway is the UK-wide charity that supports people affected by brain injury. For further information or
The results confirmed that acquired brain injury is very common and
support, or to find your
constitutes a major public health
nearest Headway group or
concern.
branch, visit
― H e a d w a y ‘s
detailed
ABI
admission statistics provide an upto-date picture of the scale of the problem. They offer the clearest picture to date of the pool of people who require support, from short-
www.headway.org.uk or contact the free phone helpline on 0808 800 2244 or helpline@headway.org.uk
term advice and information, to long-term inpatient rehabilitation.
Health is Your Wealth Magazine
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Health is Your Wealth Magazine
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“Statistics are like a drunk and a lamppost. Used for support rather than illumination.” • By 2015 there will be 850,000 people with dementia in the UK • There are 40,000 younger people with dementia in the UK • There are 25,000 people with dementia from black and minority ethnic groups in the UK • There will be 1 million people with dementia in the UK by 2025 • Two thirds of people with dementia are women • The proportion of people with dementia doubles for every five-year age group • One in six people aged 80 and over have dementia • 60,000 deaths a year are directly attributable to dementia
• The financial cost of dementia to the UK is £26 billion per annum • There are 670,000 carers of people with dementia in the UK • Family carers of people with dementia save the UK £11 billion a year • 80 per cent of people living in care homes have a form of dementia or severe memory problems • Two thirds of people with dementia live in the community while one third live in a care home • Only 44% of people with dementia in England, Wales and Northern Ireland receive a diagnosis For more information about dementia or help and support on this topic visit: http://www.alzheimers.org.uk
• Delaying the onset of dementia by five years would reduce deaths directly attributable to dementia by 30,000 a year
Health is Your Wealth Magazine
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experience.
Do you have PMA ?? (Positive Mental Attitude)
Thinking positively
should aid your sleep pattern, fatigue, cognitive ability and has a whole host
“Think of the things you can do rather than the things you can't”
of other benefits.
So how do you start? 1. Meditate or do yoga Yoga is also very relaxing which helps ease the mind.
Thinking about the tasks you now find difficult or impossible is a
2. Smile.
complete waste of time which could
Sounds simple but it really does help
be spent on the things you can do
change your mood and relieve stress.
which is much more fun and productive!
Even if you start
thinking of things you would like to
3. Surround yourself with positive people.
do just nip it in the butt right from the beginning as there is no point in even
Call a friend who can give you
going down this road as it is a one
constructive, yet loving feedback.
way street that ends up leading you to
When you‘re stuck in a negative
an emotionally place which is full of
spiral, talk to people who can put
turmoil
things into perspective and won‘t feed
and
darkness.
By
concentrating on thinking about the
your negative thinking.
things you (and your family) can do rather than the things you can‘t will be
a
much
more
4. Change the tone of your thoughts
enjoyable
Health is Your Wealth Magazine
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from negative to positive.
8. List five things that you are grateful for right now. Being grateful helps
For example, instead of thinking,
appreciate what you already have.
―We are going to have a hard time adjusting to our living situation,‖
9.
Think that ―The glass is half full
think, ―We will face some challenges
not half empty‖. Better than that
in our living situation, but we will
not only is it half full but you are
come up with solutions that we will
able in a position to get a refill!
both be happy with.‖
10. Last but not least create your own PMA list. We are sure that this
5. Don‘t play the victim. You create
one is not complete so add things
your life—take responsibility.
to it ! Send
6. Help someone.
us
you
new
list
PMA@HealthisYourWealth.co.uk
Take the focus away from you and do something nice for another person.
7. Remember that no one is perfect and let yourself move forward.
It‘s easy to dwell on your mistakes. However you can not do it forever! At some point you have to draw a line in the sand and move on.
Health is Your Wealth Magazine
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to
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have increased interest in sex after
“SEX after Brain Injury” The subject people don‟t want to talk about! “Changes in sexual functioning are common after TBI”
TBI and may want to have sex more often than usual. Others may have difficulty controlling their sexual behaviour. They may make sexual advances in inappropriate situations or make inappropriate sexual comments.
Decreased Arousal: Many people If you are experiencing sexual problems, there are things you can do to help resolve these problems. The information below describes common sexual problems after TBI and ways to improve sexual functioning.
have difficulty becoming sexually aroused. This means that they may be interested in sex, but their bodies do not respond. Men may have difficulty getting or keeping an erection. Women ma y
h ave
dec re ased
vaginal
lubrication (moisture in the vagina).
“How does a traumatic brain injury affect sexual functioning?” The following changes in sexual functioning can happen after TBI:
Difficulty or Inability to Reach Orgasm/Climax: Both men and women may have difficulty reaching orgasm or climax. They may not feel
Decreased Desire: Many people may have less desire or interest in
physically satisfied after sexual activity.
sex. Increased Desire: Some people
Health is Your Wealth Magazine
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What causes changes in sexual
affect your interest in sex and your
functioning after TBI?
sexual activity.
There are many reasons sexual
Problems with Movement: Physical
problems happen after TBI. Some are
pain,
directly related to damage to the
uncoordinated
brain. Others are related to physical
balance problems may make it
problems or changes in thinking or
difficult to have sex.
weakness,
slowed
or
movements, and
relationships. Possible causes of changes in sexual functioning after
Changes in Thinking Abilities:
TBI include:
Difficulty with attention, memory, communication, planning ahead,
Damage to the Brain: Changes in
reasoning, and imagining can also
sexual functioning may be caused by
affect sexual functioning.
damage to the parts of the brain that control sexual functioning.
Changes in Relationships and Social Activities:
Some
people
lose
Effects: Many
relationships after TBI or may have
medications commonly used after
trouble meeting new people. This
TBI have negative side effects on
makes it difficult to find a sexual
sexual functioning.
partner.
Medication
Side
Fatigue/Tiredness:
Many people
“What can be done to improve sexual functioning after TBI?�
with TBI tire very easily. Feeling tired, physically or mentally, can
Talk
with
Health is Your Wealth Magazine
your doctor, nurse
Page 35
practitioner, or
men may need a urology exam. Ask
other health or
your doctor to check your hormone
rehabilitation
levels.
professional about
the
When having sex, position yourself so
problem, so they can help you find
that you can move without being in
solutions. Some people may feel
pain or becoming off balance. This
embarrassed talking openly about
may mean having sex in a different
sexual issues. It may help to keep in
way or unfamiliar position. Discuss
mind that sexuality is a normal part
this with your partner. Arrange things
of human functioning, and problems
so that you will be less distracted
with sexuality can be addressed just
during sex. For example, be in a quiet
like any other medical problem. If
environment without background
you are not comfortable discussing
noise, such as television.
sexual problems with your doctor, it is important to find a health
The point is don‘t stop being intimate
professional who you do feel
because things are not working out the
comfortable talking with.
way you want them to.
Maybe try
some different things which suit you Get a comprehensive medical exam.
and your partner. The chance is that
This should include blood work and
you will not be successful the first few
maybe a urine screen. Make sure you
time until you find something that
discuss with your provider any role
works for both of you. Either way
your medications may play. Women
don't
should get a gynaecology exam and
experimenting!
forget
Health is Your Wealth Magazine
to
have
Page 36
fun
Exercise, “Maintenance for your body !” Rehabilitation: points for patients to consider during the rehabilitation process. In the second of our articles on rehabilitation we take a look at some of the most common factors that influence our patients‟ recovery. It is human nature to look for quick fixes during the healing process. With so much conflicting information on the Internet relating to rehabilitation, it is a physiotherapist‘s role to provide clear, accurate and honest guidance – something we touched on in our last article.
a less demanding environment). Neuromuscular de-conditioning occurs much faster than conditioning. Simply put, your body loses physical fitness at a quicker rate than it takes to gain it. Another important factor in rehab is the issue of neural connections, which cannot simply be ‗disconnected‘. The body takes years to establish a certain pattern of moving, so getting used to unaccustomed new movements and/or structured exercise essential for recovering from an injury can take some time.
In this article we want to pick out the challenges that face injured individuals – not to de-motivate but simply to contextualise the frustrations that patients can face during the recovery process.
Often, patients believe that recovery works on a one to one ratio e.g. 3 weeks being out injured can be counteracted or reversed by 3 weeks of active recovery. Sadly, this is simply not the case – and under most circumstances the recovery process takes longer.
Neuromuscular challenges of injury rehabilitation
The role of pain and discomfort in injury rehabilitation
The neuromuscular system can be affected by age, psychological state, previous activity levels, current physical state and de-conditioning (the relative decline in physical fitness due to the body‘s adaptation to
It is normal to feel some pain and discomfort when exercising during your recovery. Be aware that it will consistently feel as if the effort you put into your rehabilitation is
Health is Your Wealth Magazine
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Exercise, “Maintenance for your body !” disproportionate to the outcome you want to achieve.
manage each milestone of your journey to recovery.
Further, the human body often tends to find the most comfortable position for you to move and/or rest in.
Finally, always remember that the physiotherapist‘s role does not stop at the treatment table. If you have concerns about your rehab, share them with us and allow us to help you through both the physiological and psychological process.
At TG Physiotherapy Care we always advise patients to be mindful of this and to be aware that the most comfortable position may not necessarily be the best position to ensure a swift recovery. Current evidence suggests that in some instances, there may be a lack of connection between pain and physiology. To put it another way: sometimes pain will persist regardless of normal healing processes and tangible improvement signs. Rehabilitation can be a long and arduous process that tests the resilience and patience of any individual. But there is a freedom that comes with the knowledge and awareness of your own body‘s healing ability. It is important to trust in the knowledge that your body will heal with the right input at the right time, and that you have the confidence to
Suffered an injury? Book an appointment with TG Physiotherapy Care today. TG Physiotherapy Care has venues in Nottingham You can contact us on: Tel: 07866-464-385 (Within the UK) Tel: +44 (0) 7866-464-385(Outside the UK) Email: tripti@triptigyan.com
Health is Your Wealth Magazine
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Speech Matters: “Confidence” Don't be afraid to telephone
suppliers, return things to stores or partake
in
confrontational
situations! There are many ways to build your confidence but one of the most successful is to
want the listener to understand
Pronounce your words as clear as you can
person to continue; therefore maybe have that person on
Explain to the listener why your voice sounds different
so well and you will end in having to pass the phone to another
Practice what you intend to say
phone or face to face. There will be occasions when this does not go
Be clear about the result of the conversation that you want
actually have a successful dialogue with another person either over the
Write down the points you
Use the phonetic alphabet for post codes / passwords etc
For encountering a voice
standby just in case! However the
recognition telephone system
more you practice the better you
use the keys on your telephone
will get at it!
keypad
There are some
simple 'survival skills' that you
Remember the more you do this the
should be aware of and you should
better you will become !
not expect it to go 100% right the first time!
Health is Your Wealth Magazine
Page 39
to. With hindsight I wasted so much
“100% Perfect?”
time trying to achieve this that it really prevented me from doing other things.
“Everything doesn't
Perhaps if I would have been satisfied
have to be 100% perfect”
with 90% rather than 100% I would have got more things done by trading off perfection for speed and results.
Unless you pay a significant amount of money and wait a considerable
It‘s not a matter of thinking ‗That will
length of time it is unlikely you will
do!‘ and just carrying on with your
reach 100% perfection.
Ultimately
day. It‘s about accepting that in fact
this results with fact the you will
you are happy with the way things are
have to be satisfied with something‘s
right now.
less than 100% perfect. Unless you
Life is full of a bunch of stuff;
a re
this
everything is not equal in value. Don‘t
compromise you may have some
let the insignificant things steal from
disappointment in the future.
the things that matter to you !
willing
you
ma ke
It may well be worth long term to learn to compromise as continually being disappointed is not fun at all! Before my accident I was not very good at compromise and strove for as near to perfection as I could get
Health is Your Wealth Magazine
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Fun activities that are mobility friendly!
However if the weather is good then the following suggestions may be of interest:
“Live life to the max” It's a common misconception that being in a wheelchair somehow restricts you from getting involved with most activities.
Certainly
fatigue can restrict your stamina and therefore some things but nowadays there is an enormous quantity of fun
many parks have three or for wheeled bicycles that you can hire Most theme parks have mobility scooters that can be rented More and more beaches have wheelchair that can go on the sand! Bowl clubs and the French game of Boules can be inexpensive and fun to do Golf clubs usually have carts which can be hired (and you can just play the green)
things to do and places to go that are wheelchair friendly. If the weather is
These are just some ideas that can
poor then you can easily participate
help get you out and about. Most of
with indoor games that are fun with
these places have disabled parking,
other people. Some great examples
bathrooms, cafe‘s and elevators
are:
which are easy to get to and get in.
Uno attack Snakes and ladders Nine men's Morris Chess and draughts Dominoes Swimming pools Cinema Bowling alley Snooker and pool halls
It maybe worth giving the destination a phone call to make sure there are no surprises, usually they are very accommodating and will reserve places for you or even have an extra pair of hands available on your arrival!
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Brain Training “Each issue will include a exercise to strengthen your brain, which like a muscle benefits from getting stronger” The rules of brain training: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Try and do a minimum and maximum of thirty minutes each day. Try and commit to doing for ten weeks. This duration requires that you set time to one side to complete this. It has to be challenging to work. If it‘s to easy there are no benefits. To keep motivated set yourself rewards. If you complete an exercise give yourself a reward, something to look forward to! As well as doing exercises on your own work with others to increase your social skills.
Word Search - Exercise For The Brain holiday, sun, weather, sunscreen, sea, sand, sites, flight, assistance, passport
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Brain Training Applications “A selection of applications that are fun but will also improve cognition� This is actually a fairly complex maze. There is only one entrance and one exit but multiple dead ends and more than one solution! Perhaps time
yourself to see how long it takes you, take a note of the time and try it again a few week later. You may have a quicker time!
Health is Your Wealth Magazine
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“mybraintraining - the Online-Fitness-Center for your brain!”
Therapy And Rehabilitation), the official organ of the German
In November 2014 tests were
Association
completed in Germany using a
Therapists (DVE), says:
cutting edge piece of technology to assist therapists and their patients with improving cognition.
Occupational
"Conclusion: In mybraintraining, all therapists having an up-to-date computer with an internet browser
Test Conclusion:
will have a trainings platform that
Andreas pfeiffer (deputy head of e rg o r t h e r a p y
of
at
lvr
clinic
duesseldorf, germany, clinics of the heinrich-heine-universityduesseldorf and chariman of the comittee for technological tools and media of the german association of
is professionally competent with an attractive user interface; all that without having to
install any
software on their machine. The option to introduce patients to the training at their home with no effort
enhances
the
range
of
therapeutic treatments. From my
occupational therapists (dve)
point of view, this program is an Andreas
Pfeiffer
tested
mybraintraining Professional on
asset
and
value -added
for
occupational therapy.”
behalf of the special interest magazine
"Ergotherapie
Rehabilitation"
Und
(Occupational
For further information please visit: www.mybraintraining.com
Health is Your Wealth Magazine
Page 44
Mental Health “Early Intervention - Why educating young people is vital in promoting a greater understanding of mental illness!” Mental illness touches many lives across the world, whether it is through receiving a diagnosis or having a loved one go through a mental health crisis. There is no exception for those under 18, with current statistics estimating that one in ten children between the ages of one and fifteen has a mental disorder. This is a concerning figure, and is unfortunately on the rise - in the past 25 years, rates of depression and anxiety amongst teenagers has risen approximately 70%.
exacerbated and could lead to worsening the issue. Figures have shown that early intervention in a mental health crisis, or even at the start of an illness, has a much better prognosis for recovery. If a strong education regarding mental health were rolled out in schools, youth clubs, or even through social media campaigns; it could result in a someone recognizing symptoms in a friend, or even themselves, and help being rectified much earlier. Ongoing campaigns that are in place to battle stigma such as ‗Time for Change‘ do fantastic work, and seem to be having a brilliant effect; however, there is still something whispered about mental illness, it is
Having a mental health issue can be isolating for anyone, and if there is a lack of understanding amongst a young person's peers then this sense of being alone will only be
at times the elephant in the room. There are moments when the mass media does not help this situation, and in fact only serves in making preconceptions about mental illness even stronger. Use of words such as
Health is Your Wealth Magazine
Page 45
'psycho', 'crazed', or highlighting a
problem at hand. Clarity on what
mental health issue as the sole
constitutes a mental illness, how it
reason for some misdemeanor only
will impact the person, and what will
furthers negative associations with
happen could be vital in cutting rates
mental health, and can result in
of bullying within schools and
further feelings of isolation. If
institutes of education.
someone has a mental health
One of the positive factors that could
diagnosis, they are statistically more
arise from education regarding
likely to be the victim of violence
mental illness is inspiring people to
than to perpetrate it themselves, yet
talk about their experiences. Hearing
some newspapers seem at times to
about someone else going through
do nothing more than directly link
the same thing is often helpful in
violent attacks to mental illness. The
connecting with people, and working
media has a direct impact on young
towards a recovery. Inspiring anyone
people especially. Thus of even
to talk should only be a good step
greater importance that education is
towards greater understanding of
put into place. If someone is already
mental illness, even if this is simply
knowledgeable about mental health,
through social media input, the word
then there is more of a chance that
still gets out there.
they would not react to the nefarious claims that newspapers make. Unfortunately,
some
negative
misconceptions about mental illness can lead to bullying - often due to a
Rebecca Wicks,
lack of understanding of the
Twitter @thebibli0phile
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What does it claim to do?
Brain Training Applications
Increasing our self-awareness
Improving our mental flexibility
Developing our active coping skills. What phone/system is it compatible with?
Work-Guru WorkGuru is a web-based stress management programme designed to help individuals build mental resilience, work more effectively and manage workplace stress.
Internet browser based therefore all phones Review of application and rating We give this a ★★★★ rating.
We all know the things we could be doing to keep physically healthy; WorkGuru shows us what we can be doing to keep mentally healthy.
The latest thinking in positive psychology, behavioural therapy, neuroscience and Mindfulness, coupled with direct messaging support from our expert coaches to help you to develop skills in all these three areas.
How friendly is it? Easy to use. Most people could cope with this applications interface.
Health is Your Wealth Magazine
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to find healthcare professional that are local to you.
How friendly is it? Easy to install and use
Doctoralia Doctoralia is constructed from different elements:
Healthcare directory that enable patients to look for and contact with doctors/medical centres etc.
Online appointment booking, for the patients to book their appointments directly from Doctoralia (or via doctor‘s website through widget).
Premium page, option that enable the doctors/centres to add extra information about themselves such as curriculum.
Opinions: patients who visit a doctor/centre can then leave a comment about their experience. This helps other patients to choose a doctor/centre.
What phone/system is it compatible with? Both Apple and Android phones and tablets from Goole Play or Apple iTunes Review of application and rating We give this a ★★★★ rating. Its very good and simple to use and more importantly gives you information that is unbiased and independent.
What will it do? Give you more information about your surgery doctors and allow you
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“Playtime” “A selection of applications that are fun but will also improve cognition” Rayman Jungle Run
Smooth touch-based controls
What will it do? This game may improve your speed of co-ordination and also cognitive processing. The game itself does not claim to do any of this but our experience is fairly positive and if it works for us then it may work for you!
How friendly is it?
A highly addictive game that looks great, is easy to play and fun. Rayman Jungle Run is powered by the same UbiArt Framework engine that brought you Rayman Origins Winner of numerous Game of the Year and Platformer of the Year awards. The legendary platforming hero is making the jump to your favourite mobile device!
Beautiful graphics
New worlds to discover
New powers to unlock
Captivating music
Rayman Jungle Run is easy for all ages to pick up and play, but challenging for the longtime Rayman fans to master.
What phone/system is it compatible with? It cost £2.99 but is well worth it. Available on Apple Store and Google Play, it also has a fully compatible website.
Review of application and rating We give this a ★★★★★ rating. Its very good and simple to use
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Learn to recognise when you're body
“Golden Nuggets, Strategies to Increase Independence”
is starting to fatigue and learn to rest when you feel the symptoms occurring
“Sometimes the simplest tips are the most effective” Each issue we will provide
Plan your day so that mentally or physically tiring activities are done when it's best for you
Eat high energy foods twenty minutes
more Top Tips from real people
beforehand to give a natural boost at a
that are in recovery. These tips
time that you need it
help save time or make you safer
and
accidents.
help
to
prevent
Previous to each
Ensure that when you go to sleep that the mobile and house phone are turned off
issue being released we will update the relevant section on our
website
with
this
information.
If you wake up during the night to use the bathroom try and go straight back to bed, don‘t get distracted. If you can‘t go back to sleep within 30
Conserve your energy for the time
minutes get up and do something else
of day fatigue kicks in and learn to
for 20 minutes and then try again
pace yourself Try not to have a large drink just before bed
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fruit and fruit juices,
“Importance Of Nutrition”
and
water;
colonic
irrigation,
and
supplements, usually taken over seven to 10 Many people believe that detox can boost
their
energy
and
days.
that
superfoods will help in the fight
There‘s no scientific evidence to
against fatigue.
show that our bodies need help to get rid of waste products – this is what
“But is there scientific evidence to back this up?” Detox diets are often touted as energy-boosters. However there is no scientific evidence to support this claim. If you‘re eating well, there‘s no need to use these methods. Supporters of detox claim that our bodies are overloaded with ‗toxins‘ from pollution, smoking, food
our kidneys do – and there's no proof that detox diets work.
The British Dietetic Association has said that ―the idea of 'detox‘ is a load of nonsense. There are no pills or specific drinks, patches or lotions that can do a magic job".
So what does work?
additives and so on. Detoxing is done through a range of methods, including massage, fasting followed by a strict diet of raw vegetables,
Some people say they feel more focused and energetic after a detox diet. But this could just be due to
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Page 51
them
believing
they‘re
doing
convincing research.
something good for their bodies.
These claims are almost always
For the vast majority of people, a
exaggerated. It‘s actually incredibly
healthy, balanced diet based on
difficult to prove that one particular
starchy carbohydrates (wholegrain
food is better for our health than all
where possible), with lots of fruits
the others we eat. Studies on so-called
and vegetables, some milk, dairy,
‗superfoods‘ tend not to do this.
meat or other source of lean sources
So what does really work?
of protein, is a better way to protect
When it comes to keeping healthy, it‘s
your health.
important to eat a variety of foods rather than concentrate on one food in
'Superfoods' are a myth?
the hope it will work miracles. Eat a
Newspapers, magazines and the
balanced diet containing a range of
internet are full of stories about
foods to ensure you get the nutrients
miracle
your body needs. Limit your intake of
‗superfoods‘.
broccoli,
beetroot
Celery,
juice,
jam,
popcorn, cereals and even the great
alcohol and high-fat, high-sugar and salty foods.
British cuppa, to name just a few, have
all
been
labelled
as
Energy drinks have mixed benefits
‗superfoods‘.
Many people turn to energy drinks
There is no official definition of a
such as Red Bull and Lucozade
‗superfood‘. The EU has banned the
Energy for a quick boost.
use of the word on product packaging
Energy drinks are loaded with sugar
unless the claim is backed up by
and caffeine (sometimes more than
Health is Your Wealth Magazine
Page 52
twice the caffeine in a can of cola) so
Popping pills doesn't offer you the
they‘ll certainly give you a temporary
same benefits as eating well.
energy jolt. But the boost is short-
Department of Health recommends
lived and may be accompanied by
certain supplements for some groups
other problems.
of people. However as a general rule,
The caffeine in energy drinks can
it's better to get your vitamins from
make you feel irritable and restless. It
food rather than tablets.
can increase your blood pressure
Evidence suggests that fruit and
while the sugar can contribute to
vegetables are good for us, not just
weight gain, especially if you don‘t
because of the individual vitamins and
exercise regularly.
minerals they contain, but because of
Therefore plain water is a better
their combination of different
choice than an energy drink. For a
nutrients and fibre. So, increasing the
quick surge of energy, snack on fruit
amount of fruit and vegetables you eat
such as a banana or even better keep
will benefit your health more than
some hard boiled eggs in the fridge
taking supplements.
which are a good source of protein.
The
So what does work?
Vitamin supplements aren't as
Forget the multivitamin packs. Eat a
good as eating well
healthy balanced diet instead. That‘ll
Think taking a multivitamin each day
give you all the energy you need as
will make you feel less tired? Think
well as being good for your overall
again.
health!
Most people don‘t need to
take vitamin supplements because they can get all the nutrients that they
Eat well, Exercise properly and you
need from a healthy, balanced diet.
will stay healthy!
Health is Your Wealth Magazine
Page 53
“Learn To Pace Yourself” “Over commit and Under deliver”
onto another. Otherwise you will end
As fatigue kicks in you can end up
up never finishing anything! There are
getting easily distracted!
It is
numerous issues which can occur but
important to be able to recognise the
as you commit to take on more things
signs of when your getting tired and
you can quickly get tired and the result
then you can plan strenuous activities
is that you can end up getting
around those 'tired' times.
This is
overwhelmed which may significantly
especially good to know when your
impact your speech and mobility /
going
balance.
on
vacation
or
doing
The capacity management
something like driving or operating
skills that you once had are not as
machinery. Perhaps it is a good idea
strong as they were and if you are not
either not to partake in these tasks or
careful this can seriously impact your
do them after a good
recovery.
nights sleep and when
mental or physical fatigue is starting is
thing are as near to 100%
key to getting your life back on track!
alert as you can be.
For most people the tiredness doesn't
Try not to start many
go away however fortunately they do
things
same
get better at managing it. The impact
time. Start one task and
that this will have on you and your
finish it before you move
family is well worth the effort!
at
the
Recognising when either
Health is Your Wealth Magazine
Page 54
Book Review: “Brain Injury Survivors Guide”
•What do I do now? •Where can I turn for help? •Where can I find support? •What are my hopes for the future?
Beth Jameson is a SURVIVOR. Since her life-changing brain injury
Beth and Larry address these issues,
in August, 1990, Beth and Larry
providing proven answers and step-by
developed dozens of strategies that
-step strategies that compensate for
can benefit anyone with memory
memory problems, cognitive problems
problems, cognitive problems and
and behavioural issues. Family
behavioural issues.
members, friends and co-workers find themselves in a new world or loving,
"Knowledge is Power to a Brain
living with...or dealing with...a person
Injured Person"
who is much different than the prebrain injury person they knew. These
Brain injury
brings questions to
are the Unsung Heroes of Brain
anyone who has suffered one, as well
Injury: the people more important than
as family members, friends and co-
anyone else to helping a brain injured
workers who find their lives changed
person achieve a successful lifestyle.
as well. Primary care physicians and other members of the medical
We give this book a
community find themselves with a
★★★★ rating
new and different person to help. Practically everyone has similar questions:
Health is Your Wealth Magazine
Page 55
Movie Review You‟re Not You We were in two
wants to have her as her caregiver
minds on whether
to help her with everyday things
to include this
like taking a shower. MND is a
review or not. On
progressive disease that attacks
one hand if you know little about
the motor neurones, or nerves, in
Motor Neurone Disease this is a
the brain and spinal cord. This
very real yet emotional drama of
means messages gradually stop
this cruel condition. On the
reaching muscles, which leads to
other if you or someone you
weakness and wasting. This film
know has MND perhaps this is
track the up‘s and down‘s of how
not the film for you as it too
the family struggles to cope.
touching. Kate (Hilary Swank),
A great film - ★★★★ rating.
a classical pianist is diagnosed with MND. Her husband tries to find someone to take care of his wife. Bec, a college student applies for the job despite her lack of experience. Kate sees something special in Bec and
The MND Association works across England, Wales and Northern Ireland to improve care and support for people with MND, their families and carers. It funds and promotes research that will lead to a better understanding of the disease and closer to a cure for MND.
Health is Your Wealth Magazine
Page 56
Print & e-Magazine Subscriptions For Patient Waiting Room Reading!
Simply send a blank email to subscribe@healthisyourwealth. co.uk OR Click Here! Copy and paste the web address below or type the www address into you web browser.
NOTE The E-Magazine is FREE!!! And can be printed out for your patients to read. However if you prefer it to be printed and delivered to you. This can be done from:
www.healthisyourwealth.co.uk and click on Subscriptions
Health is Your Wealth Magazine
Page 57
This publication is increasing awareness for these organizations: