Connecting for Health: The Network of Senior Organizations

Aromatherapy is a holistic healing practice that involves the use of essential oils to promote physical, mental, and emotional health. It is a popular complementary therapy that is often used in conjunction with traditional medical treatments. While aromatherapy can benefit people of all ages, it is particularly beneficial for seniors.Seniors may face a variety of health challenges as they age, including chronic pain, arthritis, insomnia, depression, and anxiety. Aromatherapy can help to alleviate these conditions and improve the overall quality of life for seniors.Here are a few examples of the benefits of aromatherapy for seniors:Pain relief: Many essential oils have analgesic properties that can help to reduce pain and inflammation. For example, lavender oil has been shown to be effective in reducing pain associated with arthritis and fibromyalgia, while peppermint oil can help to relieve headache pain.Improved sleep: Seniors often experience sleep disturbances, including insomnia and sleep apnea. Aromatherapy can help to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. Lavender oil is particularly effective for promoting sleep because it has a calming effect on the nervous system.Reduced stress and anxiety: Essential oils can help to reduce stress and anxiety by promoting relaxation and calmness. Bergamot oil, for example, has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety levels in patients undergoing surgery. Frankincense oil can help to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, while ylang-ylang oil can promote relaxation and reduce stress.Enhanced cognitive function: Essential oils can help to improve cognitive function in seniors. Rosemary oil has been shown to improve memory and cognitive performance, while peppermint oil can help to increase alertness and concentration.Improved respiratory function: Seniors are more prone to respiratory problems, such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Aromatherapy can help to improve respiratory function by reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation. Eucalyptus oil, for example, can help to open up airways and improve breathing.Boosted immune system: Essential oils have antimicrobial properties that can help to boost the immune system and protect against illness. Tea tree oil, for example, has antiviral, anti-fungal, and antibacterial properties that can help to protect against infections.Aromatherapy can be administered either by inhalation via a diffuser or by topical application in the form of a lotion or massage oil. It is important to note that while aromatherapy is generally safe for seniors, there are some precautions that should be taken. Essential oils should be diluted before use, and it is also important to consult with a health care professional before using essential oils, particularly if you are taking medications or have a pre-existing medical condition.Aromatherapy can be a safe and effective way to improve physical, mental, and emotional health in seniors. By promoting relaxation, reducing pain and inflammation, and boosting the immune system, aromatherapy can help you enjoy a better quality of life.

Many people could probably name one use for the aloe vera plant: sunburn relief. Its true that gel from this plant can have a soothing effect on sunburned skin. But you may not be familiar with aloe veras other health benefits.Aloe vera plants have leaves that are filled with a soft, clear gel known for its hydrating and medicinal properties. For centuries, people around the world have used aloe vera to promote wellness. So, in what ways are we taking advantage of the aloe vera plant today? Here are some potential health benefits of aloe vera and the associated research. But before incorporating these uses into your wellness plan, talk to your healthcare provider.1. Lower Blood Pressure with Aloe Vera Gel PowderUsing aloe vera doesnt replace the tried and true means of lowering blood pressure, which are exercise, a healthy diet, and prescribed medication. But it can be a useful aid in the battle against high blood pressure. The American Heart Association considers it as a complementary therapy based on limited research.Research conducted with 90 people with non-insulin-dependent diabetes found that aloe vera gel powder received in capsules daily helped reduce systolic and diastolic blood pressure. The aloe vera treatment groups also received nutritional counseling. The studys conclusion suggests that these effects on blood pressure could be due to aloe veras two anti-inflammatory components that were previously studied and verified.2. Stabilize Blood Sugar with Aloe VeraYou can effectively stave off diabetes with weight loss, physical activity, and a healthy eating plan. These activities can improve blood sugar and help lower your diabetes risk. But aloe vera also has some evidence-based support for controlling blood sugar.One study suggests that an aloe vera supplement helped control blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes and prediabetes. For people managing type 2 diabetes, it notably improved A1C levels.Yes, but how? Researchers believe these positive outcomes were due to aloe veras effects on the digestive tract. Its properties help to block or reduce the absorption of glucose through the digestive tract. In other words, it keeps your body from absorbing as much glucose during digestion. This would have a notable impact on blood sugar control.3. Improve Dental Health with Aloe VeraWhile many associate aloe vera with skin health, most probably dont consider it useful for oral hygiene. But researchers have found evidence of anti-plaque and anti-gingivitis properties. One study pitted an aloe-based mouthwash against a traditional, germ-fighting mouthwash. After 30 days, the study found that the aloe-vera based mouthwash reduces gum bleeding and plaque as effectively as the traditional mouthwash. This means that aloe vera could be a viable alternative to commonly used mouthwash, even for those who have gingivitis or dental plaque.4. Reduce Skin Aging with Aloe VeraYoull find aloe vera in an array of skin-care products, including moisturizers and face masks. This is due to hydrating and anti-aging properties.If you want to ward off wrinkles for as long as possible, its important to apply a daily moisturizer. A good moisturizer seals water inside your skin cells, giving you a more youthful appearance. On the other hand, if your skin dries out, those plump skin cells shrivel, causing premature wrinkles.This means that an aloe vera infused moisturizer may be a helpful addition to your skin regimen. Aloe vera is packed with a hydrating molecule that keeps moisture sealed inside your skin. But there is more than just its hydrating effects to praise. It also activates cells in your connective tissues that boost collagen production. This results in tighter-looking skin and reduced wrinkles.While conclusive studies on aloe vera and collagen are still forthcoming, these early findings are encouraging.5. Get Rid of Acne with Aloe VeraAloe veras natural anti-inflammatory properties make it an excellent acne treatment. It soothes and reduces the appearance of acne and even acne scarring. But its best to apply aloe vera acne treatments to blemishes that arent open, otherwise it causes additional irritation. You want to apply aloe vera to the surface of a blemish.Aloe vera can help other skin irritations too. Some use it to help treat skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. According to the National Psoriasis Foundation (NPA), if you apply a cream that contains at least 0.5% aloe vera up to three times per day, you may see reduced redness and scaling. But the NPA also cautions that aloe vera works best as complementary treatment that is used along with your traditional treatments for the condition.As an eczema treatment, the plants antibacterial, antifungal, and moisturizing properties may help prevent flare-ups.Aloe Vera As a Natural and Safe RemedyTry one of the many uses for aloe vera and reap some of the health benefits. Look for skin products with concentrations of aloe vera to enjoy the moisturizing and anti-aging effects. To reduce blood pressure and blood sugar, talk to your doctor about adding aloe vera gel powder capsules to your supplements.TYE Medical offers premium incontinence products in a variety of sizes and absorbency levels. Shop our online store for free and discreet shipping on all orders.

Nice Things to Know About Saraland The Gateway to Progress Saraland formed its own city school system in 2006. It is now ranked among the best school systems in the State of Alabama.  Students receive outstanding education in fields such as nursing, engineering and welding in state-of-the-art facilities. Since its inception, the Saraland City School system has more than doubled in size, from 1500 students in 2009 to over 3000 students now. This is but one example of the tremendous growth that the City of Saraland is experiencing. The City of Saraland was recently designated as an Alabama Community of Excellence. Saraland was the first and, to date, the only municipality in Mobile County to receive this honor. Saraland enjoys a very low crime rate which can be attributed, in part, to our police department. With their professional approach to community policing, the police team with our residents to provide a safe environment.  Our citizens also benefit from outstanding fire and paramedic services with expedient response from three well-equipped stations throughout the City including 24/7 paramedic coverage.  Additional city employees provide a wide variety of top notch services to ensure our residents and guests have safe roads, parks and facilities. The Infirmary Medical Campus has opened a multi-specialty clinic facility as well as a diagnostic center offering MRI/CT capability. Mobile Infirmary has opened a new freestanding emergency department in Saraland. Seven days a week, 24 hours a day, emergency care is provided. Future phases of expansion will outpatient surgery center and ultimately a hospital. Many new businesses are locating to Saraland. Publix, Cracker Barrel, Whataburger and several other new restaurants and retail businesses are planned.  Saraland is home to over a dozen hotels including new hotel properties such as Fairfield Inn, Towne Place Suites, and Hampton Inn. Youth sports activities are very popular in Saraland. Saraland has, at present, 11 city parks for recreational activities of every kind. Plans are presently being considered for a state-of-the-art sports complex which may include facilities for baseball, softball, tennis, and soccer. The City recently opened the McAuthor-McKinney Recreation Center which offers an outstanding venue for young people to play basketball, volleyball and other activities. Saraland is a very family-friendly community. The City Splash Pad is now open. Also contemplated are an outdoor amphitheater for concerts and a Summer Movie Night series and an aquatics center. The Saraland Senior Center offers many activities for active seniors. Arts and crafts, painting, card games, pool, exercise equipment and computer lab are available with many classes provided.  A nutritious lunch is available weekdays at the center with Meals-On-Wheels delivering food to homebound seniors. Located adjacent to the Mobile-Tensaw River Delta, scenic boating, canoeing, fishing and other watersports opportunities abound. Saraland is part of the Alabama Forever Wild Land Trust, home to some of the most biologically diverse habitat in Alabama.  This preserved scenic area is also popular for camping, hiking with multiple trails available, and bird watching. Saralands mayor, Dr. Howard Rubenstein, currently serves as the President of the Alabama League of Municipalities. He is the only Mobile County elected official to be chosen for this statewide honor since 1979.  HistoryThe area that was to become the present day Saraland was included in a Spanish land grant to Don Diago Alvarez. Hence, descendants of Alvarez were the ones to give the community its first name Alvarez Station. Later land squatters moved into the area and were able, legally, in 1800 to begin purchasing property. In 1807 a land office was opened in St. Stephens to handle all land transactions. Some of the pioneer families who seized the opportunity to buy up sections were named Alvarez, Rice, Hartley, Moore, LaCoste, Williams, Tool and Cleveland. Ultimately, Alvarez Station was called Cleveland Station. The present name of the city is reported to have been given by C.J. DeWitt, a retired minister editor who moved south in 1890 for health reasons. He opened the first post office on the Southern Railroad in 1895. The Community is purported to be the namesake of his beloved wife, Sara. Saraland was sparsely populated during the first part of the 20th century, until an industrial and population boom occurred in neighboring Mobile. Northward expansion of Mobile in the 1940s and 1950s brought about the incorporation of Saraland in 1957. At the time of incorporation, the city reported only 125 residents. By the 1960 U.S. Census, annexations had swelled the population to 4,595. In 1980, census figures cited 9,844 Saraland residents. Current records report that as of 2020, Saralands population has grown to 16,319.Interested in Senior Activities in Saraland?  Contact the Saraland Senior Center at 251-679-5511