For more information about the author, click to view their website: MERRILL GARDENS
Maintaining your health is a daily practice. It takes time and effort to create good routines and habits, that’s part of what makes the whole process challenging.
Fortunately there are, quite literally, a host of resources at our fingertips to help. There are hundreds of wonderful apps that can help you in countless ways — from finance to fitness, spark your creativity, help you catch the bus on time, and even keep your health goals. There’s an app for just about everything these days! Here are five of our favorites for you to consider.
MediSafe (Free)
It can be easy to lose track of our medications and forget when we’re supposed to take them. In fact 30%–50% of Americans don’t adhere to their medication prescriptions correctly.
MediSafe is a digital, “medical engagement platform” that reminds you about your pills and helps you keep track of health statistics and regimens. This app can help you track how many pills you’ve taken, when to take them, how many you have left, when you should reorder, as well as your blood pressure, weight, and other vitals. And you can sync this app with a smartwatch for even more features. This app can help you stay on top of your medication and simplify the overall process from one day to the next.
Luminosity (Free), Brain HQ (Free), Words with Friends (Free)
Brain health is a crucial aspect of one’s overall health and wellbeing. And although the brain isn’t a muscle, like people used to believe or at least say, it does need to be worked out like one. Some cursory studies suggest that keeping an active mind may lower the risk of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. These activities can help retain and even improve memory health.
Apps like Brain HQ and Luminosity, and games like Words with Friends, offer a fun way to keep your brain active. Ranging from brief, five-minute exercises to hour-long sessions, these apps offer workouts for your mind designed to increase memory and mindfulness, as well as cognitive ability. Games like Words with Friends have the added benefit of including a social element, as you’re playing with others, which is also great for mental and emotional health. Luminosity is used by over 100 million people and includes over 50 different games.
MyFitnessPal (Free)
Games aren’t just for brain exercises, but the body as well. We all know how vital physical exercise is, not just for your body, but for your mental health as well. We also understand how difficult it can be to begin and keep an exercise routine going. This app can help you along that path by keeping track of your workouts, diet, caloric intake, and goals.
MyFitnessPal can be linked with over 50 other health apps to keep everything synced, like a smartwatch, running map, and more. It offers tips and advice on achieving your goals, and offers customizability to fit your personalized needs and desired outcomes. The app is designed to tie everything together and offers a community from which to draw inspiration and guidance. It even offers recipes from diet experts that can help you achieve the level of fitness you most desire.
Calm (Subscription), Insight Timer (Free)
Once you’ve exercised your mind and body, it’s important to rest and slow things down. Quieting our minds and practicing mindfulness can be tricky, especially with everything that goes on with our lives.
About a third of Americans say they don’t get enough sleep each night. Poor sleep can not only affect your day-to-day life, but can also lead to health problems down the road. The Calm app provides its users with mindfulness exercises, sleep aids (from stories to music to background noises), meditation guides, and other tools to help you reduce stress and anxiety. It’s easy to use and full of great features that are regularly updated. You can take classes via the Calm app and track your mood and your stats.
Magnifying Glass + Flashlight (Free)
It’s easy to forget your glasses somewhere. That makes this magnifying glass convenient and handy. It also includes a restaurant menu reader and prescription bottle reader, which comes in handy often. These features can make sure you’re getting the order you want and taking the right medicine.
We live in an ever-changing, technology-filled landscape. And while that can be intimidating at times, it comes with many conveniences and offers a new platform of resources that can help you maintain wellness practices and a healthy lifestyle. Check out these helpful apps, and don’t be afraid to explore others.
https://www.forbes.com/sites/nextavenue/2015/08/28/8-great-apps-for-our-elders/?sh=1975bb4d3685
https://www.seniorlifestyle.com/resources/blog/top-8-mobile-apps-active-seniors/
https://www.mobileappdaily.com/apps-for-senior-people
https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/body/health-fitness-apps-for-over-60s
Recovering after surgery, illness, injury, or simply maintaining vitality as we age requires more than rest it requires supporting the bodys natural repair systems. Thats where Centropix and its groundbreaking KLOUD technology come in, offering a new path to faster, safer recovery and ongoing healthy living.Accelerated Recovery Starts HereHealing doesnt end when symptoms subside true recovery involves deep cellular repair, tissue regeneration, inflammation removal, and restoring optimal oxygenation throughout the body. Without proper support, this process can be slow, leaving people vulnerable to setbacks, fatigue, and diminished quality of life.Centropixs KLOUD utilizes Pulsed Electromagnetic Activation (PEMA) technology to dramatically enhance the bodys natural ability to repair itself. Studies show that electromagnetic activation can speed recovery time by nearly 50%, by directly targeting the cellular processes critical for regeneration and waste elimination.What the KLOUD Does for Your Body:Molecular Activation: Energizes and stimulates cellular repair at a deep level, promoting faster healing and stronger recovery.Oxygenation: Increases blood flow and oxygen delivery to tissues, fueling regeneration and improving stamina.Inflammation Reduction: Helps the body eliminate inflammatory waste, easing discomfort and accelerating tissue repair.Detoxification: Supports the bodys natural ability to remove metabolic waste products that can delay healing and contribute to fatigue.Regeneration: Encourages restoration of soft tissue, nerves, and vascular health for long-term strength and vitality.Why Choose Centropix KLOUD for Recovery?Unlike passive rest alone, the KLOUD actively stimulates your body's recovery systems. Whether youre bouncing back from surgery, illness, injury, or simply looking to maintain vibrant health as you age, integrating KLOUD sessions into your daily life means:Faster recovery timesReduced risk of complicationsLess inflammation and painImproved energy and staminaBetter sleep and stress reliefEnhanced quality of lifeWith the KLOUD, recovery doesn't have to mean slowing down it can mean reclaiming your life faster and continuing to do the things you love with passion and energy.If you're ready to experience a better way to recover, regain your energy, and live fully until the very end, reach out to Lisa or Danielle today. Discover how Centropix and the KLOUD can help you or your loved ones stay active, independent, and thriving for years to come.Take the first step toward a stronger, healthier future because vibrant living is possible at any age.
Navigating Hospital Stays and Rehabilitation for Parkinsons Patients. This article is part of The Parkinsons Care Compass: A Caregiving Roadmap Guiding Families Through Every Stage, an educational series presented by At Your Home Caregiving of Texas. We are honored to walk beside families, offering specialized in-home care solutions to support every step of the Parkinsons journey. Hospital stays are a stressful experience for any family, but for individuals living with Parkinsons disease, hospitalization poses unique challenges that can significantly impact recovery and long-term health. When a Parkinsons patient requires surgery, treatment for complications, or recovery after a fall, family caregivers must act as advocates, organizers, and partners in care. Being prepared and informed is the key to ensuring a safe hospital stay and a smooth transition back home.At Your Home Caregiving of Texas understands these complexities and stands ready to help families through every step of the journey, providing expert support for rehabilitation and home-based recovery.Unique Hospitalization Challenges for Parkinsons PatientsParkinsons disease complicates hospital care in several critical ways: Medication Management: Parkinsons medications must be administered on a strict schedule to manage symptoms effectively. Delays or missed doses can lead to severe motor symptoms, confusion, and even hospitalization complications. Mobility and Fall Risks: Hospital environments are unfamiliar, and Parkinsons patients face an increased risk of falls due to balance issues and muscle rigidity. Cognitive Changes: Hospitalization can sometimes trigger or worsen confusion, memory problems, or delirium, especially in older adults with Parkinsons. Communication Difficulties: Some patients experience soft speech (hypophonia) or facial masking, making it difficult to express needs clearly to hospital staff unfamiliar with Parkinsons care. Being aware of these risks allows families to take a proactive role during the hospital stay, minimizing complications and ensuring the best possible outcome.Preparing for a Hospital Stay: Advocacy and PlanningIf hospitalization is scheduled (for surgery or planned treatments), preparation can make a significant difference:1. Create a Hospital Parkinsons PlanPrepare a simple one-page document outlining your loved ones: Current medications and exact times for administration Mobility limitations and fall risk status Communication needs Cognitive changes or dementia symptoms Preferences for therapy, rehabilitation, and home care after discharge Provide this information to the hospital staff immediately upon admission.2. Bring Medications to the HospitalBring a full list and ideally the actual medications in their original containers. In some hospitals, families can administer Parkinsons medications if theres a risk of delays.3. Assign an AdvocateDesignate a family member or professional caregiver to be present as much as possible, especially during medication times, shift changes, and physician rounds. Having a consistent advocate can prevent critical mistakes and advocate for the patients specialized needs.The Importance of Medication TimingOne of the biggest risks for Parkinsons patients in the hospital is missed or mistimed medications. Parkinsons medications like carbidopa-levodopa must be administered exactly as prescribed, sometimes multiple times a day, to prevent a sudden worsening of motor and non-motor symptoms.Tips for ensuring proper medication administration: Clearly document the medication schedule and insist it be incorporated into the hospitals care orders. Politely but firmly remind nursing staff of the critical importance of on-time dosing. Advocate for medication self-administration if allowed by hospital policy. Watch for any substitutions generic or alternate medications can sometimes affect symptom control. Families should feel empowered to respectfully advocate for their loved ones medical needs. Delay in Parkinsons medication can lead to avoidable setbacks in recovery.Understanding Rehabilitation OptionsAfter hospitalization, rehabilitation is essential for helping Parkinsons patients regain strength, balance, and function. Depending on the situation, rehabilitation may occur in: Inpatient Rehabilitation Facilities (IRFs): Specialized centers offering intensive physical, occupational, and speech therapy. Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNFs): Short-term stays focused on medical monitoring and therapy. Home-Based Rehabilitation: Therapy provided at home, which may be the best option for patients with significant mobility challenges or those at high risk of hospital-acquired infections. At Your Home Caregiving of Texas partners with rehabilitation therapists to support continuity of care at home, ensuring that exercises, safety measures, and care plans are followed consistently.Key Rehabilitation Goals for Parkinsons Patients Improving strength and flexibility Reducing fall risk through balance and gait training Enhancing fine motor skills (handwriting, eating, dressing) Improving swallowing and speech if affected Maintaining independence as much as possible Early rehabilitation after hospitalization is crucial for Parkinsons patients. Without it, the risk of decline, injury, and readmission significantly increases.Transitioning Safely Back HomeThe transition from hospital to home is a vulnerable time. Planning ahead is critical to prevent setbacks.Steps for a Successful Transition: Arrange Home Care Services Early: Schedule in-home caregiving services to assist with mobility, medication reminders, and personal care. Conduct a Home Safety Evaluation: Adapt the home environment to minimize fall risks remove tripping hazards, install grab bars, ensure proper lighting, and use assistive devices. Coordinate Medication Management: Update prescriptions, confirm medication supply, and create a clear medication schedule. Schedule Follow-Up Appointments: Ensure post-discharge physician and therapy visits are scheduled before leaving the hospital. Implement a Rehabilitation Plan: Continue physical therapy and exercise routines at home, guided by professional caregivers and therapists. At Your Home Caregiving of Texas specializes in providing comprehensive transitional care for Parkinsons patients. Our caregivers work alongside families and healthcare professionals to ensure that recovery continues safely and effectively at home.How At Your Home Caregiving of Texas Supports RecoveryFamilies managing Parkinsons care dont have to do it alone. Our services are designed to ease the burden of post-hospitalization recovery by providing: Personalized Care Plans: Tailored to the individuals stage of Parkinsons and rehabilitation needs. Medication Reminders and Assistance: Helping maintain the critical medication schedule. Mobility Support: Assisting with walking, transferring, and exercises to rebuild strength and prevent falls. Nutrition and Meal Support: Preparing nutritious meals that support energy and healing. Companionship and Emotional Support: Reducing anxiety, confusion, and isolation during the recovery process. Coordination with Healthcare Providers: Keeping families informed and ensuring therapy recommendations are carried out at home. We work hard to create an environment where patients can heal comfortably, maintain dignity, and reduce the risk of hospital readmission.Final ThoughtsHospital stays are never easy, especially when Parkinsons disease adds another layer of complexity. But with the right preparation, strong advocacy, and a smooth rehabilitation plan, families can help their loved ones achieve the best possible recovery.At Your Home Caregiving of Texas stands beside you every step of the way from hospital bedside to a safe and healing home environment. Our specialized Parkinsons care services ensure that patients get the compassionate, expert support they need to regain strength, confidence, and independence.When its time to transition home after hospitalization, trust At Your Home Caregiving of Texas to be your partner in care and recovery. At Your Home Caregiving of Texas is proud to support families living with Parkinsons disease through compassionate, expert care. For more resources and personalized caregiving solutions, explore the full Parkinsons Care Compass series or contact us today at 469-830-8414. Together, we can create a safer, stronger path to recovery one step at a time. If someone you care about is facing the challenges of Parkinson's, know that you're not alonewe're always here to help.
By Faith Protsman, MD, Regional Medical Director, VITAS HealthcareTwo recent studies highlight how sepsis impact often extends well beyond the acute event that led to a patients hospitalization. The studies emphasize two particular points that should inform physicians and clinicians as they consider referring these patients to specialized care: Medicare patient data gathered between 2012-2017 shows that sepsis patients face considerably poorer health outcomes following hospital discharge when compared to non-sepsis patients, including elevated risk for death and increased use of advanced healthcare services. Sepsis survivors exhibit strong indicators of persistent inflammation and immunosuppression for up to a year after hospital discharge, increasing their risk of readmission or death. Both studies indicate a significantly elevated risk of death among sepsis patients after they have been discharged and ostensibly cured. Of course, sepsis patientsparticularly those of the Medicare cohort, who are largely of advanced agerarely leave the hospital in better condition than they entered.The Yende study, in particular, shows that neuroendocrine and inflammatory responses to sepsis can continue long after the patient survives a septic episode. For patients with advanced or chronic diseasesas was the case with nearly 78% of participants in the studythese biomarkers are associated with decline.Post-sepsis Discharge: A Critical JunctureIn many cases, these individuals life expectancies upon discharge will be less than six months. This is a critical juncture: While comfort-focused hospice care could provide an ideal source of support for the eligible patient, their family, and their caregiver(s), most sepsis patients are simply sent home without even a discussion about palliative end-of-life care and its benefits.Frankly, such an oversight is a disservice to everyone involved. The sepsis patient is left with physical and/or cognitive dysfunction, often without significant options for symptom management. Their partner or family will either need to assume caregiving duties or turn to costly private services. And the physician and hospital staff will likely see the patient again following another acute event, a readmission that impacts performance scores, strains resources, and unnecessarily fills beds.By no means do I intend to lay the blame for these unfortunate circumstances on physicians. Timely hospice referrals require ongoing education about end-of-life care, and open, ongoing communication between hospice providers and referral sources.More Help: How to Talk About Hospice Care >Those of us in hospice are working hard to bridge the gap, but even as our healthcare system transitions to a value-based model, the mentality of fee-for-service still permeates our nations acute-care facilities, and many hospitalists see a discharge home as a success.Hospice: A New Way Of Judging SuccessIn hospice, we judge our successes on the patients quality of life and the fulfillment of their goals and wishes near lifes end. Usually, that means going home with 24/7 support from an interdisciplinary hospice team. Whether home is a traditional residence, an assisted living facility, or nursing home, the hospice team will assist caregivers (and/or facility staff) with direct clinical care and education, integrative services, bereavement support, and delivery of medication, equipment, and supplies.In other cases, improving quality of life means remaining in a general inpatient setting with hospice support, taking the burden off hospital staff until the patient is able to transition home or until the patient dies. Hospice offers complex modalities in any setting, so patients who would otherwise be confined to an ICU can usually return home to be among loved ones.With support from hospice, a sepsis patient and their family are more likely to report higher satisfaction of care and greater quality of life. The patients emotional and spiritual needs can be met alongside their physical needs, thanks to care from chaplains, social workers, music and massage therapists, and other integrative specialists. Finally, the patient is more likely to die at home, surrounded by loved ones, rather than in the hospital.Because sepsis is most common in patients with advanced or chronic diseases that indicate hospice eligibility, acute incidences of sepsis should always trigger a hospice eligibility assessment. We owe it to our patients, their loved ones, and our colleagues in healthcare, all of whom can benefit from the support that timely end-of-life care offers.
Merrill Gardens at Barkley Place offers a vibrant senior living community in Fort Myers, Florida, designed to provide residents with a fulfilling lifestyle. With a variety of floor plans, including studios, one, and two bedrooms, our community caters to independent living and assisted living needs.Our community features beautifully landscaped grounds, sun porches, balconies, and a range of amenities such as a fitness center, library, pool, and social spaces. Residents can enjoy a worry-free lifestyle with services like home maintenance, chef-prepared meals, and 24-hour staffing.At Merrill Gardens at Barkley Place, we prioritize an active lifestyle and offer a range of activities tailored to residents' interests. Whether it's exploring walking trails, engaging in social events, or pursuing hobbies, there's always something exciting to do.Our compassionate staff is dedicated to providing personalized care and ensuring residents feel at home. With over 20 years of serving the Fort Myers area, we have established ourselves as a trusted choice for senior living. Contact us today to schedule a tour and experience the Merrill Gardens difference.