Coronavirus: What Older Adults Need to Know

Note: This blog post was updated on March 7 with the latest information from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Please check back frequently for updates and visit CDC for the most current news.

The situation around the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) is changing rapidly, and NCOA is taking proactive steps to share the best information we have to protect the public’s health, especially among older adults. Now is the time to stay informed and follow basic tips to protect yourself and those around you.

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Older Adults at Higher Risk

The CDC has identified older adults and people who have severe chronic medical conditions like heart, lung, or kidney disease at higher risk for more serious COVID-19 illness. According to the CDC, early data suggest older people are twice as likely to have serious COVID-19 illness.
 

This is likely because as people age, their immune systems change, making it harder for their body to fight off diseases and infection, and because many older adults are also more likely to have underlying health conditions that make it harder to cope with and recover from illness. Age increases the risk that the respiratory system or lungs will shut down when an older person has COVID-19 disease.
 

That’s why the CDC is recommending that people at higher risk take the following actions:

• Stay at home as much as possible.

• Make sure you have access to several weeks of medications, food, and supplies in case you need to stay home for prolonged periods of time.

• When you go out in public, keep away from others who are sick, limit close contact, and wash your hands often.

• Avoid crowds.

• Stay up to date on CDC Travel Health Notices.

Anthony S. Fauci, M.D., Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, said that people with serious chronic conditions, especially the elderly, should think twice about traveling or going to crowded places. He advised that these individuals take the simple steps of “not putting yourself in a situation—whatever that might be—that might increase the risk given your situation.”
 

The CDC is urging individuals to stay calm and Share Facts, Not Fear. Among the CDC’s advice are these common-sense tips:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

• Stay home when you are sick.

• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.

How to Support Older Adults

People of all ages can support older adults during this time. Many older adults depend on services and supports provided in their homes or in the community to maintain their health and independence. The CDC recommends that family members, neighbors, and caregivers:

• Know what medications your loved one is taking and see if you can help them have extra on hand.

• Monitor food and other medical supplies (oxygen, incontinence, dialysis, wound care) needed and create a back-up plan.

• Stock up on non-perishable food items to have on hand in your home to minimize trips to stores.

• If you care for a loved one living in a care facility, monitor the situation, ask about the health of the other residents frequently, and know the protocol if there is an outbreak.

This video is in honor of all of you who put the welfare of your loved one above yourself, who give and keep giving when you no longer receive a reward. May your love succeed in blessing your loved one and make your life abundantly richer in the process.

Exercise makes every task easier, whether you're 8, 38 or 88. We all know this, but following through can be a struggle.

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With exercise, our increased circulation strengthens our immune systems and brain. The improved muscular functions reduce risk of injury from falling. Each of these benefits snowball into an avalanche of blessings, and all from the simple choice to exercise.

Here's what researchers from the University of Michigan had to say about whether seniors can still exercise:

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Click to watch video

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Sometimes, all it takes to stay motivated is focus. To stay on track with our exercise goals, let's get our brains engaged into the many benefits of staying in shape so our bodies will follow!

Let's focus on our health in 2020!

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Looking for a caregiver to help you with your goals?

Contact us now!

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How many times has a health professional asked a family health history question you couldn't answer?

Did you know that simple awareness of your family's health patterns can both inform your future health decisions as well as alert your doctor of preventable issues where you may be vulnerable?

A product of the NHGRI and the U.S. Surgeon General's Family History Initiative, the My Family Health Portrait is a website that helps you create your own family health history. Using any computer, an Internet connection and an up-to-date Web browser, you provide your health information to build a drawing of your family tree and a chart of your family health history. Both the chart and the drawing can be printed and shared with your family members and your doctor.

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Tracing the illnesses suffered by your parents, grandparents and other blood relatives can help your doctor predict the disorders to which you may be at risk, and help you take action to keep you and your family healthy.

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In November 2004 - and to coincide with Thanksgiving, when families traditionally gather - U.S. Surgeon General Richard H. Carmona, M.D., M.P.H., and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) launched a national public health campaign called the U.S. Surgeon General's Family History Initiative.

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The campaign focused attention on the importance of the family health history, and encouraged all families to learn more about their health histories. To help with this, the initiative launched My Family Health Portrait: a downloadable tool for use on a personal computer to complete a family health history. One year later, in November 2005, U.S. Surgeon General Carmona furthered this initiative by launching the Web-based tool, My Family Health Portrait.

At Cura for Care, we believe it's always a good time to spend time with your family. This holiday season, use your family time to learn more about your family health history.

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To learn more about our professional at home services for seniors experiencing memory loss, click here.

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To learn more about compiling your family health profile, click here.

AFA’s National Memory Screening Program provides free, confidential memory screenings–administered by qualified healthcare professionals–to individuals across the country.

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A memory screening is a simple and safe “healthy brain check-up” that tests memory and other thinking skills. The memory screening is a series of questions and/or tasks that takes approximately 10 minutes to complete and can indicate if someone might benefit from a comprehensive medical evaluation. It is not used to diagnose any particular illness and does not replace consultation with a physician or other clinician.

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• Memory screenings are a significant first step toward finding out if a person may have a memory problem. Memory problems could be caused by a number of medical conditions, including vitamin deficiencies, thyroid issues, and depression, as well as dementia-related illnesses including Alzheimer’s.

• Some memory problems–such as those caused by vitamin deficiencies or thyroid problems– can be readily treated. Other memory problems might result from causes that are not currently reversible, such as Alzheimer’s disease. In general, the earlier the diagnosis, the easier it is to treat one of these conditions.

• Early detection of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) may afford a person the opportunity to take advantage of treatments that may slow the changes in memory and thinking skills or participate in a clinical trial.

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Early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease can improve one’s quality of life. Individuals with Alzheimer’s disease can learn more about the disease, including available and emerging medical treatments; get counseling and other social services support in their community; address legal, financial and other planning issues; and have more of a say in decision-making. Caregivers and other family members can take advantage of community services, such as support groups, which can help them feel better–physically and emotionally. They can discuss treatment, future care and other issues with their loved ones, rather than having to make decisions on their own.

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It is very important to identify the disease or problem that is causing memory loss. That is why a person should follow up for a complete checkup with a qualified healthcare professional.

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AFA has screening sites throughout the country which provide free, confidential memory screenings. Additionally, many physicians perform memory screenings.  Memory screenings are covered by Medicare as part of the Medicare Wellness Program, and are often covered by insurance companies as well.  Check with your doctor for more information.

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To learn more about our professional at home services for seniors experiencing memory loss, click here.

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Alzheimer’s information courtesy of the Alzheimer’s Association.

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For Alzheimer’s screening information, contact your doctor.

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1. Stretch every day

Simple stretching can increase your range of motion and decrease pain in conditions like rotator cuff tendinopathy. The great thing about stretching is that you can do it anywhere, and it only takes a few seconds to a few minutes.

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There are three types of basic stretches. You can choose to focus on increasing flexibility or you can work on mobility, too.

Static stretching — You probably learned this style in middle school. (Think standing toe touch and thigh stretch.) Static stretching increases flexibility by putting light tension on a muscle and holding the position for 30-60 seconds. Be sure not to bounce. It's best to warm up first before attempting this type of stretch.

Isometric stretching — In this type of stretching, you get into a static stretch position, then gently contract the stretched muscle. Keep the length of the muscle and the angle of the joint steady. Hold for 10-15 seconds then relax your muscle for about 20 seconds or more, then repeat. Isometric stretching increases strength and flexibility.

Dynamic stretching — When you roll your neck, do walking lunges or arm windmills, you're doing dynamic stretching. A dynamic stretch takes a specific movement and allows the joints and muscles to move through their full range of motion.

Dynamic stretching is controlled and smooth. It's a great way to warm up before exercising and helps increase range of motion.

When beginning a stretching routine, remember to take it slow. Stretching too quickly and too far can trigger your body's defense mechanisms to protect itself from tearing joints and muscles. Stretch just until you feel tension. If you feel pain, you've gone too far.

2. Discover foam roller self-massage.

They cost as little as $10 and come in many lengths and densities. A foam roller is an easy and convenient way to release tension in muscles and connective tissue, which helps increase flexibility and improve mobility.

For beginners, a medium foam roller may be most comfortable.

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3. Use your body's natural movement

Using your body's natural movements can increase your mobility, stability and balance. Plus, it adds a little playfulness into your day. One example of a "natural movement" activity is crawling. Getting down on all fours strengthens and mobilizes just about every muscle and joint in your body. Climbing, carrying, throwing and catching (safely and gently, of course) are other ways to keep yourself supple.

However you choose to move, remember to breathe freely, start slow, be gentle, and don't bounce.

Perhaps most important: Find stretches and other activities you actually like to do that fit into your daily routine. That's the best way to guarantee you'll stick with a more flexible way of life.

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By Mayo Clinic Staff

"I completely forgot what I was saying. I'm really getting bad."

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It's scary to think our forgetfulness is a symptom of approaching dementia. Thankfully, cognitive decline is a normal part of aging that doesn't necessarily foreshadow mental collapse. If you'd like to strengthen your brain power, follow these important steps:

1. Stay curious - and cautious. Research shows that seniors who approach potential scam calls as potential scams are on track for mental acuity far into their golden years. It's when seniors assume every call is legitimate that they get into trouble. Not only that, but research shows that seniors preferring not to know about how to identify scams is a common characteristic of those who are on the road to significant cognitive decline.

2. Be careful about self-medicating with alcohol.
From "A Well-Aged Mind" by the NIH:

Alcohol poses risks for the older brain. It can take less alcohol to alter judgment, coordination, balance, or sleep patterns in an older adult. Older adults may change their drinking habits to cope with the death of a partner or other loved one, or because they’re lonely.But drinking can also be part of social activities for older adults, explains Dr. Edith Sullivan, an alcohol researcher at Stanford University.

“Older adults might feel that ‘well, I’m old now, it’s OK for me to drink,” Sullivan says. But older brains and bodies are especially vulnerable to the effects of alcohol, she adds.

A recent study by Sullivan and her team used brain imaging to see how alcohol affects the brain. They found that older adults who misused alcohol had greater loss of brain tissue compared with their peers who didn’t drink.

The good news, she explains, is that some problems with thinking or memory caused by medications or alcohol misuse can be reversed. “That’s different from classical dementia, which is a one-way street of decline,” says Sullivan.

3. Be careful about prescribed medications, too. Even if you're not suffering from alcohol abuse, you can still suffer dangerous repercussions from medication errors due to physicians being unaware of what all you're taking. Make sure to keep a detailed list of all your meds, and give it to any physician who treats you. Both your brain and your doctor will thank you!

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4. Focus on your strengths. Older adults have a great deal of wisdom that younger generations lack. According to NIH aging expert Marie Bernard, "Older adults have greater verbal ability than younger adults. They’re better problem solvers. And accumulated experiences are very helpful."

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While it can be tempting to bemoan the younger generations' lack of respect or interest in your experiences, remember that life is relationships. Gaining the right to speak comes with time, so now's the time to get involved in multi-age activities where you can build relationships with those who need your stories. Volunteering at libraries, afterschool programs, and similar activities in your neighborhood on a regular basis are all ways to gain access to younger ears who need your strong brain. And as you see the need, you'll be inspired to strengthen your brain!

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For Cura for Care services, click here.

​To learn more from the NIH about brain health, click here.

You only have 18 seconds - that's the average time a doctor waits before interrupting a patient. As a patient, it is important you are able to obtain, communicate, process, and understand basic health information. 

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Be prepared for your visit:

• Make a list of concerns in order of their importance to you.

• Write down all of your medications, vitamins, and supplements.

• Note all health and life changes since your last visit.

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For Cura for Care services, click here.

​To learn more from the NIH about talking with your doctor, click here.

We have all heard and read about the things we need to do to stay happy, healthy and active as we age.  Here’s a great list to remind us, from Dartmouth-Hitchcock, U.S. News & World Report’s #1 Ranked Hospital.

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Maintain Your Brain

Never stop learning and challenging your mind! Take dance lessons, learn a new language, attend lectures at a local university, learn to play a musical instrument, or read a book.

Take Charge of Your Health

You are your own best advocate. Bring a list of your current prescription and non-prescription medications, including supplements; keep a list of your health concerns; and, ask questions!

Reduce Stress

Long-term stress can cause memory loss, fatigue, and decreased ability to fight off and recover from infection. Take care of yourself when you are stressed by getting enough sleep, exercising, and eating nutritious foods.

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From getting enough sleep to cultivating relationships, from eating nutrition-rich foods to living an active life, these are all reminders that healthy aging is attainable.

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Learn More!

For Cura for Care services, click here.

For more from Dartmouth-Hitchcock, click here.

New research has uncovered links between menopause and Alzheimer's in women. According to Lisa Mosconi, a researcher who's devoted her entire career since she was 20 to exploring and obliterating Alzheimer's Disease, hormonal factors play a huge role in brain health.

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Mosconi has written extensively about how women can prevent onset of Alzheimer's, digging deep into issues like hormone replacement therapy and how "false" estrogens derived from pesticides and plastics can do more harm than good.

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Included in her research is an attempt to educate younger women on behavioral steps they can take to protect their brains throughout premenopause, perimenopause, menopause, and post-menopause using natural hormone-producing sources. She says, "Many foods naturally boost estrogen production, including soy, flax seeds, chickpeas, garlic and fruit like apricots.

"Women in particular also need antioxidant nutrients like vitamin C and vitamin E, found in berries, citrus fruits, almonds, raw cacao, Brazil nuts and many leafy green vegetables."

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Mosconi advocates a heightened interest in women's brain health. "Perhaps in the next decade it will become the norm for middle-aged women to receive preventive testing and treatment for Alzheimer’s disease, just as they get mammograms today."

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To read more of her research, click here.

Are you planning a 4th of July event that includes senior family members and friends? Remember a few tips to keep things comfortable for everyone:

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1. "Bring your own chair" event? Make sure to have an extra handy, especially one that's not too low to rise from easily.

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2. Dehydration is always an issue for seniors in the summer. Make sure cold water is readily available, as well as adequate shade.

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3. Always plan for the unexpected, making sure there's a clean restroom nearby as well as having emergency preparations in place.

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4. Consider moving the celebration to your loved one's residence. Board games, movies, charades, or even stories of long ago with photo album marathons are great ways to enjoy a special day without mosquitoes and sunburn.

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5. If your loved one lives in a retirement community or assisted living center, make sure you check on dietary requirements as you plan the menu.

Almost everyone has joint pain at some point in life. It can flair up suddenly. Or it can start off mild and get worse over time.

A common cause of joint pain is bursitis. Bursitis happens when a bursa in a joint becomes inflamed.  A bursa is a small, fluid-filled sac that acts as a cushion between bones and other moving parts, such as muscles, tendons, or skin. They keep joints such as your shoulders, knees, and elbows working smoothly. But they can be hurt by sudden or repetitive forces. 

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 Bursitis often flairs up because of another injury, explains Dr. Jeffrey Katz, a joint specialist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard University. When an injury causes someone to move their joint differently than normal, it can irritate a bursa. 

“For example, if you have a foot injury, it can change the way you walk. Maybe you don’t even notice it, but you limp a little,” Katz says. “And that changes the way that forces from muscles and tendons pull on the bones. That subtle change can give rise to some inflammation in the bursa.”

Bursitis can also be caused by putting pressure on a joint for too long, such as kneeling or leaning on your elbows. Activities that require repetitive motions or place stress on your joints—such as carpentry, gardening, playing a musical instrument, or playing a sport—can sometimes trigger bursitis. Rarely, a bursa may become inflamed due to an infection.

Fortunately, treatment for most simple cases of joint pain is similar no matter what’s causing it, Katz adds. This may include rest, over-the-counter drugs that suppress inflammation, and gentle stretching and strengthening exercises.

Physical therapy may help if bursitis has reduced your ability to move your joint or if it results in muscle weakness. If your bursitis is due to an infection, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics. Bursitis and other causes of joint pain can be prevented by paying attention to how you move and perform daily activities. preventing bursitis.

Bursitis is more likely to occur the older you get. To help prevent bursitis as you age, try to stay as active as possible, Katz says. “The best way to stay out of trouble with these joint injuries is to try to stay flexible and strong,” he concludes.

Falls are the most common cause of injury and death among seniors, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In fact, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) projects falls will kill 40,000 seniors and cost $60 billion in 2020.

Secondly, at-home care providers could soon be reimbursed for certain home modifications. For example, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) recently announced Medicare Advantage (MA) plans would have permission to cover an expanded set of supplemental benefits in 2020.

Cura home care offers a safe home assessment as part of the initial care assessment and we have helped clients make affordable improvements to their home and ensure their continued safety.

For a no-cost, no-obligation safe home assessment, click here.

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To read more about how your home can be improved according to these new guidelines, read the full article by Bailey Bryant here.

According to the experts at the USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, you might be surprised at their findings.

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A healthy diet looks the same for everyone: FICTION!

“Genetic differences can mean that diets affect people differently," says dietitian Cary Kreutzer, USC Leonard Davis associate professor and director of the Master of Science in Nutrition, Healthspan and Longevity program.

Our genetic makeup affects and influences how we metabolize food. And because we metabolize substances at different rates, this can affect what we eat, drink and even the vitamins we take. And this is why a healthy diet for one person might not be the right diet for their spouse or loved one.

Learn more about the rest of the findings from the USC School of Gerontology by visiting them here.

A 21-year study of seniors run by New York’s Albert Einstein College of Medicine found that among the activities studied – including walking, biking, swimming, golfing, and frequent social dancing–only dancing offered any protection against dementia. What’s more, dancing reduced the dementia risk of the seniors in the study by 76%. Reading cut their risk by 35%, and frequent crossword puzzles reduced it by 47%.
(theAlzheimersProject.org)

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According to an article shared by Stanford University’s dance division, dance may protect the mind by helping it stay alert to new possibilities that require frequent, quick decision-making, such as when you’re following a partner’s lead during a foxtrot. (Stanford.edu)

Good News About Boosting Your Resilience: Research shows that older people who have a negative outlook on aging tend to have lower cognitive function and a higher risk of dementia. The good news is that the opposite is true, too: Positive feelings about age equals better brain function and lower dementia risk. This is likely because your attitude about aging affects your stress levels.

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•  Spend time with others
•  Celebrate your birthday — for real!
(ignore those cards that make fun of aging)
•  Build a buff brain with exercise
•  Practice gratitude

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Learn more about boosting your resilience at the Mayo Clinic by clicking here:

Pets are good for your health!  As pet owners know, loyal four-legged companions add joy to our lives. Therapy animals have been shown to help speed recovery and provide companionship for many people. More recently, research is showing animals’ positive impact on individuals with dementia as well as ability to help reduce risk of brain disease. Any type of pet can boost your mood and keep your brain healthy. 

Increasing numbers of researchers have begun highlighting the correlations between sleep apnea and memory loss. If you suffer from sleep apnea, your future cognitive skills could pay the price.

Incorporating hydration into your schedule isn't always convenient, especially if you're trying to keep bladder issues in check, but it's worth it.

For seniors, staying hydrated is one of the easiest ways to eliminate a host of painful conditions. Unfortunately, remembering to drink enough water can be difficult. When prescriptions like diuretics and laxatives deplete your moisture reserves, staying hydrated must become a top priority every day.

How Hydration Helps

Much of your body tissues consist largely of water. Keeping those tissues and fluids from drying, simply by drinking enough water regularly, can help prevent:

It's no secret that these five habits can lengthen both the duration and the enjoyment of our lives. At Cura for care, we help seniors and individuals recovering from hospitalization to lead active, healthy and social lifestyles. Call us to find out more: (615) 522-5265.

Do you wake up in the middle of the night and struggle to get back to sleep? Learn about circadian rhythms and how your body was designed to perform optimally when you follow the sleep/wake cycle in nature.

You know you should be more active, but there are so many things that seem to get in the way. It's time for some positive thinking. No more excuses!

It's one of those tough conversations we can't afford to skip.

We all know tobacco can harm relationships, finances, and especially health. Here's a great article by our friends at NIH to give you that extra motivation to quit - at whatever age you are.

Discover the new definition of high blood pressure in this update from the NIH!

Music offers powerful brain health benefits. Read all about it in this article from NIH!

Here are some great tips to help seniors moving to senior living communities keep their new place feeling like home. 

Try some exercise to lift your mood! Research has shown that the benefits of exercise go beyond just physical well-being, helping to support emotional and mental health. Get ideas from Go4Life on how to lift your mood

Walking is great exercise, especially for older adults. Malls can be great places to walk because they provide a sheltered indoor space free from traffic and hot weather. Here are some of the benefits of walking in the mall:

  *   Malls are pedestrian-friendly. They have level floors, benches or other places to rest, water fountains, and accessible restrooms.
  *   You don't need special exercise equipment, other than comfortable walking shoes.
  *   Walkers of all ages and fitness levels are welcome.

There are many fun ways to be active outdoors, but make sure you stay safe in the sun. Go4Life has the following tips to keep your skin healthy:

  *   Limit your time in the sun. Try to stay out of the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun's rays are the strongest. Don't be fooled by cloudy skies. The sun's rays pass through clouds. You can also get sunburned if you're in the water so be careful when in a pool, lake or the ocean.
  *   Wear protective clothing. A hat with a wide brim can shade your neck, ears, eyes, and head. Look for sunglasses that block 99 to 100 percent of the sun's rays. If you have to be in the sun, wear a lightweight, long-sleeved shirt and long pants.
  *   Drink plenty of liquids, especially if it's hot outside. Water and fruit juices are good options. Avoid caffeine and alcohol.

Visit Go4Life for more tips on staying safe in the sun!

Great tips on taking medicines safely from NIH!

Follow instructions. Read all medicine labels. Make sure to take your medicines the right way. For example, don’t use an over-the-counter cough and cold syrup if you only have a runny nose and no cough.

Use the right amount. Don’t take a larger dose of a medicine thinking it will help you more. It can be very dangerous, even deadly. And, don’t skip or take half doses of a prescription drug to save money. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist if you can’t afford the medicine. There may be help...

Whether you're traveling for business or pleasure, you can stick to your exercise routine when you're on the road.

  *   Pack your fitness clothes. Be prepared. If you're taking your laptop, you might also include your favorite exercise DVD.
  *   Stop along the way. If you're traveling by car, take frequent breaks; get out and stretch or walk around. Not only will it help you feel better, it will help you stay more alert while driving. If you're flying, walk around the airport while waiting for your flight.
  *   Stick to your routine as much as possible. Being active is one of the most important things you can do each day. If you're a morning person, exercise before going out for the day. Work out at lunch time. Or, if your day is too hectic, unwind with a workout in the afternoon or early evening. 

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Visit Go4Life for more exercise tips for travelers.

Being in pain doesn't necessarily mean you should avoid exercise. Depending on the type of pain you have, it could even help. Just don't overdo it! Work with your doctor to find ways to continue participating in physical activities you enjoy.

Most people living with chronic pain can exercise safely, and it can assist with pain management. In fact, being inactive can sometimes lead to a cycle of more pain and loss of function.

Remember to listen to your body when exercising and participating in physical activities. Avoid over-exercising on "good days." If something doesn't feel right or hurts, seek medical advice right away.

Learn more about exercising with pain from Go4Life.

It can be easy to make excuses for why you can't find time to exercise. Change your thinking and make a positive plan with these ideas from Go4Life:

  *   Try exercising first thing in the morning before your day gets too busy.
  *   Combine physical activity with a task that's already part of your day, such as walking the dog or doing household chores.
  *   Make exercise fun by doing things you enjoy.
  *   Make exercise social! Check with your local parks and recreation department or senior center about free or low-cost exercise programs

From the National Council on Aging:

Improve Your Flexibility

Flexibility, or stretching, exercises give you more freedom of movement for your physical activities and for everyday activities such as getting dressed and reaching objects on a shelf. Stretching exercises can improve your flexibility, but they will not improve your strength or endurance.

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Be sure to try all four types of exercise — ENDURANCE, STRENGTH, BALANCE, and FLEXIBILITY.

Being physically active can have positive emotional benefits. Pick an activity you like to do so you'll be more likely to stick with it. Read and share this infographic from the National Institute on Aging to learn more!

Take good care of yourself in 2017!

Cura recommends checking in with your health professionals using these NIA/NIH guidelines as an important part of good health. Prepare for appointments by using these worksheets to identify:

* Concerns. Think about what you'd like to talk about before the visit and prioritize what you want to talk about first.
* Changes to discuss. List any changes in your life, health, medications, and mood since your last visit. Try to note when the change occurred and for how long.
* Medications. Write down all your medications, what they are for, and the dose/instructions.

Click the link to visit the NIA website to view these worksheets.

If a family member has #Alzheimers disease, will I have it, too? Find out in this infographic from #NIH: http://bit.ly/2hdqwmL

Exercise and physical activity fall into four basic categories—endurance, strength, balance, and flexibility. Most people tend to focus on one activity or type of exercise and think they're doing enough. Each type is different, though. Doing them all will give you more benefits...

"Did I take my medicine?" Older adults often take multiple medications. It can be hard to remember what each medicine is for, how much to take, and when to take it.

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If it's hard to keep up with your medications, here are a few helpful tips our Cura care partners use to help our clients...

Give your future caregivers the gift of getting your affairs in order. Find out which important papers to collect in one place, what legal documents you might need if you get sick, and more in the NIA AgePage "Getting Your Affairs in Order."

It isn't easy knowing how to take the next step when a loved one with Alzheimer's requires more care than you're equipped to provide. Learn what steps you can take to ensure you're making the right choice for your loved one in this helpful guide from the National Institute on Aging.

Not every patient's problems are solved by their first trip to the ER. For seniors trying to avoid the revolving door of rehospitalization, a team of competent providers is crucial.

Cura is the missing link to prevent unnecessary rehospitalization.

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At Cura, we create care plans, educate and support patients and their families, coordinate care among providers, and use planning tools to set priorities for stabilizing health and achieving patients' goals.

November is National Family Caregiver Month. Take time this month to thank the caregivers you know who support family, friends, and neighbors. Also, make sure caregivers are caring for themselves! Help them arrange time off to relax or exercise.

If you're serious about preventing Alzheimer's down the road, you'll appreciate this research that shows a great way to boost brain health. Exercise! Who knew? And just in time for Resolution Day. :)