Top 10 myths about Alzheimer’s disease

The more we understand, the better support and care we can offer. We debunk some of the common myths and misconceptions about Alzheimer's disease.

Many of us learn about Alzheimer’s disease the hard way: when it affects someone we love. It may be one of the most feared diseases as we age, but that shouldn’t stop us from seeking to understand it. The more we know, the better able we will be to spot the warning signs and offer care and support to people who need it most.
Unfortunately, some of what we do know comes from dubious sources like conflicting news and portrayals in movies and TV. Beware of these common myths:

It’s just a normal part of aging

People used to believe “going senile” was just part of growing old — but symptoms are caused by a disease process, not the normal age-related changes we all experience. Alzheimer’s is a degenerative brain disease involving physical changes to the brain — the like the development of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles and nerve cells losing contact with each other or dying.
The disease is progressive and irreversible — but it isn’t inevitable as we age. In fact, experts say most people don’t develop it.

Memory loss means Alzheimer’s

We all forget or misplace things from time to time, but occasional forgetfulness doesn’t mean disease. Alzheimer’s involves more frequent forgetting — and not being able to recall those forgotten details later on. Difficulty performing familiar tasks, problems with communication, disorientation, poor judgment and problems with abstract thinking are also hallmarks of the disease. 


If you’ve noticed some of these symptoms, don’t panic! Sometimes they stem from a treatable cause like an infection, drug interaction, depression, head injury or another health condition like multiple sclerosis.


It’s also important to remember that Alzheimer’s is just one of 70 causes of dementia (an umbrella term for memory loss due to changes in the brain). Not everyone who has dementia has Alzheimer’s — it can also be part of Parkinson’s disease or the result of a stroke, for example.

Your relatives have it, so you’ll develop it too

Genes do play a role in our chances of developing the disease, but not as big a role as you might think. Only a small number of cases — about 5-7 per cent — are an inherited form of the disease known as Familial Alzheimer’s disease (often referred to as “early onset”). While the disease itself is the same as the more common Sporadic Alzheimer’s Disease or “late onset” form, the difference lies in a set of mutated genes that can be passed from one generation to the next. If one of your parents carries the mutation, you have a 50 per cent chance of inheriting it. If you inherit the genes, experts say you’re likely to develop the disease.

What about the sporadic form? If you have a parent or sibling who has Alzheimer’s disease, you have a three times greater risk than someone who doesn’t have a family history. New research suggests that certain genes (such as the apolipoprotein E gene) can influence the development of the disease — but there’s more to the story than what you inherit. Experts note genes themselves don’t cause the disease, and people who don’t have the genes can still develop Alzheimer’s while people who have the genes will stay disease-free.

Alzheimer’s disease only affects “old people”

True, our risk for Alzheimer’s disease increases as we age: the majority of cases show up after age 60, and the risk for developing the disease doubles every five years after 65. Some sources claim that by age 85 about half of all people have Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia.
However, that doesn’t mean people under age 60 can’t be affected too. Alzheimer’s disease can appear in the 40s and 50s as well, and some rare cases have shown in patients who are even younger. Worse yet, experts aren’t really sure when the disease starts to develop. Research suggests Alzheimer’s disease is already in the advanced stages by the time symptoms become evident — and that presents a formidable challenge for early diagnosis and treatment.

It isn’t fatal

What happens in our brains affects the rest of the body too. In the later stages of the disease, the body’s systems start to shut down which can affect breathing, blood pressure, the skin and the senses. Sufferers may experience increased sleepiness, pain and discomfort — and an infection or pneumonia can set in.
Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias are one of the top 10 causes of death in developed countries. In 2007 (the latest year for which data is available), it was the 7th leading cause of death in Canada and ranked 6th in the United States. Alzheimer’s kills more people than kidney disease and infections like influenza or pneumonia.

Alzheimer’s disease is preventable

We hear a lot of advice about keeping our brains healthy, but so far there isn’t a treatment or strategy guaranteed to prevent Alzheimer’s disease. Research into the effectiveness of therapies like vitamins E, B, C and D, gingko biloba, folate and selenium is ongoing — and often conflicting.
However, experts report more evidence shows lifestyle strategies can help reduce the risk or delay the onset of Alzheimer’s, such as:
- Eating a healthy diet including fresh fruits and vegetables, fish and nuts.
- Challenging your brain with puzzles, hobbies and learning.
- Keeping your blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol levels in check.
- Avoiding brain injuries.
- Staying active socially.
- Exercising regularly.
- Avoiding vices like smoking, drugs and alcohol abuse.
Sound familiar? These strategies are beneficial for overall health — especially cardiovascular health, which may play a role in the development of Alzheimer’s disease.

If you have a parent or sibling who has Alzheimer’s disease, you have a three times greater risk than someone who doesn’t have a family history. New research suggests that certain genes (such as the apolipoprotein E gene) can influence the development of the disease — but there’s more to the story than what you inherit. Experts note genes themselves don’t cause the disease, and people who don’t have the genes can still develop Alzheimer’s while people who have the genes will stay disease-free.

Alzheimer’s disease only affects “old people”

True, our risk for Alzheimer’s disease increases as we age: the majority of cases show up after age 60, and the risk for developing the disease doubles every five years after 65. Some sources claim that by age 85 about half of all people have Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia.


However, that doesn’t mean people under age 60 can’t be affected too. Alzheimer’s disease can appear in the 40s and 50s as well, and some rare cases have shown in patients who are even younger. Worse yet, experts aren’t really sure when the disease starts to develop. Research suggests Alzheimer’s disease is already in the advanced stages by the time symptoms become evident — and that presents a formidable challenge for early diagnosis and treatment.

It isn’t fatal

What happens in our brains affects the rest of the body too. In the later stages of the disease, the body’s systems start to shut down which can affect breathing, blood pressure, the skin and the senses. Sufferers may experience increased sleepiness, pain and discomfort — and an infection or pneumonia can set in.


Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias are one of the top 10 causes of death in developed countries. In 2007 (the latest year for which data is available), it was the 7th leading cause of death in Canada and ranked 6th in the United States. Alzheimer’s kills more people than kidney disease and infections like influenza or pneumonia.

Alzheimer’s disease is preventable

We hear a lot of advice about keeping our brains healthy, but so far there isn’t a treatment or strategy guaranteed to prevent Alzheimer’s disease. Research into the effectiveness of therapies like vitamins E, B, C and D, gingko biloba, folate and selenium is ongoing — and often conflicting.


However, experts report more evidence shows lifestyle strategies can help reduce the risk or delay the onset of Alzheimer’s, such as:
- Eating a healthy diet including fresh fruits and vegetables, fish and nuts.


- Challenging your brain with puzzles, hobbies and learning.
- Keeping your blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol levels in check.
- Avoiding brain injuries.
- Staying active socially.
- Exercising regularly.
- Avoiding vices like smoking, drugs and alcohol abuse.


Sound familiar? These strategies are beneficial for overall health — especially cardiovascular health, which may play a role in the development of Alzheimer’s disease.

Aluminum causes Alzheimer’s

Should you throw out your old pots and pans and avoid other products containing aluminum? Not so fast, say experts. While there has been a lot of research into the link between aluminum and Alzheimer’s disease, the only thing researchers can agree on is there isn’t enough evidence to prove aluminum is a cause.


Some studies do show a connection — but many studies show there is no link. Furthermore, researchers haven’t seen a higher incidence of Alzheimer’s among people who’ve been exposed to aluminum at their jobs or in cultures that regularly drink tea. (Aluminum can accumulate in the leaves.)


What about aspartame, flu shots and silver dental fillings? They’ve been suspects as well, but there is no solid evidence to put the blame on them either.

All people who have Alzheimer’s disease become violent and aggressive

It can be hard to know what to expect dealing with Alzheimer’s disease because it affects everyone a little differently. While it can cause personality changes, experts note that not everyone becomes aggressive or violent. Other common behaviours can include wandering, restlessness, suspicion and repeated actions.


Still, coping with memory loss and confusion can be frightening and frustrating for people with Alzheimer’s disease. Loved ones can help by learning some key strategies. For example, adapting a person’s surroundings, maintaining a consistent routine and learning how to communicate more effectively can help prevent emotional responses.  (The Alzheimer’s Society has a list of behaviours and strategies to help.)

People with Alzheimer’s disease cannot understand what is going on around them

Symptoms can be deceiving — even though people can’t communicate well and get confused, that doesn’t mean they aren’t aware of what’s going on around them. Emotions and feelings are still very much present even though memory and abilities are changing, warn experts. Everyone needs social connection and belonging, a sense of independence and joy. Even in the late stages of the disease, people respond to touch and find comfort in soothing voices and music.


Everyone deserves to be treated with compassion, respect and dignity regardless of their health. That can be reflected in the little things — like how you help a person change their clothes or use the bathroom, or by not talking about them as if they weren’t in the room.

There’s no hope

A diagnosis can be devastating — especially when there currently isn’t a cure or an effective treatment. However, there is hope on the horizon as researchers find better ways to detect the disease, test new treatments and even develop a vaccine. Experts continue to learn more about Alzheimer’s, even if progress seems slow.


In the meantime, there are treatments to help manage symptoms and strategies that can improve quality of life. A diagnosis doesn’t mean a sudden loss of independence and health — experts note it’s important to focus on what people can do. If you or someone you know is affected, talk to your doctor and reach out to resources in your community for help.


ON THE WEB
There is a wealth of information available about Alzheimer’s disease. Here are a few good places to start:
Alzheimer Society of Canada
Alzheimer’s Association (US)
Alzheimer’s Society (UK)

Cost of Retirement

It is important to take stock periodically of your financial situation to bring yourself up to date with where you stand financially. It might be helpful to sit down, perhaps quarterly, and fill out a sheet that lists all your assets and income sources, along with your expenses and debts. This can be used not only to discover your current financial situation, but to chart how you are doing from one period to the next. An accountant or financial planner can help put a form together for you to use, or you can make your own.  If you are using the services of an accountant or financial planner to keep track of your finances, make sure you stay informed. Do this regularly. You've worked hard for this money, now you want to make sure it works hard for you.
So, how much money will you need in order to retire? How much money will you need to pay for the services you may require to stay independent? The answer to these questions would be easy if you knew the day you were going to die.  Our date of death is unknown so we can only estimate our financial needs using what we know for sure (facts about your current situation) and projecting into the future (what your future needs will be given various time frames).You need to know what income you will have.  Things like pensions, CPP and OAS that are regular.  Also you will need to know what assets you have, and what income they are currently providing, if any.

To do projections you need to use conservative rates of return to allow for the economic cycles.  Will you spend only the growth on your money or are you willing to spend capital?  If you are only willing to spend the growth and not principal then your money would last indefinitely, however your income will not be the same from one year to the next.

The amount of money you will need will depend on the lifestyle you want to have.  Some people say travel is important to them. If so, are you one who stays in a hostel, or are you a 5-star all-inclusive resort traveler?  Obviously, this will make a difference as to how much money you will need.  Some people want to stay in their big house as long as they can, while others are willing to downsize to free up capital.  Some people want to buy a new car every three years, while others will drive the same car for twenty five years.  Some people want to spend all their money and others want to leave a legacy. As you can see, lifestyle choices make a big difference in how much capital will be required to provide the income you need for as long as you need it.

One of the largest unplanned expenditures for many seniors has to do with health care. Statistics indicate Canadian seniors can expect to be in care, at some level, for an average of 8 years.
Much of these expenses are not covered by our medical system and therefore need to be accounted for.  A good financial planner will be able to help you think through all these things to come up with a plan that will suit your lifestyle and budget.

Article by Cheri Crause, CPCA.  Reprinted with permission from Senior Living Magazine 

I Am Worried About My Dad's Driving,What Can I Do?

Q. I followed my dad, 78, enroute to a family party, and was quite concerned by his driving – erratic speed, unsafe lane changes and dangerous hesitation at on-ramps. He’d be devastated to give up his license – what can I do?

A. Research confirms that older drivers are involved in more accidents – per kilometer driven – than their middle-aged counterparts. Of course you want your dad to be independent as long as possible – and drive safely and confidently.

• Identify dad’s driving challenges – vision, reaction time, physical limitations
• Schedule a family doctor visit - to check vision, hearing, cognition, medication dosages and /or combinations.
• Get an evaluation - by a driver rehabilitation specialist who can make specific recommendations for improvement.
• The doctor - may write to the provincial Ministry of Transport recommending that the licence be revoked. With luck, this step may convince your dad to surrender his licence and keys voluntarily.
• Send a copy of the doctor’s letter to the Ministry and also to his auto insurer, who will cancel his policy. No one wants to treat a family member in this way, but you must keep in mind the liability and potential for harm to your parent and to others. It’s an unhappy role-reversal for you to do this to your father, so make sure you have the understanding and support of all family members, and give yourself credit for having the courage to love your dad so much.
  
  This information was provided by Pat M. Irwin, BA, AICB, CPCA 

Travel Insurance Tips

1.Get an insurer with live assistance, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Even the Canadian government recommends that Canadians purchase travel insurance plans with this feature. A toll-free 800 number is another great feature to have so that you can call for assistance without paying long distance fees from wherever you are.

 

2.Check that your insurer pays your bills upfront so you're never out of pocket. Reimbursement may take time and if you don't have the money available immediately when you need it, you could have problems getting the care you need in an emergency.

 

Source : www.seniorsgotravel.com

Aging and Itching

From time to time, questions are asked about aging and itching. The first thing to clarify is that when seniors experience itching of the skin, this is NOT part of the ‘normal’ aging process. If it was, ALL seniors would itch. And we know this is not true.

A couple of things to keep in mind - - The skin is the largest organ in the body. It is the ‘envelope’ in which we live; it is the outside ‘wrapping’ covering the exterior of all our tissues; it provides the initial ‘contact’ with our ‘environment’ (air, light, heat, cold, humidity, dust and irritants); it has a very important role in the regulation of body temperature; it is a barrier to infection; its layers are complex in structure and function; it contains millions of specialized, sensory nerve endings (receptors) variously designed to transmit to the brain sensations of heat, cold, pressure, pain, and, yes - - ITCHING.

There is no widely-accepted method of measuring (i.e. quantifying) itch. (As there is for blood pressure, for example.) We tend to use adjectives such as “mild, intensive, firey, painful, annoying, irritating, persistent, intermittent.” In many such cases we are actually talking about itching as a SYMPTOM of some pathological process. The causal pathology may be LOCA, on the skin itself, or SYSTEMIC, as part of an underlying disease (e.g. Diabetes).

Just as the aging process makes us more susceptible to age-related diseases, so also it must be said that the age-changes in some organic functions of the skin can make us more likely to experience itching as we grow older. For instance, skin tends to become drier and less elastic with age because the sebaceous glands in the skin diminish in number and function, discharging less sebum (oil) needed for lubrication and moisturising. Dry skin becomes cracked and scaly, and allows infectious organisms to penetrate causing inflammation and/or itching.

As our immune systems decline functionally with advancing age, the risk of ITCHING as a symptom of allergies, underlying medical conditions and skin conditions of all types (e.g. rashes, eczema, dermatitis) increases. Frequently, these itch-related disorders are investigated and treated by a dermatologist.

In ALL age groups (but particularly in old age), skin hygiene and care is important in preventing itching. Cleansing of the skin and scalp removes dead cell debris and microscopic, environmental impurities, which accumulate in daily living and interfere with the healthy, organic functions of the skin.  From the skin care and hygiene perspective, the soap, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries are constantly advising us how to “be comfortable in our own skin” via their products. (Some of which are useful in skin care - - exaggerated claims about “rejuvenation” notwithstanding!)- Take the advice of your dermatologist.

Professor of Gerontology at Simon Fraser University, retired, Dr. John Crawford continues to share his expertise and wisdom by serving as the VP of Education for the Age-Friendly Business.  For more information contact: drjohn@AgeFriendlyBusiness.com 

Healthy Habits When Joining A Fitness Club

The benefits of regular exercise and a healthy diet are well proven, but choosing a quality health and fitness program requires some homework to avoid a costly mistake. 

Better Business Bureau (BBB) receives a high volume of complaints from consumers who have gotten themselves into health and fitness programs that don’t adequately meet their needs. The complaint trends against health and fitness clubs each year suggest that consumers need to read the fine print more carefully on their contracts BEFORE they sign up.  

 Determine your health and fitness goals. Do you want to build endurance, lose weight, increase flexibility or become a better golfer? What type of activity do you think will best help you achieve your goals? Should you diet, weight train or maybe do cardio or yoga? Considering these issues in advance will help you select the most appropriate facility. Always consult with a medical professional when setting your fitness goals.

Consider your budget. Many programs charge an up-front membership fee to join and a monthly fee thereafter. What amount can you comfortably devote to physical fitness? Once you’ve joined a program keep a close eye on your bank statements to make sure you’re not getting billed more than you should.

Check out the facilities. Visit several clubs on days and at times you plan to attend to see what they are like and how busy they are. Do the facilities offer the equipment, classes, amenities, support and hours of operation you require? Note the cleanliness and condition of the equipment, workout area and locker room, as well as staff member availability.

Ask around. Check with friends and family for recommendations. Do you know anyone who regularly participates in a health or fitness program? Ask them about what they like and don’t like about their program.

Don’t give in to pressure. Walk away from clubs or programs that pressure you to sign a contract on the spot. Ask to take a sample contract home to read it thoroughly before you agree join any program.

Read the entire contract. Does the contract list all services, hours of operation and details of the program? Is everything the salesperson promised in the contract? What is included in the monthly fee and what’s going to cost you extra? What’s the total cost and payment schedule, including enrollment fees and finance charges?

Know the membership details. How long is the membership term and is there an automatic renewal? Can you go month-to-month? What are the specific terms and conditions if you want to cancel your membership? Make sure it’s all in writing and keep a copy of the contract for your records.

Reprinted with Permission, Senior Living Magazine. Article By Better Business Bureau

Correcting a Person with Alzheimer's Disease, Right or Wrong?

Q. My grandmother has Alzheimer’s Disease, and will often say things that are just not true. Why do the care attendants not correct her when she is wrong? Wouldn’t this help her get better?

A. At a ‘common sense’ level, the suggested approach behind this question seems logical. However, it is not so simple. Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) is a progressive, organic brain disorder.  Over time (2 – 20 years), serious changes take place in brain structure and function. Neurons (brain cells) die and synapses (connectors between cells) are also destroyed. Functionally, these processes result in loss of memory, ability to understand, do abstract thinking, make decisions and general confusion.

Confusion in AD is confusion as to TIME, PERSON and PLACE. AD patients and their families find themselves in a ‘new reality’. Nothing is as it was before. There’s no going back. The changes are progressive and irreversible. And so, caregivers are rightly trained to “go to the PATIENT’ REALITY”, and acknowledge THEIR world, as THEY are experiencing it. There is NO “right and wrong” in that world, and so, there is no point in ’correcting’ what AD patients may say, no matter how bizarre it may seem. In fact, attempting to do so can add to their confusion, make them more stressed and irritable and produce agitation.

Of course, all and any care for AD patients must always be tempered by the paramount considerations of their safety and security and must do everything possible to maintain their dignity, respecting all human and personal rights.

Professor of Gerontology at Simon Fraser University, Dr. John Crawford continues to share his expertise and wisdom by serving as the VP of Education for Age-Friendly Business.  For further information, contact: drjohn@AgeFriendlyBusiness.com

Seniors and Gambling

Gambling has increasingly become a form of recreation for older adults. Some 68% of Canadian seniors gamble, and around 2.1% have moderate to severe gambling-related problems (Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse).

The legalization of gaming establishments, increased access, greater social acceptance and increases in disposable time and money have all rendered seniors more susceptible to the "roll of the dice." Seniors are targeted because of the tremendous market they represent for the gaming industry, and because they’re more likely to be tempted by incentive campaigns, such as cheap day-time transportation, free hotel stays, special promotions and free lunches.

Seniors gamble for a variety of reasons -- for fun, to make money, out of curiosity, or to escape from loneliness, depression, financial difficulties, declining health and emotional loss. The most common gambling activities among older adults include the purchase of lottery and scratch tickets, and playing video lottery terminals, slot machines and bingo.

Seniors are often more vulnerable to gambling addiction because of a number of life factors. For example, they may seek to mask the pain associated with losing a spouse, they may be lonely or depressed or they may be facing financial or health problems. These factors can predispose a senior to the hypnotic, anaesthetizing effect of gambling.

Gambling is also much more acceptable and accessible now than it was a few decades ago. No longer a shady, illegal activity conducted in back rooms, ‘gaming’ (as the government euphemistically calls it) is now a legitimate form of recreation and entertainment. Governments tout the benefits of gambling, but they too are addicted: lotteries pump dollars into government coffers for education, sports, health care. Casinos pay taxes that improve roads, support schools and promote tourism. No one ever has to go far to find another opportunity to gamble, whether it is a lottery, a casino or a horse-racing track. Internet gambling via poker sites is readily available; and as this trend becomes more widespread with the inclusion of other ‘gaming sports’, seniors can now gamble without leaving their lazy-boy.

While most people can enjoy gambling without consequences, the lure of quick money can have devastating financial effects on seniors because they have little or no opportunity to recuperate from their losses. In Alberta it was reported that VLTs and casino gambling are partly to blame for the huge 15% bankruptcy rate among seniors. Similar to substance addictions, gambling may start out innocently as a social engagement, but for some people can progress into a solitary activity, then into a habit, a secret, a loss of control and finally, an addiction crisis.

Among older gamblers who file for personal bankruptcy, most view their problem as a financial issue rather than one of addiction and therefore do not seek the help they need. Compulsive or pathological gambling extends beyond losing money -- the disorder interferes with normal life activities and responsibilities, threatens physical health, sabotages reputations, and leads to psychological distress, and often suicide. Though the reported percentage of seniors with gambling and substance abuse issues is low, many hide their problem due to shame of straying so far from their deep-seeded cultural values of hard work, frugality and moderation.

Thanks to Age-Friendly Business for assistance with this article. Article by Alex Handyside, CPCA

Red Flags of an Investment Seminar Scam

Falling victim to a fraudulent investment scheme can mean losing anywhere from a few hundred dollars to your life savings. While most people might not see the harm in sitting through an investment seminar, the Better Business Bureau recommends researching the investment company first, rather than run the risk of falling for a financial siren song over a free lunch.

Investment scams and schemes can come in many forms and a common technique to lure people in is the offer of a free financial seminar over lunch. In one recent case, scammers invited senior citizens to estate planning seminars and later coaxed their victims into buying promissory notes for purported foreign country investments.  Free-lunch seminars can seem like an easy way to get a meal, but attendees run the risk of being drawn in by the slick presentations and promises of big returns. Unscrupulous seminars often lure in leisurely senior citizens who have time and exploitable retirement accounts and real estate.

When listening to an investment pitch, BBB recommends looking for the following red flags:
1.) They require a large up-front investment. Untrustworthy schemers might try to convince investors to pay a large amount of money upfront so they can get out of town with a large haul, rather than wait for the funds to trickle in.
2.) They promise high returns for low risk. Every investment comes with a level of risk. Typically, the amount of risk increases in line with the potential return on the investment. If the seminar is trying to sell an investment scheme that claims a high return with little or no risk, beware, even if it comes with the promise of a money-back guarantee.
3.) They employ high-pressure sales tactics. Seminar leaders often use high-pressure sales tactics to get people to sign up without thinking it through. They might claim that there are only a few spots left or that you need to get in on the ground floor today to see the largest earnings. Any reputable investment company will let you take your time and do your research and will not pressure you into signing a cheque. 
4.) Investments rely on offshore investments. Many hucksters try to give their scheme an air of sophistication by relying on overseas investments, such as foreign currency, property, stocks and bonds. They also might claim, incorrectly, that you can avoid taxes by investing overseas.
5.) It sounds too good to be true. At the end of the day, if the offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Always listen to your instincts because the potential payoff is rarely worth the risk.

 Reprinted with Permission, Senior Living Magazine             
Article By Better Business Bureau

Alcohol and Heart Disease

Q. As a health-conscious “Boomer”, I understand about diet and exercise, but I am confused about alcohol use and heart disease. Some articles seem to say drinking is beneficial, others that it is harmful. Please clarify.

A. This is a timely question as we emerge from the holiday season, because cardiac epidemiologists have long recognised the “Holiday Heart Syndrome” - - an upsurge in heart attacks during periods of celebration with increased alcohol consumption.

A recently-published study in the British Medical Journal (BMJ) casts some interesting light on the question. European researchers compared the effects of “binge drinking” and “moderate drinking” among 10,000 subjects from Ireland and France. (NOTE: “Binge drinking” is defined as 5 drinks for men and 4 for women on one occasion. “Moderate drinking” is 2 drinks per day for men and 1 for women. The type of beverage is not important. Alcohol is alcohol is alcohol.) The study found that binge drinkers, the Irish group had TWICE the risk of heart attack or death as well as other problems related to reduced blood flow.

In short, high level alcohol consumption at sporadic intervals (special occasion binging, if you like) is HARMFUL to heart health, whereas regular, “moderate” drinking is often beneficial. Some cardiologists feel that the key difference is that heavier, ‘episodic’ drinking causes inflammation of the lining of cardiac blood vessels, but “moderate” drinking simply improves blood flow. And so, the issue is HOW you drink.    

Pardon, Say That Again Please

“Pardon?” is what many of us say when we don’t hear something clearly. But all too often, seniors with hearing loss just give up saying ‘pardon’ and become reclusive. 69% of seniors suffer from hearing loss.
It’s often said that losing your hearing is worse than losing your sight. Age-related hearing loss may be inevitable for most, but it doesn’t mean you can’t do anything about it. Hearing aid technology has come a long way in the last five years.
But let’s step back a moment and look at hearing loss. There are two kinds: conductive (of the outer and middle ear, which is usually temporary and treatable) and sensorineural (of the inner ear, which is usually permanent and will likely require a hearing instrument). A few seniors suffer from both types. Of course, prevention is better than cure, but I won’t discuss prevention here. Your GP can help with conductive hearing loss, but you’ll need to see a qualified specialist (an Audiologist) to assess and correct sensori-neural hearing loss. Do not be tempted to order a hearing aid by mail-order – the chances of a satisfactory outcome are very low.
The treatment of hearing loss can improve: intimacy and warmth in family relationships, communication in relationships, perception of mental functioning, sense of control over life events, emotional stability, physical health, and group social participation.
Just as important is that treatment can help reduce: discrimination toward the person with the hearing loss, depression, hearing loss compensation behaviours (pretending you hear), anger and frustration in relationships, feelings of paranoia, anxiety, social phobias and self-criticism.
Hearing aids don’t just amplify sound, they clarify the sounds you want to hear, and some even minimize (filter) the sounds you don’t.
The leading reason why seniors don’t take corrective action is stigma, followed by inadequate information, and the belief that nothing can be done. Of course, cost is an issue: few insurance policies cover hearing aids, and the government provides little help if any (though DVA does help veterans). Your GP can arrange a hearing test, but a private one costs less than $50 and waiting time is minimal.
Just about everyone who tries an aid likes it. Most wonder how they ever got along without it! A qualified Audiologist can show you – literally – what you’ve been missing all these years. The difference will astound you!
I would like to thank Dr.David Lyon of Audiology Associates, Dartmouth, for his invaluable help with this article. 
By, Alex Handyside,  CPCA

Workaholics Day

According to Wikipedia, “An ergomaniac or workaholic is a person who is addicted to work."

Do you know one… or a few?

Maybe you are now… or were one yourself?

Being passionate about your career, your business, or your job is a good thing.  But, when it interferes with your family, your social life, or your health… it turns from a good thing to a dangerous thing.

I am not here to convince yourself of the detrimental effects of working 80+ hours a week – you probably know it, or aren’t willing to admit that it applies to you.

I would like to share a few ideas that may help you get more done in less time (whether or not you are a workaholic or not, these will still help you get more done).

Technology has made it FAR easier to become a 24x7 workaholic.  The tools are there to keep us plugged into work every waking moment. 

Email at our finger tips.

Phone calls can be made from anywhere (including your child’s or grandchild’s school or sporting events).

You may be at the event, but your child will see you working while there… defeating the entire purpose of you being there for them.

So I want to challenge you to try a few new things in the coming week:

1) 1.) Become a chunker.  Work in uninterrupted time chunks of 30 minutes.  Block off 30 minute chunks through your day – at least 4 of them.  2 hours of your day isn’t much to ask if it saves a relationship or your health. Plan out what exactly you will work on during that chunk.  And block out everything else. No phones. No email. No chat fests with colleagues. Just you and your project, and 30 minutes of uninterrupted time.  Use a timer to keep yourself on track.   Promise me you will try this?  You can get FAR more done in a 30 minute chunk of time than hours of ‘multi-tasking’ All the scientific research proves this as true

2) 2.)  Use the chunking method with those you love as well.  Book off time to be with them and promise them you will NOT check email or answer your phone during that time. The punishment if you do?  Cash – you pay them $20 for every offence. That will help!

3) 3.)  Find an accountability partner that can help you stick to the plan. Talk to them once a day for 5 minutes – reporting in on how you are doing and where you faltered. Admitting your mistakes publicly, regularly will help you see how bad it has become.

There, 3 simple tips that anyone can try out.

Are you up for the challenge?

Will you give it a go for a week, at a minimum?

Good – now block off some times for your chunking – and stick to the plan.

It will do far more for your health, your relationships, and your productivity than anything else.

Try it and let me know how it works out…please.

Feelings of Guilt

A common emotion among family caregivers is guilt:
• Not doing enough for the person they are caring for or not doing it well enough.
• Feeling angry, resentful or frustrated about their situation.
• Taking time off for themselves.
• Not spending enough time with the person to whom they are providing care.
• Not having enough time for other family members (children, spouse).
• Living in another town and not being there when they are needed.
• Bringing in outside help to assist them with caregiving.
• Their family member moving into a care facility because they can no longer be safely cared for at home.
Even the most effective caregiver can find something to feel guilty about. Feelings of guilt, however, drain time, energy and emotion - all three of which are already at a premium for family caregivers.
Guilt arises when there is a gap between the way family caregivers are and the way they perceive they should be. They spend time berating themselves for what they see as failure instead of focusing on the caring and compassion they bring to a family member’s situation. When energy is focused on how things “should” be, it’s more difficult to find solutions for the actual situation.
Sometimes, guilt allows people to feel “good” while doing something that they judge as wrong or inappropriate. Or perhaps guilt comes from helplessness because they can’t do anything about their family member’s illness or disability.
Look beyond the guilt. Caregivers should ask themselves, “Where are my guilty feelings coming from?” and “What are these feeling telling me?”
Once those underlying feelings are recognized, we can see our situation from another perspective and address it directly as needed. Guilt is fostered by unrealistic expectations of what we are capable of doing, as well as what we imagine we should be doing. It is important to remind ourselves that we are doing the best we can at the time with what we know. Given the tools we had to work with, we used our best judgment and made caregiving decisions we truly felt were in the best interest of all concerned.
Sometimes guilt is the result of another person’s comments or actions. However, someone else cannot make us feel guilty if we are not already feeling that way internally. Their comment pushes a button we installed ourselves - so it highlights what we are already feeling. If we change our internal perceptions and expectations, and accept that we are doing our best, then they cannot trigger our guilt.
Moving beyond guilt to acceptance and self-forgiveness will make us more relaxed and confident caregivers. Guilt seldom achieves any positive outcomes.
Article by, Barbara Small
Reprinted with Permission by Senior Living Magazine

Long Term Care

Since I am involved with seniors and the health care system to the degree I am through my company, Seniors Consulting, I am concerned about getting long-term care insurance.

In the future, I am sure that the responsibility for paying for a seniors’ care will increasingly fall to the seniors and their families. Even now many families do not have the financial resources to assist with the care of their elderly parents. Future seniors should not plan to rely on their families to contribute to the cost of their care. The future seniors to whom I am referring are people who are currently 65 years of age and younger, although it is not too late for the current seniors to get long-term care insurance.

As with most types of insurance, the premium price increases as the person gets older. Also, the likelihood of qualifying for the insurance decreases as health conditions increase with age. We are living longer and need to be able to deal with the financial burden for medical treatment, health care and quality of life. There is a real chance that we might need to enter a long term care facility or receive special medical attention, especially towards the end of our lives.
Depending on the level of care you may want or need, the cost may not be paid by your government health plan. Many families are now realizing the amount of care that an elderly parent requires.

As we age we should be prepared to have the resources to pay for our care whether it is in our home or in a long term care facility. There will also likely be fewer people available to care for us, so that may be another cost to get skilled people to care for us.

Long-term care insurance helps cover the costs of the services and support necessary to maintain the day-to-day care should a chronic illness or cognitive impairment keep you from being able to perform the activities of daily living. Some examples of the activities of daily living are dressing, feeding, toileting, transferring, continence and bathing. Or we may need continual supervision because of deteriorated mental ability. Homemaking services are meal preparation, cleaning and laundry.

Even if you do have family available to assist, many seniors do not want their children to help them with toileting or bathing. Care may be provided in the home, the community or in a facility that provides long term care.  A long term care facility has services performed by or under the continual supervision of a physician or registered nurse in the facility 24 hours a day. The long-term care facility must be the insured person’s primary place of residence while they remain physically dependent.
Various insurance companies offer long-term Care insurance, each with its own options. Now is the time to research long-term care insurance. Younger people should also consider this insurance as they would more likely qualify and their premiums would be lower.

Article by, Sharen Marteny, CPCA