Physicians often grade our health by looking at a variety of test numbers and screening results. Even more so the older you get. Blood pressure measures the heart, while it’s working and at rest. Pulse measures the number of times your heart beats per minute (BPM). Body mass index is a ratio of how much you weigh compared with how tall you are. And then there is cholesterol.

While most seniors have routine bloodwork to determine cholesterol, some of us aren’t quite sure what these numbers mean and why they matter. Even health care professionals don’t necessarily agree on what cholesterol numbers should be, and how they affect our overall health. So, it’s no surprise older adults are confused.

Experts from Harvard Medical School say an overall cholesterol score of 200 or less places you in the healthy category. If your numbers total between 200–239, it’s considered to be a borderline score that is a cause for concern and needs to be addressed. Once you hit a score of 240 or greater, your physician will likely say you have high cholesterol.

There are two different types of cholesterol that contribute to your overall score:

HDL: High-density lipoprotein cholesterol or HDL is the good form of cholesterol. This is one score where higher is better. An HDL score over 60 is believed to protect you from heart disease, while a score of 40 or less puts you at risk for cardiac problems.

LDL: Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol is often referred to as the lousy cholesterol. Lower scores are better. Too much LDL can cause blood vessels in the heart to clog. Physicians generally want patients to keep their LDL at 100 or less. (This number was revised in 2013 from a previous recommendation of 70.)

Another type of blood testing often done during a cholesterol screening measures triglycerides. They are a type of fat found in the blood. Some triglycerides are necessary for maintaining heart health, but too much can put you at risk for heart disease. The normal range for triglycerides is considered to be 150 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or less.

How Often Should You Have a Cholesterol Test?

Experts typically recommend anyone over the age of 20 be screened. Testing should be repeated every 4 to 6 years, unless you fall into a high-risk category. Here are some factors that may contribute to an individual being high-risk:

Family history of cardiac disease or stroke

Most physicians require patients fast for at least 9 hours prior to having a blood test to measure their cholesterol and triglycerides.

The bottom line is to work closely with a trusted physician to help screen and manage your numbers. Undetected or untreated, high cholesterol can put you at high risk for not only a heart attack, but a stroke too. Strokes are a leading cause of disability in America. Act FAST: Warning Signs of a Stroke is an article that offers insight about strokes, as well as an easy-to-remember acronym for recognizing the warning signs.

If you or a loved one live with heart disease or high cholesterol, it might be beneficial to invest in a mobile emergency alert device. It will allow you to summon help in the event of a medical crisis. Call 1-844-203-5617 to learn more.

Do you know how to interpret your cholesterol results or why it’s important to be screened? This information explains both.

Understanding Cholesterol Screening Results

The life of a family caregiver is usually very hectic, and the holidays can be especially overwhelming. An already overbooked schedule can leave little time for a senior’s primary caregiver to relax and celebrate the season with friends and loved ones. It can leave them feeling isolated and alone. In fact, the risk of a caregiver experiencing depression increases during the holidays.

One solution for families to consider is respite. These are short-term care services designed to give caregivers a break. Sometimes that might be a volunteer donating their time to help a senior loved one, and other times it might be enlisting the services of a paid respite professional.

Let’s take a look at all the options you might want to consider this season.

Understanding the Different Types of Respite Services

Short-term respite care can generally be divided into two groups: formal and informal care. Both can be supportive options for a caregiver who is struggling to manage many responsibilities and left wondering how they will ever find time to celebrate the festive season ahead.

Informal respite services: This can be as simple as asking a friend or family member to sit with your loved one for a few hours while you do some holiday shopping or attend a party. It gives you the time you need, while also providing some company for your senior family member to enjoy. Some churches and synagogues have friendly-visitor programs that send volunteers to pay visits to homebound seniors. They can spend time reading, playing cards, or watching movies with your loved one. It’s an informal way to give the caregiver some time to themselves.

Formal respite care: Another form of respite a family can benefit from is employing a paid professional to assist. It might be a private duty home care agency, an adult day center, or an assisted living community. Depending on what your needs are this holiday season, respite in an assisted living community may be an ideal solution. It can give the primary caregiver a break for more than a few hours. And respite services can be an important part of a loved one’s emergency caregiving backup plan. In the event of a crisis involving the primary caregiver, you’ll already have an established relationship with a provider.

How to Select a Holiday Respite Care Partner

If you want to attend an out-of-town family gathering or take a holiday vacation to celebrate the new year, explore respite care at an assisted living community. Your loved one will enjoy the same services and amenities as a long-term resident.

Here are a few tips for finding one that you and your senior loved one will both feel confident in:

Schedule an in-person tour: Before you make this decision, visit each of the assisted living communities you are considering in person. While recommendations from people you trust are definitely important, nothing matters more than visiting the community and meeting the team.

Review state survey results: Assisted living communities are regulated at the state level. Each state has its own rules for communities to follow, and they are inspected on a regular basis. Many states post survey results on their website to make it easy for the public to view. If your state doesn’t do this, ask the community for a copy to review.

Obtain a list of costs: Assisted living fees and expenses can vary greatly from one community to another. Some communities offer a comprehensive daily fee for respite care, while others assess charges based on your loved one’s specific needs. Be sure you have a comprehensive list of what is included and what isn’t, and what additional fees to anticipate.

Ask about the community’s emergency plan: One last suggestion is to ask what happens in the event of an emergency. For example, what is the procedure if your senior loved one experiences a medical event during their stay? Or if a storm causes flooding or knocks out the electricity? Knowing the community has a plan in place for various crises is essential.

Consider a Mobile Monitoring Device for a Senior’s Safety

One way to give your family greater peace of mind about a loved one’s safety is to invest in a mobile monitoring device. These discreet units can be easily slipped into the older adult’s pocket. In the event of an emergency, the user can summon help with the press of a button. Call 1-844-203-5617 to learn more today!

The holidays can be overwhelming and isolating for caregivers. Respite care can be a solution that allows them to relax and enjoy the season.

How Respite Care Can Help Caregivers Enjoy the Holidays

Running after dark, especially during the winter months, presents unique challenges and safety concerns. As the daylight hours shrink and temperatures drop, it’s important to adapt your running routine to accommodate both. By taking the right precautions, you can enjoy a safe and rewarding run even when it’s dark and cold outside. From wearing the right gear to carrying safety devices that can easily connect you with help in an emergency, these tips can help runners prepare for winter.

Safety Tips for Runners to Consider This Winter

Find a running club or buddy: One of the most effective ways to stay safe while running after dark is not to run alone. Having a running partner not only adds a layer of security but also makes the experience more enjoyable. When you run with others, you benefit from increased visibility and the assurance that help is nearby if needed. A running buddy can also provide moral support, which is especially valuable during those chilly winter months, when motivation can wane.

Invest in proper footwear: Depending on where you live, running in the winter can involve dealing with slippery surfaces, such as ice and snow. Proper footwear is essential to reduce the risk of slips and falls. Ensure that your shoes are well-fitted and have adequate cushioning to handle the impact of running on hard, frozen surfaces, and consider investing in running shoes designed for winter conditions. These shoes typically feature more aggressive tread patterns and, in some cases, removable spikes for enhanced traction on icy surfaces. Additionally, wearing gaiters can help keep snow and debris out of your shoes.

Dress appropriately: Proper winter clothing is crucial to maintaining comfort and safety as you run. Layering is key to managing your body temperature and protecting yourself from the elements. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat away from your skin. Over this, wear an insulating layer to retain body heat. Depending on weather conditions, you might want to add a wind- and water-resistant outer layer. Don’t forget gloves or mittens, a hat, and a neck gaiter or scarf. To make sure you are visible to others, wear a reflective vest, arm bands, and ankle bands. Finally, headlamps or handheld flashlights not only illuminate your path but also make you more noticeable to others.

Plan your route before you run: Areas that are safe to run in during spring and summer might not be during colder months. For example, trails along the river might freeze over more quickly or have icy patches that can be hazardous to run on. Take time to familiarize yourself with potential locations before running. It can help you anticipate hazards, such as uneven ground or hidden obstacles. Also, pay attention to how isolated parks or trails might be during the off-season compared with the bustling warm-weather days.

Stay aware of your surroundings: Finally, always stay alert and aware of who and what is around you. Avoid distractions, such as playing loud music on headphones, which can impair your ability to hear approaching vehicles or other potential dangers. Maintain a steady pace and be cautious when running in areas that may have limited visibility or increased traffic. It might also be a good idea to invest in an emergency call system that allows you to call for help from wherever you are.

If you are an older runner looking for other ways to stay active during the colder months of the year, Winter Fitness Ideas for Seniors might be of interest. You’ll likely find some options that appeal to you, from tai chi to YouTube video workouts.

Life Protect 24/7 Offers Mobile Monitoring Units

Small, lightweight, and discreet, the Life Protect 24/7 mobile monitoring unit can give runners peace of mind. And because they work off of wireless technology, these devices allow the wearer to summon help from almost anywhere—indoors or out. Call 1-844-203-5617 today to learn more!

Whether you are an experienced runner or new to this fitness activity, it’s important to take steps to stay safe while running in winter. These tips can help.

October is a great month to get outside and engage in activities that celebrate the season’s beauty. The crisp air, blue skies, and vibrantly colored leaves welcome people to the great outdoors. The health benefits of spending time outside are numerous, from promoting exercise to reducing stress, lowering blood pressure, and improving mood. Spending the final days before winter arrives enjoying nature is just plain good for you.

If you need a few senior-friendly ideas to make the most of fall, we have some for you to explore.

One of the best ways to appreciate the season is to take a leisurely nature walk. Many local parks and nature reserves offer accessible trails that are suitable for seniors. These walks provide a chance to enjoy the fair weather and stunning views while promoting mental and physical health.

For those who prefer not to walk, or who struggle with mobility issues, a scenic drive might make for a great afternoon activity. It could be as easy as meandering along backroads in the nearby countryside or along a lakeshore or coastal route. You could invite friends or family along for companionship and pack a picnic lunch to share in a roadside park.

While many people associate gardening with spring and early summer, fall is actually a good time for it, too. Many plants, such as pansies, chrysanthemums, and asters, thrive in cooler temperatures. So do a few vegetables—favorite fall crops, like kale and carrots, do better after the temperature falls.

Then there are the bulbs that should be planted in the fall for spring blooming. Tulips, daffodils, crocuses, hyacinths, and snowdrops are just a few of the many bulbs to consider planting this month. If you’ve never tackled this kind of gardening before, these tips for fall bulb planting might be helpful.

Gardening not only helps to improve strength and flexibility, but it also enhances mental well-being. If you aren’t interested in being a solo gardener, consider joining a local community garden. It’s a good way to foster social connections and provide a sense of belonging.

Visit Farmers’ Markets and Fall Festivals

Farmers’ markets and festivals are abundant in the fall. Vendors offer everything from pumpkins and seasonal fruits to baked goods and crafts. Many also have music, food trucks, and other entertainment.

If you would like to venture farther from home to take in a farmers’ market or festival, there are lots of online resources to help you find one. This list of the top 26 fall festivals as ranked by US News and World Report might give you some ideas, as can this national farmers’ market directory.

Nothing symbolizes fall better than a trip to an apple orchard and cider mill. You can pick your own apples or buy some already bagged. Many orchards also have their own mills, where you can watch cider being produced and buy a carton freshly made.

When you check the orchard’s schedule online, make sure to look for special events they may be hosting this fall. You’ll likely find everything from hayrides to pumpkin carving.

Autumn provides ample inspiration for craft projects. Activities like making wreaths, painting pumpkins, or creating seasonal centerpieces can be enjoyable and fulfilling. Seniors can enjoy spending time outdoors collecting natural materials like leaves, pine cones, twigs, and acorns, and then use them to create fall-themed decorations.

These kinds of creative pursuits can improve manual dexterity, boost mood, and encourage socializing. Community centers often host crafting workshops, which can give you the chance to meet new people while learning new skills.

Stay Safe While Exploring Nature This Fall

If you want to do some exploring this fall but are anxious about doing so on your own, investing in a mobile monitoring unit might be a solution. These discreet devices can slip into your purse or pocket. If an emergency occurs, you can call for help with the simple press of a button. Call 1-844-203-5617 to learn more!

Are you a senior looking for ideas to make the most of fall this year? From apple cider mills to seasonal crafts, these suggestions might be helpful.

Senior-Friendly Activities to Enjoy in the Fall

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women worldwide. Nearly 1 in 8 women receive this diagnosis during their lifetime. The fight against breast cancer begins with creating greater awareness. Early detection and disease-specific education can significantly improve outcomes. Understanding risk factors for breast cancer and the importance of regular screenings are vital steps for women everywhere.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This annual month of recognition is designed to educate people about the disease and help raise funds for research. To aid in this effort, we are sharing essential information that women should know about breast cancer.

Breast cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the breast begin to grow uncontrollably. It can start inside the milk ducts and/or the milk-producing lobules of the breast. These cells can then form a tumor, which can typically be detected with various screening methods. It’s important to know that both women and men can develop the disease, although it is far more prevalent in women.

There are a variety of types of breast cancer, and each one can vary in behavior, growth rates, and responses to treatment. Some of the most common include invasive ductal carcinoma, invasive lobular carcinoma, and ductal carcinoma in situ.

While the exact cause of breast cancer remains unclear, certain risk factors can increase a woman’s likelihood of developing the disease. These include:

Age: The odds of developing breast cancer increase with age. Women over 55 are at higher risk. (But it’s important to know that it can occur at any age.)

Personal family history: Having a first-degree relative—a parent, sibling, or child—who has had breast cancer can raise your risk. As can having multiple family members on either your mother’s or father’s side of the family who have had breast or ovarian cancer.

Genetic mutations: Women who have inherited changes (mutations) to certain genes, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, are at higher risk for both breast and ovarian cancer.

Lifestyle choices: Alcohol consumption and being overweight or sedentary are a few of the lifestyle factors that can impact the chances you’ll be diagnosed with the disease.

Having dense breasts: Dense breasts have more connective tissue than fatty tissue. While researchers aren’t sure why this is, women with dense breasts are more likely to develop breast cancer. Dense tissue can also make tumors more difficult to spot on a mammogram.

Other factors that can increase your risk include reproductive history, previous history of radiation to the chest, and taking hormones.

It’s also important to know that having risk factors does not guarantee a diagnosis. Conversely, many women diagnosed with breast cancer have no known risk factors. This uncertainty highlights the importance of awareness and regular health screenings for women of all ages.

Early detection is a key component in successfully treating breast cancer. Regular screenings, such as mammograms, ultrasounds, clinical breast exams, and self-exams, can help identify changes in breast tissue early on.

The American Cancer Society’s general recommendation is that women start having annual mammograms at age 45. For those with a family history of breast cancer or other high-risk factors, it might be necessary to start ultrasounds and/or mammograms at the age of 40.

While some of the risk factors for breast cancer are out of our control, one that isn’t is managing your lifestyle. How Lifestyle Impacts Healthy Aging offers tips for making wellness a part of your daily life as you grow older.

If you are a senior or the family caregiver for an older adult, managing stress is essential to well-being. Investing in an emergency call device could help lower your stress levels—you’ll have peace of mind knowing that in the event of an emergency, the wearer can quickly call for assistance with the press of a button. Call 1-844-203-5617 to learn more!

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we’re sharing what people should know about the disease, from risk factors to early detection. We invite you to read on.

Breast Cancer Awareness for Women of All Ages

With winter weather starting to arrive, a warm bowl of soup can make a healthy, delicious meal. It’s also convenient to make in batches to freeze and share with senior loved ones who might struggle with meal preparation. Depending on the recipe and the ingredients called for—from meats and legumes to vegetables and grains—soup can be packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals.

Here are some tips to help you create a well-stocked freezer of healthy soups that will keep you nourished and satisfied.

The base of your soup sets the tone for both the flavor and the nutritional content. You can choose store-bought chicken, beef, or vegetable broth or cook your own. Bone broth made from leftover organic chicken or beef bones can be especially good for reducing inflammation in the body.

For a creamier texture to your soup, consider using pureed vegetables or adding a small amount of coconut milk or yogurt. If you’re aiming for a healthier option, look for low-sodium versions of any ingredients you add.

When reviewing soup recipes, opt for those with ingredients that are rich in nutrients. Leafy greens (like spinach or kale), beans, lentils, whole grains (like quinoa or brown rice), and colorful vegetables (like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini) can boost the nutritional profile of your soups.

Besides providing vitamins and minerals, these ingredients also contain plenty of fiber. It’s good for keeping blood sugar stable and promoting digestive health. And it helps you feel full longer, which can keep you from reaching for unhealthy snacks between meals.

Batch cooking is key to an efficient meal prep strategy. Dedicate a day or even just an afternoon to preparing multiple soups at once. This not only saves time but also allows you to take advantage of seasonal produce and bulk buys. By making a variety of soups, you ensure that you’ll have a range of flavors and textures to choose from when you’re ready to eat.

If you aren’t sure where to start the search for nutritious soup recipes, there are plenty online. Two good resources to help you get started are 35 Healthy Soup Recipes That Are Cozy and Comforting from the Food Network and 79 Flavor-Packed Healthy Soup Recipes from Taste of Home.

Herbs and spices can transform a simple soup into a flavorful dish. Fresh herbs, like basil, cilantro, and parsley, can be added just before serving to enhance flavor. Dried herbs, like thyme, oregano, and rosemary, are good to sprinkle in during the cooking process.

But don’t stick to just basic herbs and spices. Try out some you haven’t tested before, such as cumin, paprika, or turmeric. Each of these can add warmth and depth while providing additional health benefits.

Finally, choosing the right container for freezing your soup is essential for preserving flavor and texture—and for avoiding potential hazards or messes! Select airtight, freezer-safe containers made of glass or BPA-free plastic, which withstand low temperatures and prevent freezer burn.

Mason jars work well, but be sure to leave space at the top to allow for expansion. Alternatively, silicone freezer bags are flexible and can be laid flat for efficient storage. Avoid using regular plastic containers, which may crack in the freezer. Label each container with the soup type and date for easy identification.

Senior Safety Starts With Healthy Nutrition

If you are an adult child who is lending an aging parent a helping hand with meals and other household tasks, know that nutrition plays a key role in safety, too. People who have a poor diet are more likely to experience falls than their peers who consume a balanced diet.

Another way to help keep a senior loved one safe is by investing in a mobile monitoring unit. Should an emergency occur, these discreet devices allow the wearer to call for help from wherever they are. Call 1-844-203-5617 to learn more today!

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